Bag of Wonder Skit

Name and Purpose

Bag of Wonder Skit builds creativity, collaboration, and performance confidence using only what’s already around.
Groups practise storytelling, improvisation, and supporting their teammates in front of an audience.

a.k.a.

Age / Group / Time / Space

Ages 8-16 | 8-10 players per group, whole camp | 30-45 minutes prep + 5-10 min per group for performance | Indoor or outdoor collection area; common room or outdoor space for performances

Materials

One reusable tote or cloth bag per group
Objects gathered from around camp: arts and crafts area, cabin, kitchen (non-food), sports shed
No single-use materials needed

Quick-Run Card

Divide into groups of 8-10 with 1-2 staff per group.
Each group collects objects from around camp into their bag (with permission from relevant staff).
Groups have 30 minutes to devise a short skit using every object, not for its intended purpose.
Groups take turns performing. Audience cheers for every group equally.
After all performances, share favourite moments together.

Setup and Boundaries

Define which areas of camp are available for object collection
Set a return rule: all objects must be returned to their original location after the activity
Signal: one long whistle = time to head back; two short = gather for performances
Staff stay with their group during collection to supervise and support

How to Play

Staff introduces the challenge: each group will collect a bag of random objects from around camp and create a short skit using every item, but not for the item’s real purpose. A broom might become a magic wand. A pot might become a hat.
Groups set off with their bag and 1-2 staff. They have permission to collect items from pre-approved areas.
Back together, groups have 30 minutes to plan and rehearse. Every group member has a role: performer, director, prop manager, or narrator. All roles are equal.
Groups perform their skit one at a time. The audience’s job is to cheer, not critique.
After all performances, the whole group shares favourite moments. No ranking or winners.

I-OPt Options

A (Active): Perform on stage; lead the skit narrative
S (Support): Direct the group; manage props; coach nervous performers
Q (Quiet): Write the script or serve as narrator; choose a smaller speaking role
O (Observer): Watch other groups perform; share one appreciative comment per group

Inclusion Adaptations

Players who are not comfortable performing live can manage props, narrate from off to the side, or be the group’s “technical crew”
Skits can be silent / mime-based for players who prefer not to speak in front of the group

Stewardship Moment

All collected objects must be returned to where they came from. Nothing is damaged, used up, or thrown away.
Brief group reflection: “We made something creative without buying or wasting anything. That’s a skill worth practising.”

Consent

Pre-brief: “In this activity every group puts on a short performance. For those who’d prefer a behind-the-scenes role, directing, scripting, or managing props is a full and valued part of making the skit happen.”
Mid-game check: During prep time, staff check in with quieter group members: “What role feels right for you?”
Opt-out/re-entry: Any player can shift roles during prep without explanation. No one is required to perform live.

Risks and Mitigation

Groups raiding off-limits areas: define collection zones clearly before sending groups out
Objects not returned: build a return sweep into the activity before performances begin
One or two players dominating the skit: staff gently ensure every group member has a spoken or visible role

Warm-Up Suggestions

“Yes, And”: quick improv game where pairs accept each other’s ideas and add to them for 2 minutes
“Object Transformation”: each player holds one object and mimes using it as something completely different; group guesses what it is

Debrief Questions

What? “Which object ended up with the most surprising use in your skit?”
So What? “How did your group agree on what story to tell?”
Now What? “What does it feel like to create something together out of nothing planned?”

Cleanup and Reset