A Game to Learn Names

I actually don’t know the name of this game. It’s a common thread with improv — people being trained to invent their surroundings often invent new names for the silly games they play.

Goal

• Get a group to learn each other's names and have fun doing it

What

1. The group stands in a wide circle. Everyone takes a turn saying their name.

2. One person begins by pointing to someone across the circle and saying their name. E.g. Player A points to and says ‘Player B’

3. Player B says ‘Yes’

   1. Once the ‘Yes’ is said, Player A immediately begins walking towards Player B to take their spot in the circle.

4. Player B may not leave their spot in the circle until they have said ‘Player C’ AND Player C has said ‘Yes’

The goal is for each player to say a name and walk quickly to avoid overlapping in the same space.

This game requires extreme communication and attention. It is encouraged to ask someone their name while in the circle. If you forgot, someone else probably forgot too.

Play this game every morning and you’ll be amazed at how quickly people learn names.

BONUS: Make it competitive.

After folks understand the rules, you can play with ELIMINATION. If someone is too slow to leave their spot in the circle, they are out.