Stage Combat and Choreography

DESCRIPTION: 
Stage combat techniques. Technical and aesthetic aspects of stage combat with sword, knife as well hand to hand combat. Safe portrayal of violence onstage within the context of a play. The role of stage combat within professional theatre practice. Eye/hand coordination, principles of safety in working with a partner. Solo and ensemble work in a fight sequence.

RATIONALE: 
A course specially designed to give students exposure to stage combat which is considered an advanced theatre practice important for a professional cv. The course supports the development of a portfolio of professional skills which are a necessity in today’s film, theatre and media industries. Integrates learning previously done in acting, voice, and movement.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: 
As a result of having taken this course, the student should be able to:
1. Identify the main steps and actions in stage combat.
2. Utilize stage fighting skills to perform fighting sequences and choreography in relation to a dramatic text.
3. Demonstrate knowledge of each technique taught, its conceptual foundations and its structure.
4. Apply fighting techniques to devise fighting choreography for diverse theatrical effects (i.e. comedy, tragedy, slapstick )
5. Demonstrate theoretical and practical comprehension of the importance of safety in the creation and performance of the illusion of violence on stage.

METHOD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING:
In congruence with the teaching and learning strategy of the college, the following tools are used:
• Discussions on assigned readings, lectures, workshops, coaching.
• Office hours: students are encouraged to make full use of instructor’s office hours for questions, to see their exams/papers, and/or go over lecture material.
• Use of a Blackboard site, where instructors post assignment instructions, timely announcements, as well as additional resources.