biography

theatre maker / performer / movement director / facilitator

Curious and with a love for research, Gemma explores the human body in the world through interchanges of dancing, voicework, improvisation and writing. Her training has its roots in theatre, and pays particular attention to her practice with Phillip Zarrilli in psychophysical process through Asian martial/meditation arts- indian yoga, taiquiquan, and kalaripayattu. Other training includes devised theatre, dance theatre, contemporary dance practices (release based) and physical theatre (with Jasmin Vardimon Company). Her first solo work 'Dances I made on my Bathroom Floor' was shortlisted for a Wales Theatre Award in 2016.

In Feb 2019 Gemma was awarded 'Developing Your Creative Practice' funding from Arts Council England. She used funding to have a period of time to focus on her own making and research process. Alongside creative studio time, she received mentoring from Kaite O’Reilly (Playwright), Phillip Zarrilli (Director), Cai Tomos (Movement), James Gitsham (Voice - Bristol Old Vic Theatre School) and Laura Drane (Creative Consultant/Producer).

She is currently focusing on developing new work as a dance artist and writer with her new play 'Splinter' being researched with Red Oak Theatre at the Sherman Theatre, Cardiff in Autumn 2023.

Community engagement is an important part of her practice. She is a dance and theatre facilitator, with lots of experience working inclusively with children, young people and adults. She has recently worked with Strike A Light Festival as their Youth Theatre Practitioner for young people aged 11-16 and 16+. She is also a qualified yoga and pregnancy yoga teacher. For more information on Gemma as a facilitator click here.

Photo by Jorge Lizalde

Photo description:

Gemma is lying on the studio floor with her knees up and one arm rests above her head. She holds a microphone towards her mouth. The background is dark, with a projection of multicoloured paint streaks that cover her body and face.