Mirror Exercise #3

Exercise Intermediate 15 min 2–2

Description

This exercise focuses on transforming facial expressions while maintaining a conversation. It is particularly useful before discussing contrapuntal arguments and character agility.
Two players sit facing each other and agree on a simple relationship, such as employer-employee or husband-wife. They choose a topic for discussion or argument. During their discussion, the director will randomly call one player’s name.
When called, the player must reshape their facial features to mimic the player opposite them, while continuing the conversation. This differs from previous mirror exercises, as they should focus solely on changing their facial structure rather than reflecting movements and expressions.

Setup Requirements

A quiet space for two players to sit facing each other.

Point of Concentration

Restructure your face to match the other player’s.

Side Coaching

  • Focus on rebuilding your nose!
  • Adjust your jawline!
  • Concentrate on the other player's facial features!
  • Keep talking while reshaping your face!

Points of Observation

  • Change the "mirror" frequently to keep players on their toes.
  • Encourage exaggeration of dissimilar facial structures.
  • Address any apprehensions about appearance and stress the importance of exaggeration.
  • Monitor players for physical changes and encourage deeper penetration of facial features.
  • Handle resistance to close eye contact and reassure them about the exercise's purpose.

Evaluation

  • What challenges did you encounter while reshaping your face?
  • How did maintaining the conversation feel while changing your expression?
  • What did you learn about observing another person's facial features?

Examples

Example scenario: A has a thin mouth, while B has full lips. When A's name is called, they should focus on restructuring their face to appear like B's.

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