This exercise involves players delivering a speech while dealing with a physical irritation they cannot address openly. The aim is to express discomfort without interrupting their speech.
Players must choose an irritation, such as a tight collar or an itch, and subtly incorporate it into their performance.
Setup Requirements
A public speaker's platform or a clear space for speaking.
Point of Concentration
Masking discomfort while continuing to speak.
Side Coaching
Encourage subtlety in addressing the irritation.
Remind players to keep their focus on the speech.
Highlight the importance of character development through this exercise.
Points of Observation
Watch for how players incorporate their irritation into their speech.
Notice if they isolate the irritation or blend it with their performance.
Look for the different character traits that emerge through this exercise.
Evaluation
Did players integrate their irritation into their performance effectively?
How subtle were the attempts to address the irritation?
What new character qualities were revealed?
Examples
A speaker struggles with a piece of corn caught in their teeth while trying to deliver a lecture.
Another player quietly adjusts a snapped garter while making their speech.
A student addresses an itch from sunburn while maintaining composure on stage.