Two Week Residential Intensive
Levels 1-3 BADC Certification

Fees include:

April 28-30
May 26-28
May 30 - June 2
July 9-11

Course with Tony Wolf
August 14-26

This course has just been created by popular request. One week of fight director training and one week of actor combatant exercises. This course is for those who wish to enter the field of professional fight directing but do not feel they are currently ready for a certification assessment.

Fees include:

Training and assessment in English

Minimum six hours of instruction daily

All weapons provided

Free entry into Scuola Brancaleoni's international prize fights: Torneo Internazionale di Duello Storico e Scenico "Torneo Capoferro" (first prize ?500)

The course will include a performance / presentation in Piobbico 26 August, during Piobbico's medieval festival

Examination fee

Self catering double occupancy accommodation in Piobbico

Excursions to neighbouring cities, towns, and events

Discounts in local restaurants

For more information please check our website: http://www.youngblood.co.uk/workshop2006italy_fdjr.htm

Or contact:
Ran A. Braun at rantenor@hotmail.com or at ran@scuolabrancaleoni.com

AFW offers instruction and practical experience in action film directing, stunt coordination, acting and post production in a new and exciting format. Unlike other film schools, our students receive training through multimedia classroom instruction, camera studio exercises and hands-on location production work.

You'll never be let loose with a camera to work it out alone, as seasoned professionals monitor all exercises and film production. At AFW, the student/teacher ratio is 3 to 1!

3 Types of Workshops
Workshops are currently offered in Maine, New York, and North Carolina. They vary in length from two weekends to three weeks. Housing is included in the tuition for both Maine and North Carolina workshops. Find the workshop or area of interest that works for you.

4 Areas of Instruction

Always wanted to study martial arts?
Always wanted to learn how to fight on stage?

Do both!

Instant Kung Fu is a introduction to martial arts for stage and screen. Learn to combine martial arts moves and stage combat techniques to create a Kung Fu-style fight that is action-packed, safe, and fun!

Time & Date: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., February 26, 2006

Location: Rapier Wit, 575 Wellington Street West, Toronto

Cost: $125 ($100 for Equity, ACTRA, FDC and Rapier Wit members)

To Register: email kungfu@erikbuchanan.ca

Register before Feb. 19, 2006 and save $25!

Erik Buchanan is a Martial Artist, Fight Director, Actor and Writer. He holds Black Belts in Shaolin Kenpo, and Moh Kempo, and has also studied Arnis de Mano, Aikido, Kung Fu, and Wu Gar Mo Sut. His fight director credits include: Don Juan, The Three Musketeers, Robin Hood, Henry V, The Taming of the Shrew and Man of La Mancha. Among his acting credits are: Charlie?s Aunt, Corpse, Zastrozzi, Henry V, Taming of the Shrew and Macbeth on stage, and Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde, Hero, Magnus Opus, Shadow Warriors and Pools, Patios & Decks and TV and Film. His novel Small Magics, is hitting shelves in 2007.

Visit www.erikbuchanan.ca for more info.

Auditions will consist of readings from the script. Sides will be provided.

DROWNING IN DENMARK is an action-adventure/horror sequel to William Shakespeare's Hamlet. Set five years after the events of the original, the play follows the story of a newly resurrected Ophelia, Juliet, & Lady Macbeth and their quest to save Denmark from an impending zombie invasion. This high-octane thrill-ride gives these famed characters the full Vampire Cowboys' treatment. This Spring, the bard goes badass.

Evening weekday rehearsals & Daytime weekend rehearsals will begin the end of March.

Performances will be during May 2006 at Center Stage, NY. AEA showcase.

This is an ensemble play. All types and ethnicities are encouraged to audition.

Character Breakdown:

OPHELIA: Female. 20s to early 30s. Emotional center of the play. Gothic in style. Fights using a combination kung-fu & rapier/dagger.

JULIET: Female. Late teens to late 20s. Innocent, bright-eyed member of the team. Fights using a combination of kung-fu, daggers, and knife weapons.

LADY MACBETH: Female. 20s to late 30s. Hardened veteran of war. The team leader. A natural brawler, fights using broadsword/shield and street-style fisticuffs.

HAMLET: Male. 20s to late 30s. Ophelias former lover. The leader of the zombie horde. A master swordsman.

HORATIO: Male. 20s to late 30s. Ophelias bestfriend. A young hero, leader of the Fortinbrass forces. A master swordsman.

CALIBAN: Male. All ages. Physically imposing. Speaks in grunts, but has a surprisingly strong singing voice. Uses arcane weapons and natural strength/size in physical conflicts.

FORTINBRAS: Male. All ages. A warn-out General, a failing King, Fortinbras is the new leader of Denmark. He's slowly losing the war.

LAERTES: Male. All ages. Ophelias brother. Has gone mad. The deaths of his sister, father, and Hamlet haunt him.

PUCK: Male. All ages. Hamlets henchman and magical sprite. Playful, mischievous, and out to ensure that magic overtakes the human world. .

Other Characters that will be played by the ensemble include: Bernardo, Francisco, Skull of Yorrick, The Gravedigger, First Clown, Second Clown, Peaseblossom, Lavinia, Rosencrantz, Guildenstern, The Ghost, Apothecary, Three Witches, MacDuff, Tybalt, Claudius, a slew of Zombies, a couple of Vampire Cowboys, and a guy named Bob Moran

*Please note: All actors will be performing extensive stage combat sequences during the course of the show. All male actors will be performing multiple characters. Some singing is required for select characters.

Interested actors should email headshots/resumes to abby@vampirecowboys.com or mail directly to:

Abby Marcus
Vampire Cowboys Theatre Company
394 Metropolitan Avenue, #3L
Brooklyn, NY 11211

*Please highlight any prior movement training in stage combat, dance, clowning, martial arts, etc.

The 11th Annual Winter Wonderland Workshop is back and ready to bring you some of the best stage combat instructors from across the country and from across the pond! Three days of frostbite, chapped lips and head colds (C'mon, its Chicago in the dead of winter!)!

Actually, we bring you three days of stage combat unlike any other. And now, you can register and pay online! Just click the link below and you are on your way to joining a part of history. Come one and all to the most popular stage combat workshop in the country!

Click here for registration information

Taught by Pete Kautz. See website for registration information.

See website for details.

The Edward Oakeshott Memorial Stage Combat Competition has been created to give performers the chance to compete on a friendly social level while being judged by peers and colleagues, and to help support the Edward Oakeshott Foundation. This will be a two day event held June 25 & 26 in Oklahoma City. Participants will compete in one of two events: Duo (two performers) or Group (3-10 performers) in one of three categories: Ancient / Medieval, Renaissance, or Modern / Contemporary.

We will be having a charity dinner Saturday night in which all proceeds will go to the Oakeshott Foundation, Sunday night we will be having an awards banquet. We will be in contact with some of our venders to talk about donations for a charity raffle to be held Saturday at the diner.

We are limiting the amount of entries permitted this year do to space requirements. We will only be accepting the first 80 duo entries, and the first 16 group entries. Those along with estimated patrons will put us at over 400 individuals at this event. We are only having 6 judges this year. We are also excepting only one vender in each of the following categories; stage combat weapons, stage props (breakaway bottles, rubber weapons, and blank fire guns), decorative / costume swords, and wooden practice weapons. We are not charging our venders at this event. Each vender will have a space to display and sale items. Information booths will also be set up for the Edward Oakeshott Foundation, ATME, Ring of Steel, and other organizations that will be participating in this event.

See website for details.

May 14-15, 2005
Navaja Sevillana! Traditional Spanish Knife Combat

James Loriega, Instructor
Raven Arts Institute of Sevillian Steel

Pre-register before April 15 for $100 by check, Paypal, or cash; $125 thereafter.

