FAQ
What is the PSCW?
The Philadelphia Stage Combat Workshop, affectionately known as the ‘Cheesesteak’ is an official SAFD-sanctioned regional workshop that has been held annually since 1999. Originally a two-day weekend affair, several years ago specialty Friday workshops began to be offered, focusing on more historically accurate styles of combat.
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When is the workshop being held?
In 2022, the PSCW will take place Nov 18th - 20th.
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How much does it cost?
The price for the 2022 Workshop is still TBA. We will have a select number of "tuitions" available on a sliding scale, as well as the option for someone who may be in a position to help others financially take advantage of training opportunities to donate to a Pay It Forward scholarship.
We are currently working on logistics of signing up for the Pay It Forward scholarship. We will put more information about the sign up when it becomes available.
There is also an option for SAFD/Union discounts.
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We are currently working on offering a virtual option. More info on cost and registration of any virtual classes will be coming soon.
What does my tuition cover?
Workshop tuition covers a full weekend of classes taught by some of the best instructors of theatrical violence from around the world. In a virtual setting, we are working to provide you with other opportunities not typically available to us in an in person workshop. More details to come.
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Can I show up unregistered?
Walk-ups will be accepted at the 2021 PSCW. However, you will need to provide proof of vaccination and a matching photo ID. Additionally, because class registration happens the evening before, we cannot guarantee all classes will have space.
Do I need previous experience?
No! Everybody of every skill level is welcome at the PSCW. There will be plenty of options for all levels of students, from those who have never studied stage combat before to Advanced Actor/Combatants.
What’s the schedule like?
The day will begin with a 9:00AM (EST) warm-up and two class periods from 9:30-12, Lunch 12-1, and two more class periods from 1-5pm.
What if I get hurt while participating in this workshop?
All students will be asked to complete an Emergency Contact form. We will also have a COVID Compliance Officer on site at all times.
Is there an age minimum to register for this workshop?
You need to be minimum 16 years of age to participate in any workshop. Anyone under the age of 18 will need to have a parent or guardian complete waivers and releases
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What’s the class schedule like?
Each class period will see three to four different classes offered, in various disciples at various skill levels from basic to advanced. Each class will be no longer than an hour and 15 mins in length. The classes will be a variety of Lecture, on-your-feet technique drills, and solo concept exploration exercises.
Do I need to bring weapons?
Nope! We will provide all the weapons you need. If you would like to bring personal weapons, please contact us ahead of time at philascw@gmail.com so we can arrange it with the armory.
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Can I get some weapons?
Yes! We will be having several vendors and opportunities to learn about their wares and how to purchase from them. Vendors attending the 2021 PSCW include Jessie Belsky, Lewis Shaw, and Sean McGarry.
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Do you offer Skills Proficiency Renewals?
We often offer SPRs on the Friday of the Historical Workshop. The cost will be a flat fee of $90. We have not yet announced which weapons we will be offering. If you would like to participate in SPRs, please contact us at philascw@gmail.com and let us know which weapons you are interested in renewing.
Who can I contact to ask more questions?
Please direct all inquiries to philascw@gmail.com