Pictured above: Appropriate at the University of Pittsburgh. 
Fight Director: Tonya Lynn. Photo Credit: Samantha Saunders Studio

MORE About the FDTW

Pictured: Newsies at Point Park University. Fight Direction by Tonya Lynn. Photo Credit: John Altdorfer

Taught by expert fight directors and designed to both put more tools in your choreographic tool belt and hone the ones already there, the Fight Director Training Workshop (FDTW) will offer master classes from multiple incredible voices with a diverse range of styles and experiences. Seeking to empower participants to develop their own artistic voice, craft choreography that serves the story, the actors, and the overall artistic vision of a scene, and asks participants to answer the question: “what kind of storyteller are you?” the FDTW will grant insights into the world of professional fight direction, such as:

• Storytelling with theatrical violence

• Contracts and negotiation

• Working with space / stage limitations

• Working in collaboration with a creative team (Director, Stage Manager, Fight Captain, etc.)

• and many more!

This is your chance to train under the tutelage of teachers and professional fight directors from a variety of Regional markets! Creating a learning lab where participants can ask questions, experiment, and have the freedom to fail and try again, the FDTW will provide an opportunity to become more confident in the necessary skill sets of a professional Fight Director.

The Details

Each student will participate in:

• Attributes of choreography classes

• Special programming with Regional Fight Directors as well as other special guest industry professionals

• Mentored choreography work sessions, with debriefing and feedback from working industry professionals

Cost

The price of the 2025 FDTW is $600. No fee is required to apply, but, if accepted, you will be asked to submit a $100 deposit to secure your spot.

How Do I Apply?

The FDTW is available by application process and space is limited. To apply, fill out our Google Form using the button below. Please include your theatrical resume (with a focus on any stage combat and choreography experience that you may have), a short letter of intent, two references with contact information, and any other information you believe would be beneficial to the Coordinators (e.g. weapons skills proficiencies, links to your portfolio or previous choreography samplings, directing experience, access needs, etc.) SAFD weapon certifications will be strongly considered in your application, but are not explicitly required.