June 11-12, 2005
Fighting with the German Longsword
Christian Henry Tobler, Instructor
Author of Fighting with the German Longsword

Pre-register before May 15 for $100 by check, Paypal, or cash; $125 thereafter.

June 25-26, 2005
(Another) Scholars' Weekend of Western Martial Arts -- Newcomers welcome!

Pre-register before June 15 for only $30 by check, Paypal, or cash; $40 thereafter or at the door.

Lunches & Sunday continental breakfast included on all workshops. Weather permitting, we will train outdoors at Gallowglass Academy (6372 N. Mt. Morris Rd., Leaf River, IL 61047). Please dress accordingly, and bring something to sit on during breaks.

You must be 18 to participate in our workshops.

Gallowglass Academy, Inc.
P. O. Box 201
Leaf River, IL 61047-0201

Call 815-973-1064 or log on to www.GallowglassAcademy.org for further information.

Saturday?s afternoon the 16th of April. 2pm till 6pm. And 7th of May 2pm till 6pm.

Learn how to accurately convey the brutality & sophistry of the medieval European martial arts! The workshops will mainly focus on the "Fechtbuch I.33" an anonymous German manuscript from the 1300?s. It is the earliest surviving manual and the most sophisticated sword & buckler manual.

GUEST TUTOR: Dave Rawlings, Chief Instructor of Boars Tooth. Boar?s Tooth Fight School is a committed, academic & martial society dedicated to the translation & accurate reconstruction of the techniques taught by medieval fencing masters.

PARTICIPANT NOTES: THIS IS NOT STAGE COMBAT! GLOVES & FENCING MASKS ESSENTIAL! Plus, the usual, movement friendly clothing & water. Some fencing masks & gloves will be provided if you do not have your own. We will be fighting with Rattan Cane (to minimise the risk of injury)

FEE: Full price per day ?50, ?40 concessions (thats you guys!)
VENUE: St Andrews. Finchley Rd. London

Please contact Ruth for details ruth@youngblood.co.uk

10 days of intensive rapier & dagger and unarmed stage combat leading towards the BASSC Basic Fight Performance Test and Certification. Based on the British National Stage Combat Workshop, it will be the first of its kind ever in Germany! Teachers are Jonathan Leverett (BASSC) and Philip d'Orl?ans (BASSC)

Detailed information about this workshop can be found at http://www.stage-combat.de. Please feel free to contact workshop@stage-combat.de if you have any questions!

A weekend of katana (Samurai sword) and quarterstaff for stage and screen. Teachers are Marlon Bulger (BASSC) and Roger Bartlett (BASSC, BADC)

Detailed information about this workshop can be found at http://www.stage-combat.de. Please feel free to contact workshop@stage-combat.de if you have any questions!

NEW BEGINNERS CLASS STARTS SEPT. 14th (3 months of weekly instruction for a flat fee of $150) Classes will be from 6:30-7:30 every Tuesday at the El Cerrito Veterans Hall, on Stockton Ave. of of San Pablo Ave, El Cerrito, CA.

Email us at info@albionschoole.com for more information.

The Albion Schoole of Defense, www.albionschoole.com, located in El Cerrito, California, was established in 1986 by Michael Cawelti. The school specializes in the theatrical and martial applications of Renaissance and Medieval swordplay.

Rapier and Companion Weapon
6th of November 1pm till 6pm. Fee: Full ?40. Cons, inc youselves just ?30.

Brush up those duelling skills with this fantastic full day of Rapier and ... anything. A superb study of those dramatic, ?they Duel', fights of the Reformation (late 16th early 17th Century) We explore fights with rapier and companion weapons employed including dagger, buckler, cloak ... even lantern!

This workshop explores a variety of rapier systems and their application in stage combat and may even extend into the application of text. Very useful for the jobbing Actor/combatant.

Guest Tutor: Kevin has 15yrs of experience in performance & directing. He is a qualified Stage Combat Instructor for the BADC & teaches all the weapon system for the BADC exams. Kevin has taught at New York University, The University of Leeds, University of Hong Kong, Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama, Mountview, Bretton Hall & Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts.

Motion Capture Workshop
Sunday 7th of November 1pm till 6pm at St Andrews United Reformed Church, Finchley Road. London. Fee: Full ?60.00. Concs, yourselves included, just ?40.00

What is motion capture? How does it work? What's my role?

? As a Performer If you had the role of, for example, Gollum in LOTR find out what that role would actually entail and what you would need to know to get the job!

? As a Fighter Discover how just a couple of fight performers become the hoards of thousands in that epic battle scene? And how would you audition for that?

This is an invaluable introduction to this increasingly popular technology as more and more filmmaker use Mo? Cap? for their visual effects. This workshop will leave you with the practical knowledge of working in this arena and will place you a head and shoulders above your peers.

Guest Tutor: Carrie Thiel Carrie has a BFA in acting from the University of Alberta, Canada. She is an Actress, Stunt performer, Fight choreographer and Instructor. She has been directing Motion Capture for the past 5 years, and was part of the Weta Digital effects team that won 3 Oscars and 2 Baftas for their work on 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy. Most recently, she has directed Motion Capture for Oliver Stone's 'Alexander the Great', and Ridley Scott's 'Kingdom of Heaven', which are yet to be released.

For further info: Contact Ruth: ruth@youngblood.org.uk. 07887 531963.
http://www.youngblood.org.uk

Boost your marketability, ensure your safety and increase your chances of being hired again and again. Everywhere on film, television and stage, the demand grows for actors who are able to perform convincing and dynamic violence. Women as well as men are expected to be able to play physical roles. Are you ready for such a part? Stage combat can help you become the dynamic actor you have always wanted to be. Join a Rapier Wit class and start improving your physical acting technique immediately.

Basic*
Unarmed Tuesday July 6 - August 3
Single Sword Tuesday August 10 - September 7
Quarterstaff Tuesday September 14 - October 12

Intermediate*
Rapier & Dagger Thursday July 8 - August 5
Broadsword Thursday August 12 - September 9
Small Sword Thursday September 16 - October 14
Martial Arts Unarmed Thursday October 21 - November 18

All classes run 7:00 - 10:00 pm

$450 (plus GST) per five week course

$350 (plus GST) for Rapier Wit, FDC, IATSE, Equity and Actra members

If class fees are paid in full before 1st class

*A $100 non-refundable deposit is needed to hold a space

Taking place during the full month of August '04, this promises to be an absolutely exceptional stage combat experience. Participants will travel to beautiful rural Urbania in Italy for an immersion course in both stage combat and Italian language and culture, and will have the chance to tour the vineyards, castles, opera theatres and other sites throughout the region.

The training will include unarmed combat and swordplay inspired by ancient Italian martial arts as well as camera fight performance,and the opportunity to test for Basic-level certification with the British Academy of Dramatic Combat. Faculty will include Tony Wolf, Cultural Fighting Styles Designer for the Lord of the Rings trilogy, and Tim Klotz, director of London's YoungBlood, Inc.

For full details of the Stage Combat Summer School in both English and Italian, please see - http://www.centrostuditaliani.org/stage_screen.htm.

This year's Paddy Crean Workshop will be taking place in Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia between July 12 - 17.

"The Paddy" provides an unparallelled opportunity to study with leading international Fight Masters in a non-competitive environment, without the pressure of certification tests. The theme for Paddy '04 is "Historical Combat in Performance" and special attention will be given to the process of adapting historical fighting styles for stage and screen.

