The Bankeside Schoole of Defense is an historical stage-combat group that places its instructional emphasis on 16th century styles of European marital arts.  Simply put, we mainly train with the rapier and its accompanying weapons, and have expanded our program to include other weapons, such as the broadsword, backsword, longsword, and quarterstaff .  Bankeside is unique in that we pattern our training curriculum after the existing manuals remaining from the period.  Each student must therefore research historical methodology as well as apply the knowledge practically.

Our training methodology is unique in that we consider rapier fighting to be a true western martial art.  We train using the original Italian terminology (This has the added advantage of being theatrically sound as well).  Our actual curriculum includes drills and manoeuvres, practiced in groups and individually, that focus on specific actions (cuts, parries, etc.), choreography, and routines.  An example of a popular drill is "A Tiempo", which means 'in time'.  This exercise is done in pairs and is used to test the effectiveness of cuts and parries.  Because this exercise is not choreographed, it is done a one-quarter speed for safety.  We do not use armor and take great pains to ensure safe practice and proper handling.  Each student must therefore pass a "Scholars Routine", which is designed to demonstrate competence with the rapier before the student is allowed to begin learning choreographed fights or to fight at faire.  Students carry the knowledge that swordfighting is a privilege, not a right.

Additionally, Bankeside is unique in our choice of rapiers.  Most other schools train using modern fencing foils, epees, and sabers, which have the advantage of being both very lightweight and maneuverable, but lack the true weight and heft of true period weapons.  Bankeside students prefer to use Schlager, 'transitional', and Canelure blades, which enable 'live steel' combat and give an increased level of endurance to the practice due to their additional weight.

Who is Bankeside?

Bankeside is the sister school of The Albion Schole of Defense, mastered by Mr. Michael Cawalti.  Albion performs at various events in Northern California throughout the year.  Bankeside was created in 1998 out of a desire on the part of several RPFS performers to hone their skills with the rapier.  Mr. James Smith was approached with the idea and he became the schools first instructor. The rest is history...

Why do we do this?

Ask any member of Bankeside and you will hear the same answer...  All of our members have a deep abiding interest in and love of swordplay, in addition to an intense dedication to the art.  We train approximately 36 weeks out of the year for at least three hours a session.  We truly have a passion for what we do.