Improvisational Exercise - Waiting with Purpose

Perhaps one of the most important lessons any actor can learn is being able to put purpose behind every action. While this is the most important, it is also one of the most elusive. I have personally witnessed far too many actors who can deliver lines in a believable and vivid manner; however, when it comes to their movements, there is something missing. The believability within a performance does not only mean being able to speak will conviction, but also move with purpose.

Within this improvisational exercise, actors are challenged to place purpose behind even the most mundane of movements, such as waiting. Sitting still and waiting can be one of the most challenging aspects for actors as there is no large movement, no dialogue, seemingly no over-the-top conflict.

Scene

When beginning this improvisational exercise, select up to five actors. Once the actors are chosen, give them a scene that involves waiting. You may use one of the following examples, or you may create your own. However, it is important that the scene doesn't involve a surrounding that requires a massive amount of pantomime.

Scene Examples:

• · Waiting for the bus
• · Riding in a train
• · Waiting in line
• · Relaxing by the beach
• · Sitting in detention
• · Waiting in the doctor's office

What to Expect

After the scene has been chosen, instruct the actors to begin. While performing the scene, the actors must first find their character. Who are they? Why are they there? What is the purpose behind their waiting? After answering these questions, the actors must engage in an interesting manner - how will they pass the time? Is there someone near them that they find attractive? Will they play a practical joke on a person? Are the upset? Angry? Annoyed?

The purpose of this exercise is to allow the actors to put a significant purpose behind their movements, even if their movements are rather static.