Presents
1970s-present (Spolin-lineage)
Also known as Gifts, Giving Gifts, Picking Gifts
One player mimes giving a wrapped gift of specific size/weight; partner receives, opens with physical commitment, and names what's inside. Giver accepts whatever name is revealed.
Known for
- Trains acceptance at its purest — giver has no idea what the gift will turn out to be.
- Mime specificity matters — a small heavy box is held differently from a large light one.
- Teaches 'the gift is in the receiving' — commitment to physical reaction reveals the object.
- Patti Stiles and Jimmy Carrane have written extensively on its importance as foundational craft.
Connected to
Concepts
Games