Who should take Stage Combat?

Anyone can participate, but, first and foremost, actors can benefit from stage combat training as it is an extremely important discipline that greatly increases the performer's awareness, confidence, physical ability, and partnering skills. Our classes are not just for actors. We have taught directors, stage managers, cinematographers, dancers, martial artists, opera singers, visual artists, mascots, motion capture animators, and a myriad of others. Combat Incorporated offers classes for any skill level. For most classes no experience is necessary.

Why should I take classes?

Most performers assume that they will be taught what to do when they are cast in a play or film. Don't count on it. Most productions unfortunately will not have a qualified fight professional on staff, or if they do they will allot for a minimal amount of time to learn and practice your choreography. To portray an effective, energetic, and most importantly, safe fight, the performer should have a knowledge of the style of combat before they begin working on a project.

Also, as a performer you should take every opportunity to distinguish yourself from the competition. It is always more inviting to a director to see on your resume that you have stage combat training - and won't it make the fight that much better in the end impressing those agents, casting directors and potential employers?

For those whose goal is not performance orientated, stage combat is a challenging movement skill, a great workout, and lets you do those things that are not normally acceptable at the office like diving over a desk, punching someone in the stomach, and then sword-fighting through the streets!

I am a woman. Is Stage Combat for me?

Definitely. Although a great deal of the activity in stage combat seems very macho and brutal, women can excel at all elements of stage combat. Unfortunately in today's drama women are more and more the victims of violence, and being in that dangerous role they should be aware of the skills and techniques designed to protect them physically and emotionally. There are all too many horror stories of women being asked to perform violence that they are not equipped to handle. The bottom line - have the technical prowess, learn that it’s OK to be aggressive, and know your stage combat rights on stage and on set.

Who are the instructors?

Take a look at our current Combat Crew.

How do I sign up for classes?

Check out our Classes page for details.

Do I need to have my own weapons?

No. All weapons will be provided. If you would like to use your own weapon for a class it must pass a Combat Incorporated weapons safety test.

What qualification do I need to take an Advanced class?

Previous attendance of our Intro to Stage Combat class or Basic Certification from the any of the national stage combat societies will allow you to qualify. You may be asked to schedule a meeting where the instructor can test your skill level.

Can I sit in on a class or workshop?

Yes. You are more than welcome to come and see what is going on. It is only fair to for you to see whether or not you like the atmosphere, the instructor and so on. Please contact us to schedule a drop in. Any participation will be up to the discretion of the instructor.

Will I learn how to defend myself?

Alas, no. Since stage combat is about creating the illusion of violence we do not teach practical real-world fighting techniques. Stage combat would be about as effective as Tae-Bo in a real fight. Try WingTsun Kung Fu for the best in real world martial arts training or Impact and Prepare for effective self defense techniques.

Is Stage Combat safe?

Properly performed and well executed stage combat is very safe, but like all physical activity stage combat involves risk. If the techniques are not performed carefully and accurately, the potential for injury exists. Your safety is our paramount concern. We will help you understand and learn the multiple levels of safety precautions built into proper technique.

Is Stage Combat easy to learn?

Stage Combat is a movement skill. If you have had previous movement training such as dance, gymnastics, or martial arts your knowledge of your body will certainly allow faster progress than someone who has never trained before. Not that any of these skills are required. We respect the fact that your learning curve will be unique, and we make every effort to teach you at your own speed while keeping the classes challenging but attainable.

What should I wear? Do I need special clothing or equipment?

Wear clothing in which can move. You will be coming in daily contact with the floor, during warm up and working on techniques. You will probably get dirty to some degree or other. If you are participating completely in class you will certainly get sweaty. Dress accordingly. Leave the Prada at home.

No hats. All long hair must be pulled back off the face. No bare feet. Trainers, sneakers, or dance shoes are recommended. All jewelry that can be readily taken off will need to be removed. All permanent piercing should be covered with tape or a Band-Aid.

Leather gloves are required for the weapons classes. If you don’t own a pair we have professional stage combat gauntlets for sale at the school.

What are your views on sexual harassment?

Combat Incorporated has strict guidelines for avoiding sexual harassment. However, because theatre imitates the human condition and because sexuality is part of life, some materials may deal with sexual behaviors, situations, and language. Also, since this is movement orientated course it may be required to touch and physically manipulate the students bodies to better understand technique. People easily offended by such instances may want to reconsider taking these classes.

Other questions you'd like answered? Let us know.