Improv Games: Unleashing Creativity and Laughter

The Ultimate Theatre Improv Games

Improv games are not just fun; they are essential tools for developing creativity and teamwork. They encourage spontaneity and help participants break out of their comfort zones. Here are some of my favourite games that will get everyone laughing and thinking on their feet.

1. Yes, And… (the ultimate theatre improv game)

This one’s the holy grail of improv. You and a partner start a conversation, but here’s the catch: you have to say “Yes, and…” before you add your own idea. So if your partner says, “Let’s open a bakery that only sells purple cupcakes,” you can’t say, “That’s silly.” Nope! You say, “Yes, and we’ll decorate them with rainbow sprinkles that sparkle in the dark!”

Why do I love it? Because it teaches you to be open and supportive, and it instantly turns “no” energy into “heck yes!” energy. Plus, it’s crazy fun to see where the story goes when everyone’s playing along. This is a great one to start with as no one feels on the spot. If you are doing it in pairs, everyone is doing their own thing.

2. One-Word Story

Here’s a group game that sounds simple, but it’s actually a brain workout! Everyone takes turns saying just one word at a time to create a story together. It forces you to listen super closely and think fast. You never know when the story will take a wild turn that has everyone cracking up.

Why do I love it? Because it’s teamwork in action and it reminds us that every little piece matters—even one tiny word can change everything! If you have a younger group, you can give each performer one line to add to the story instead of just one word. It makes it a little easier on them.

I suggest putting some guidelines into the story. For example, "Our goal is to make it all the way around the circle, so do not have anyone die or the world end." Depending on your group, you may want to avoid toilet humour (because let's be honest, it always ends up there).

3. Freeze!

Two people start a scene, doing whatever comes to mind. Then, anyone watching can yell “Freeze!” and the actors stop moving mid-pose. The person who yelled “Freeze” taps one actor out, takes their exact position, and starts a brand new scene inspired by that frozen pose.

Why do I love it? It’s pure improv magic—switching gears in a snap and turning one scene into something totally new. Plus, it’s hilarious to watch the creative ideas everyone comes up with when they jump in!

If you find your group is calling "FREEZE" too quickly, you can add a minute or 30-second rule so performers at least have a chance to get their idea out there.

4. Character Switch

You and your fellow players are acting out a scene, fully in character. Then, every 30 seconds (or whenever someone says “Switch!”), you trade characters with someone else and jump right into their role.

Why do I love it? Because it’s a fantastic way to try out different characters and stretch your acting muscles. It’s also super funny to see people suddenly act like someone totally different—and sometimes totally unexpected!

It is also great for having performers watch each other really closely so when it is time to switch, they are ready to hop in.

5. What Are You Doing?

This one’s a classic! Everyone stands in a circle. One person starts miming an action, like brushing their hair. The next person asks, “What are you doing?” The first person replies with something totally different from what they’re miming, like “I’m climbing a giant beanstalk.” The next person then mimes that new action, and the game keeps going around the circle. You could also do this with two performers on stage, and they go back and forth.

Why do I love it? Because it gets you moving, thinking creatively, and usually ends up with lots of silly moments that make everyone laugh. It is a great game to reteach your brain. So many times in theatre, I play games where I say we have to reteach our brains from what we are used to.

6. Sound Ball

Imagine throwing an invisible ball to someone, but with a unique sound and movement every time. That’s Sound Ball! When you catch it, you copy the sound and movement, then throw a new one to someone else.

Why do I love it? Because it wakes up your senses, gets your energy flowing, and is just plain goofy fun. It’s also a sneaky way to practice focus and listening.

I love games that have a give and take to them as well. It starts the pattern of communication, and the fact that on stage you really need to be listening to your acting partner, not just waiting for your next line.

7. Genre Switch

Start a scene in one style—say, a romantic comedy. Then, every minute, someone shouts out a new genre like horror, western, or sci-fi. You immediately change your acting style and the story to fit the new genre.

Why do I love it? Because it keeps you on your toes and lets you explore all kinds of acting styles. Plus, the quick changes usually lead to some of the funniest moments on stage!

This game is so good for kids who want improv but do not want the stress of coming up with all of the ideas on the spot. You provide them with a simple scene, the structure of the scene, and some lines, but as the genre changes, so does the scene. Kids love this one (so do adults).

Why Improv Games Are THE BEST

Improv isn’t just about acting. It’s about trusting yourself, really listening to others, and jumping in with a big “Yes, and!” These games remind us to have fun, be bold, and work together. And honestly? There’s nothing better than hearing everyone laugh and knowing you created that moment together.

So next time you want to mix things up—whether at rehearsal, with friends, or even at family game night—try these games. You might just find your new favourite way to play and perform!

Check out a great game for kids to play all about BIG emotions here.