With decades of experience as an actress, stage combat choreographer, and educator, Denise Hurd brings together theatrical expertise, practical fight training, and creative direction. Her work spans stage combat, acting, choreography, and performance, with a focus on creating work that is safe, compelling, and authentic.

With over 20 years of teaching experience at City College in New York City...
From the stage to the classroom, Denise Hurd has built a career rooted in acting, stage combat, choreography, and education. Her extensive theatrical experience and dedication to developing performers have shaped a diverse body of work across theater, film, and education.

Denise has worked extensively as an actress across theater and film, bringing depth, physicality, and authenticity to a wide range of performances.

As a stage combat choreographer, Denise creates dynamic and believable fight sequences while maintaining a strong focus on safety, storytelling, and performance.

For more than 20 years, Denise has taught Acting and Stage Combat at City College in New York City, helping performers develop confidence, technique, physical awareness, and practical performance skills.

Denise brings specialized training in intimacy choreography to help create thoughtful, collaborative, and clearly communicated intimate scenes, with a focus on consent.
With more than 20 years of experience in acting and stage performance, Denise Hurd brings creativity, discipline, and theatrical experience to every project. Her work combines strong performance skills with thoughtful choreography and a deep understanding of live theater.
Denise Hurd has built a diverse career across acting, choreography, stage performance, and education, working with theater companies and productions throughout her career.
Professional experience in acting and live theater, with a focus on creating engaging and authentic performances.
Choreographed numerous productions for regional and Off-Broadway theaters, including recognized theatrical productions.
More than 20 years of teaching Acting and Stage Combat at City College in New York City.
Find answers to common questions about stage combat, training, choreography, performance safety, and working with Denise Hurd. Browse the questions below to learn more about the training process, available services, and what to expect.
Stage combat is the performance-based practice of creating realistic-looking physical action while prioritizing control, communication, and performer safety.
Training can include movement, physical technique, communication, timing, awareness, and the development of choreographed action for performance.
Stage combat is designed around controlled movement, clear communication, proper technique, and rehearsal. Safety remains an important part of the training process.
Not necessarily. Training can be adapted to the experience level and needs of the performers involved.
Stage combat training can support a wide range of performance environments, including theatre productions, film and television projects, educational programs, rehearsals, and live performances. Training can help performers understand how to approach physical action in a controlled and repeatable way while still supporting the story and character. The techniques can be adapted to the needs of a particular production, scene, performer, or performance style.
Stage combat choreography is the process of designing and organizing physical action for a performance. It involves planning movements, timing, spacing, reactions, and transitions so that an action sequence can be performed consistently during rehearsals and shows. Good choreography considers both the storytelling requirements of the scene and the practical needs of the performers, helping create physical moments that look convincing while remaining controlled and carefully rehearsed.
Communication is an essential part of effective stage combat training and performance. Performers need to understand the planned movements, timing, spacing, physical boundaries, and expectations of each sequence. Clear communication also helps performers work together during rehearsals and make adjustments when necessary. Building strong communication habits can contribute to a more collaborative environment and help performers approach physical performance with greater awareness and confidence.
Yes. Stage combat and performance training can be adapted according to the needs of a particular production, group, or performer. Different productions may require different types of movement, physical storytelling, choreography, rehearsal structures, or performance techniques. A customized approach allows the training to take into account the experience level of the performers, the requirements of the scene, and the overall goals of the production.
If you are interested in stage combat, choreography, performance training, or educational opportunities, you can get started by reaching out to Denise Hurd. Sharing information about your production, training goals, experience level, or specific project needs can help determine what type of support may be appropriate. Whether you are looking for individual development, group training, or performance-related guidance, contacting Denise is the first step toward discussing your requirements.
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