James Finley (He/Him/His)

James is a performer and fight choreographer who has been working in the DC area for over 15 years.  He and his work have been seen on numerous area stages, including with NextStop, Keegan, Rorschach, Flying V, AvantBard, and Constellation Theatres. He is the Co-Communications Director with Live Action Theatre, a Co-Coordinator of the Social Distance Showdown virtual stage combat workshop, an Advanced Actor-Combatant with the Society of American Fight Directors and a member of the International Order of the Sword and the Pen.


Skill Proficiency History

Date Weapon Location Grade

SAFD Theatrical Firearms Safety Course

Apr 14, 2024 Firearm Silver Spring, Maryland Recommended Pass

Single Sword fall SPT

Dec 10, 2023 Single Sword Herndon, Virginia Recommended Pass

The Noble Blades Sword and Shield SPT

May 7, 2023 Broadsword and Shield Herndon, Virginia Basic Pass

Round House Theatre

Feb 14, 2022 Broadsword and Shield Silver Spring, Maryland Basic Pass
Dec 16, 2019 Rapier and Dagger Washington, District of Columbia Recommended Pass
Dec 10, 2018 Knife Washington, District of Columbia Recommended Pass
Aug 13, 2018 Small Sword Washington, District of Columbia Recommended Pass

The Noble Blades Unarmed SPT

Nov 20, 2021 Unarmed Herndon, Virginia Recommended Pass

Spring 2019 SPTs/SPRs

May 19, 2019 Single Sword Columbia, Maryland Recommended Pass
May 19, 2019 Broadsword and Shield Columbia, Maryland Recommended Pass
May 19, 2019 Quarterstaff Columbia, Maryland Recommended Pass

Columbia MD SPT/R

May 20, 2018 Unarmed Columbia, Maryland Recommended Pass
May 20, 2018 Broadsword Columbia, Maryland Recommended Pass

Smallsword at Synetic, spring 2016

Mar 20, 2016 Small Sword Crystal City, Virginia Recommended Pass

Tooth & Claw Combat Arts

May 18, 2014 Unarmed Silver Spring, Maryland Basic Pass