The Encyclopedia of Interactive Performance

Players stand in a circle. Player A points to Player B and asks, “Yes?” Player B gives permission by saying, “Yes,” then Player A moves to Player B’s spot. Player B points to someone else and asks, “Yes?” When a “Yes” is received, Player B moves to that spot. This pattern continues.

Here’s how to level up this exercise:

1. Ask “Yes?” without pointing.
2. Replace the word “yes” with nodding.
3. Replace nodding with eye contact.

Variations

Scattershot – Players stand scattered randomly around the room instead of in a circle.

Multi-player – Two (or more) players begin by asking, “Yes?”

Soft focus – Players can only ask permission from others who are not looking at them.

Notes

• Don’t start moving before you have gotten permission.
• Try to vacate your spot before the person coming arrives.
• Work quickly. Ride the momentum.
• Know where the focus is, even as you cross the circle.
• If two players respond with a “Yes,” the focus splits in two. Each one needs to get permission to move to a new place in the circle.