Swordplay Fencing Studio552

Thanks to reruns of classic swashbuckler movies and the futuristic Jedi fighting in the Star Wars films, swordplay remains a fascination for kids. Owner Tim Weske's Swordplay Studios, which runs a training studio for would-be swashbucklers, stages imaginative and adventurous birthday parties.

Whether the instructor/performers come to the home or host at the studio, Swordplay offers various party configurations. Its best seller is the Treasure Hunt, which involves a search for hidden booty and two comical pirates wreaking swordfighting havoc. The more traditional party offers fencing instruction for guests. The birthday child gets to duel the instructor at the end.

Parties can be customized - substituting knights or Jedi masters for pirates or creating a unique scenario.

Party entertainment varies in price but usually runs between $250 to $350.

In addition to birthday celebrations, parents may be interested in signing up for lessons for their children, ages six and up. The studio has classes in all three fencing weapons, foil, epee, and sabre. The lessons are a good workout and a technical challenge for beginners to competitors.

Swordplay's summer camp program offers a week-long opportunity for kids to improve their fencing skills. Kids ages seven to 16, at all levels, attend Mon-Fri from 9am-4pm. Check with the venue for dates and prices.

A membership usually includes unlimited use of the facility, equipment, and group classes. Private instruction is priced separately.

Swordplay also offers some classes in Granada Hills, at Granada Pavilion.