The Tier One faculty includes:

Ramon Martinez: founder of the International Masters at Arms Federation and expert in classical European swordsmanship

Stephen Hand: founder of the Stoccatta School of Defence, author and leading interpreter of George Silver's "Paradoxes of Defence"

Brad Waller: founder of the International Order of the Sword and Pen, pioneer interpreter of traditional Italian and German martial arts for the stage

Tony Wolf: founder of the New Zealand Stage Combat Society, Fighting Styles Designer for the "Lord of the Rings" movie trilogy

Paddy '04 will also feature an academic symposium on the theme, "Manipulating Violence: Weaponry, Combat and Swordplay in Performance".

For full details and online booking, please see http://www.usq.edu.au/transace/mcgregor/winter/paddyoz

Saturday May 22
At the Rapier Wit Studio
11 am-4:00 pm
$267.50*
$160.50* for students and members of Rapier Wit, ACTRA, Equity, IATSE
if paid in full before April 28th

*Space is limited. A $50 non-refundable deposit is needed to hold a space.

The stage combat safety workshop is a one-day intensive class which covers the foundations of stage combat and stage safety.

Class work covers:

Take part in this exciting and seldom-offered workshop! This class will focus on armed and unarmed combat for film. We will exam the angles, timing, focus, and preparation that make a film fight scene safe and effective. This is one of the best opportunities to learn the fundamental differences between film and stage combat. Rapier Wit is very fortunate to get John during one of his infrequent free moments. So don?t miss out on the chance to work with this very experienced director and stunt master. Class size will be limited so every student will be able to benefit from John?s specific and immediate feedback throughout the workshop.

Saturday May 15
Sunday May 16
At the Rapier Wit Studio
10:00 - 4:00

$474.50 (includes GST)*
$374.50 for Students, members of Rapier Wit, FDC, ACTRA, and Equity
If paid before May 10th

A $100 non-refundable deposit is needed to hold a space. Times, and dates are subject to change.

John Stead is one of the most prolific and best known Fight Directors in Canada. He is resident Fight Director for both the Stratford and Shaw Festivals. John has over 250 professional theatrical credits across Canada and the United States. As well as stunt coordinating numerous episodic TV series and films, he is currently coordinator for the TV show, Mutant X. John?s direction credits include Sinbad, Earth: Final Conflict, and Tracker.

For more information, or to book classes, please call Daniel Levinson at (416) 534-1947 Or check out our web site at http://www.rapierwit.com.

The redoubtable Ring of Steel Journeyman, Dominick Veldman, returns to Ann Arbor for a fun-filled day of Kung Fu Fighting. Expanding on his earlier demo, he'll make this a hands-on workshop.

Sunday, May 9th, starting after regular Ring rehearsal ends.

Bring a lunch or plan to order in - we'll eat and watch some selected Kung Fu fights and then practice some of the techniques associated with Kung Fu forms.

$5.00 fee for participating. (2pm-6pm) ($15.00 for non-members)

Paid advance registration required - Deadline 4/29. Send e-mail to rosteel@umich.edu or call (734) 763-4900.

For information: Douglas Glenn, General Manager of GSTRF

We?re going to keep the schedule somewhat flexible to allow Bob to play it by ear based on what he sees as the needs of the group and allow some personal interaction.

Saturday - Workshop runs 9 am to 6 pm with a hour or so lunch break.
Content - Primarily rapier & broadsword for stage and screen with an option for staff and whip if time and interest allow. There will also be some focus on choreography skills.

Sunday - Workshop runs 10 am to ? with a hour or so lunch break.
Content - "Fights for Film" workshop. From 10am-3pm we will go over basics, and the rest of the day we can focus on shooting an actual scene for an episode of ?The Hunted? (which has been pre-choreographed).

Weapons: Although a few of us have an extra weapon or two, everyone is responsible for arranging to have weapons to use.

T-Shirts: Each person attending will receive a Commemorative T-shirt. Lunch each day will be provided by the Ren-Faire. We plan to set things up to run a couple of Bob?s movies in the background during lunch.

Reservations will be on a first come basis based on the receipt of your check. Only 30 spaces will be available. Reservations are no open to everyone. Less than half the spaces have been spoken for so far, but I expect that to change after this announcement. If more than 30 express interest, a waiting list will be created.

Cost for the workshop will be $130 per person. Checks should be made payable to Renaissance St. Louis, Inc. Send checks to P.O. Box 148, Wentzville, MO 63385. Be sure to include your t-shirt size.

REFUND POLICY: If you have paid your money, but find yourself unable to attend the workshop, the following applies if you wish a refund:

Maestro Ramon Martinez and Maestro Jeannette Acosta-Martinez teaching Spanish and Italian rapier.

SWORDMASTER - ACTION DIRECTOR - WHIP MASTER

HIGHLANDER - STAR TREK: VOYAGER - SINBAD - QUEEN OF SWORDS - SECONDHAND LIONS - THE RUNDOWN

9 AM - 5 PM SATURDAY JANUARY 17, 2004

SWORDPLAY FOR THE STAGE AND SCREEN: BEGINNING TO INTERMEDIATE SWORD SKILLS
Will cover the basics of grip, parries, footwork (both linear and triangular/circular), chambered hands for double sword & companion weapons and De Longis' unique safety protocol. The class will develop the skills necessary to learn the climactic final duel in Second Hand Lions.

9 AM - 5 PM SUNDAY JANUARY 18, 2004

ANATOMY OF THE BULLWHIP
Mr. De Longis will demonstrate the whip in action. The De Longis rolling style utilizes structure and alignment to produce explosive energy in the bullwhip with a minimum of effort. This method combines knowledge and martial arts training to safely generate and focus the 700 mph velocity of the world's fastest and most powerful flexible weapon. The participants will learn the skills taught to the whip fighters on "The Rock?s" new film, THE RUNDOWN. The participants will work in small groups with whips and ropes to cultivate safe, consistent accuracy in his flowing style. Along with his wife, Mary, they will also demonstrate a synchronized bullwhip tango routine.

FEES: Pre-Registrations must be post marked by January 9, 2004
Pre-Registration for both workshops, $175.00
Pre-Registration for a single workshop either sword or whip, $100.00

Registration at the door for both workshops, $225.00
Registration at the door for a single workshop, either sword or whip, $125.00

LOCATION: Union Management Corp. Building
540 39th street
Union City, New Jersey, 07087
Just minutes from Mid-Town Manhattan, NYC

Registration Form, can be found at http://www.martinez-destreza.com
Any and all inquires please contact Maestro Ram?n Mart?nez at: martinez@martinez-destreza.com
Martinez Academy of Arms, P.O. Box 2484, Secaucus, NJ 07096
Telephone 201-330-8670

Saturday, January 17th
Basic 2-4 pm / Advanced 7-9 pm
FocusFish - 6121 Santa Monica Blvd., at Gower
Hollywood, CA

1. Learn the basics, or further your skills in the sword fighting techniques used in today's most popular productions.
2. Discover the terminology and etiquette of the sword.
3. Explore the techniques of acting through the fight.

. . . all taught and supervised by qualified members of The Lady Cavaliers!

Men, women, actors and non-actors are welcome. $25 fee. Class size is limited, so please email theladycavaliers@mac.com or call 310.562.7171 to make your reservation. Please state: Basic or Advanced* workshop (*Prior experience is essential) , your name and a contact telephone number.

The Lady Cavaliers is a NYC based theater company that was founded to promote a stronger female image and raise awareness of historical women warriors by specializing in the art of stage combat. We create original work in theater and film, as well as run educational workshops to challenge the stereotype of the "weaker sex". This award-winning company includes actors, directors, fight directors, teachers, writers and stuntwomen who have credits ranging from feature films and television to Off-Broadway, national and international tours. The Lady Cavaliers is a 501(c)(3) Not-for-Profit Theatre Company.

