At the Louisiana Shakespeare Company, stage combat is more than just theatrical sword fights—it's a vital part of our training and performance work. While Shakespeare wrote combat scenes into many of his plays, we emphasize combat not only for authenticity but also for its many educational and personal development benefits.

Stage combat trains actors physically, mentally, and emotionally. Whether learning how to safely die like Tybalt, smother like Othello, or battle with steel weapons like Hal and Hotspur, performers develop trust, stamina, coordination, and confidence. These skills are not only helpful on stage but also in life—promoting self-awareness, communication, and creative problem solving.

Our combat education promotes a safe, collaborative environment where choreography, trust, and teamwork come together to empower actors of all ages.

Building Confidence:

Through our combat workshops, actors build more than just stage presence—they gain focus, discipline, and physical awareness. Stage combat is also a wonderful way for young performers to work through fear, build communication skills, and discover their own inner strength. We prioritize safety, creativity, and mutual respect in every class and rehearsal.

Are you interested in bringing a combat workshop to your school, theater, or community space?

Our combat workshops are flexible and scalable! Email combat@lashakes.org for more information on booking a workshop or talkback session. We offer everything from beginner safety courses to choreography intensives for specific productions.