There are different ways of entertaining the audience with sword work. Some performers feel that a totally choreographed ground sword fight is the way to go. Others feel that a live steel ground battle is the most entertaining and interesting to watch.
As for myself, I prefer a combination of the two. To me, the ultimate performance occurs when two sword fighters can engage in fast paced live steel action and then be able to switch to a series of bold and flashy theatrical moves and sword swings complete with a disarming or a body check or throw.
This type of ground fight needs a good deal of practice to be effective and look real. I realize that many of you have your own techniques that you have learned from past experience. However, I would like to touch on the aforementioned techniques, if nothing else but to give you another perspective.
When on defense:
Telegraph your moves to your partner
Step forward while making your swings
Always be ready to pull (slow down or stop) your swing should your partner not be there with a block
Practice and get to know your partner
When on offense:
Learn to read where your partner is going with his swing
Step backward while blocking
Remember to stop the offender's blade without following through on yoru swing
Keep alert, always be ready to dodge, duck or get out of the way of an unexpected swing
Practice learning to read your partner
When doing a choreographed sword fight or a choreographed segment, pick your moves so they are effective to the audience. Practice at slow speed and when ready, pick up the pace. Memorize your fight (if totally choreographed) in segments and practice, practice, practice until it is ingrained in your memory.
A few more important tips to remember:
Use your facial expressions to give your work more realism
Scream, shout or grunt to make a sword fight more realistic
Wear gloves to give you a degree of protection
Should you forget where you are in the fight, develop some safeguards, like talking with your partner
Try to aim for the area of the sword that is about 1/3 down from the sword tip (you'll have less broken blades that way)
If you are used to one style of swordfighting, remember this: in the course of your career as a Knight/Performer, you will sooner or later find yourself working with someone who has had different teachings and who uses a different style. Cooperate with this person and figure out a fight that utilizes both styles in an effective blend of sword work.
And as always, the mark of a good professional is one who makes every effort to never injure his partner.
James Zoppe
Founder and Director
American Jousting Alliance