Intimacy – new book from Bristol Old Vic Theatre School Alum Ita O’Brien

As a proud alumna of Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, Ita O’Brien returns to her roots with Intimacy—a powerful new book offering guidance to the next generation of artists navigating intimate work with confidence and care.

“My time at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School shaped my practice,” says Ita O’Brien, whose upcoming book Intimacy aims to support students in creating brave, respectful spaces for storytelling. “The wisdom gained from the incredible teaching, especially that of Francis Thomas, Lynette Erving and Jonathan Howell and of course the indomitable Rudi Shelley, has informed my practice ever since, as an actor, movement teacher & director, and Intimacy Practitioner.

I have been able to bring the grounding I learnt at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School into my intimacy work, on such productions as Sex Education, Normal People, and I May Destroy You. I’m delighted to share it with you, to help all of us rethink how we navigate sex and intimacy in our own lives.”

From student to industry trailblazer, Ita O’Brien’s book ‘Intimacy’ reflects her hope that every performer learns to approach intimate scenes with the same rigour, respect, and artistry taught at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School.

So, what can the art of on-screen intimacy teach you about intimacy in your real life?

“I invite anyone interested to join Pandora Sykes and I at 2pm on Sunday 8th June, at the Southbank centre! We’ll be discussing the book, Intimacy: A Field Guide to Finding Connection and Feeling Your Deep Desires.” Said Ita.