Qualifications

The various levels & qualification requirements for SAFDi qualified Performer Combatants, Instructors, & Fight Directors

Module 1: Basic Level Stage Combat

Breadth of knowledge and skill involving fundamental application of basic stage combat techniques within the workplace. Training focuses on the fundamental techniques and processes of safe physical danger through –

i.Body Control for Performance; and

ii.Theatrical Swordplay

The fundamentals studied and applied in the unarmed component are safe distance, rhythm, fluidity, acted aggression, safe falling, and non-contact techniques. The Theatrical Swordplay component focuses on effective use of a sword to provide an understanding of how weapons can and should be used effectively and safely. This prepares the candidates for entry-level skills into the professional workplace and for further specific study in Module 2. There are no prerequisites for this module.

Module 2: Intermediate Level Stage Combat

Breadth and depth of knowledge and skills that prepare a candidate for more complex workplace situations. This Module integrates the fundamentals of Module 1 and challenges performers in areas of specific styles of stage combat. The syllabus is divided into a number of units, and the selection of these units is based on providing a diversity of use and understanding of weapon capabilities and body control specifics. Candidates undertaking Module 2 are likely to be interested in developing their movement and stage combat vocabulary out of interest and further specialisation. The prerequisite for this module is the successful completion of Module 1.

Module 3: Advanced Level Stage Combat

Breadth, depth and complexity of knowledge and skills that prepare a candidate to have more creative freedom in the workplace in relation to the production process. This module introduces advanced techniques and focuses on period and cultural specific weapon. The syllabus is divided into a number of units, and candidates undertaking Module 3 are likely to be interested in developing their movement and stage combat vocabulary to a high level and are likely in preparation for Module 4. The prerequisite for this module is the successful completion of Module 2.

Module 4: Stage Combat Instructor

Breadth, depth and complexity of knowledge and skills covering lesson planning, skills or knowledge application, evaluation and co-ordination, time management and workplace health and safety. Leadership and guidance strategies are involved in the application and communication of knowledge and skills.

This module introduces candidates to the requirements and processes of being a Stage Combat Instructor, and provides the candidate with the theoretical and practical knowledge and skills for teaching stage combat, which coupled with the required practical assistantship components as a pre-requisite, provide the necessary competencies for teaching. Candidates undertaking Module 4 are likely to be interested in developing their ability to impart knowledge and skill through private and public institutions and are likely to be looking towards undertaking Module 5. The prerequisites for this module are the successful completion of Module 3, the attainment of a Senior First Aid Certificate, a Certificate IV in Workplace Training and Assessment, a specific number of hours of assistantships and the completion of an Instructors Workshop run by the SAFDi.

Fight Director

Breadth, depth and complexity of knowledge and skills covering effective communication, planning co-ordination, leadership and guidance, teaching and instruction, devising and implementing choreography, establishing and negotiating contracts, academic scholarship, time management and workplace health and safety. This module introduces candidates to the requirements and processes of being a Fight Director, and provides the candidate with the theoretical and practical knowledge and skills of directing fight scenes, which coupled with the need for continual professional development and the required practical assistantship components as a pre-requisite, provide the necessary competencies for directing fights.

Candidates undertaking Module 5 are focused on developing their ability to co-ordinate safe and theatrically effective fights in the entertainment industry marketplace. The prerequisites for this module are the successful completion of Module 4, a specific number of hours of assistantships and supervised tasks in stage and screen, the completion of an Fight Directors Workshop run by the SAFDi, accreditation from a recognised Australian Entertainment Industry institution or 10 years practical experience as a performer, and extra curricula martial arts training.