Stage Combat

stage combat training photo Stage Combat at the ACA explores the history and art of the sword in classical acting. During the program, the participant will explore Longsword, Broadsword, Sword and Shield, Quarterstaff, Cudgel, Fisticuffs, Classical Dagger, Rapier, Rapier and Dagger, Rapier and Gauntlet, Rapier and Buckler, Rapier and Cloak and Smallsword.

The participant will develop the skills to understand how classical weapons were historically used and how they are safely used for the stage. The class explores training methods of footwork, hip relationship, blade actions and grappling. Participants work to gain a strong understanding of martial principals of different period weapons and their dramatic use. Special emphasis is given to acting the fight, bringing meaning and intent to the physical actions and how to develop a fight to serve the play. The participant will develop a personal understanding of how the body moves and listens, and freely express itself safely in the dynamics of stage violence.

The class will develop fight scenes and perform them in class. Each participant will earn their Actor Combatant Certifications in the Society of American Fight Directors. The class will celebrate and encourage an exchange of safe stage combat techniques and processes, historical martial arts and styles, contemporary movement arts and theory, and the development of cooperation and skill, exploring the history and traditions of the past, as well as the camaraderie found in the sharing of ideas and knowledge inherently found in the study of the sword.