Put simply, it is the art of fighting on stage (and screen).

It is the art form that gives actors the skills required to perform simulated physical violence as part of a dramatic story – safely.

It covers everything from falling over, slapping someone, strangling and physically restraining a person to a full on fist fight or a fight with swords, sticks, knives and even firearms.

I have helped train actors to push someone or be pushed into a wall, to fall down a flight of stairs, engage in a one-on-one sword fight, a multi-opponent sword fight and mass battles or brawls. I have helped train actors and stage managers to handle prop firearms safely, to carry dead bodies off stage – in short, to do whatever the story requires them to do and to do it believably and safely, so they can do it all over again at the next performance.

Stage combat is a fun way to learn new skills, refresh old ones and really hone your acting skills. It is about telling a story in the most physically and emotionally challenging situation your character will ever find themselves in.

So why not come and find out what it’s like for yourself?