Stage Combat - An Introduction

About this course

Participants learn how to create convincing fight sequences while maintaining safety for themselves and their scene partners. Training covers unarmed combat, knife technique, choreography, timing, communication and the principles used to identify safe and unsafe practice. The course combines technical exercises with choreographed fights, allowing participants to apply movements from both stage and screen perspectives. Character and intention are incorporated into the performance, so the combat serves the dramatic situation as well as the physical action.

What you'll learn

• Perform fundamental unarmed and knife stage-combat techniques safely
• Apply timing and choreography within staged fight sequences
• Recognise sound safety practice and unsafe combat technique
• Coordinate with a fight partner through clear communication and mutual awareness
• Combine combat technique with character and intention
• Perform fight sequences convincingly for stage and screen

Is this course right for you?

The course is designed for complete beginners, as well as actors who want to refresh or extend their skills. It involves physical movement, partner work and practical application of techniques, with relevance to theatre, musical theatre and film.

• No previous combat or acting experience is required
• Participants work closely with a scene partner
• Comfort with physical, movement-based training may be useful

Before you go

• Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy movement.
• Trainers or soft-soled shoes are requested.
• No real blades are used in class.