Sizzling Sensuality Takes Center Stage at Barcelona Opera House with New 'Intimacy Director'

Barcelona's opera house has made a groundbreaking move by appointing an "intimacy director" to ensure the well-being of actors during intimate scenes. This important role, which is the first of its kind in Spain and uncommon in continental Europe, has been established in response to the impact of the #MeToo movement on both the film and opera industries, exposing cases of sexual harassment.

Intimacy director Ita OBrien, renowned for advising on intimate scenes in HBO and Netflix productions, is set to oversee the adaptation of William Shakespeare's play, "Antony and Cleopatra," at Barcelona's Gran Teatre del Liceu opera house. The production is scheduled to open on Oct. 28. OBrien highlighted the historical context of opera performances, where performers traditionally arrived a few days before the opening without the need to discuss intimate scenes.

Ita O'Brien has consulted for the likes of Netflix and HBO on issues around intimacy on sets and productions.

Albert Gea/Reuters

"Without that process of agreement and consent sought, people were left feeling awkward, harassed, absolutely abused," she said.

OBrien, a seasoned veteran in the world of musical theater and acting, established Intimacy On Set, a platform dedicated to offering assistance to individuals involved in the TV and film industry.

During rehearsals, she encourages performers to establish a connection by initiating a warm embrace, followed by an open conversation about their personal boundaries and areas where they may feel uneasy upon being touched.

FIFA suspends Luis Rubiales, the head of Spanish soccer, and coaches resign following an incident involving an unwanted kiss with the winner of the Women's World Cup.

"We are encouraging performers to clearly communicate their personal boundaries, which marks a significant change in the industry," she stated.

In a recent rehearsal, OBrien ensured that mezzo-soprano Adriana Bignagni Lesca, who portrays Cleopatra's servant Charmian, felt at ease while kissing another woman on the lips. Additionally, OBrien oversaw scenes where the actor portraying Antony embraces Cleopatra.

Performers are invited to "connect with a hug" at the start of rehearsals.

Lesca suggested that every opera should have an intimacy director. She emphasized the importance of having someone to coordinate the way performers interact, including kissing, ensuring that everyone involved feels at ease with these actions.

Intimacy directors have previously been utilized in both the United States and the United Kingdom for the creation of television shows and operas.

The act of former Spanish soccer federation chief Luis Rubiales unexpectedly kissing a female player on the lips in August caused a significant dialogue within the nation regarding sexism, leading to the emergence of a movement called "Se Acabó" (Its Over).

In January, renowned opera singer Placido Domingo found himself confronted with fresh allegations of sexual harassment by a fellow Spanish singer on a television program. These accusations resurfaced after three years, during which time he had issued an apology and experienced a setback in his career. Domingo vehemently denies any involvement in the alleged misbehavior.