Inside Outside
An Energy Warmup
When do you want to use this warmup?
"Inside Outside" is a versatile acting warmup game that enhances participants’ ability to switch between different physical and emotional states, and to use their bodies expressively. It’s also great for warming up and improving focus.
Here’s how to play:
Objective
Participants switch between different physical and emotional states, exploring the contrasts between “inside” (internal focus) and “outside” (external focus) actions.
Instructions
Gather Participants: Have the group stand in a large, open space where everyone can move freely.
Explain the Game:
Participants will explore and switch between two modes: "Inside" and "Outside."
“Inside” represents internal focus, while “Outside” represents external actions and interactions.
Define "Inside" and "Outside":
Inside: When in “Inside” mode, participants focus on internal feelings, thoughts, or emotions. They might move more slowly and deliberately, reflecting their inner state.
Outside: When in “Outside” mode, participants focus on external actions and interactions. They move energetically and engage with the space around them, using more exaggerated movements.
Start with a Warm-Up:
Begin with a gentle warm-up to get participants physically ready. Have them stretch, loosen up, and get comfortable in the space.
Introduce the Modes:
Inside Mode: Instruct participants to close their eyes, take a deep breath, and shift their focus inward. They should move slowly and with intention, paying attention to their own feelings and sensations.
Outside Mode: After a few moments, instruct participants to open their eyes and switch to “Outside” mode. They should start moving more energetically, interacting with the space around them and exaggerating their movements.
Switching Between Modes:
Call out "Inside" and "Outside" at intervals, guiding participants to switch between the two modes.
Encourage participants to explore different emotions and actions in each mode, such as feeling sad or joyful in “Inside” mode, and acting out various scenarios or interactions in “Outside” mode.
Focus on Transitions:
Pay attention to how participants transition between the two modes. Encourage smooth and thoughtful changes to help them become more aware of their physical and emotional shifts.
Extend the Exercise (Optional):
Themed Inside/Outside: Introduce specific themes or scenarios for each mode, such as pretending to be in a particular environment or situation.
Group Interaction: In “Outside” mode, have participants interact with each other in various ways (e.g., greet each other, form groups, act out brief scenes).
Ending the Game:
Conclude with a few moments in “Inside” mode to bring participants back to a calm and centered state.
Have everyone gather in a circle, take a few deep breaths, and reflect briefly on their experience.
Tips for Success
Encourage Full Engagement: Prompt participants to fully embrace each mode and explore their physical and emotional range.
Promote Awareness: Remind participants to be mindful of their transitions and how their bodies and minds shift between “Inside” and “Outside” modes.
Foster a Positive Environment: Create a supportive atmosphere where participants feel comfortable expressing themselves and experimenting with different states.
Variations
Emotional Exploration: Focus on different emotions in “Inside” mode (e.g., joy, sadness, fear) and explore corresponding physical expressions in “Outside” mode.
Physical Challenges: Introduce specific physical tasks or movements to perform in each mode (e.g., walking in different ways, performing specific actions).
Partner Work: Pair up participants and have them switch between modes while interacting with their partner, adding an element of collaboration.
"Inside Outside" is a valuable warmup that helps actors become more aware of their internal and external states, enhancing their ability to switch between different modes and engage fully in their performances.