HOLLYWOOD, CA, Monday November 1, 2021 — Theatre of Arts, the longest-running acting conservatory in Hollywood, today announced mandatory prop gun safety training for its acting students. An advanced seminar will be conducted by veteran Armorer Clay Van Sickle, who has ensured firearm safety on over 150 Hollywood productions over 20 years, and has been seen sharing his expertise on major media outlets including MSNBC, FOX, and the Today Show.
"Following last month's tragic death on the set of 'Rust', it's vital that all actors receive the very latest and most advanced training on firearm safety protocols," explains David Law, Director of Education at Theatre of Arts. "Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by this terrible tragedy, and we are honored to have Clay Van Sickle join us at the conservatory to share his deep experience preventing these types of devastating accidents."
Henry Layton, Theatre of Arts instructor of Stage Combat and Weapons, adds "I have known Clay Van Sickle for many years. Every time I am hired to stunt coordinate a production with firearms, I bring Clay on board to handle all the safety and protocols. He has the respect of the entire industry, and we are very lucky to have him on our team."
"I look forward to helping train a new generation of performers in prop firearm safety," comments Armorer Clay Van Sickle. "Every production set benefits when team members on both sides of the camera are fully educated and vigilant about preventing gun-related accidents. I commend Theatre of Arts for its commitment to ensure its new graduates are fully prepared to be partners in safety on whatever sets they may find themselves acting."
While stage combat and weapons training is a core component of Theatre of Arts' accredited two-year acting degree program, it must be conducted in person, and remote learning during the COVID-19 shutdown has forced the delay of this important training for many students. The November 3rd prop gun safety special seminar is mandatory for all currently enrolled conservatory students. It will be held on the Theatre of Arts campus at 6472 Santa Monica Blvd in Hollywood at 12pm PT. Full COVID-19 safety protocols are also in effect. All attendees must wear masks and provide proof of vaccination.
Established in 1927, Theatre of Arts is a fully accredited conservatory, offering a two-year Associates Degree acting program on its Hollywood campus. TOA prepares students for successful careers in theatre, film, television and media, and has produced such legendary alumni as Clint Eastwood, Marilyn Monroe, and James Dean. Learn more today at TOA.edu.
CONTACT:
David Law, Director of Education
Theatre of Arts
www.toa.edu | e: davidlaw@toa.edu| p: 626-365-1934