Contact Exercise
Exercise
Intermediate
30 min
2–10
Description
This exercise explores the importance of physical contact in dialogue. Two players agree on the who, what, and where of their scene.
As each new thought or phrase is introduced by the actor originating the dialogue, they must make a different physical contact. If contact cannot be made, no dialogue is permitted. When the teacher-director calls 'Contact!', it indicates that dialogue has occurred without physical touch.
Setup Requirements
Space to move freely.
Point of Concentration
Make new direct physical contact with each new thought or phrase.
Side Coaching
- Use your full stage!
- Move around and vary your contacts!
- If you can’t find a contact, be quiet—there's no need to talk.
- Stay focused on your point of concentration!
Points of Observation
- Contact should relate to character relationships and feel natural.
- Avoid scenes where characters are huddled together.
- Encourage varied contact methods, like bumping or jostling.
- Students should not plan contacts in advance.
- Support students resisting contact by discussing their fears.
Evaluation
- Did you consistently ask, 'How can I make contact'?
- Was contact justified and connected to the dialogue?
- Was each new contact fresh and engaging?
- Did physical contact enhance player involvement?
Examples
- "Hello, Jim." (contact by shaking hands)
- "Come in and sit down." (contact by putting an arm around the friend)
- "Nice shirt you’re wearing." (contact by touching shoulder)