Mirror Game

As they approached the classroom, Elise said, “I love you Lynn, but sometimes I feel we’re slipping into kind of a stagnant pattern.”

“I’ve felt that, too. I’m hoping these improv sessions will help change that.”

Midway through the class Paul, the instructor, said, “This next activity is called The Mirror Game. It's a great way to make you focus on working together.

“Pair up,” he continued. “Sit facing your partner. Then one person, the leader, will begin smooth, slow movements. The other person tries to mirror those actions. The motions could be something familiar, like brushing your hair or teeth, or they might be random, almost a pantomime.”

“Let’s get started,” said Paul. “I’ll be walking around watching all of you.”

Elise touched Lynn’s hand and whispered, “You be the leader, I’ll be the mirror.”

The girls sat on the floor, legs folded and knees gently touching. Lynn placed her hands on her thighs and asked, “Ready?”

Elise copied Lynn’s hand placement, then nodded her head.

Lynn started as if she’d just awakened, yawning and stretching, then began a random dance with her hands and body.

About 30 seconds into the game, Lynn paused her movements. Elise, as if questioning, tilted her head and opened her eyes wide. Immediately Lynn mimicked that expression. Elise then stroked her chin with one hand and Lynn mirrored her exactly.

Elise proceeded to run her fingers through her hair, while she quietly said, “I thought you were supposed to be the leader here. Why are you following me?”

The instructor, who’d been observing them, knelt and spoke to the girls.

“When you’re doing a good job, no one will be able to tell who is the leader and who is the mirror. That’s the way you two were a moment ago. Keep practicing.”