RC-Annie - Professional and Corporate Fight Performances and Training

PAST COURSES

 

RECENT WORK AND PAST WORKSHOPS

 

TONY WOLF – FIGHT SCENES

4th Sept 2011

 

 

'Applying true realism to historically-inspired fight choreography' 

 

Join international fight director and stage combat instructor Tony Wolf for creatively challenging lessons in Wolf System fight scene training.  We will focus on devising and performing realistic combat scenes for live or camera performance, via a combination of armed and unarmed fight choreography inspired by authentic historical European martial arts traditions.

 

In particular, we will use Wolf System combat improvisation exercises to explore the skills of interruption, imbalance and broken rhythm, creating the illusion of truly dangerous, spontaneous combat.  The action will be tight, fast and rough, within the bounds of safety.

 

BIOGRAPHY

Tony Wolf first began training in Tae Kwon Do in 1978, receiving the black belt in 1983, then studying a wide range of martial arts and combat sports and throughout the late ’80s and early ’90s he worked as a self defence instructor. Between 1988 – 1994 Tony developed his original Wolf System of combat movement exercises. He has worked as a martial arts instructor, stuntman, professional wrestler and fight director/stunt co-ordinator as well as a freelance author and lecturer.

Tony’s fight direction and action design have been featured in over two hundred feature film, television, theatre, opera and ballet productions. Between 1998-2000 he served as the Cultural Fighting Styles Designer for Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy. He regularly teaches a range of master-classes and seminars for all over the world.

Tony’s historical martial arts and stage combat publications include volumes 1 and 2 of "The Bartitsu Compendium", "A Terrific Combat!!!: Theatrical Duels, Brawls and Battles, 1800-1920", "Edith Garrud: the Suffragette who knew jujutsu", "The Sword Prince: The Romantic Life of Colonel Thomas Hoyer Monstery, American Champion-at-Arms", "Defensive Gymnastics: How to Protect Life and Property", "The Cane as a Weapon", "Master of Men: The Life's Work of William Muldoon, Champion and Trainer of Champions" and "Ancient Swordplay: The Revival of Elizabethan Fencing in Victorian London".

 

NOTE: This is an advanced seminar and is best suited to people with extensive prior training in stage combat/dance/martial arts.

 

 

SUSPENDED & KICKING

 

 

Course Description :

It was at the amazingly successful 'Fight Flight' I & II  workshops run by ''RC-Annie' and 'Cuerda Producciones' 2011, that we observed a real hunger for a regular training practice in wire-work and combat techniques. Course participants clearly wanted to delve deeper. Thus came about the idea of 'Suspended & Kicking'.

Fight action sequences and harness-based wire work have been around for many years. They were first developed in Hong Kong action cinema ('wire-fu'), and later appropriated by Hollywood. Within the past decade, from 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon' (2000) to 'Inception' (2010), the need for actors with the ability to work and fight in a harness has boomed due to the development of Special FX technology. Not only within film but in the arenas of theatre, opening ceremonies and events, harness work has become increasingly sophisticated and ambitious and very much in demand.

 

We have devised 6 weekly sessions that really get to the core of how to integrate the techniques of combat and aerial work. In developing these ideas we have found a truly unique practice that will teach the discipline, strength and artistry required for practitioners wishing to expand their own talents. The work is challenging and very inspiring. 

 

We go beyond the superficial 'effects' of most wire and stunt work and explore more skilled and nuanced approaches. We will question our understanding of physics and perception whilst working on free-static, wall and bungee lines. We will explore characterization and narrative and focus on the concepts of isolation, intention and impact . The weeks will culminate in the creation of long and satisfying choreographic sequences. We also aim to provide a forum for invigorating collaborative  discussion.

 

It's a transformational time within the world of film, theatre and events production. We are excited to ride the wave. Come and join us!

 

 

FIGHT FLIGHT II

21th - 24th January 2011- Fri-Mon 10.30am-4pm

Following this year's sell out Fight Flight Course Rc-Annie are once again teaming up with Cuerda Producciones to bring you Fight Flight II
It's going to be even bigger and better that this year 

 

        

 

The second sold out Ariel Combat Course was a great success at a new venue, the ‘Hanger arts’ space. Both new and returning participants broadened their skills with new wire systems and integrating weaponry into the fight choreography- not as easy as it sounds when you are spinning upside down 3 meters above the floor. This time we experienced what it’s like to be sword fighting and flying like Peter Pan v hook, 2 Hong Kong inspired wire staff fights and a gun fu flying flips and bullet hit jerk back scene, not forgetting the Inception styled wall running and gun barrel cartwheels- woo hoo!

