Historical combat and dramatic combat have a common ground. We are both interested in the TRUTH of the combat. It is a different aspect of truth, but the pursuit of truth is a strong basis for mutual respect within the arts.

I think the sport fencing vocabulary was a real lifeline a few decades ago. But now we have a choice which terms we use in the CHOREOGRAPHIC language of stage combat.

As you well know, Historical European COMBAT has come a long way. But not only in the depth of research and understanding of treatise, but also in the clarity it is delivered. Historical Combat instructors are much better then they have been in the past.

At the Paddy Crean workshop a large portion of the classes were taught by Historical Martial Artists. This is a reflection not only of their mastery of the material, but an ability to see the requirements of Drama and teach Actors. Likewise fencing has some terms which are very useful. But if there is a better historical COMBAT term, I try to make that part of my practice. History over sport.

Personally, what I am really interested in is finding the historical practices that are more authentic AND SAFER for the actor. An example of this is the attacks in opposition in smallsword… but that is another posting…

Tim

Glad to know there is interest;-)

Tim