Screamers
Screamers is a circle exercise in which players look down, then on a count look up and make eye contact with someone. If two players lock eyes, they both scream and are eliminated. The game builds tension through anticipation and rewards sharp observational reflexes. It is a reliable energizer for large groups.
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Related Exercises
The Scream
The Scream is a warm-up exercise in which players build vocal energy through a collective scream that starts quietly and grows to full volume, or erupts suddenly from silence. The exercise releases vocal tension, grants permission for uninhibited sound-making, and prepares performers for bold vocal choices in performance.
Killer Bunny
Killer Bunny is a physical attention and tag exercise in which one or more participants secretly designated as the killer bunny attempt to eliminate other players through a covert signal -- typically a wink, a pointed finger, or a specific gesture -- while the group moves through the space and attempts to identify and call out the killer before being eliminated themselves. The exercise trains sustained peripheral awareness, active observation, and the management of divided attention.
Bing, Bang, Bong
Bing, Bang, Bong is a rhythm and focus exercise in which players stand in a circle and pass energy by pointing and saying the words in strict sequence. A player who hesitates, speaks out of order, or breaks rhythm is eliminated or restarted. The exercise trains group attention and reflexes.
Arm Zapper
Arm Zapper is a physical energiser in which players generate and rapidly release tension through sharp arm movements. The exercise wakes up the body, raises group energy, and serves as a quick reset between more intensive activities.
Clap Out
Clap Out is an elimination exercise in which the group attempts to clap in unison on an unspoken cue. When two or more players clap at the same moment, they are safe; anyone who claps alone is out. The exercise develops sensitivity to group rhythm and the ability to read collective impulse without verbal coordination.
Ball Toss
Ball Toss is a circle exercise in which players throw a ball to one another while maintaining eye contact and calling the recipient's name. As the pace increases or multiple balls enter play, the exercise tests group focus and communication under mounting complexity. It is one of the most widely used workshop warm-ups.
How to Reference This Page
The Improv Archive. (2026). Screamers. Retrieved September 28, 2026, from https://improvarchive.org/exercises/screamers
The Improv Archive. "Screamers." The Improv Archive, 2026. https://improvarchive.org/exercises/screamers.
The Improv Archive. "Screamers." The Improv Archive, 2026, https://improvarchive.org/exercises/screamers. Accessed September 28, 2026.
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