Amsterdam Action Workshop - 5-15 January see http://www.youngblood.org.uk/amsterdam/index.html

Bunter-Haufen Workshop (Freiburg, Germany) - 17-18 January see http://www.bunter-haufen.de/workshop_e.html

Hamburg StuntFighter Academy Workshop (Hamburg, Germany) - 20-21 January see http://www.stuntfighter.com

YoungBlood Re:Action Workshop (London, England) - 24-25 January see http://www.youngblood.org.uk

Oxford University Stage Combat Workshop (Oxford, England) - 31-32 January

Dublin Action Acting workshop (Dublin, Ireland) - 2-3 February

Bunter-Haufen Workshop (Freiburg, Germany) - 7-8 February

Hamburg Stunt School Workshop (Hamburg, Germany) - 10-11 February

For course descriptions and bookings see http://www.youngblood.org.uk/tonywolf.htm

Greg Mele from the Chicago Swordplay Guild instructing.

The Amsterdam Stage and Screen Combat workshop is an exciting new event for Advanced Actor/Combatants and Stage and Screen Combat Instructors, Fight Directors and Choreographers. This workshop provides training that is directly applicable to the tasks required by the industry.

This is a intensive ten-day workshop in Central Amsterdam. The workshop is designed for those who already have a firm grasp on the fundamentals of period and modern combat for film, TV and theatre. Emphasis is placed on natural and believable performance within the bounds of safe technique.

This course is principally designed for professional stage and screen actors (of either gender), as well as actors in training. We have not designed this course to accommodate absolute beginners, and suggest beginners go to the YoungBlood website or join the YoungBlood mailing list for information about other intensives.

Tim Klotz will be administrating this event in Amsterdam in collaboration with Ran A Braun, YoungBlood's Netherlands Co-ordinator. A beautiful venue, the Amsterdam Theatre School, has been arranged as well as accommodation at the Hotel Luxer which is a short walk from the Theatre School itself.

The workshop is divided into two courses which interact with each other, the advanced actor/combatant course and the instructor/fight director course. If you are wondering what past participants thought of our workshop you can look at feedback from the Dublin 'Fights on Film' Workshop.

Of course, the calibre of the staff and the new and the multifaceted approach the Amsterdam Advanced Action workshop takes to performance combat, will make this one of the most enjoyable and fulfilling performance combat events ever!

Boost your marketability, ensure your safety and increase your chances of being hired again and again. Everywhere on film, television and stage, the demand grows for actors who are able to perform convincing and dynamic violence. Women as well as men are expected to be able to play physical roles. Are you ready for such a part? Stage combat can help you become the dynamic actor you have always wanted to be. Join a Rapier Wit class and start improving your physical acting technique immediately.

Basic*
Single Sword Thursday October 2 - October 30
Quarterstaff Thursday November 6- December 4

Intermediate*
Broadsword Tuesday October 7 - November 4
Martial Arts Wednesday October 8 - November 5
Small Sword Tuesday November 11 - December 9

All classes run 7:00 - 10:00 pm

Courses run for 5 weeks and are $350 each with GST $374.50

*A $100 non-refundable deposit is needed to hold a space

*Payment in instalments is accepted *$25 off FDC, Equity and Actra members if class fees are paid in full before 1st class

*Dates and prices subject to change

Certification Classes
Please call or e-mail us about our certification package options. Certification includes extra training hours, and adjudication Basic (3 courses) $850 plus GST, Intermediate (4 courses) $1150 plus GST

For more information, or to book classes, please call Daniel Levinson at (416) 534-1947 or e-mail Daniel@rapierwit.com

For more information about us, check out our web site at www.rapierwit.com

ANABASIS FILMS still need people willing to be soldiers for a huge battle scene shooting near the Los Angeles area, possibly Tuesday and Wednesday the 15th and 16th.

The battle is between a group of Christians and Muslim soldiers during the Crusades. Participants need not have any battle experience, but period costume pieces, armor, and weapons would be much appreciated. The production Co. is ready to Costume a couple dozen people, but more are needed, both Muslim and Christian.

Fight scenes are being directed by Dan Speaker of the ACADEMY OF THEATRICAL COMBAT. Dan has Choreographed movies like MASTER AND COMMANDER, HOOK, THE THREE MUSKETEERS, and Dozens more. If your into Stage combat this is a great chanced to watch how one of top Fight Choreographers and his team works.

There is no guarantee that you?ll be featured in the final Movie, but being on time, reliable, able to follow direction, and ready to run your head off as a Crusader Battle participant will score big points with the AD?s who can possibly get you screen time. Again costume and following directions helps here?

Looking for people who will Commit, will show up, and will have a great time?

If your not working already, want a free couple of meals and some cool stories to tell. Let us know ASAP.

There is no pay. Great food, and Copy and Credit are provided.

Email or call
Paul Darrigo
(323) 244-8020
fedguy2@pacbell.net
or fax
(775) 249-5516

Take part in this exciting and seldom-offered workshop! This class will focus on armed and unarmed combat for film. We will exam the angles, timing, focus, and preparation that make a film fight scene safe and effective. This is one of the best opportunities to learn the fundamental differences between film and stage combat. Rapier Wit is very fortunate to get John during one of his infrequent free moments. So don't miss out on the chance to work with this very experienced director and stunt master. Class size will be limited so every student will be able to benefit from John's specific and immediate feedback throughout the workshop.

$474.50 (includes GST)*
$374.50 for Students, members of Rapier Wit, FDC, ACTRA, and Equity
If paid before November 10th

Times, and dates are subject to change.

John Stead is one of the most prolific and best known Fight Directors in Canada. He is resident Fight Director for both the Stratford and Shaw Festivals. John has over 250 professional theatrical credits across Canada and the United States. As well as stunt coordinating numerous episodic TV series and films, he is currently coordinator for the TV show, Mutant X. John's direction credits include Sinbad, Earth: Final Conflict, and Tracker.

For more information, or to book classes, please call Daniel Levinson at (416) 534-1947 Or check out the Rapier Wit web site at www.rapierwit.com

This is a 'must' course for actors, directors, and stage managers. It is the only one of its kind in the city. For liability and safety reasons, all theatre companies should have a licensed PAL holder on staff if firearms are going to be used in a production.

Rapier Wit's Possession And Acquisition License Course will give participants the opportunity to earn their firearm licenses while training in safe and effective performance techniques for stage and film.

$474.50 (includes GST)*
$374.50 for Students, members of Rapier Wit, FDC, ACTRA, and Equity.
If paid before November 17th

Times, and dates are subject to change.

Tuition covers:

Rapier Wit would like to invite you to our open house arms and armour show. Everyone is welcome to come by and see what wonderful weapons and fight wear is available here in Ontario. There will be displays of arms for both rental and purchase. This is a great opportunity to speak to these fabulous builders about the pros and cons of specific weapons, or what to get that hard-to-buy-for person on your holiday list. If you are interested in fight gear for theatre, film, SCA, or personal adventure, you do not want to miss this fabulous event! If you or someone you know is a weapon builder or armourer and would like to show their wears please feel free to contact us. We are happy to include new friends in our event.

Rapier Wit Studio
575 Wellington St. W.
One street south of King and one west of Bathurst
Attendance is free.
All are welcome.

