Props and Set Pieces: give yourself something to do and somewhere to go

Konstantin Stanislavski, the theater director who gave actors, “The Method,” knew that in real life, people don’t just face each other, lock eyes, and take turns speaking. In real life, we are doing something—eating a meal, shelling peas, walking the dog—and life happens. In fact, he referred to his method as, “The Method of Physical Action.” In his work with the great playwright Anton Chekhov, the characters are given quotidien tasks as the dialogue unfolds—they clean guns, play cards, stoke fires, dance.

When we give ourselves something to do with our hands—a prop, an action (aside from a slide clicker or microphone)—we free ourselves to be more relaxed and present. Lewis Miller, the innovator of the Flower Flash and extraordinary floral event designer, spends his days elbow deep in stems, leaves, and perfumed blossoms. In his TEDx Talk, we brought in a scarred, wooden work table and fresh-cut flowers. Just that tangible connection to his life’s work as a floral artist, invited ease and rapport into Lewis’ connection with the audience. His talk became an intimate (and sometimes ribald!) chat with 1000 people.

Drew Ramsey requested a big couch to walk, sit, and lie down upon during his TEDx Talk. This wonderful set piece invited play and movement into his talk.

Famously, Bill Gates released mosquitos into the audience during his TED Talk and Jill Bolte Taylor handles a human brain in hers!

Next time you have a presentation, give yourself the gift of a prop, an activity, something to do. This will engage the audience, invite play, ease, and rapport into your talk.