PLEASE NOTE: Due to the special nature of our event, the Winter Wonderland Workshop reserves the right to exclude any potential registrant who the workshop feels is not suitable for such a physically demanding environment.

How much does the workshop cost?

Full price for the workshop is $320. The price for SAFD, BASSC, FDC and other Stage Combat organization members and Union Members (AEA, SAG, AGMA) is $290. The price for full time students, or anyone that registers and pays by the early registration date (Dec. 15) is $280. The price for attending the workshop for two days is $255. The price for attending the workshop for one day is $145. Tuition includes stage combat classes, breakfast and lunch each day you attend, and a free T-shirt!

What time does onsite check-in start?

8:00 am on the first day of the workshop.

What time do we finish everyday?

Classes finish at approximately 5:30 pm on Friday and Saturday. Classes on Sunday end at approximately 4:00 pm.

Is lodging included?

No, lodging is not included.

Where can I stay?

This information will be available once details for our 2011 workshop have been finalized.

Do I need to provide weapons?

All weapons are provided.

Can I get "certified" this weekend?

The Policies & Procedures of the SAFD state that an individual must have thirty hours of training in order to test in a particular weapon discipline. There is just not enough time during the workshop to accomplish this task. However, a common misconception with the SAFD is that we "certify" students. There is no certification when it comes to testing in weapon styles. If a student tests and passes a Skills Proficiency Test, said student would be recognized as having "proficiency" in that particular weapon style. Please refer to www.safd.org for more information on testing.

What do I need to bring?

We suggest bringing athletic gloves for weapon work, knee and/or elbow pads, water bottles, and anything you feel will make your experience a better one.

What classes are being taught this year?

This will somewhat depend on what the students are looking for. A list of proposed classes is always listed on our website. Once class decisions have been made a full list of classes with a brief description and instuctor will be posted.

How do I know my level?

Beginning students are ones who have limited or no stage combat experience.

Intermediate students are ones who have studied consistently for at least two years and have passed the SAFD skills proficiency test in three or more weapons (or equivalent).

Advanced students are ones who have studied consistently for at least four years and have passed the SAFD skills proficiency test in five or more weapons (or equivalent).

Will renewals be available? How much do they cost?

Renewals in Unarmed and Rapier & Dagger are always available at the WWW. Other discipline renewals will depend on what people are looking to renew. The additional fee is $35.00 to renew up to two weapons. There is an additional charge because not everyone is qualified to take renewals, so it is unfair to charge people for something they will not receive. The additional fee covers the SAFD cost and the adjudicator fee.

Do you accept Credit Cards?

Yes, use the online registration form and you can choose to pay with a credit card via PayPal.

Can I pay in installments?

Yes. A $100 non-refundable deposit is necessary in order to reserve your slot. The balance is due when you sign up for classes. If you do not pay in full, you will not be able to register for your classes. In order to receive the early registration discount, full payment must be received by December 15th. If the full payment for early registration is not received by that date, you will be charged the full amount and will not be able to take classes at the workshop until the balance has been paid in full.

Is my tuition refundable if I cannot attend?

Before January 1st, tuition is refundable minus the $100 deposit. After January 1st, no refunds will be allowed.

I'm 15, can I still come to workshop?

Yes. Students as young as 15 can attend the workshop. Students under the age of 18 require parental permission.

I've never done stage combat, will there be something for me?

Absolutely. There are plenty of classes for all levels of training.

Which is a more convenient airport to fly into, O'Hare or Midway?

Given that our workshop is in the northern part of Illinois, O'Hare is much closer than Midway. We recommend flying into O'Hare.

Can I choose my classes before I arrive?

Yes, we will be providing class signup prior to your arrival via the website. Keep checking your email for the class signup announcement.

How many people are in each class?

Class size will vary depending on room size.

Will I get personal attention?

Yes. Our small student-to-teacher ratio allows instructors to spend time with every student.

What food will be available during the workshop?

We provide both a continental breakfast and lunch. Typically, lunch consists of Deli Sandwiches and Salad on Friday, Pizza and Salad on Saturday, and Pasta and Salad on Sunday. All food is purchased pre made by established vendors in the area and we verify their sanitation certificate provided by their location's local government. Water fountains are available so you can fill water bottles. If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, please email us at www_chicago@yahoo.com and we will see if we can make special arrangements for you. Due to the size of the workshop, we may only be able to direct you to other food establishments where you can pick up what you need. Email us regardless. We might be able to help!

What will the workshop focus on as far as weapon styles?

At every skill level, you can choose a variety of class options to fit your needs.

What if I get hurt?

The workshop is not liable for injuries that a student may acquire during the workshop. There is a mandatory waiver that each student must sign to that effect in order to attend the workshop. However, there will be someone on staff who can handle minor injuries (bumps, bruises, scrapes, etc.) if the situation arises. Several people on staff at the workshop are certified in First Aid and CPR.

Can I bring my own weapons?

Personal weapons must be approved by the workshop coordinator prior to admission to the workshop. Whether or not the weapon is appropriate for a particular class is up to the instructor at the time of the class.

Where can I leave my personal stuff so it doesn't get stolen?

Personal items, at this time, must be kept on your person. The facilities do not have space available for us to use as a personal items storage area. Hopefully, this will be resolved for 2011.