For more information, or to book classes, please call Daniel Levinson at (416) 534-1947 Or check out the Rapier Wit web site at www.rapierwit.com

Sabre and Rapier Combat Basics for Stage and Screen
SAT: Nov 1 - DRM 800 RV Basic & Inter $186.
SUN: Nov 2 - DRM 800 RV2 Inter & Adv $101.
Call Rock Valley College as soon as possible to sign up.
Limited to 22. First come first get in.
815-921-3902

You will need to first call and get put into the College system before enrollment

This is to inform you that I will be running a series of stage combat workshops in the US and in Toronto through October. Some are being offered through private institutions and others are open to the public. The itinerary is:

Sept. 27 - 28, "action design" panel discussion and demo. for 2BeCon fantasy convention, Indiana

Sept 29 - Oct. 9, various venues in Michigan; Oct. 4-5, Art of Combat Academy, Michigan

Oct 12-15, various venues in Boston

Oct 17 - 19, Rapier Wit Academy, Toronto

Oct. 20 - 24, various venues in Mississippi

Oct 26 - 31, based in Williamsburg, Virginia (TBC workshops in New York City and North Carolina)

Nov. 1 - 3, Babes with Blades, Chicago

Topics include the Re:Action System, Pro-Wrestling for Actors and Fight Directors, Fight Scenes for Camera, etc. Some of these are outlined at http://www.geocities.com/combatuere/Masterclasses.html.

Special thanks to John Lennox, Kyna Hamill, Tim Klotz, Lloyd Caldwell, Daniel Levinson and Dawn "Sam" Alden for their help in organising the tour. I'm really looking forward to catching up with old friends and meeting lots of new ones.

Saturday, October 18 and Sunday, October 19, 2003 10:00 - 5:00

At the Rapier Wit studio, 575 Wellington St. West, Toronto

Don?t miss this unique workshop! A great chance for actors, directors, and stunt performers to work with this next-generation fight director!

Tony will present the New Zealand Re:Action system of movement analysis, and examine stage combat specifically looking at six movement elements: Synergy, Articulation, Deception, Alignment, Extension, and Sequential Flow. These core elements will be explored in terms of examining 'Real World' fighting styles as well as looking at carrying physical character traits and choices into the fight, citing examples from the Lord of the Rings.

Workshop participation fee: $428.00* (inc. GST)

Discount price: $374.50* (inc. GST) if full fee is paid by October 10

*Fee includes admission to Tony Wolf?s lecture on Oct 17 (see next entry for info)

*A $100 non-refundable deposit is needed to hold a space in the workshop

*Additional $50 discount for Rapier Wit, FDC, Equity and Actra members if fee is paid in full before Oct 10.

Tony Wolf is the president and founder of the New Zealand Stage Combat Society. Tony?s fight direction and action design have been featured in over one hundred and fifty feature films, television, theatre, opera and ballet productions. He is currently the movement consultant on the Vanessa Ford Production UK tour of The Hobbit. Tony served as the Fighting Styles Designer and Digital Sword master for Peter Jackson?s ?Lord of the Rings? trilogy from 1998-2000. He is a regular guest tutor for performing arts courses throughout New Zealand, and teaches master-classes in Australia and Canada. As well as over twenty-five years? experience in the martial and performing arts, Tony is a former professional wrestler and stuntman. Between 1988-1994 Tony developed his original Re:Action system of performance combat, drawing upon a variety of movement and staging traditions. Please see http://swordforum.com/articles/ent/tonywolf.php for Tony?s interview with sword forum international.

For more information, or to book a place in the workshop, please call Daniel Levinson at (416) 534-1947 or e-mail Daniel@rapierwit.com

For more information about us, check out our web site at www.rapierwit.com

Friday October 17, 2003 7-10 pm

at the Rapier Wit studio, 575 Wellington St. West, Toronto

Please join us for an evening of entertainment and education as Tony tells us of his adventures in Middle Earth while working on the epic trilogy Lord Of The Rings. Tony will also be happy to answer questions about his extensive work in film and theatre around the world.

Tony Wolf is the President and Founder of the New Zealand Stage Combat Society. Tony?s fight direction and action design have been featured in over one hundred and fifty feature film, television, theatre, opera and ballet productions. He is currently the movement consultant on the Vanessa Ford Production UK tour of The Hobbit. Tony served as the Fighting Styles Designer and Digital Sword master for Peter Jackson?s

Lord of the Rings trilogy from 1998-2000. He is a regular guest tutor for performing arts courses throughout New Zealand, and teaches master-classes in Australia and Canada. As well as over twenty-five years? experience in the martial and performing arts, Tony is a former professional wrestler and stuntman. Between 1988-1994 Tony developed his original Re:Action system of performance combat, drawing upon a variety of movement and staging traditions. Please see Tony?s interview with sword forum international at http://swordforum.com/articles/ent/tonywolf.php.

Tickets are very limited for this one-time event. $45.00 at the door, or $30.00 if bought before October 10th (Ticket prices include GST.)

For more information, or to book tickets, please call Daniel Levinson at (416) 534-1947 or e-mail Daniel@rapierwit.com

For more information about us, check out our web site at www.rapierwit.com

Less than one week left until the 4th annual Philadelphia Stage Combat Workshop!!! And there is still some room.

The Philadelphia Stage Combat Workshop is a two day (Sept 27th & 28th) stage combat workshop sponsored by the University of the Arts and The Society of American Fight Directors, providing local actors, directors and theater professionals with opportunities to take classes taught by the nations top practitioners of stage combat. Classes are offered at all skill levels.

All instructors are Certified Teachers, Fight Director or Fight Masters with The Society of American Fight Directors. And this year there is a special guest instructor. First is Christopher Amberger, a schlagger duelist and author of The Secrets of the Sword, presenting a lecture and demonstration on schlagger dueling.

Don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity. Check out www.philascw.org for workshop details, or email me with any questions.

Thank you for your time and I hope to see you next week.

John V. Bellomo
Coordinator, Philadelphia Stage Combat Workshop

Following the runaway success of Fights on Film '02, YoungBlood Ltd. is proud to present another "new school" performance combat workshop. Set in the heart of Temple Bar, Dublin's vibrant cultural district, Fights on Film 03 offers you:

Greetings all! The Lansing International Swordfighting and Martial Arts Convention is back again! August 1-3, now running three days instead of two! This year we have changed the name to The International Swordfighting and Martial Arts Convention, or ISMAC to show that we have grown beyond simply being a venue for the Lansing area.

New structure for this year includes:
Master's Classes- 3 hours blocks for $40/class. The Masters class Schedule is on the website.
Private Instruction- You can ask any instructor for a private 45 minute one-on-one class for $40/class! No one else has this option- ISMAC is the first and only one to offer it!
Coached Bouts- On friday night we will offer a coached bouts tournament where you can fence with an opponent and get pointers from the masters! Again, No one else has this option- ISMAC is the first and only one to offer it!
Rapier Tournament- Saturday night we will host a rapier tournament. Rules and regs are on the website.

If you haven't been able to make past years in Lansing, THIS is the year to come!

Be sure to tell your friends. The list of instructors this year is almost double previous years!

The Radisson is sponsoring us again this year! Rooms are $89/night, almost half off their standard rate, and you get to stay where the instructors are! Please book rooms here, they have been supporting this event every year!

I hope to see everyone there!!

John Lennox

Last year was the biggest Summer Intensive the British Academy of Dramatic Combat presented at Mountview. Judging from the enquiries we've had for this year it could be another great summer! Nearly 40 of our students last summer received passing grades on their exams in 3 to 5 weapons from Basic (Level 1) to Advanced (Level 3).

Evening sessions: There are now stand alone evening sessions during the BADC London Summer School. These are free or seriously discounted for workshop participants. If you are not a workshop participant you must have a previous stage combat certification, or attended YoungBlood ongoing classes.

