Whether you are playing a pirate, a gladiator, a medieval knight, or even a duelist circa the Civil War, one of the most thrilling parts of a stage show might involve a sword fight using practice swords (pictured left). Practice swords are a safe way to not only learn the art of self defense but also to learn theatrical sword fighting. Plays such as William Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” and Gilbert & Sullivan’s “Pirates of Penzance” both respectively show royal battles and swashbuckling on the high seas. Actors do not shy away from depicting the swordplay on stage even though it might seem dangerous.
Theatrical sword fighting can create a convincing onstage illusion by applying a wide range of moves developed over the years by professional choreographers and directors. These include actual martial arts from many different disciplines toned down to make them less dangerous but maintain breathtaking excitement. Another word for theatrical fighting is “stage combat.” Fencing, a sport itself, is a common form of stage combat. Stage fencing follows the same techniques of the sport but modified so the weapons used don’t cause actual harm or even touch the actor.
Choreographed fighting moves depend on the props used. Practice swords are less dangerous to the actors but require more practice to make the fights look real. Routines are then developed to fit the scene. With more and more practice, the actors can develop their technical routines and make them even flashier.
The actors’ movements might appear real and shocking but it is all rehearsed. Unlike in other areas of theater, improvisation cannot be used since it would be too unpredictable and introduce unforeseen changes that would be entirely dangerous especially when props and scenery are involved. All in all, theatrical sword fighting can be dramatic, exciting, and safe.
For more information (or training) in theatrical sword fighting and other stage combat, you can take a class such as those offered at the Atlanta Stage Combat Studio or the British Academy of Stage & Screen Combat.
You can also find a wide variety of practice swords from many different eras by clicking here.