Stage Combat

Actors and stunt performers have special requirements when it comes to fighting: that it looks effective to an audience member, and that it can be performed repeatedly and safely in rehearsals and multiple takes on film. Stage combat keeps actors safe and audiences entertained using the illusion of violence: timing, measure, targets and victim-control.

Because stage combat is completely safe by necessity, students do not need to buy any protective gear. Basic students will learn the three core domains in equal parts:

• Unarmed – fighting that looks brutal and instinctual, including slaps, throws, strangulation, and much more.
• Sword – a swashbuckling style that would be at home in any pirate movie. The fundamentals can then be applied to any historical sword without starting over from scratch.
• Staff – the use of long weapons has its own problems and opportunities, and is appropriate for scenes from spears to pool cues.

After earning Basic Certification, the Intermediate level includes: small sword, long sword, rapier & dagger, and martial arts.

We teach the curriculum of Fight Directors Canada (FDC), and students can earn their Basic Actor-Combatant Certification in no other school in British Columbia. The standards of FDC are world-class and the only stage combat authority recognized by Canadian Actors Equity.

Check out our Stage Combat program and get started today.