Guest Instructor - TJ Charlson - Stage Combat

Next Step Prep is so lucky to have the amazing cast of guest instructors who come from all over the county to teach the students. But what you might not know is the level of talent under the roof at MCT. TJ Charlson is one of those people. He is a Production Coordinator at MCT and coordinates MCT's two week performing arts camp (PAC) held on the shores of Flathead Lake every August. TJ took some time out of his schedule to teach stage combat to the students.

I missed this session last year, but delighted in seeing all the students practicing their techniques afterward. There were a few times I thought they were actually slapping each other, but they were just really good at their sound effects!

Here TJ demonstrates to the students how to throw a realistic punch. Rylee volunteered to be the first victim.

To be realistic, the actors have to make it look like contact occurred, while timing their sound effects (in this case one hand hitting the other hand)...

Elinor packs a mean punch. Great reaction Sarai!

Next up...the jab. I wish you could see the facial expressions Rylee was making. They were hilarious!

Nothing says "Good Morning!" like a sucker punch to the stomach...

Now everyone join in... Skye and Nyna practice sparring...

Maddy wallops Cooper...

TJ demonstrates for Mandie and Micaela...

Then they try it...

Micaela...don't close your eyes..she hasn't hit you yet! Ha ha!

TJ admitted he was inspired early on by the World Wrestling Federation. I think I remember seeing this move...

TJ pointed out that our normal reactions (such as closing our eyes) can't happen in stage combat due to safety concerns. He emphasized that EVERY move in a stage fight need to be carefully rehearsed and need to be the same every time. He emphasized that communication and eye contact were essential between stage partners, and couldn't emphasize safety enough.

Now practicing kicks. Maddy gives it a try...

...and TJ makes it look very realistic...


The students really enjoyed learning how to fight on stage...


TJ demonstrates the old Three Stooges standby..."head slam into the table"...when he demonstrated with Rylee, is was so realistic Rylee thought he had really hurt him...

How to fall when "thrown" across a room...TJ showed the students how to roll properly and instructed them on safety so they could avoid getting hurt...

Thanks for taking the time again this year to teach stage combat, TJ. The students learned a lot, laughed a lot, and slapped themselves silly afterward. What a great day!