 

 

FIGHT FLIGHT

6th-9th March 2010

 

            

FIGHT LIKE AN ACTION HERO!

We were thrilled to offer a 4 day course, 2 years in the making, combining fighting and flying. We worked with  performers from the hit show De La Guarda and Fuerzabruta, to create a course that will not only teach you how to control your body whilst in the air but how to fight whilst up there.

 

      

 

 

Theatrical Handguns and Blood FX

28th March 2010

In association with the SMA another successful action filled day of guns and Blood, culminating in a live action scene with both a Blood FX and live Blank firing handgun. The rules and regulations of using Blank Firing Guns are, at best, confusing. This workshop is designed to clarify the current UK gun law and the use of Realistic Imitation Firearms for Dramatic purposes.

 

 

HSE First Aid at Work qualification Course

3 days 19, 20, 21st of April 2010

Presented by, HSE recognised provider, James Dyer and in association with the SMA. A fun and relaxed 3 days learning First Aid, tailored to those of us who work in the Stage and Screen industry. Each participant passed the course and received a comprehensive first aid manual, HSE certificate and a wallet card. James originally trained as an actor and stunt man worked in theatre, film TV. He is an outdoor adventure sports instructor/trainer, leads expeditions and adventure tourism trips in the UK and overseas.

 

 

ANCIENT TO ACTION with John Lennox

30th October- 1st November 2009

Doc John Lennox founder member of Art of Combat travelled from the USA to lead a 3 day workshop based on he Fundamental Principles of Historical and Stage Combat for Rc-Annie at 3 Mills studios. The course consisted of workshops in: Combat theory, Cabala and the Cube, The Anatomy of the Attack, Stealing Time, Medium and long range weapons, Multiple Opponents, Ground Fighting, Rumi Maki, Intention Through Martial Understanding, Sabre in the Duel and on the battlefield, and an introduction to AoC's System of combat, Knife and Tomahawk, Native American Totem, Sword & Shield, Spear & Staff weapons, Spear v Sword, How to Start a Fight and create a martial correct fight.

 

With a chance to join the AoC's apprenticeship programme

 

 

SWASHBUCKLING FOR FILM ONBOARD THE GOLDEN HINDE - SOLD OUT!

  

 

MONDAY'S FROM 1ST JUNE - 6TH JULY 2009 6PM-8.30PM

THE COURSE

A 6 week, one of its kind, course that teaches you traditional sword fighting for film. Looking at a wide variety of genres from Captain Blood to Master and Commander with some optional Peter Pan moments thrown in. You will learn sword techniques specific to film, including the Hollywood swashbuckling styles coined by Paddy Crean and Bob Anderson and get a great opportunity to firmly grip a dagger between you teeth. Uniquely, all classes will be held on Board the Golden Hinde in dock at London Bridge. We will choreograph different sequences in various locations from the Gun Deck to the Rigging. The sequences will be professionally filmed to give you a swashbuckling souvenir, an exceptional show reel or a great opportunity to show off to your fellow vagabonds.

About the vessel

A full-size replica of Sir Francis Drake's 16th century galleon, in demand for filming, weddings and corporate entertainment. The replica itself has traveled the world, having covered over 140,000 miles under sail.

 

LOCATION: Golden Hinde Galleon, St Mary Overie Dock, Cathedral Street, London SE1 9DE

 

 

FIGHTING FOR FILM Saturday 24th January 2009   J. Allen Suddeth, veteran of over 750 television shows, and co-creator of the Action Film Workshop, taught a unique film fighting workshop. This workshop covered: Camera angles, Breaking the string, The "line", Bringing the action to camera, End of the lens action, Working with props, Master shots and inserts, Prop switchouts, Foley work. Each student will have an opportunity to be video taped in action, and have a critique session afterwards.

 

ALLEN SUDDETH - FIGHT DIRECTING WORKSHOP - The First of its kind in the UK 

 

Places available for Actors, Fighters, Fight Teachers and Fight Directors   Tues Jan 20th - Friday 23rd Jan 2009   A rare opportunity to have worked with one of America's premiere professional fight directors. J. Allen Suddeth created the Fight Director's Workshop which has run successfully for 15 years.A working Broadway and television fight director himself, author of the book, Fight Directing for the Theatre, master teacher at The Lee Strasberg Institute and a Fight Master with the Society of American Fight Directors, Allen shared his methods for four days with a limited number of fight directors and actors.   Materiel covered included: Character and script analysis as it relates to fight choreography. The Fight Directors 10 commandments. Weapons choice. Working with directors, designers, and performers. Pre-production, rehearsals, and tech.   The "big production moment" Classroom fights, vs. stage fights, Random choreography exercise, the choreography game, Stage picture, Things every fight director must know, Working backwards! Actors of all shapes, and sizes, and experience levels were invited.