Subjects:

Lawrence Carmichael - Andrew Fraser - Nigel Poulton - Jason King - Scott Witt - Special guest Tony Wolf (Fighting Styles Designer, Lord of the Rings)

Full workshop (over 50 hours of instruction!) - $550.00
Master class - $50.00
Taster class - $25.00
All practice weapons provided

Discounts for MEAA, SAFDi members, Find-a-Friend!

Event Information

Registration Form

For further information please contact -
Andrew Fraser - 0417 980 366
Scott Witt - 0414 349 530 switt@qldtheatreco.com.au

To all female stage combatants in the Chicago area:

Just wanted to send out a heads up that we now have new dates and times for the postponed production of Babes With Blades in Spring of 2003! Woo-hoo!

I'll be sending out formal audition info as we get closer to the time, but I know everyone's schedules book up pretty quickly far in advance. If you're interested, please pencil it into your date planners. :)

The new Babes With Blades will be at the Storefront Theatre at Gallery 37, (Randolph Street downtown) and will run from May 23rd through June 15th, 2003, Thursdays - Sundays.

Auditions will most likely be the last weekend in March, and rehearsals will begin April 12th.

More info to follow, but I wanted to give you all the heads up. Please feel free to pass this along to anyone you think might be interested. If you want more info, feel free to email me, or check the Babes website at http://www.babeswithblades.org.

Have a fabulous new year, and hope to see you all come the thaw.

Take care,
Sam

Dawn "Sam" Alden
Founder, Producer, Director
Babes With Blades

Site: Patten Gym, 2407 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL, on Northwestern University's campus

Dates/Times and Sessions:

With Maestro Ramon Martinez

Since Lord Cygnus has given me his gracious permission...

The Known World Players are a group of actors based in Nashville, TN that performs a variety of shows at Renaissance Festivals, Sci-Fi Conventions, Victorian Faires, Private Events, etc. We are an acting troupe as well as a stage combat troupe, with qualified trainers and directors (the directors have over 70 years combined experience in acting and fighting).

We will be holding open auditions to expand our group in Nashville. Anyone who is interested in learning to sword-fight, act, dance, sew, or otherwise entertain, we are looking for you! Our auditions will be held on February 15-16, 12AM to 6PM (check our website for location-- www.knownworldplayers.com). Auditions will consist of one two-minute memorized piece that you feel best displays your abilities and a cold reading, as well as an improvisational exercise. You do not need to know how to fight before you join...we will teach you that.

We ask that before you audition, you understand what you are committing to. You must be able to attend at least 75% of rehearsals (practice makes perfect--and perfection is what we are aiming for :)), including all dress rehearsals, be able to travel (we reimburse for travel) and attend all performances during the season. You also must love to perform and "dare to be stupid" (that will be explained later). If you love to make people laugh, gasp, applaud, and cheer--this is your chance to be a part of something big!

Please email me if you have questions--and we hope to see you there!

rachel@knownworldplayers.com

With Roger Siggs

Six classes, three instructors, and limited to twenty attendees. Reasonably priced now, but cost goes up on the first of September.

The Philadelphia Stage Combat Workshop is an S.A.F.D. sanctioned workshop and all classes will be taught by an S.A.F.D. Fight Master, Fight Director or Certified Teacher.

This year promises to be jammed packed with fun, exciting and educational classes. And as always, we provide you with Philadelphia's finest cheese steaks for lunch.

If you visit www.philascw.org, you can find answers to many frequently asked questions such as hotels, directions and fees. Check the web site on a regular basis for updates on classes, times and teachers. Feel free to email me or call 215-888-4172 if you can not find what you are looking for on the web site.

Thank you for your time and I hope to see you in September.
John V. Bellomo
Coordinator, Philadelphia Stage Combat Workshop

On September 7th and 8th, 2002 in Denver, CO, USA, Bob Charron will present a course of instruction on the Flos Duellatorum (Flower of Battle), a 15th Century Italian fighting manual. This will be a two day class limited to thirty people. The cost for the weekend will be $65 (no food or lodging included).

It's happening again! That's right, the Lansing International Swordfighting and Martial Arts Convention is happening again in Lansing, Michigan this summer. I hope I will see all of you there again. Those of you who have missed one or both years, you have got to make this one. They keep getting better! It looks like this year will even top the last one, if that's possible. Those of you who were there know what I am talking about.

Once again, it will be funded through the mine and Jared's pockets. Soooo....... we need help! Send in your money as soon as you can, and tell absolutely EVERY person you know about it so we can have a record crowd!

Many of you who came last year told me to let you know if I need help spreading the word so funding was not such an issue this year. You hopefully remember who you are...... Help! I know there are a lot of members and/or instructors of swordfighting schools on this mailing list. Please get as many students as you can from your school to come to this. That would help immensely!

New instructors this year include Dwight McLemore, teaching Bowie Knife! Anyone who has had a class with this man knows that his classes are worth the cost of the convention alone!

Also we have Bob Charron teaching Fiore Dagger! We've never had this class before, and it looks to be incredibly interesting!

Mark Rector of Chicago Swordplay Guild will be returning. He was here our first year, and he will be teaching Regimental Highland Broadsword!

A celebration and an international exchange of safe stage combat techniques; developing cooperation and skill, exploring the history and traditions of the past, and experiencing the camaraderie found by sharing ideas and knowledge of the Sword and the Pen.

Workshop Dates - Saturday, June 29th & Sunday, June 30th

Workshop Fee - $125.

Location - George Mason University - Fairfax Virginia

Faculty
Jonathan Howell - Chairman, British Academy of Dramatic Combat
Tony Wolf - President, New Zealand Stage Combat Society
Steven Douglas-Craig - Society of Australian Fight Directors
Nigel Poulton - Society of Australian Fight Directors
David Doersch - SAFD, IOSP
Brad Waller - USAFD, IOSP

"Down and Dirty" is a unique opportunity for researchers and advanced practitioners to share in the wealth of knowledge found in both historical and theatrical fighting techniques from around the world.

Our hope is to create a forum and library for the international body of research in our respective movement art forms.

The theme of this year's workshop will focus on "down & dirty" fighting technique in unarmed and bladed weapon combat.

The workshop will include classes in:

Historical fighting technique and styles
Theatrical fighting technique and styles
Advanced movement and body awareness skills
Contemporary martial arts

A special emphasis will be given to the ancient European martial arts of Ringkunst and the Arte del' Abbracciare; grappling, takedowns, trips, grips, disarms, traps, locks, torques, footwork, closings, gains, stands, avoids, deceits, counters and reversals, counters to counters and so on.

We will try to break every rule in the movement books of history!

Online Registration:

1. Log on to http://www.tickets.com
2. Go to Entertainment
3. Go to Performing Arts
4. Type in the box "Get Down & Dirty", Push Go
5. Click on the event
6. Follow the four simple steps. Fill out the payment and registration form, then click & you're set.

On Site Housing
For those folks looking for a place to stay simply get a hold of our kind Housing Coordinator John Gurski at: (703) 549-8378 - sellswrd@aol.com (John Gurski)

Tell him to put you on the list and what kind of room you want. You can pay for the rooms when you arrive at the venue. When you arrive, register at the Hanover Center. Pick up your key and linens, then settle on in.

Three nights housing - (Friday - Saturday - Sunday)
Single rooms $30.50 a night X 3 nights = $91.50
Double rooms $25.50 a night X 3 nights = $76.50

The linen package consists of:
2 sheets, 1 blanket, 1 pillow, 1 pillowcase, 2 bath towels, 2 hand towels, and 2 washcloths

You can take a peek at these Luxury rooms by logging on to:

http://www.gmu.edu/student/living/summerprograms/conferences.htm

For location, maps and directions:

http://www.gmu.edu/student/living/summerprograms/location.htm

We hope that you can take the time for a good old Down & Dirty weekend roadtrip to Virginia.

