The Interactive Museum of Theatrical Combat

by B.T. Freeman

Inspired by my stage combat training in Cape Girardeau, MO with Dueling Arts International

I just thought it’d be fun.
I, of course, did not anticipate—
that is to say, did not think through— how literally some people would take parts, but not other parts, of the title.

No, you cannot take an actor’s sword and joust them in reverse grip.
Not your prop, hands off.
Bad form, anyway.

No, you cannot try to save an actor just because you like their character. Though I sympathize.
I too wish that Mercutio got out okay.

No, you certainly cannot bring your own home-forged sword or

homemade knife or DIY nunchukun or any other weapon

with you. The sign says it will be confiscated.
And it will be.
Foam weapons may be checked at the open sparring ring.

In light of these and other recents incidents, we at the IMTC have decided to
keep the actors behind plexiglass
in order to avoid further mishap.

(Also, we apologize for the broadsword malfunction— the blade was NOT supposed to spin off into the audience. The sword has been removed from circulation.)
We hope you enjoy your (safer) stay at the IMTC today. Cross blades and be (respectfully) adventurous.

Where there’s a sword to be swung, song to be sung, or tale to be spun, there B.T. Freeman (they/he) will be. AKA “the sword-wielding chaos goblin,” they are a Hoosier actor-combatant & writer. Plays: NPX. Poetry: Querencia Press, Beyond the Veil Press, The Bell Tower.