Drama Games and Improvs

Justine Jones and Mary Ann Kelley's Drama Games and Improvs is a comprehensive and highly practical resource designed for teachers, camp counselors, and youth theater directors. Published in 2007 (with several updated editions), the book serves as a 'go-to' library of over 200 exercises that cover every aspect of dramatic training: from ice-breakers and vocal warm-ups to complex character-building and storytelling games.

The work is organized for maximum utility, with exercises categorized by their technical objective and the 'age-appropriateness' of the challenge. Jones and Kelley move beyond the simple 'how' of each game, providing clear instructions on 'Lead-in' questions and 'Debriefing' strategies that help the facilitator connect the game's fun to more serious theatrical and social goals. The book emphasizes the 'universal' nature of drama games as tools for building empathy, self-confidence, and teamwork. It provides a detailed guide on how to manage a classroom of diverse personalities and how to foster a safe, non-judgmental environment where 'there are no mistakes, only discoveries.'

The text is written in a warm, encouraging voice, filled with tips on how to adapt exercises for different group sizes and spatial constraints. Drama Games and Improvs is a foundational tool for anyone looking to bring the spirit of play into the classroom and to use the tools of theater to empower and inspire the next generation of performers and creative thinkers.

Drama Games and Improvs has become a staple in many educational and community theater programs. Reviewers often praise Jones and Kelley for their clear instructions and for the volume and variety of the exercises provided. The book's practicality and its 'facilitator-friendly' format are frequently cited as its greatest strengths. It is regarded as a solid and dependable resource for anyone committed to the power of the drama game as a tool for growth and connection.