Tag Out
Definition
An editing technique in long-form improvisation in which a performer enters a scene and physically taps another player on the shoulder, removing that player from the scene and taking their place with a new character. The player who is not tagged out typically maintains their character from the previous scene, allowing the new pairing to explore a different facet of the scene's game or theme. Popularized by groups such as The Family at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre, the technique became a key alternative to the traditional three-beat structure.
Example
If the first scene involved an abusive dad and his son, the next actor coming in might tag out the son and start the next scene as a long-ago scene involving the abusive dad as a child, dealing with a school bully.
How to Reference This Page
The Improv Archive. (2026). Tag Out. Retrieved September 29, 2026, from https://improvarchive.org/learn-improv/glossary/tag-out
The Improv Archive. "Tag Out." The Improv Archive, 2026. https://improvarchive.org/learn-improv/glossary/tag-out.
The Improv Archive. "Tag Out." The Improv Archive, 2026, https://improvarchive.org/learn-improv/glossary/tag-out. Accessed September 29, 2026.
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