What we do

  • Classes

    Workshops

    All skill levels are welcome! Weekly classes:10 weeks at 2 hours per classRapier, Unarmed, & BroadswordNon-members $250Members $200

    If you are interested, send us a message or callWelcome!
    SWORD AND SHIELD Starting Jan 25th, 2025

  • Stage & Screen Combat

    Stage Combat/Stage fighting is the illusion of physical conflict for stage and screen. Stage fighting is a system of techniques, sounds, and movements that together create a violent story. Stage fighting is based on choreography and cooperation, and includes both armed and unarmed fighting. Every move is carefully planned and agreed on beforehand, with an emphasis on the safety of the performer, and a focus on transmitting the story that is being told to a third party.

  • Education

    The AFD educational system is designed to get our students to be the best they can be in all the aspects of stage and screen fighting. AFD achieves this by giving our students an education that is more process-based than other stage fight societies around the world. AFD believes that if the students have more time to reflect and to understand what they are learning, both technically and storytelling wise, the student will reach a higher quality of knowledge of stage combat and performance. We provide the know-how in all matter surrounding staged combat and the illusion and story of violence. We also provide intimacy directing and training.

  • Test System

    Testing is optional. However, training should proceed in consecutive order. Students may be required to re-train a test or preparatory level if deemed necessary by the AFD. Required retraining is assessed by the AFD at the beginning of a workshop according to the student's need for development or for safety reasons. AFD offers proficiency tests in the following 9 weapon disciplines (listed in consecutive order):
    Block 1UnarmedBroadswordSingle Rapier
    Block 2Rapier and PartnerQuarterstaffSword and shield
    Block 3SmallswordKnifeTheatrical Martial Art