Film And Television Stunt Performance For Live Events Training

Objectives:
• Understand the role and responsibilities of a stunt performer in live events
• Identify key safety protocols and risk assessment procedures
• Recognize industry-standard terminology and communication cues
• Apply basic warm-up and conditioning techniques for stunt readiness

Topics:
• Overview of film, television, and live event stunt performance
• Legal and ethical considerations: SAQA unit standard 117535
• Safety culture: hazard identification and emergency response
• Communication systems: hand signals, radio protocols, and cue calls
• Physical preparation: stretching, cardio, and strength fundamentals
• Introduction to personal protective equipment (PPE) and fall arrest systems

Objectives:
• Execute safe forward, backward, and side falls from standing and kneeling positions
• Demonstrate breakfall techniques to absorb impact
• Apply proper body alignment to prevent injury during controlled descents
• Practice falling on various surfaces (mats, grass, concrete with pads)

Topics:
• Biomechanics of falling: energy absorption and distribution
• Forward falls: rolling, slapping, and tucking
• Backward falls: head protection and back arch
• Side falls: hip and shoulder roll variations
• Falling from height: low boxes and platforms (up to 1m)
• Spotting techniques and partner safety

Objectives:
• Perform choreographed punches, kicks, and blocks with control
• Maintain distance and timing for realistic strike simulation
• Execute grappling and takedown sequences safely
• Use facial expressions and body language to sell impact

Topics:
• Principles of stage combat: illusion vs. reality
• Punches: straight, hook, uppercut – reaction and recoil
• Kicks: front, roundhouse, side – chambering and landing
• Grappling: wrist locks, headlocks, and controlled throws
• Takedowns: hip toss, leg sweep with mat landing
• Choreography notation and rehearsal techniques

Objectives:
• Handle replica firearms, knives, and blunt weapons safely
• Execute weapon draw, holster, and disarm sequences
• Perform staged strikes and parries with swords and batons
• Demonstrate muzzle awareness and trigger discipline

Topics:
• Weapon safety rules: inspection, storage, and handling
• Firearm simulation: blanks, cap guns, and airsoft – sound and recoil
• Knife combat: grips, slashes, and stabs with retractable blades
• Sword and staff: basic cuts, thrusts, and blocks
• Baton and impact weapon techniques
• Weapon retention and disarms

Objectives:
• Perform controlled high falls (up to 3m) onto air bags or crash mats
• Use wire harness for lifts, jumps, and flying effects
• Coordinate with rigging team for tension and release
• Execute a basic wire-assisted backflip

Topics:
• High fall progression: from 1m to 3m platforms
• Air bag and crash mat positioning
• Harness fitting: leg loops, chest strap, and adjustment
• Wire work commands: tension, lift, and descent
• Basic aerial moves: floating, running up walls
• Safety checks: hardware inspection and load testing

Objectives:
• Perform basic vehicle entry/exit and rollover simulations
• Understand pyrotechnic safety: squibs, flash pots, and air cannons
• Execute a staged car crash using pre-rigged vehicles
• Coordinate with special effects team for timing

Topics:
• Vehicle stunt fundamentals: braking, skidding, and drifting
• Car-to-car transfers and hood slides
• Rollover simulation: harness and cage safety
• Pyrotechnic devices: types, distances, and firing orders
• Squib hits: blood packs and breakaway vests
• Fire safety: extinguishers and burn protocols

Objectives:
• Perform simulated drowning and rescue sequences in controlled water
• Execute high falls into water (from 5m platform)
• Manage cold water and current safety
• Use underwater breathing apparatus for extended scenes

Topics:
• Water safety: lifeguard support and buddy systems
• Drowning simulation: breath control and thrashing
• Cliff and bridge jumps: entry angles and depth checking
• Underwater combat: staged punches and escapes
• Hypothermia prevention and recovery
• Mud, fire, and debris: navigating hazardous environments

Objectives:
• Develop a full stunt sequence from script analysis to blocking
• Create a storyboard and shot list for a live event stunt
• Rehearse with multiple performers for synchronization
• Adjust choreography based on camera angles and audience perspective

Topics:
• Script breakdown: identifying stunt beats and safety notes
• Storyboarding: visual planning of action beats
• Blocking: stage movement and actor positioning
• Timing: rhythm, pauses, and impact moments
• Rehearsal process: walk-through, half-speed, full-speed
• Adapting for live audience vs. camera

Objectives:
• Perform complex wire-assisted flips and spins
• Execute flying harness sequences with multiple performers
• Coordinate wire tension for simultaneous lifts
• Troubleshoot common wire rigging issues

Topics:
• Advanced wire maneuvers: front flip, side flip, and twist
• Multiple performer lifts: timing and weight distribution
• Flying rigs: track systems and pulley configurations
• Quick-release mechanisms and emergency descents
• Aerial combat: sword fights while suspended
• Rigging inspection and maintenance

Objectives:
• Execute J-turns, reverse 180s, and bootleg turns
• Perform controlled slides and spins on wet and dry surfaces
• Drive in close proximity to other vehicles for chase scenes
• Use stunt driver communication signals

Topics:
• Vehicle dynamics: weight transfer and traction
• J-turn and reverse 180: technique and practice
• Bootleg turn: handbrake and steering coordination
• Slide control: throttle steering and countersteering
• Precision parking and car-to-car proximity driving
• Chase choreography: lead and follow protocols

Objectives:
• Adapt stunt sequences for arena and stage environments
• Incorporate audience sightlines and safety zones
• Perform stunts with live music and pyrotechnic cues
• Manage crowd interaction without compromising safety

Topics:
• Arena staging: multiple entry points and camera positions
• Safety zones: barriers, run-offs, and fire lanes
• Synchronizing stunts with sound and lighting effects
• Audience engagement: breaking the fourth wall safely
• Live television broadcast considerations
• Contingency planning for weather and technical failures

Objectives:
• Perform a complete stunt show incorporating all learned skills
• Demonstrate safety protocols under pressure
• Receive feedback and critique from assessors
• Complete unit standard 117535 portfolio evidence requirements

Topics:
• Rehearsal and final run-through of showcase
• Stunt showcase: falls, combat, wire work, vehicle, and pyrotechnics
• Safety observer roles and emergency drill
• Peer and instructor evaluation
• Portfolio of evidence: logbook, video, and written reflections
• Career pathways: SAQA accreditation and industry networking