ABSTRACT

In Lessons from The Maestro: Crafting a Successful Fight/Stunt Career in Theatre and Film, famed Hollywood and theatre stuntman, trainer, and fight director David L. Boushey writes about his life, the history of stage and screen combat and stunt work, and how to enter the entertainment industry.

Charting his illustrious career that spanned over 45 years, 400 theatre credits, and 45 films, Boushey narrates the events and decisions that lead him to enter the entertainment industry and documents for the first time his founding of multiple national and international associations for fight directors and stuntmen. He provides a roadmap for individuals aspiring to work in the theatre and film industry, providing information on training, auditioning, networking, unions, different paths one might take, and tips on how to be a successful stunt performer in a competitive industry. 

Part autobiography, part how-to guide to the entertainment business from the foremost authority in stage combat and stunt work, this is an invaluable resource for professional and aspiring fight and intimacy directors and stunt performers in theatre and film. 

chapter 1|8 pages

In the Beginning

chapter 2|3 pages

With a Little Help from My Friends

chapter 3|6 pages

Jolly Old England

chapter 4|6 pages

Homeward Bound

chapter 5|4 pages

Creating the SAFD

chapter 6

A University Collaboration

chapter 7|10 pages

"Paddy" and the Golden Years of Hollywood

chapter 8|5 pages

Meeting a Legend

chapter 9|4 pages

Famous Stunt Performers

chapter 10|5 pages

Reaping the Whirlwind

chapter 11|13 pages

Surviving the Game

chapter 12|4 pages

The United Stuntmen's Association

chapter 13|4 pages

The International Stunt School

chapter 14|4 pages

Discovering the IOSP

chapter 15

Partnering and Auditioning

chapter 16|10 pages

Starting and Running Your Business

chapter 17|6 pages

Contacts and Connections

chapter 18|4 pages

Joining the Unions

chapter 19|3 pages

Live Stunt Shows and Set Etiquette

chapter 20|5 pages

Careers and Compromises

chapter 21

Creating Your Own Future

chapter 22|4 pages

Fulfilling a Dream

chapter 23|5 pages

Artistry and Achievements

chapter 24|11 pages

Theater and Film Stories

chapter 25|7 pages

Personal Credits and Reviews

chapter 26|29 pages

Closing Thoughts and Testimonials