The Encyclopedia of Interactive Performance

The attack series is five different “attacks” that help players develop commitment and move outside of their comfort zones. The exercise only lasts five minutes, but requires full mental and physical commitment.

Laugh attack – Laugh uncontrollably for one minute. Nothing needs to be funny. Remain fully committed to the laughter.

Tantrum attack – Throw a huge temper tantrum for one minute. Don’t run around the room or engage with objects, clothing, or other people. Stay physically safe.

Curse attack – Direct a stream of verbal vitriol at an adorable stuffed animal for one minute. Mock, belittle, be cruel and verbally abusive without making physical contact. Use the most offensive profanity, insults, and slurs possible.

Pillow attack – Aggressively beat up a pillow for one minute. Don’t throw the pillow around the room. Pound on it as hard as you can, without harming yourself physically.

Silly attack – Be as silly as possible for one minute.

Notes

• Priority 1: Keep your voice, your body, and the environment safe.
• Priority 2: Release control over what you say and do, while still heeding priority 1.
• Let the physical energy move your body outward, not inward. Inward energy makes you tight, and tightness gets you hurt.
• Keep your throat open and relaxed at all times. If your vocal cords are tense, you can damage them.
• Start strong with each attack. Progressively get even stronger. Don’t take breathers or let the energy dip.
• When you feel like you’re tapped out—dig deeper. You have more capacity than you think.
• The attack series is highly demanding. Start by doing one at a time. As your capacity grows, move from one attack to the next without a break.