175 Theatre Games: Warm-Up Exercises For Actors

By: Nancy Hurley
Publisher: Meriwether Publishing
Publication Date: September 2009
ISBN: 978-1566081641
Reviewed by: Deb Fowler
Review Date: January 2010

This multifaceted book is not only an excellent resource for the budding acting student, but also is one that can be used as a fun classroom or party resource. The many games encourage and elicit a variety of skills from students including cooperation, memory, agility, teamwork, sharing, focus, cooperation, creativity, socialization and more. One of the benefits is that these activities will "involve most, if not all, of the students in a class." These activities are not complicated and can quickly be read and the directions imparted to a classroom in a few minutes. One game that caught my eye was named "Digits," a game that "cultivates "timing, perception, and sharing."

Digits

"The game can be played in a circle or with students sitting in rows of desks or chairs. It works best if everyone closes their eyes. The teacher begins the game by saying `one.' Then someone -- anyone -- says `two,' and so on. No one knows who will speak the next number. They sense when it is their turn to say a number."

"If two people speak out at the same time, the game begins again. The goal is to count to twenty; however since this is difficult, there will be great rejoicing when the group manages to count to ten!"

I really enjoyed this compilation and would highly recommend it to any teacher or person who frequently find themselves in a middle school classroom or group. These games are versatile and can be used with many different groups. I noticed games that can be used in math classes, parties and many that would be simple icebreakers, even on an adult level as they are adaptable. I found myself thoroughly enjoying the games, even if only in my imagination. Two of my favorites were the "Michelin Man," a great party game and the "Fuzzy Ducky," a game that would thrill any math teacher. This book is well worth adding to a classroom or personal shelf!

Quill Says: This multifaceted book is not only an excellent resource for the budding acting student, but also can be used in the classroom!