Ensemble Counting
A Diction Warmup
When to use this warmup
"What a to do" is a lively diction warmup game designed to enhance participants' articulation, vocal clarity, and enunciation. It involves repeating a fun tongue-twister phrase with increasing speed and accuracy, helping actors to warm up their vocal apparatus and improve their diction.
Here’s how to play:
Objective
Participants practice and improve their articulation and vocal clarity by repeating a challenging tongue-twister phrase.
What a to-do to die today, at a minute or two to two;
a thing distinctly hard to say, but harder still to do.
We'll beat a tattoo, at twenty to two
a rat-tat-tat- tat-tat-tat- tat-tat-tattoo
and the dragon will come when he hears the drum
at a minute or two to two today, at a minute or two to two.
Instructions
Gather Participants: Have the group stand in a circle or in a comfortable formation where everyone can hear and see the facilitator.
Explain the Game:
The warmup involves repeating the phrase "What a to do to die today, at a minute or two to two; a thing distinctly hard to say, but a harder thing to do."
The goal is to say the phrase clearly and accurately, increasing speed over time.
Introduce the Phrase:
Slowly recite the phrase for the participants: "What a to do to die today, at a minute or two to two; a thing distinctly hard to say, but a harder thing to do."
Break the phrase down into smaller sections if necessary, ensuring everyone understands and can pronounce each part.
Group Repetition:
Have the entire group repeat the phrase together at a slow, deliberate pace.
Focus on clear enunciation and articulation, emphasizing each syllable.
Individual Repetition:
Ask each participant to say the phrase individually, maintaining clarity and accuracy.
Provide feedback and encouragement to help them improve their articulation.
Increasing Speed:
Gradually increase the speed at which the group repeats the phrase.
Start at a moderate pace and progressively get faster, challenging participants to maintain clarity as the speed increases.
Variation in Volume and Pitch (Optional):
Introduce variations in volume (e.g., whispering, speaking loudly) and pitch (e.g., high pitch, low pitch) to add an extra layer of challenge.
Encourage participants to explore different vocal dynamics while maintaining clear diction.
Group Dynamics:
Have participants turn to a partner and say the phrase back and forth, maintaining eye contact and clear articulation.
Rotate partners to keep the energy up and ensure everyone gets ample practice.
End the Game:
Conclude with a final round where the group says the phrase together at a moderate pace, focusing on precision and clarity.
Gather the group for a brief reflection on their progress and any improvements in their diction.
Tips for Success
Encourage Full Participation: Make sure everyone is actively involved and practicing the phrase.
Promote Clear Articulation: Remind participants to focus on enunciating each syllable clearly, even as the speed increases.
Foster a Fun Atmosphere: Keep the energy positive and supportive, encouraging participants to enjoy the challenge.
Be Patient: Allow participants time to get comfortable with the phrase before increasing the speed.
Variations
Alternate Tongue Twisters: Introduce other tongue-twisters for variety and to target different sounds (e.g., "She sells sea shells by the sea shore").
Mirror Exercise: Have participants stand in pairs and mirror each other’s facial movements while saying the phrase to enhance focus and coordination.
Rhythmic Recitation: Add a rhythmic element by having participants clap or tap their feet in time with the phrase, reinforcing the rhythm of the words.
"What a to do" is an effective diction warmup that helps actors enhance their articulation and vocal clarity, making it an excellent addition to any rehearsal or acting class.