Stunt Fighting Training

FAQs

What should I expect in Level 1 classes? 

Each class is structured a little differently to give them their own unique training experience. But what you can expect is a run through of some basic techniques for each weapon covered in each class as well as the industry standard safety rules assigned to each weapon. Then we will apply the techniques covered in class in choreography. We always film our fights at the end for you to track your progress!  

Do I need experience to take the classes?

You do not need any experience. These courses are designed for different levels of performers and you can jump in at any point. 

How long should I take your classes until I can add these skills to my acting resumé?

There is no such thing as, “I’ll learn it on the day of filming.” Just like any skill, screen combat takes a lot of time to learn. And this is not the type of skill to take any risk. Safety is the number one priority. You want to get to a place where the choreography comes to you naturally and you have the space to think about the character. Lying about skills on your resumé not only put you in a potentially unsafe situation but also your fellow performers. While everyone learns at different paces we strongly encourage you to keep practicing! Even the pros never stop training. 

What can I do with the footage you take in class? Can I add it to my reel?

Class is class. We videotape every fight for educational purposes only and for you to track your progression. If you want to share your progress on social media, cool! But we strongly discourage you to use class videos for your reels. This can create a competitive dynamic in class and we want to keep to keep it a fun and safe, learning environment.

I have my own training weapons. Can I bring them? 

No please leave your gear at home. We will provide everything. The only exceptions are pads, which are only used in Level 2 class.”

Why Swordplay LA for Stunt Fight Training? 

Some of the most memorable sword fights - performed by legends like Errol Flynn, Basil Rathbone, and Tyrone Power and choreographed by sword masters and fight directors like Bob Anderson, William Hobbs, Ralph Faulkner, and Fred Cavens - all share a foundation in fencing. Fencing cultivates expertise in weapon control, timing, tempo, and balance that translate to memorable onscreen combat performances. Led by Mary Sola Spohn, the stunt fighting program at Swordplay LA has found the connection between fencing and weapons combat - a connection that is taught in a way that is digestible for performers of all skill levels.

 This program is a unique blend of the old and the new, where tradition meets the contemporary. Mary’s extensive fencing background paved the way for her to seamlessly learn - and eventually train and perform - fight choreography, sword combat, and firearm tactical skills.

 She has most recently completed Scotty Richard's [Fast & Furious franchise; Captain America: The First Avenger; The Dark Knight Rises] Tactical Driving School, where she received a certificate in on-camera stunt driving. She studied combat training and stunt sword fighting under swordmaster Tim Weske [Peter Pan; I Love You, Man; Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World], honing her expert understanding of distance, timing, tempo, and intensity. 

Mary prides herself on her priority is guiding her students in the creation of fight scenes and characters that look believable and dangerous, yet are safe and highly technical as well. She arms her students with the tools to make them successful in their own personal careers and help them stand out.  She has worked with actors and performers of all ages - including children - in preparation for both onstage and onscreen performances.  

 Mary is a passionate trainer and fight choreographer who seeks all opportunities to empower her fellow artists to become stronger and more dimensional performers.

What is your cancellation policy?

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