The Encyclopedia of Interactive Performance

 » Speed bump

Speed bump

a brief discomfort or resistance that is quickly resolved


Stories are full of challenges. The smallest type of challenge is a speed bump—a momentary, mild resistance that is easily overcome.

Jamal approaches the front desk at Sunnyvale Nursing Home. “I’m here to see Mrs. Hill.” The desk nurse looks up, clearly annoyed. “Who are you?” “I’m her son.” The nurse brightens up. “Oh, you must be Jamal. She’s out on the patio. She’ll be glad to see you.”

Speed bumps create brief discomfort that is overcome with minimal effort on the spect’s part. They give texture to scenes without impeding their progress. These little blips of resistance are especially useful at the beginning of stories when spects are building up their confidence. It helps them get used to facing conflict without shutting them down.

Match the intensity of a speed bump with the confidence of the spect. A strong spect can take a charged level of opposition. A less assured spect calls for a more mild resistance. In either case, resolve the issue quickly.

When you want to create texture without making a major obstacle, introduce a speed bump.

Updated: August 22, 2024

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