Matchmakers
Two audience members of opposite genders sit on chairs; actors interview them as if filling out a dating profile, then improvise a complimentary freestyle rap to 'matchmake' them.
Players
2β4
Duration
10-15 min
Difficulty
Intermediate
Full description
'Matchmakers' is an interactive format where actors become matchmakers for two strangers from the audience.
Two people of opposite genders are chosen from the audience. They sit on chairs facing each other on stage.
Actors take turns interviewing both audience members, asking questions as if for a dating profile:
- What do you do for work?
- What are your interests and hobbies?
- What does your ideal partner look like?
- What inspires you?
- What do you want from a relationship?
Actors collect many specific facts, details, and funny stories β everything that can be used to create an appealing image.
Then the main part begins: actors take turns delivering a complimentary freestyle rap (or simply rhythmic speech), using the collected information. The goal is to present each audience member in the best possible light, find unexpected strengths, and create a romantic atmosphere so the two 'hit it off'.
The format requires interviewing skills, the ability to work with real people (not characters), musicality or rhythm for freestyle, and a warm, complimentary tone.
Key rules
The format is linear, with no scene cuts. The interview alternates between the two audience members. Freestyles can alternate between actors or be performed consecutively. Keeping a light, playful, romantic atmosphere is essential.
Format structure
Context
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