THEATER GAMES
Fast Food
Age: 7 and up
Group Size: 12 or more
Space: Wide open space safe for running
Supplies: List of items (optional but very helpful)
Directions
Divide the group into 3 or 4 teams, standing along a single-file line, so that there are 3 or 4 columns of people facing the leader. The first person from each line comes up to the leader and receives a word, connected to a certain, announced topic. For example, if the topic is “Fast Food” the person may receive “French fries” or “pizza” as their word. The person must then run back to their line and pantomime their word. As soon as someone in their team correctly guesses the word, the actor moves to the end of their line and the person at the front runs back to get a new word. This game is basically a pantomime relay race. The game continues until all the teams have rotated through completely. Suggestions of topics: Thing found in the kitchen, things at school, jobs/occupations, movies, etc.
Machines
Age: 10 and up
Group Size: 10 or more
Space: Open area where the whole group can sit, preferably with places where small groups can briefly meet
Supplies: Prepared things that the group will make, written on slips of paper (see below)
Special Notes: With younger groups or large groups it is helpful to have someone facilitate each group’s machine-making process
Directions
Divide the large group into smaller groups. Give each group the name of an object or thing written on a slip of paper. Each group must then, within a set time limit (usually 7-10 minutes is a good length of time, it depends on the group), must make a machine, out of their bodies, that makes their object or thing. Make sure to make it clear that the group is to become the machine that makes the object, not just to become the object itself. People may make sounds but may not talk in words. Bring the groups back together and have them present their machine. Once they are finished the other groups may guess what their machine was making. Suggestions for things to make: rainbows, dreams, community, friends, monsters, solar system, a school, etc. Choose things that are appropriate for your group.
