The Encyclopedia of Interactive Performance

 » Willow in the wind

A player stands in the center of a circle of six to eight players. The center player crosses arms over the chest and closes eyes. The circle players put their palms up a few inches away from the center player. Keeping the body straight as a board, the center player falls in any direction. Circle players catch the center player, then gently pass the player back and forth around the circle. As trust grows, the circle players move farther away, allowing more room for the center player to fall. The process finishes with all circle players putting their hands on the center player who is set upright in the middle. Repeat for each player in the circle.

Variations

Metronome – Working in groups of three, one player stands in the middle, with one catcher in front and the other catcher behind. The center player falls forward and backward, being caught by the respective catcher, who sets the player back to center.

Notes

  • The exercise is played silently.
  • The center player keeps feet planted in one position at all times.
  • The center player shouldn’t bend at the waist. It’s harder to support the weight.
  • Circle players keep their hands up and ready at all times, keeping one foot back to support the center player’s weight.
  • Circle players should be ready to adjust where they are standing in order to catch the center player.
  • Circle players don’t push or shove the center player. Be careful that the momentum doesn’t get too fast.
  • It usually takes at least two people to catch the center player.

Updated: July 23, 2024

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Encyclopedia of Interactive Performance