Playing the "Action Syllables" Improv Icebreaker

Video Transcript

"Hello. Today, we will learn how to do some improvised icebreakers. The next icebreaker, that we are going to show you how to do, is called "Action Syllables". To begin play in Action Syllables, you will have your entire group of new improvisers stand in a gigantic circle. Then, you are going to pass the focus around and introduce one another. Start by introducing yourself and performing an action, at the same time. Now, if you have been following our series, you'll find that this is similar to the "Alliteration" introduction. However, this game has a fun physical twist to it that I think you will enjoy. Once you have all of your improvisers standing in a circle, have everyone choose a specific action to go along with their name. In my case, I am going to do the action of someone getting off of a ski lift. As you do the action, you'll say your name at the same time. Once your have done your action, then you pass the focus on to someone else by doing your action first and the name plus the action of someone else. Now, once someone has said your name, you then repeat your name plus action. In addition, you must say their name plus action before you pass it on. So you'll always do yours first and then someone else's. My action, again, is getting off of a ski lift. I ask my assistant here, ?Daniel, what's yours going to be?". He then simulates the action of striking a chord on an electric guitar and states his name. Now, watch as Daniel and I play a quick game; note how we pass it back and forth. First, I perform my action and state my name. Also, I?ll perform Daniel's action and state his name, before I pass it on. Daniel does exactly the same thing. We?ll repeat this a couple more times. So obviously there are only two of us, so we're only going back and forth. However, the larger the group, the more fun it is to try to remember whose name and what action is associated with it. That's how you play Action Syllables."