For any further information, please contact Brad Waller:

home (703) 323-7233
mobile (703) 725-7233
GlobeFG@aol.com

or

Workshop Hostess Lorraine Ressegger:
(703) 628-2826

Stage Combat Seminar featuring Keith Ducklin, assistant combat trainer from the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds, UK, and author of "Sword Fighting: A Manual for Actors and Directors". Instruction in two-handed sword and rapier & dagger styles.

This year will be a very exciting year with some of last year's instructors, and some new ones as well. Fundraising is an ongoing process, so the list of attending instructors may change. However, the instructors on this list are confirmed and will be here! Last year's event promised to be an exciting international event of teaching and sharing information on swordplay and fighting tactics, and it most certainly was! This year will be just as incredible, if not more so! All skill levels are invited and encouraged to join in. The exact location is not yet set, but it will take place in Lansing, Michigan. More details as they are confirmed...

This is the first of a series of events to promote a wider understanding of the Western Martial Arts to the re-enactor and hardier martial arts/sword enthusiast.

This outdoor event, near Ludlow, will be a private (NO PUBLIC) medieval muster with selected traders.

Trainers will give basic and masterclass lessons per discipline: Polearm, Sword, Sword & Buckler. Plus an opportunity to plan and/or command a battle.

For instance, longsword will cover the Mindset, basic rules, parts of a sword, holding the sword, movement, cut development, defending with space, counter-cutting and thrusting in single time, beating and attacking using double time then a master class with less people including actual "walk through" combat.

Timetable of activity:

• Friday PM - informal meet the experts, traders, participants, drinks in the marquee.
• Saturday AM - basic training sessions run by acknowledged experts battle planning for the morrow.
• Saturday PM - experts give masterclasses for the more advanced mixed practices for the lesser-experienced, battle planning for the morrow.
• Saturday Evening - A banquet plus assigning on roles for the battle.
• Sunday AM VERY Early morning - roving for any archers
• Ye Olde Car Boot Sale - bring all your unwanted kit and turn it into cash!
• Basic training sessions run by acknowledged experts, during which entrance requirements to the battle will be assessed
• Individual combats for the advanced
• Sunday PM - A battle planned by the participants will be re-enacted, there will be no arena, all the field will be used experts give masterclasses for the more advanced
• A debrief of the experts and participants.
• Monday AM - Last of participants kicked out.

Catering and toilets will be provided at the Host's house.

Trading up to 10 full-time traders have been invited to the event. If you would like your favourite trader there, tell them, not me.

First Aid will be provided by experienced re-enactors.

Food is not included in the price of ?20 per day per person plus ?10 for each dog and non-participating adult or child. This site is being restored for film use, so I am limited to a maximum of 200 bodies of any sort!

This will be an annual event the first weekend after the last May Bank Holiday. Future events will include selected days at prestigious venues. Training for your trainers can be arranged.

Please note that this event is being organised in cyberspace. If you know of any Society or individual not on line that is serious about portraying accurate combat, please pass this on the old fashioned way!

David Barnes
DGBEvents@aol.com
Trading as DGB Services
Consultant, event organiser, trainer specialising in Heritage, Community and the Arts.
(01202) 683519
82 Skinner Street
Poole
BH15 1RJ

"Oyez Oyez!

Be it known that the Schola Saint George, right mindful of the vast prowess and noble gentility present amongst chivalric combatants throughout the world, do hereby declare their intention to host a practicum to encourage swordsmanship and the use of other weapons as was done in the days of our ancestors. Mindful also that the practice of arms is best enjoyed in the context of a tournament, we are further minded to host a pas d'armes dedicated to an ancient father of arms, Fiore de Liberi.

We invite all students of the sword  to partake in the words and demonstrations of the notable personages who will travel far to share their knowledge and experience with us. Our intent is to provide a forum where combatants in our own region can become acquainted with the new tradition of arms that is burgeoning in the world, that skills might be increased and joi de combat increased manyfold.. There will be three whole days dedicated to the celebration of arms, both sword and rapier, and we warmly invite tournament companions, reenactors, stage combatants, fencers and those who might be curious to attend and to share their own experiences."

Note that this is not a reenactment event; this symposium is unaffiiated with any society and the opinions and techniques demonstrated may have limited application within the context of other forms of combat. During the Pas d'Armes, Medieval Dinner and Fencing Tournament (tentatively scheduled for Friday evening, as of 1/29), appropriate clothing is to be encouraged but not required. Combat standards for the tournament will be published separately.
 

Here are a highlight of confirmed event highlights:

• A grand pas d'armes tournament for both rebated and behourd-style weapons. Come see how other folks play!
• An all-day Sunday seminar on Fiore de Liberi by Bob Charron, Academy of Saint Martin for novices and experienced combatants alike
• Presentation by Greg Mele of the Swordplay Symposium International and Chicago Swordplay Guild
• For poleaxe and polearm enthusiasts, a 2-hour special focus on techniques from Jeu de la Hache by Ian Johnson of the Schola Solis
• Cutting practice--try out those techniques and see what they do!
• Roundtable discussions on tournament armour, chivalry & the medieval tournament!
• Open sparring with instructors and practitioners from all over the country!
• Renaissance and medieval courses planned--many more are in process--stay tuned!
• A medieval-style dinner to celebrate the tournament
• A rapier-tournament on Friday night if there is sufficient interest

The Site: Taking place in pictuesque old Livermore, California, just outside of the San Francisco Bay Area, the venue for this event will be a large building dressed for the occasion. "The Barn" has sufficient space to handle even a medium-sized tournament and a large dinner in-doors, so our tournaments are not at weather-risk. The site carries its own insurence (expensive, but worthwhile). We will section it into two zones, one for each "track". Weather permitting, we may also have a third track outdoors.

"The Barn": 3131 Pacific Avenue, Livermore, CA. Click here for the appropriate Mapquest link.

Day-pass registrations will be available at the door at a price of $35 per day or you can preregister now and save 20%.

Meals: Although a light breakfast of pastries, juice and coffee will be available at no charge on Friday and Saturday, and sandwhich lunches available all three days, there are many interesting restaurants within a short driving distance of the event. Click here for a listing. Dinner will be the responsibility of the attendees, although we are contemplating an on-site BBQ on Friday, if people are interested.

Saturday Night Dinner: We will be serving a medieval-style dinner on Saturday night, during which we anticipate an open forum discussion on chivalry, the tournament and the medieval martial arts. Tickets for this dinner are $12.50; there is a limit of 70 spaces. Remaining tickets the day of the event will be $15.00. This dinner will also serve as the "close" for the pas d'armes, during which specific deeds worthy or renown are generally discussed.

Lodging: Several hotels are located close to the site, within reasonable walking distance. We are looking into a hotel shuttle to make it more convenient, however. Click here to see a list of local hotels.

A weekend-long seminar on the Spanish school of rapier, focusing on the philosophy and practice of the "Mysterious Circle," will be held in Ashland, Oregon on May 12th and 13th, 2001. The seminar will be presented with theoretical and practical instruction by Maestro Ramon Martinez and an in-depth lecture by John Michael Greer on the hermetic philosophy found within the work of Girard Thibault. Mr. Greer is known for his recent translation of Thibault's Acad?mie de l'Esp?e, as well as his work on hermetic studies. Maestro Martinez is well-known in international historical fencing circles as the foremost authority on the Spanish school of rapier fence, La Verdadera Destreza.

This unique event promises to be a rare opportunity for all who are interested in the Spanish school to take part in practical study of this much-misunderstood school of swordsmanship. There will plenty of opportunity for discussion, questions and answers, and practical application. This seminar is open to all skill levels.

