- Select 1-3 performers to improvise a scene in the prescribed performance area.
- Give them a location and a cause of death.
- Time the scene so that the actors cause one or all of the characters to die dramatically at the one minute mark. The leader can give time updates at 30 seconds, 15 seconds and 5 seconds.
TIP: This scene has the potential for great comedy as the obvious cause of death must be stalled for one full minute. When it eventually happens, the anticipation is rewarded. Actors can tease the audience with near-death events up to the final climax.
VARIATIONS: The one minute time limit encourages the actors to get to the point and advance the scene quickly, but if you want more time for character development, try a two or three minute version. For more experienced participants, try giving a location only. The actors invent the cause of death. This can be hilariously understated. For example, while working in a chainsaw factory, three workers are killed by outdated yogurt.