 

SHOWREEL

 

We finally did it! Despite the odds and the weather being against us we filmed a showreel so watch this space for the premiere!

 

        

      

 

 

ITALIAN STYLE RAPIER - RAPIER AND DAGGER

Saturday 8th November 10am-6pm

 

 

 

Real Fight workshops give us an insight into the practical and historical application of ancient weapons as taught by classical fight masters.

 

  Alberto Di Candia, a well know fight master from Turin, is visiting from Italy to school us in the art of Italian Style Rapier. Alberto has trained and studied in Historical Fencing adapting his discoveries for theatrical use finding a new audience for time honoured sword artistry. 

 

Open to those with and without Stage Combat experience. We will be looking at the techniques used by 17c Fight Masters - Capoferro, Giganti, Fabris and Alfieri, students will be taught the art of movement with the body and the blade including the footwork, cuts and thrusts of the period and how are they are applied.  We will also get to explore "Fun tricks" like disarms, close game, fake thrusts, "cavazione e controcavazione" 

 

 

Guns & S’Blood

      Sunday the 9th November 10am till 4pm

  

 

A full day of Theatrical Handguns and Fake S’Blood FX.

 

The day is tailored to fulfill the needs of both the stage manager and the performer. Learn the does and donts of using a Blank firing gun on stage and set including the current UK gun law. S’Blood FX explores how to make fake blood and how to create your own appropriate blood FX. The day is wrapped up with an opportunity to create your own scene combining a live Gun fire and your choice of S’blood fx.

 

 

INDUSTRY INTENSIVE 7/8th JUNE 2008

FEATURING JOHN LENNOX

 

      

 

At this years Industry Intensive we aim to bring in teachers and lead workshops that break the mold discover to explore new approaches to our craft. This is an opportunity for Fight Teachers, Apprentices, Martial Artists, Actors, Directors and Stage Managers to play, learn and try new styles and techniques. A chance to share and meet other like minded people. We are flying John Lennox all the way from Jackson, Michigan to join us for this year’s Industry Intensive.

 

JOHN LENNOX
John "Doc" Lennox has trained in various forms of swordplay for over 20 years. Beginning with the katana, he later moved into the western weapon styles. Through his involvement in stage combat for theatre over the past 22 years he began to study a myriad of weapons. He is a Fight Director for Art of Combat, teaches stage combat at Lansing Community College and Wayne State University, and is the in-house fight director for both of these institutions as well as Spring Arbor University. 

 

WORKSHOPS INCLUDED:The Cabala and the Cube, Boarding Axe and Cutlass, Types of Fighters with John Lennox. Breakables and Hollywood Swashbuckling with Rc-Annie.  Kalaripayettu Short Stick with Kevin Rowntree and An Introduction to Kali fighting.

 

 

CAPO FERRO With Jared Kirby Jared Kirby spent a couple of hours instructing our students in the arts of Capo Ferro Rapier style. Jared began studying historical fencing in Minneapolis; he moved to Scotland in to work with Maestro Paul Macdonald, on Italian Rapier, Longsword and Dusack. He is the editor and one of the translators of Italian Rapier Combat, the first complete, professional translation of Capo Ferro's 1610 treatise.  He is an Instructor for the Martinez Academy New and co-founder of The New Dawn Duellists Society in Minneapolis.

 

THE PIRATES OF MUTINY BAY AT ALTON TOWERS This year we had the pleasure of arranging the fights for a new Pirate attraction at Alton Towers. The show is called The Pirates of Mutiny Bay which is a fun high energy family show.   We had a great time and were made very welcome by all.   A big well done to everyone involved - who all worked their little socks off to create a great show.

 

BOB GOODWIN Robert Goodwin - Sword Master and Fight/Stunt Coordinator. It's not often that you get a chance to work with someone of Bob's calibre for a full day. Robert G. Goodwin has over thirty years' martial arts experience, eighteen years' experience in European weapons, and has trained or choreographed many of Hollywood's leading actors and actresses including: Jennifer Tilly, Christian Bale and The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. The day included: Capo Ferro, Martial Arts to Film Fighter, and Intro to fighting style of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

 

FILM FIGHT COURSE AT THE ROUNDHOUSE STUDIOS We were thrilled to be asked back by The Roundhouse again earlier this year.   We were employed this time to Teach and Fight Arrange on a Filming Fights Course in their studios. We also ran a Battling the Bard Shakespearean fight workshop to tie in with their RSC season. It was a lot of fun and a great to get a chance to work with enthusiastic aspiring filmmakers.

