The Academy's Professional Training Program is taught by the Academy swordmasters and functions on a month-to-month basis. Class meets twice a week and the class fee is $125 per month. All weapons are provided.
The Academy Professional Training Class (more photos available in the gallery)
Students begin at the basic level, covering safety and the primary techniques of hand to hand combat (including rolls, falls, and throws), broadsword, quarterstaff, cutlass, and theatrical saber. Intermediate and advanced students continue mastering and learning more advanced applications for all these weapons as well as moving on to double cutlass, single rapier, rapier and dagger, and smallsword. All students train in learning choreography and quickly bringing fights to the performance level. The emphasis is always on those techniques that read best on film, and students perform for camera regularly and receive feedback from the swordmasters. Anyone interested in training is welcome to arrange to observe a class (inquire for more information), and you can also take a virtual look via the online gallery photos.
This program is meant for stunt performers and actors who are serious about perfecting their abilities at theatrical combat for the film industry through regular training. No experience is required to enter the professional program, but participation is by invitation only. Anyone wishing to join the regular classes must first take an Academy Introductory Seminar (see the What's New page for the next one offered) or arrange an audition in the form of a private lesson by calling (818) 364-8420 or sending an e-mail to . (Please note that the Academy does not accept any form of 'certification' as evidence of professional ability.)