Shelley’s publications and performance research outputs are connected in meaningful ways. First, she is interested in the intersections between theatre, government policy, and applied drama in educational settings, with a recent critical focus on Prevent and UK counter-terrorism strategies. Her work was instrumental in the convening of an expert conference on youth radicalisation and terrorism at the European Parliament, Brussels. Shelley's new research explores the use of applied drama to educate on sustainability issues in Higher Education.

Secondly, Shelley is a practicing theatre director and writer. Her stage adaptation of Moby Dick was selected for discussion by the Melville Society and Kings College for an event at the British Library exploring British artistic responses to Melville’s work and legacy. She is currently working on a project called Plant Dramas in response to the climate emergency.