
Mime & Play: A Physicality Course for Performers - 4 Weeks (Mon Eves)
Theatre Deli, London
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The Rule of Threes is a classic comedic principle that suggests things are funnier when they come in threes. It’s based on a simple pattern: set-up, reinforcement, punchline. The first two items establish a rhythm or expectation, and the third breaks it - often in a surprising, silly or exaggerated way.
Three is the smallest number that allows a pattern to emerge and then be broken. The audience catches on to what they think the game is… and then gets hit with a twist. It’s the magic number where logic and surprise dance together.
Jokes and punchlines:
“I need three things to survive: coffee, Wi-Fi, and validation from strangers on the internet.”
List-based gags:
“He’s strong, brave, and completely terrified of pigeons.”
Sketch or scene structure:
A recurring game or character might return three times, escalating each time.
Repeating something three times in a show can give it satisfying rhythm and payoff.
Set it up clearly — The first two moments/items should feel related or “normal”.
Break the pattern — The third should surprise or escalate in a playful or absurd way.
Play with timing — The pause before the third beat is often golden. Let the audience lean in.
Don’t force it — Not every list needs to be a three-beat gag, but when it works, it works.
Reverse the third: Make the third item unexpectedly boring or underwhelming for comedic contrast.
False third: Fake the audience out with a twist, then reveal the real third beat.
Overdo it: Do four or five, and call out the overkill for meta laughs.