Line Gag-185

Synonyms

101. 99 Strings. 69.

Introduction

The performers will make a series of puns and gags based on your suggestion.

Description

Line Gag is a structure that is both an exercise and a handle. This is the handle version of the structure called 185. For a detailed explanation of line gags see the exercise Line Gags

For 185 the host should pick a noun for the performers to riff off of. Once this is established the performers will step out and vomit gag juice all over the audience with a series of set up puns.

Historically 185 has been about exclusionary denial of service. However Learn Improv employs a more nuanced version of 185 where the barkeep is denying the “noun” adult libations. For example, “185 strings walk into a bar. The bartender says “I can’t serve you because you are knot old enough.” Rim shot please. The format remains the same even if the “noun” has been changed. 185 buckets walk into a bar. The bartender says “I can’t serve them because they are already full to the rim.”

Gimmicks

• Walk into a bar. Ouch.
• Not enough chairs.

Variations

• Competitive – any line gag where host conducts and the audiene eliminates performers.
• Pairing up – the pun goes back and forth between two performers.
• Singing it – just like it sounds.
• 69 things – usually an adult version for adult audiences.

Credits

• None.