Human Machines
The group builds a "machine" with their bodies. One person starts a repetitive motion and sound, then others join one at a time, each adding a connected part.
How to Play
One person goes to the center and starts a simple, repetitive motion with a sound (e.g., pumping arm and saying "chug-chug").
A second person joins in, physically connecting to the first person and adding their own motion and sound.
One by one, each person joins the machine, connecting to someone already in it.
Each new part should complement the existing machine with a different motion/sound.
Once everyone is part of the machine, the facilitator can speed it up or slow it down.
End by having the machine "break down" (everyone gradually stops, one by one).
Facilitator Tips
Volunteer to be the first "part" if the group is hesitant.
Suggest a theme for the machine (e.g., "breakfast machine," "homework machine").
Encourage big, exaggerated movements and sounds.
Variations & Twists
Themed Machines: The facilitator names a specific machine (pizza-making machine, car wash).
Emotion Machines: Build a machine that represents an emotion (happiness, excitement, calm).
Speed Challenge: Start slow and see how fast the machine can go before "breaking."
More Improv & Acting Games
Telephone Charades
A combination of Telephone and Charades. One person acts out a scene, the next person watches and re-performs it for the next, and so on. Hilarious how it changes!
Space Leap
An improv game where scenes stack on top of each other. When someone yells "Space Leap!", the current scene freezes and a new one starts. Eventually scenes unwind in reverse.
Paper Bag Skits
Teams receive a bag of random props and must create a short skit using all the items within a time limit.