The Ely Players (nonfiction)
The Ely Players - a drama club
Charter
Our Purpose
We are a welcoming community of volunteers who share a love for drama, theater, storytelling, and performance.
Our goal is to create, rehearse, and present plays and theatrical experiences that entertain, inspire, and strengthen our small town.
Our Spirit
We are co-equals: every member’s voice, ideas, and contributions matter.
Participation is voluntary and driven by passion, not obligation.
There are no dues, fees, or formal treasury
We support one another with encouragement, creativity, and respect.
Fun, learning, and community connection come first.
Who Can Join
Anyone in our community who wants to participate is welcome. No experience is required, only enthusiasm and a cooperative spirit.
How We Operate
We make decisions together in a friendly, consensus-based way. Our focus stays on producing good theater and enjoying the process
Our Commitment
We strive to create an inclusive, positive environment where people of all ages and backgrounds can explore their creativity, build friendships, and bring joy to our town through the magic of live performance.
Exercises
1. Icebreakers & Name Games (Great for the first few sessions)
Moving Name / Name and Gesture: Everyone stands in a circle. One person says their name with a movement or gesture (e.g., wave hands while saying “Alex!”). The group repeats the name and gesture. Go around the circle, then speed it up or add previous names for memory. Builds name recall and confidence.
Bippity Bippity Bop (or Zip Zap Zop): In a circle, point to someone and say “Bippity Bippity Bop” (they must respond instantly with a new one). Variations: Zip (point left), Zap (point right), Boing (bounce back). Quick thinking and energy.
2. Physical Warm-Ups & Energy Builders
Look Up, Look Down: In a circle, on “Look up!” everyone looks at someone else. On “Look down!” look at the floor. If two people make eye contact on “Look up,” they’re out (or shout/sit). Raises energy and focus.
Splat!: One person in the middle points at someone and says “Splat!” That person ducks; the two on either side “shoot” each other (point and make a sound). Last one standing is out. Fun concentration game.
Shake Out / The Shakes: Everyone stands and vigorously shakes one body part at a time (right arm for 8 counts, left arm, etc., down to the whole body). Releases tension and gets everyone loose.
3. Voice & Enunciation
Tongue Twisters: Go around the circle repeating classics like “Red leather, yellow leather,” “Unique New York,” or “Peter Piper.” Start slow, then faster. Great for articulation and projection.
British Are Coming (or similar call-and-response): One person calls a line with a character voice/accent; the group echoes it back with the same energy. Builds vocal variety and listening.
4. Trust & Ensemble Building
Count to 20 (or One, Two, Three): Group stands in a circle (eyes closed or looking down). Someone says “one,” another “two,” etc. If two people speak at once, start over. Excellent for focus and group awareness.
Stop / Go! or Ha!: Walk around the space. On a signal (or silently), the whole group must freeze/stop or strike a pose and shout “Ha!” simultaneously. Builds group timing and awareness.
Mirroring (in pairs): One leads slow movements; the other mirrors exactly. Switch leaders. Develops observation and connection. Can progress to group mirroring.
5. Basic Improvisation Exercises
One-Word Story: In a circle or line, build a story one word at a time. Encourage listening and building on what came before. Great for collaboration.
What Are You Doing?: Pairs face off. One mimes an action (e.g., brushing teeth). The other asks “What are you doing?” and the first must name a different action (e.g., “Flying a kite!”). The asker then mimes that new action. Fast, silly, and beginner-friendly.
Yes, Let’s!: Someone suggests an activity (“Let’s go fishing!”). The group enthusiastically replies “Yes, let’s!” and starts miming it together until the next suggestion. Builds acceptance and group play.
Tips for Running Sessions
Start with 5–10 minutes of physical warm-ups, then names/icebreakers, then 1–2 focused games.
Keep instructions short and demonstrate everything.
Emphasize fun and “yes, and” (accepting ideas) over perfection — especially important for beginners. Debrief briefly: “What felt good? What was challenging?”
Adapt for group size and space. Many work seated if needed.
These exercises are drawn from common drama teaching resources and scale well for amateurs. As the group gains confidence, you can layer in short scripted scenes or character work. Have fun — the bonding from these games is half the magic of a drama club!
