Stage Fighting: a Practical Guide

Stage Fighting reveals the practicalities of choreographing realist fight scenes on stage in a way that is both convincing for the audience and safe for the actors. All kinds of combat are explored, ranging from ritualised swordplay through to the slaps and punches of a bar-room brawl. The book takes the reader behind the scenes and explains how the illusion of the fight is created, looking at topics such as working with a partner; warming up; trainong, rehearsing and performing; and creating realistic sound effects. Topics covered include:· The role of the fight director· Action and reaction· Unarmed combat· Using weapons· Safety aspects AUTHOR: Jonathan Howell is senior tutor of stage combat at the UK's Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, but also teaches stage fighting around the world. Jonathan studies at Goldsmith's College, London, and has worked as a dancer, actor, choreographer and director, as well as creating fights for theatre, television, musicals, opera and ballet. He has been Chairman for the Society of British Fight Directors, the British Academy of Dramatic Combat and the Fight Directors' Register for British Actors' Equity. Resident - Bristol 150 colour photos