An internationally acclaimed director of physical theatre, circus and aerial performance, Gavin has directed movement for award-winning theatrical productions, major events, film, television and music videos.
Gavin says it is an honour to be appointed as Head of Movement at NIDA. “Since being a student and disciple of Keith Bain’s at NIDA, I have always aspired to follow in his inspirational footsteps. NIDA is a remarkable institution with a brilliant collective of teachers and artists who continue to forge new directions in actor training and innovation across all disciplines of the dramatic arts.
“I am passionate about developing a new generation of physical and visual performers in Australia and foresee NIDA as a dynamic hub of contemporary creativity, and a driving force shaping the future forms of performing arts internationally.”
Gavin has created large-scale visual and aerial performances in many theatre festivals throughout the world. He was instrumental in the training and choreography of the Tin Symphony in the Opening Ceremony of the 2000 Olympics. As a recipient of the Churchill Fellowship, Gavin has worked in LA and NY alongside leading specialists in animating the body for the stage and screen.
In 2013, Gavin’s movement direction for Global Creatures’ theatre experience King Kong was recognised with a special Helpmann Award for ‘Outstanding Theatrical Achievement’. In addition to his work with Global Creatures on King Kong, How to Train Your Dragon and War Horse, Gavin has worked with The Sydney Theatre Company, Company B Belvoir, Bell Shakespeare Company, Opera Australia, The Queensland Theatre Company and Ensemble Theatre Co. His Creative Director credits include the opening of the 2012 Eurovision Song Contest, opening of 2012 Dubai National Day, Sydney Festival First Night’s High Flyers, and the National Institute of Circus Arts’ At First Sight.
NIDA Director/CEO Lynne Williams said NIDA were very pleased to welcome Gavin to the NIDA team.
“His experience combining movement with cutting-edge technical production is highly sought-after within today’s global industry, so we are excited to have the opportunity to share Gavin’s knowledge and skill with our students.
“At NIDA, we expect our students to take creative risks and Gavin’s expertise will encourage them to push the boundaries of their own physical performance on stage and on-screen during their training and throughout their careers.”
Gavin has taught movement and acting at a variety of institutions across Australia, including NIDA. He holds a Master of Arts from the Queensland University of Technology and a Graduate Diploma of Movement Studies from NIDA.
