Craig Coussins

Started martial arts age 7 with Jujitsu, Judo, Kung-fu and finally for over 10 years, Tae Kwondo-both ITF and then WTF. Became interested in fencing in 1972 and continued Marttial Arts and teaching fencing until 1990. Was a National Coach before retirng from teaching. Worked for BBC and other television companies as a fight director working on over 40 productions as FD or actor. Actng includes parts in Badger by Owlight, comedy series and a number of Dramas. However his fight work has been mainly in Opera and Ballet. Worked for many years for Scpttish Opera. Opera North and English National Opera directing fights in a number of versions of Carmen, Billy Bud, Don Giovanni and Verdis, Otello and Macbeth. He has also been involved in over 22 pantos. Although a specialist in many fighting forms, also being a musician has been 'instrumental' in developing fights for Opera. Craig plays Clarinet, Native American Flute and singing bowls-both Tibetan and Japanese. Student of Japanese and Chinese arts for nearly 45 years Craig has also written five books on Bonsai culture. Hobbies include extreme sports, Bonsai and Photography.