Stage combat brings drama to life for Form 6

Delivering a masterclass in stage combat to Cundall Manor School, actor, stunt man and choreographer, Mark Ruddick aims to capture the essence of drama in a fun and engaging way.

Mark, founder of Squire Stage Combat, taught the basics of the skill as part of the year group’s preparation for the annual review.

He took some time out from his busy diary in the critically acclaimed David McVicar’s production of Wagner’s Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg, to come and show our students the ropes.

Around 45 pupils were lucky enough to take the masterclass which included a fun introduction to the techniques and performance of a range of conflicts on stage, including hand-to-hand and sword fighting, all while under the instruction of a professional fight director.

Mark said: “They took to it really well. A few of the students, in particular Oscar and Eve, could even have a future in stage combat.”

Liz Vile, Head of Drama at Cundall Manor School, helped organise the event.

She said: “Our pupils really enjoyed the masterclass. I think they certainly enjoyed the sword fighting. Getting the chance to work with Mark is a great advantage for them as he brings so much experience to the stage.

The Squire Stage Combat group have worked on a number of big budget projects including working for the likes of the BBC, The Royal Opera House and Pinewood Studios to name but a few.

Pupils from Form 6 at the school will now take what they have learned in the masterclass and put it towards writing their own performance which will take place on Thursday 16^th June at the school.

To find out more about the Form 6 review or to find out more about drama at one of the North’s leading independent schools, visit www.cundallmanorschool.com