 

 

HORSE STUNT ACTION COURSE
BEGINNERS NOVICE LEVEL

with Dolbadarn Film Horses

 

        

 

A weekend of getting to know the basics of riding a horse on set

Riding Dolbadarn fully trained Action Stallions novices will begin to understand the importance of a balanced seat, aids and voice commands. Then we'll progress to riding under tuition with props... helmet and sword so that they can get a feel for it.

 

FIGHTING FORM DAY with LLOYD CALDWELL A mixed bag of fascinating fight frippery with Slapstick/Lazzi, Flashing Knife and Fight and Arts Funding. Lloyd is a BADC Teacher, Fight Directors International Certified Fight Director, Fight Directors Canada. Editor, Society of American Fight Directors Journal. He is currently writing a book on the history of the fight director. Lloyd Caldwell teaches Acting and Voice on the Theatre Faculty of Oklahoma State University.

INDUSTRY INTENSIVE WEEKEND FEATURING TONY WOLF Workshops featuring Tony Wolf with Fantasy fighting, Blood and Gut’s FX, Bartitsu, Pro wrestling, Victorian Mugging, Blank Firing Handguns, Film Fights and more...Tony is a martial arts instructor, professional wrestler, stunt performer, fight/stunt director/coordinator and practitioner of physical theatre. Tony's fight/action direction has featured in over 200 films, tv theatre, opera and ballet productions. Between 1998-2000 he was the Fighting Styles Designer for Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings trilogy.

MOUNTED COMBAT WEEKENDS Mounted Combat for the novice. Whether working on location, fighting around or on a horse or being chased down, as a total beginner you will experience all of this in one weekend! From fighting on horse back to vaulting and fighting down the Tilt. Weaponry training included. B&B included.

WORKING WITH BREAKABLES Surprisingly, it’s much harder than you think being hit over the head with a fake bottle and it hurts too! But the hardest thing is making the break look realistic without everything just shattering into smithereens. We look at the safest methods of working with breakables, how to protect yourself and others.

KALARIPAYETTU SHORT STICK Guest tutor Kevin Rowntree has just recently returned from South East India were he has been studying Kalaripayettu and brings a taste of it with him on Thursday. Kevin is a Stage Combat Instructor for the BADC. Kevin has taught at the University of Leeds, New York University, University of Hong Kong, Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Mountview, Bretton Hall, Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts & Schools and Colleges throughout the UK.

BLANK FIRING HANDGUNS (REGULAR WORKSHOPS) As recommended by the Stage Management Association: A workshop for those of you who have to handle a Blank Firing Gun either onstage or behind the scenes. Explore the do’s and don’ts of working with a blank firing gun on set/location. Learn how to look like you’re a skilled marksman/woman. Discover how not to upset the Gun Wrangler/Prop dept/SM. This is a comprehensive discussion on gun handling techniques and the new UK GUN laws, with an opportunity to fire two to three different blank firers. Learn to load, clean and fire in as safe a manner as possible.

S’BLOOD & GUTS! Ever wonder how blood appears at just the right moment or how to maximise the use of Stage Blood?  If so, this is the workshop for you! A VERY practical class, which gives you the chance to get your hands dirty. Methods such as blood sponges, bags, syringes, blood knives and a free S’Blood sample on the night! Please bring a change of clothes and be prepared to get messy!

TUMBLING The basis of Acrobatics is a good handstand – harder than you think!?!?!?! Don’t be intimidated or put off by thinking you’re not capable. This series of 6, easy, once a week sessions will give you the confidence to tackle any tumble. If you get the basics right the rest is easy!

FENCING COACHING COURSE This qualification is one part of the Equity Fight Directors requirements. An introductory award designed for those who wish to begin to teach Fencing. Candidates who successfully reach the required standard should be able to take absolute beginners – either singly or in small groups – and to teach them the basic strokes of Fencing. Limited to just 10 places. What do I need: A basic understanding of Fencing.

RC-ANNIE AT THE ROUNDHOUSE We assisted on the Dramathon event at The Roundhouse in Camden. Well we had a ripping time in a wonderful venue. Many thanks to all our great assistants Matt, Sam, Sib, Claire and Clare you did us proud. The Dramathon focused on themes recognition, conflict and connection. We collaborated with an amazing West End Choreographer: Omar Okai. The students were great and thoroughly enjoyed themselves. After the workshop we experienced the Fuerzabruta Show, oh and downed several beers too. Here’s to more like minded events.