Synonyms
Mr. Know It All.
Introduction
Several performers on stage combined into an expert.
Description
Word At A Time is both an exercise, a handle and a structure that can be added to another structure. Here we discuss the performance version of this structure.
Each performer contributes one word at a time to create a sentence. For example, the first player may say “Once.” The next player in the circle could say “upon.” This process continues until a complete sentence is created. “Once upon a red mat.”
The performers then string these sentences together to answer a question. The audience will expect a decent sentences from the expert. The key to making this handle work is commitment to the next word and not trying to be funny. Let the comedy happen by accident. To get the best results with this add on is to keep in the tone first person singular using I and Me and not We or Us.
In Word At A Time expert the host becomes the interviewer and grills the expert on questions based on the area of expertise chosen by the audience offer. Often the host will turn to the audience to ask further questions.
For detailed rehearsal notes on this handle see the exercise Word At A Time.
Gimmicks
- None
Variations
- Competitive – Performers can be replaced in the expert if they slip up or pause or insert some filthy word.
- Audience Participation – This handle can support one or two audience members as long as they are supported by the other performers and made to look good on stage.
Credits
None