OUR
STORY
"FAKE FIGHTING FOR REAL PEOPLE"
THE ART OF STAGING CONFLICT
IN A FUN AND SAFE ENVIRONMENT
Founded in the summer of 2021, when the world was just waking up after Covid quarantine, two actors decided they wanted to use their professional acting and stage combat skills for the greater good.
Along with beginner classes for adults, they also started summer camps for kids, teaching them basic fight techniques in a compassionate learning environment, practicing communication and consent to tell a story through stage combat.
Anyone can learn how to (fake) fight, and we're the ladies to show you how.
Meet The Team
Chloe Streif
Co-Founder
Instructor
Graduated from Columbia College Chicago in 2018 with a major in Theatre and minor in Stage Combat, Chloe has loved learning, teaching, and living the life as a Stage Combatant. Certified in every weapon style by the SAFD, you don't want to cross her in a scripted and pre-choreographed fight!
Angela Rak
Co-Founder
Instructor
After growing up and replicating scenes from Alias with her brothers, Angela invested in learning proper stage combat techniques and has enjoyed learning and teaching ever since!
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Carly Belle "CB" Cason
Instructor
Social Media Manager
Carly Belle "CB" Cason is a physical actor, violence designer, and movement choreographer living in Chicago.
With roots deep in the heart of Texas, she brings a rough-and-tumble grace to her performances and fights, whether they be set in fair Verona, or a devised alien world. They are an Advanced Actor Combatant for the Society of American Fight Directors, and an assistant teacher of stage combat at The Actor's Gymnasium. CB joined Counterfeit Combat in the fall of 2022 as an instructor, and Social Media Manager.
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What is Stage Combat?Stage combat is a broad term that covers acts of conflict, danger and/or violence performed for entertainment. A slap to the face, a fall down some stairs, an epic fifteen-person battle with swords and axes - all of these are stage combat. More than just set moves, true stage combat uses violence to tell a story, just as dance choreography, set design, or costuming can. -SAFD Website
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I have no training. Can I still learn?Yes! We try our best to promote a safe and welcoming learning environment for those of all skill levels. We hold classes for those wishing to start their combat journey. Just double check the description of the class or event to see if we have restricted it to any skill level.
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What are your age requirements?We offer different opportunities for different ages, but if you are under 18 you have to have a signed waiver by your parent or guardian.
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This looks fun! Do you do private events?Absolutely! Contact us using our online form and we will work with you to customize our workshop to your group's needs.