Mika Boutin is a talented playwright, intimacy coordinator, director, and musician based in Treaty 6. Her creative pursuits span multiple disciplines, each driven by a passion for storytelling and connection. In this episode, we’ll dive into her experiences in the Edmonton punk scene, her impactful work in intimacy coordination, and her unique approach to directing and playwriting. Let’s get started!Mika’s love for collaboration and bold expression drew her to Edmonton’s punk scene, where she found a close-knit community of artists who shared her values. Inspired by early punk and riot grrrl bands like Bikini Kill, Le Tigre, and X-Ray Spex, she embraced the genre’s raw energy and political edge. Mika’s journey began with drumming in Grade 7 and evolved into singing and forming bands like Skidettes. The scene has profoundly shaped her artistry, from the way she performs to her activism and communication style. Reflecting on standout moments—like playing the iconic Starlite Room or intimate house shows—Mika highlights how the scene’s evolution continues to inspire her creative growth.Mika’s work as an intimacy coordinator stems from her firsthand experience of the need for safe and supportive practices in theatre. Inspired by the emergence of intimacy coordination in 2016, she developed her own methods and began applying them in productions like the Edmonton Fringe Festival. Mika ensures a balance between artistic expression and actor comfort by fostering open communication and respecting boundaries. She challenges misconceptions, emphasizing that intimacy coordinators are not “extra costs” but essential for creating ethical and impactful performances. Her work empowers actors to bring their best to intimate scenes without compromising their well-being.As both a director and playwright, Mika seamlessly blends her visual and narrative sensibilities. When writing, she envisions how the set, costumes, and staging will bring the story to life, and when directing, she focuses on the story’s core message and audience impact. Among her favorite projects is Your Heart is Gushing Lavender, the inaugural production of her company Dogbite, which showcased her ability to create visually stunning and emotionally resonant theatre. Mika also values pushing boundaries in her storytelling, addressing uncomfortable truths with care and trusting her audience to engage with complex narratives.Mika Boutin’s work as a playwright, intimacy coordinator, director, and musician showcases her dedication to building community, fostering creativity, and amplifying diverse voices. From the Edmonton punk scene to transformative theatre projects, Mika continues to inspire through her passion and authenticity. Thank you for joining us as we explored her incredible journey. Stay tuned for more stories on the Long Term Podcast!KEEP IT LONG TERM!

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