Interrogation (Curfew, Crime Boss, Doctor) – How to Play Improv Game

This is a fun game loved by our professional show audiences and students alike

Staging:

• The “guesser” is sent out of the room.
• Two players (the “interrogators”) and the MC remain on stage. A chair can be used as a prop.

Sample MC Set Up:

(Standard Interrogation) “Alright, (guesser’s name), you’ve been a very naughty person. You’re about to be arrested for a crime, but first, we need to get our story straight. Step outside for a moment while we finalize the details.”

(To the audience) “Let’s set up this interrogation. Our two players are hard-nosed detectives. I need three things from you:

1. The Crime: What did they do? Think of something unusual, not your average everyday crime.
2. The Accomplice: Who did they do it with? It could be a celebrity, a famous fictional character, or someone unexpected.
3. The Getaway: How did they escape the scene of the crime? Let’s make it a unique and unconventional escape method.”

(Curfew Variation) “Oh no, (guesser’s name), you’re in trouble! You’re about to be grilled by your parents for coming home way past your curfew.

(To the audience) Let’s set the scene. Our two players are your angry parents. I need three things from you:

1. The Excuse: What made you so late? Get creative, but remember, it has to be somewhat believable.
2. The Companion: Who were you with? Think of someone your parents would disapprove of.
3. The Mode of Transportation: How did you get home? Was it a wild ride?”

(Crime Boss Variation) “(Guesser’s name), you’re the mastermind behind a big heist! But before we execute the plan, let’s go over the details one last time.

(To the audience) Our two players are your loyal henchmen. I need three things:

1. The Target: What are we stealing?
2. The Inside Man: Who’s helping us from the inside?
3. The Escape Plan: How are we getting away with the loot?”

(Doctor Variation) “(Guesser’s name), you’re about to perform a very important surgery. Scrub in and let’s review the procedure.

(To the audience) Our two players are your surgical team. I need three things:

1. The Condition: What are we operating on?
2. The Celebrity Assistant: Who’s the famous person helping out in the OR?
3. The Solution: How are we going to fix the patient?”

(Once the information is gathered, the guesser returns) “Okay, (guesser’s name), you can come back in now. Everyone, let’s give our guest a warm welcome!”

Game Play:

1. Interrogation Begins: The interrogators question the guesser, using each question as a clue to reveal the three key details.
2. Cameos: Other players can join in as additional characters (e.g., an arresting officer, a desk sergeant, a nosy neighbor).
3. Guessing: The guesser can make guesses as they go, but the scene ends with them restating all three clues correctly.
4. The Reveal: The MC confirms whether the guesses are right or wrong and reveals the answers if necessary.

Tips:

• Clear Clues: Ask questions that cleverly hint at the answers without giving them away too easily.
• Active Listening: The guesser should pay close attention to the wording of the questions for hidden clues.
• “Yes, And…” Mentality: Even when guessing incorrectly, the guesser should “Yes, And…” the interrogators’ responses to keep the scene moving.