stage combat 

Theatrical choreography or improvisation that creates the illusion of physical combat without hurting the actors. Sometimes actors make no real physical contact when engaging in stage combat. When actual contact is made, care is taken to ensure punches and kicks land on sturdy muscle groups, while appearing to cause pain. One of the most dangerous contact moves is the face slap, which puts the ears, eyes, nose, and jaw at very high risk.

"The actors had a 7:00 fight call to practice their stage combat before the show."

"That stage combat was horrible. It was so unrealistic."

stage combat by Robin February 25, 2005

stage combat 

Hitting someone without actually hitting someone. Get it?

That was some nasty stage combat there!

stage combat by Zach G. October 30, 2003