The seminar will be held at Ashland Middle School in Ashland, Oregon, home of the Oregon Shakespeare festival. The fee for the seminar is $150.00 per person, and a minimum deposit of $75.00 should be sent with the application, with the balance to be paid by April 21st, 2001. An application form may be found at http://www.martinez-destreza.com/may2001rapier.pdf. Please send your applications in promptly, as class size is limited. Completed forms may be mailed to: Jeff Richardson, 325 Schoolhouse Rd, Talent, OR 97540. Questions may be e-mailed to Mr. Richardson at jeffery@mind.net.

Also, for those interested in Renewing their Actor/Combatant status, we are offering an SAFD renewal workshop the weekend before - David, when he is down here the next weekend, will adjudicate all renewals live while he is at the workshop (no tapes to send in - you will get immediate feedback on your fight and skills).

Here is the schedule:
November 11th and 12th (Sat. + Sun.)
SAFD Renewal workshop - 4 hours per day - Instructor - Payson Burt and LAFA faculty
Cost $150*
*Take 10% off if you are an SAFD member!

November 17th, 18th, and 19th (Fri, Sat, Sun)
Regional Workshop with David Boushey
Friday Night: Registration and a 2 hour class with the LAFA faculty
Sat and Sunday: 10 - 5
Included in the workshop is an adjudication for individuals who are testing.
Cost: $250*
* If you are taking the Renewal Workshop in conjunction with this one, the cost is $200
* All testing fees are included in tuition.
* Take another 10% off if you are an SAFD member!

For those interested in the Renewal workshop, the week in between the workshops (Nov. 13th thru the 17th) will allow you extra time to rehearse, and the LAFA staff will be available for coaching.

Registration and more info is available on - line at: www.4lafa.org

Deadline for registration is: November 1st.
But don't wait till then - register now to ensure a spot.

The Academy of European Medieval Martial Arts (AEMMA) is proud to host the second annual International Western Martial Arts Workshop. The focus of the workshop will cover historical martial arts during the time frame of the medieval and renaissance periods. The workshop will include vendor displays of arms & armour, lectures and presentations by notable individuals, including a presentation on the infamous I.33 manuscript. Weapons covered in this workshop will include: longsword, sword & shield, pole-axe, rapier, rapier & dagger, schlager, dusak, dagger, quarter-staff and unarmed techniques. Weapons will be either wooden "wasters" or combat-ready steel.

Some significant enhancements to the scheduling and instructors in the WMA workshop in October have been finalized. All of the world's known historical fencing masters (4 of them - Maister Terry Brown - UK, Maestro Paul Macdonald - Scotland, Maestro Ramon Martinez - USA, Maestro Andrea Sinclair - Italy) will be at the workshop sharing their expertise and each delivering a workshop. An additional historical fencing group from Montreal will be sharing their expertise as it relates to their study and interpretation of I.33 in their sword & buckler, as will Scott Nichols from Toronto and his group sharing their expertise with the English Rapier. Other programming changes includes more details on some specific workshops, and some minor changes to the lectures and presentations.

Fees Structure:
WP Registration Fee: $100 USD (at the door: $125 USD)
Those individuals who will be attending the lectures and participating in the physical workshops and/or tournaments for 3 days, and who's registration fee will include the continental breakfast, breaks and lunch.

WP Family Member Registration Fee: $60 USD per family member (at the door: $75 USD)
Family members of workshop participants as defined above, and who's registration fee will include the continental breakfast, breaks and lunch.

WP Casual Registration Fee: $55 CAD/day (at the door: $60 CAD)
Those individuals who will be attending the lectures and/or participating in the physical workshops and/or tournaments on a day-by-day basis, and who's registration fee will include the continental breakfast, breaks and lunch.

Workshop Spectator Registration Fee: $15 CAD/day
Those individuals who can observe the lectures, physical workshops and tournaments, view the vendor's wares and purchase items if desired. The registration does NOT include the continental breakfast, breaks and lunch.

The event is supported by the Government of Moscow, The State Duma, The Russian Federation of Historical Fencing, Moscow's Historical Fencing Federation.

"The Sword of Russia" is the annual jousting festival- tournament. For some time it has been known as one of the city's important cultural events. A few years ago, in honor of Moscow's 850th anniversary, the tournament was renamed the "Championship of Russia". This Festival has now become a Moscow tradition. It is exactly what people who are fond of traditional hand to hand combat, entertaining historical shows, the unforgettable romantic atmosphere of the Middle Ages, and who are in love with the epoch of knights, famous campaigns and brave exploits had been waiting for.

The Championship popularizes a new extraordinary and dynamic kind of sport, which is called HISTORICAL FENCING. More than 60 historical clubs of historical fencing from Russia, Ukraine, The Czech Republic, Poland and etc. will take part in the Championship this year.

Historical Fencing involves not only knights' duels and tournaments but unique reconstruction of historical costumes and deep studying of the culture of the Middle Ages. All participants of the competition will be wearing meticulously reconstructed weaponry of the Middle Ages.

You will certainly be impressed by different duels with the use of various kinds of arms (broad-sword, shield-spear, saber and etc.), 'hand-to-hand' duels, javelin and archer competitions, dramatized costume shows with highfalls and burning people, re-enactments of battles, contests of strength and agility.

The first Championship took place in 1997 in Moscow and the event has been supported by the Government of Moscow since then. The last-year event attracted plenty of spectators. The leading Russian channels (ORT, NTV, RTR, TVCenter, TV-6 and others) broadcasted tv-shows about the Championship. This year Championship is going to be even bigger.

The Organization Committee of the Championship compensates travel expenses of the participants as well as food and accommodation in Moscow.

Schedule of the Championship:

09.09.2000 10:00 a.m. ? 7:00 p.m. the Opening Ceremony of the Championship, qualifying fights in the category "Shield - Sword", "Sword ? Sword", "Original Arms"

10.09.2000 2:00 p.m. ? 11:00 p.m. Russian Souvenirs Fair, 'cold weapon' display fights, final duels in the categories "Shield ? Sword", "Sword ? Sword", reconstructed historical weaponry and armor competitions.

We would be happy to have you here and to exchange mastery and skills!!!

Tania Grigorieva

Come take part in the Northeast's premier stage combat workshop.

Held on Pace University's Manhattan campus at the base of the Brooklyn Bridge, Summer Sling IV offers students of all levels of experience the opportunity to work with some of the best teachers of the art of stage combat in a wide variety of styles.

* Instruction by SAFD Fight Masters, Fight Directors and Certified Teachers

Teachers expected to attend include (subject to availability):

• SAFD Fight Masters: Dale Anthony Girard, Drew Fracher
• SAFD Fight Directors & Certified Teachers: J. David Brimmer, Michael G. Chin, Chuck Coyl, Rat Guinn, Bob MacDougall, Ricki G. Ravitts, Richard Ryan and Tink Tuftee

* Up to eight hours of instruction daily

Previous years' classes have included: Rapier & Dagger on the Circle, Smallsword & Poinard, Knife Fighting, Bullwhip, Capo Ferro, Fall to Mother Earth, Katana, Hollywood Styles, Multiple Attackers, Biker Karate, Broadsword and more...

* All weapons provided

Fees:

• $250 for all 4 days ($215 if you register by July 15!!!)
• $85 per day for individual days ($75 if you register by July 15!!!)
• 15% discount for paid-up SAFD members
• 10% discount for college students (copy of student ID required) or for participants of other SAFD sanctioned workshops in the past year)

NOTE: Only one discount per student -- including early registration discount!!!

To get an registration form Call Fights4 at 212-330-6868, or e-mail your postal address to: sling@safd.org.