Name: STAGE COMBACT: Introduction
Start: 2026-01-31T10:30:00+00:00
Location: The hidden space

STAGE COMBAT: Introduction
This is an invitation to step into the fundamentals of Stage Combat choreography. We’ll work with core techniques and underlying principles, taking time to explore how movement, intention, and safety come together in choreographed conflict.
Through guided practice, experimentation, and play, we’ll build a shared language of fighting for the stage, ending the session with a short, fully choreographed sequence.
This workshop is open to anyone curious about theatre stage combat. No previous experience is required.
Please wear comfortable clothing and bring your curiosity and playfulness!
INFORMATION
When: Saturday 31 January 2026, 10h30 - 13h30.
Where: The hidden space
Language: English & Portuguese
* Please come about 10 min before the beginning of the class, so we could start on time *
Participation fee: €25,-
Registration via email: [email protected]
Limited to 8 participants.
ABOUT THE FACILITATORS
Actor, theatre teacher, and swordsman, Gabriel Lopes graduated in Game Design from IPB and trained at the Gaiety School of Acting in Ireland. He has worked across community and professional theatre, with companies such as ErrorTeatro, Circolando and Napalm Ctdca, and performed at medieval fairs both on-site and off-site. Gabriel also brings experience in Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA).
José Pedro Rocha began acting in 2021 after pursuing theatre courses at Napalm_ctdca and ACE - Escola de Artes, and has since worked as performer, playwright, director, and assistant choreographer with companies including Napalm_ctdca, ErrorTeatro, and Gaivotaàjanela. He has martial arts experience in Goju-Ryu Karate and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

*** More details about the Workshop ***
We will be teaching stage combat for theatre. Our approach combines the following theoretical and practical elements.
Concepts:
* Angles and Sounds
* Communication and Consent
* Trust and Safety
* Differences between Combat on Stage and in Film
Practical Elements
* 4 Basic Techniques/Movements
* Safety Distance
* Contact vs. No Contact
* Acting, Reacting, and Knaps
* Choreographing a full fight scene