person’s position. The tapped player exits, and the new player
begins another scene in a new place with a new relationship
between the players. This scene continues until another player
yells, “Freeze!” and takes the scene somewhere else.
Now, to get back to the “yes” concept: What if a player begins
the scene with, “I never knew it could be this cold in Africa”
and shivers? If her partner responds, “What are you talking
about? I’m dripping with sweat!” and wipes his forehead, in
improv terms, the partner has issued a denial, and the scene
has nowhere to go.
However, if the player says “yes” with, “I did! And I brought
an extra parka for you,” then the scene can move forward,
perhaps with more unexpected findings such as a polar bear
instead of a lion.
by accepting the offers (ideas) he brings to the scene and
by keeping the scene’s focus on the relationship between
characters and not on any one character or gag.
Playing improv games with kids can be an opportunity to teach
them some life lessons. Being spontaneous and saying “yes”
to new opportunities can open doors of opportunity. Although
people must say “no” to things that are dangerous or wrong,
saying “yes” more often than “no” can allow for personal and
spiritual growth. Improv also can build self-confidence that can
translate to other areas of life – public speaking, for example.
New improvisers are often amazed at how energizing it can be
to develop characters and scenarios on the spot. In a world
that is increasingly dominated by virtual reality, Improv is a
great way to connect with each other in the real world. So why
not say yes to improv with your family?
It can be a little scary to agree with whatever a partner offers,
especially if the respondent had a different idea for the scene.
Here’s where the third and last rule of improv comes in: make
your partner look good.
For three more improv games to play with your family, see
myschoolrocks.com.
Rule No. 3: Make a Partner Look Good
This rule builds upon the first two rules. Make a partner
look good by being spontaneous. (A delayed response
leaves a scene partner hanging.) Make a partner look good
Tricia Drevets is a freelance writer, community college
instructor and mom of six who specializes in writing about
parenting, family and the arts. Tricia and her family live in
southern Oregon.
18 – My School Rocks! | December 2013