A labyrinth seal design, an actuation control clearance strategy, and a method of operating a turbomachine. The labyrinth seal design including a plurality of features configured to open and close radial clearances in response to relative axial movement between a stationary component and a rotating component. The actuation control clearance strategy and method of operating a turbomachine effective to achieve relative motion between a rotating component and a stationary component of the turbomachine using active elements. Axial displacement of the rotating component relative to the stationary component provides an adjustment in a radial clearance at one or more sealing locations between the rotating component and the stationary component to suit a given operating condition of the turbomachine.