BBQ Apocalypse-Cuckoo’s Theatre
Fight Direction
Lana focuses on intention and the story a fight can tell to the audience. It’s more than throwing punches or performing perfect parries, it’s about the need and wants of the character in the moment and what they are willing to do to get it. With training from Fight Directors of Canada and Society of American Fight Directors she integrates vulnerable and emotionally charged and violence while keeping performers safe.
A Red Orchid Theatre’s Grey House
Reels
View footage of Barbeque Apocalypse here!
Check out Sir Gawain and The Green Knight Reel!
The reel for Passion of Boudicca violence design is available here!
Valhalla:The Progeny of Loki-The Plagiarists Theatre
“...knockout worthy of Mortal Kombat to an angry bigot, it’s humorous and cathartic all at once.”
Passion of Bouddica-We Three Plays
“ Where this performance really excels is the fight design by Lana Whittington. Fight choreography is difficult to sell to an audience, but the incorporation of a scrim and backlighting allows silhouetted violence to transcend into the imagination. Imaginative puppetry illustrated monsters Sir Gawain fought on his journey to the Green Chapel.”
Distrikt of Lake Michigun- Stage Left Theatre
Household Spirits-Theatre Wit
“Lana Whittington’s fight choreography brightens and clarifies the scenes that call for it.”
Sir Gawain and The Green Knight
“.....and Lana Whittington, who designed the show’s more physical interactions, also skillfully help denote the fact that this ensemble of characters are not experienced drag performers, but grown men indulging a friend’s grand birthday wish.”
Six Men Dressed Like Joseph Stalin- A Red Orchid Theatre
Intimacy Direction
Lana focuses on consent based practices with daily boundary check-ins during rehearsals. By establishing an environment that is based on kindness with accountability for all, we are able to foster trust and easy communication between actors and production teams. When artists are encouraged to hold strong, confident boundaries we are about to produce bold work that best serves the story and actors.
Ruined-Invictus Theatre
“Ruined is a testament to the necessity of intimacy designers like Lana Whittington. We cannot have honest conversations around topics like sex trafficking or abuse without a gentle hand to protect the performers giving that slice of life. If you’re going to see a play right now, make it this one.”
Spring Awakening-Three Brothers Theatre
Throbbin Wood-Pride Arts
Stabbed In The Heart- The Factory Theatre
Testimonials
“As a fight director and intimacy designer, Lana is a fantastic artist and collaborator. She’s got a bold and vibrant vision, and she has the technical ability to bring it to life onstage while prioritizing the actors’ safety. She knows how to tell a story through action and to work well with a production team. You’ll love working with her. ”
“I was working on my first comedically intimate show and I was nervous to say the least! Lana came into the rehearsal room and made me and my actors feel incredibly at ease. So much so that when I talk to the actors (almost 2 years later), they still tell me that Lana is one of the best intimacy/ fight folks they’ve ever had the opportunity to work with. They bring a deep knowledge and care of the craft into the room, and I was lucky to have the opportunity to work with them!”
“I’ve had the honor of working with Lana in a variety of capacities. From assisting them, to choreographing them in fight shows, Lana has continued to be one of the most clever and talented artists I’ve ever met. As a designer, Lana is thoughtful, story driven, and aware of the needs and capabilities of each performer.
Their attention to details translates into everything they do and their choreography is not only brilliant, but full of creative surprises! Lana is an excellent communicator and teacher, with a vast wealth of knowledge. They are passionate and responsible and take their work seriously while still being a generous collaborator. I truly hope anyone reading this gets the privilege of working with Lana in any of their multi-hyphenated skills!”