In case you didn't know, the game ABC is played with 2 performers creating a scene where the each speak 13 lines, (for a total of 26) alternating the starting letter of their line with the next letter of the alphabet.

The first 8-9 lines is a mutual process of discovery answering the question of "What is this scene about?" which requires establishing their place in the setting and their relationship.

The middle of the scene, roughly the next 8-9 lines, distills what was created in the beginning and finds a game, a pattern the pair can repeat.

The end of the scene, roughly the last 8-9 lines heightens that pattern, and bringing it to a resolution.

That's the ideal rhythm. Establish. Distill. Heighten.

It's actually a good rhythm for many scenes. The specific dialog length guiderails you into keeping to a different schedule than other scenes.

And the ABC portion? That's a bit of sleight of hand for the audience to enjoy.

Some tips for the ABC?

-Don't rely on throwaway exclamations more than once ("Hell!" "I guess" "Kowabunga!" "Jeepers!" will kill the magic)

-Have some X and Z words in your pocket.

-If you break the rules a little, "eXact-o knife?" for X, that's ok.

ABC is a delight to play and watch. Follow these tips and keep improvising!