Stage Combat Tips

TIPS FOR TEACHERS

1. Work in a clear open space and try to practice on a wooden floor. Use 

tumbling mats to cushion any accidental falls. Wear non-restrictive, 

comfortable clothing and supportive and protective footwear. Avoid high 

heels, boots, slippery shoes or socks. Remove all jewelry and empty 

your pockets.

2. Always begin the rehearsal of practice session by having the students 

select a partner. You may or may not want to assist them in this process 

depending on the age and experience of the students. It is not important 

for them to partner with a person of the same sex, but it may be easier to 

learn the techniques with a partner approximately the same height and 

weight.

3. Arrange the rehearsal space so that every performer can be seen at 

all times. This will assist you in coaching them through each of the 

techniques.

4. Always rehearse in slow motion. By example, set the ideal slow motion

 tempo and have them practice it along with you. Also demonstrate what 

it means for everyone to work at the same tempo.

5. Divide the performers into two groups and alternate the practice session

if you have too many performers for the size of the room. Each performer 

should be able to move about freely in all directions for several feet before 

running into a fellow performer.

6. Organize the performers so that all partner A’s face the same direction 

and all B’s face the same direction. Never have two people playing the 

same part work back to back because it will cause unnecessary traffic 

problems once they begin moving about the space.

7. Don’t try to accomplish too much or too little in practice session. 

Rushing the learning process can be dangerous and frustrating, and 

spending too much time on one technique can cause the performers to lose

interest.

8. When rehearsing the “clothes grab,” make sure that the performers wear

heavy, loose clothing, such as sweatshirts.

Reference

First Light Video Publishing

www.firstlightvideo.com