Colombian Hypnosis: Follow the Palm
A classic exercise from Theatre of the Oppressed: one student leads with an open palm and the partner follows with their face about 8 inches away through every level of the space. It builds body control, focus, trust, and reflection on leading and being led.
How to play
- Demonstrate with a student: the leader holds a palm about 8 inches from the follower's face, and the follower keeps that distance, as if their nose were tied to the hand.
- Pairs (4 min): the leader moves the hand slowly in every direction and level; the follower moves with their whole body. Switch roles after 2 minutes.
- Threes (3 min): the leader guides two followers at once, one per hand, rotating the leader every minute.
- Chains of five (3 min): each student leads the next with one hand and is led by the one before, forming a moving sculpture.
- Closing circle (3 min): which felt better, leading or following? How did you take care of your partner?
Rules
- Movement is always slow and continuous, with no jerks or sudden changes.
- The follower keeps the same face-to-palm distance the whole time.
- Safety: leaders never steer partners into walls, classmates, or obstacles, or into positions they can't hold.
Variations
Easier
The leader moves the hand in one plane only, up-down and side to side, without taking the partner to the floor.
Standard
Pairs, threes, and chains using every level of the space.
Harder
The leader changes speed and moves the partner all over the gym without losing the distance.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the student plays in a chair, and the leader keeps moves to the partner's torso, head, and arms.
- Visual impairment: instead of following the palm by sight, the follower keeps a fingertip lightly touching the leader's palm.
- Fitness level: a student who tires at low levels can use an agreed signal to ask the leader to raise the hand.
Learning goals
- Keep a steady distance with body control at every level.
- Take responsibility for leading a partner safely.
- Reflect on the experience of leading and following.
Teacher tip
Many leaders go too fast trying to make their partner fail; remind them that the goal is for the partner to be able to follow, not to lose them.
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