Frequently Asked Questions
I've heard the term "fight choreographer," is that the same as "fight director?"
Depends on who you're asking. Some people use the terms interchangeably, some create stark differences. When I'm meeting new collaborators, I like to ask what they think the difference is and then take the conversation from there. I personally believe fight choreography and fight direction both deal with the story but fight choreography implies you might not be considering the before or the after whereas fight direction ties into the narrative for a seamless transition.
So what's your rate?
Good question. It depends on the project. What's the time frame? How many people are we dealing with? Are there weapons involved? If so, how many? And, most importantly, what's the budget? I like to work within those parameters and from there, mutually agree on a rate.
Will you work for free?
Unless I owe you a massive favor or it's for charity, no.
Why won't you work for free otherwise?
Everyone has different reasons. I grew up in New York City, where undervaluing your time is suicidal to your career. Once you ask for nothing, can you truly expect something the next time around? I tried valuing my time going into and leaving university, and I've been able to work solely as a freelancer ever since. So that's why.
Do you work in Film and Television?
I do, but mostly as a stunt actor.
What's a "stunt actor?"
I'm open to speaking on camera as well as stunt performing.
What else do you do?
My background is in tech theatre, which I've been working in for the past ten years. I've decided to pursue union benefits with IATSE (the International Alliance for Theatrical Stage Employees) Local One, so my schedule oscillates between that and fight directing. I also own a business in health and wellness, which completes the work/life/balance trifecta. It's a non-traditional mix, but I get to do what I love everyday so I wouldn't trade it for the world.
Drink of choice?
A decent scotch, or a nice glass of wine.
What kind of violence do you most like to work on?
I love working on gritty violence, the kind that makes you cringe with that one big blow, or leaves your mouth hanging open from the sheer "creativity" of the fighters. I get to think and create outside the box, which proposes audiences see and interact differently with violence.
Favorite weapon?
Ask me in person. It constantly changes.
Depends on who you're asking. Some people use the terms interchangeably, some create stark differences. When I'm meeting new collaborators, I like to ask what they think the difference is and then take the conversation from there. I personally believe fight choreography and fight direction both deal with the story but fight choreography implies you might not be considering the before or the after whereas fight direction ties into the narrative for a seamless transition.
So what's your rate?
Good question. It depends on the project. What's the time frame? How many people are we dealing with? Are there weapons involved? If so, how many? And, most importantly, what's the budget? I like to work within those parameters and from there, mutually agree on a rate.
Will you work for free?
Unless I owe you a massive favor or it's for charity, no.
Why won't you work for free otherwise?
Everyone has different reasons. I grew up in New York City, where undervaluing your time is suicidal to your career. Once you ask for nothing, can you truly expect something the next time around? I tried valuing my time going into and leaving university, and I've been able to work solely as a freelancer ever since. So that's why.
Do you work in Film and Television?
I do, but mostly as a stunt actor.
What's a "stunt actor?"
I'm open to speaking on camera as well as stunt performing.
What else do you do?
My background is in tech theatre, which I've been working in for the past ten years. I've decided to pursue union benefits with IATSE (the International Alliance for Theatrical Stage Employees) Local One, so my schedule oscillates between that and fight directing. I also own a business in health and wellness, which completes the work/life/balance trifecta. It's a non-traditional mix, but I get to do what I love everyday so I wouldn't trade it for the world.
Drink of choice?
A decent scotch, or a nice glass of wine.
What kind of violence do you most like to work on?
I love working on gritty violence, the kind that makes you cringe with that one big blow, or leaves your mouth hanging open from the sheer "creativity" of the fighters. I get to think and create outside the box, which proposes audiences see and interact differently with violence.
Favorite weapon?
Ask me in person. It constantly changes.
