While the term theatre or “improv” games may send most kids’ nerves (and adults too) reeling, they needn’t be dreaded. There are many simple, fun games that can be taught to help children express themselves, and possibly nurture a future artist. Theatre games are an inexpensive method of exposing a small part of the dramatic arts to school-aged children. It’s a great way to spark creativity in either the classroom or at home.
Whether you’re looking to incorporate more artistic activities into your classroom or summer camp, try out these games that are fun for student and teacher alike. These games all need a minimum of two players.
Beginner Theatre Games
A great theatre game to have as an "ice breaker" is "What are you doing?" Stand players in a circle (or any cohesive shape that works). The first player begins by acting out a physical activity (i.e. swimming). The second player asks, “what are you doing?”
The active player must then come up with an action that is not what they are doing (response – reading a book). The second player then begins acting out that response. The third player asks, “what are you doing?” The second player then provides a response that is not what they are acting out and so on.
Once everyone has become accustomed to the game, pick up the pace. The goal is not to trick your fellow players, but to think spontaneously and be willing to act quickly. The more rounds you play, the quicker and more creative the players should be able to respond.
If you are looking for a game to help build teamwork as well as fostering creativity, try "One word story." This one is fairly simple. Stand or sit the players in a circle and open the story with, “Once upon a time…” Allow the players to tell the story one word at a time. The only rules are that the word must make sense in the sentence and only one word at a time. If you want, you may provide a time limit for the story so that the players must concentrate on working together to form a beginning, middle, and end to their story.
Advanced Storytelling Games
A great activity for group work, personal expression, and establishing the fundamentals for storytelling is "Fairytale reversal." This one is for older children. Break into groups of four to six if the class is large.
Give the players a well-known fairytale or story and allow them to rework the scenario. Either the characters become reversed, (such as the big bad wolf becomes the small sweet wolf; while little red becomes the villain) or pick up the story where the original has ended (what happened to the three little pigs after the wolf was thwarted by the brick house?). Give the group(s) ample time to come up with their story and allow them to act out their scenarios.
There are many more great theatre games for children of all ages to enjoy. They are often inexpensive, as there are no supplies needed other than an active imagination, and fun for the whole group. If you aren’t so sure about teaching the games yourself, reach out to your local college or community theatre for volunteers. Theatre students are often more than willing to share their love for drama by helping teach games and skits. Remember, it’s always about sharing the love for the arts, creativity, and having fun.
