Game of the Week

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Game of the Week

There are several variations of this game. A ball is thrown across the circle from one person to the next. Once the action is going smoothly, a second ball is introduced, perhaps of a different size or colour. This one could be bounced or thrown across the circle. You can continue adding as many balls as the group can manage.

It is important to maintain focus and to stop and start again if the game gets out of control. As ever, communication is essential – just as it is between actors on stage. Make sure you have eye contact before you throw. Group members should aim to take responsibility for each another.

In one variation a single ball is thrown so that everyone catches it once. Then the group tries to repeat exactly the same pattern – but faster and faster – without making a mistake. Add in more balls one by one, to be thrown in the same order.
Try also having one person stand in the middle of the circle. The job of the people around the circle is to throw the ball to that person, who must then throw it to somebody else. No-one should ever throw the ball until they know the person in the middle is ready. Again, more balls can be introduced.
For adults – if somebody drops the ball, they say “Oh, balls”. The game starts again when everybody is focussed. This takes the edge off making a mistake.
An amusing twist on the game is to use all sorts of objects instead of, or as well as balls – rubber chickens, cuddly toys and beanie babies.

Game of the Week is taken from 101 Drama Games and Activities.

Come back for a new Game next week!

101 Drama Games and Activities

"One of the handiest things to have around" - Teaching Drama magazine

101 Drama Games and Activities by David Farmer is a collection of highly effective games and exercises suitable for children, young people and adults. The pages are packed with tried and tested ideas for a whole range of activities useful for drama lessons, workshops or rehearsals.

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