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Prompter

A dialogue scene where each performer is helped by an audience member: on the performer's signal the audience member tosses one word, and the performer immediately incorporates it into their line. Useful for training acceptance, active listening and mental flexibility at beginner level and in dialogue-work blocks.

Players

2–8

Difficulty

Beginner

Audience on stage

Yes

Full description

Setup and Launch

Bring 2–4 performers on stage and ask the same number of volunteer "prompters" from the audience. Seat the helpers facing "their" performers (front row or edge of stage) and explain the rules: speak clearly, one word, no insults or personal information — the goal is a timely prompt, not cleverness.

Give the performers the direction to play a regular scene focused on relationships and meaning, and to request a word from their helper when needed, then keep moving without getting stuck on the suggestion. Set a starting premise (location, relationship, object) and indicate a time reference for the scene (2–4 minutes).

How It Goes

1) Scene sketch

Performers begin a natural dialogue, building circumstances and relationships without rushing; helpers listen attentively so their word arrives on time and on topic.

2) Requesting help

When a performer needs an impulse, they give the agreed gesture. The coach watches that the audience member responds quickly and clearly; if there's a delay, gently reminds them of the "one word" rule and encourages bold but safe choices.

3) Acceptance and development

The performer instantly weaves the received word into their speech or action, justifies it, and continues building the scene. Partners support ("yes-and...") and help translate the suggestion into joint action so the scene doesn't become a string of unconnected jokes.

4) Balance and conclusion

The coach monitors equal involvement of all performer-prompter pairs and ensures that requests don't replace the scene itself. End the scene at the peak of meaning, then change the lineup or rotate helpers from the audience.

Key rules

  • Agree with the audience: the suggestion is one clearly spoken word, no profanity or personal information; the coach has the right to reject unsafe suggestions.

  • Warn performers not to abuse the request: the goal is to support the flow and the relationship, not a conveyor belt of verbal gags.

  • If the word came out quietly or not immediately — ask once quickly; then move on without hanging around or fishing for "a different word".

  • Scene partners must support the acceptance: pick up the meaning of the suggestion with action or a clarifying "yes-and...", not with argument.

  • Seat the prompters close to their performers and remind them to speak toward the stage — this reduces delays and mishearing.

Context

🧺 Cart