Trevor Swann

Paired with Introduction to Stage Combat: Unarmed (THEA 5716), this topics course will deal with more complex weapon styles. The “double-fence,” or two-handed forms (Rapier & Dagger, Sword & Shield), will be taught. Students will be asked to go more deeply into choreography and aspects of the industry. Critical thinking will be encouraged, and students will be asked to create their own short video showing an understanding of basic principles, such as use of distance, point of view, and storytelling. The function of the stunt coordinator, essential in a growing film industry, will also be explored.

In this topics course, which is paired with Introduction to Stage Combat: Armed (THEA 5716), students will learn the basics of stage fighting with an emphasis on safety. Actors will be taught to create effective stage violence, from hair pulling and choking to sword fighting, with a minimum of risk. Basic techniques will be incorporated into short scenes to give students experience performing fights in classic and modern contexts. Each semester will culminate in a skills-proficiency test aimed at certification in one of eight weapon forms.