A great way to get to know each other! Entertainment and performances to liven up a welcome party
Entertainment and performances are essential for welcome parties.
Sometimes the hosts perform, and sometimes the newcomers do—both patterns exist.
Either way, it’s nerve-wracking, and choosing what to do can be tough.
In this article, we’ll introduce performances recommended for people in any position.
We’ve picked a wide range: activities that help everyone open up, ideas that let others get to know you, and funny bits.
However, be sure to avoid acts that are too long and bore participants, or anything vulgar!
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A great chance to get to know each other! Fun performances and activities to liven up a welcome party (51–60)
Swat-and-Helmet Rock-Paper-Scissors
How about livening up your party with “Tatatte Kabutte Jankenpon,” a game anyone can enjoy regardless of age? The rules are simple: first, play rock–paper–scissors.
The winner tries to hit the loser on the head with a toy hammer, while the loser puts on a helmet to protect their head.
If the helmet doesn’t make it on in time and the head gets hit, they’re out.
If the hit is blocked, then even the rock–paper–scissors winner doesn’t score a win.
It’s a game long loved on variety shows, and if all participants play seriously, it will bring even more laughter and excitement to the venue.
If you’re unsure what game to play, give this one a try.
Slipper relay
The slipper relay is a simple yet exciting game where you pass a slipper to the next person using only your toes—no hands allowed.
It’s easy to join, but there’s surprising depth: deciding exactly when to pass the slipper and at what angle to receive it with your foot takes real thought.
That delicate tension instantly energizes the whole venue.
Another plus is how easy it is to prepare—you only need a single slipper.
It’s perfect for large groups, and you can freely adjust the difficulty by tweaking the rules.
Definitely consider adding it as one of your program’s activities!
pantomime
It’s the kind of pantomime you see on TV variety shows.
Those distinctive movements look difficult, don’t they? Pantomime includes a range of techniques, from simple to challenging.
It would also be fun to perform it with a few people and give it a comedic feel!
plate spinning
How about trying plate-spinning, like you see on New Year’s TV programs? You spin a plate smoothly and in balance on the tip of a long stick.
These days, sticks and plates for plate-spinning seem to be sold at variety shops.
Performing it in a flashy costume might make it feel festive and auspicious!
Scoop Shamisen
This is scoop shamisen, where you play by striking a large shovel with a plectrum instead of using a shamisen.
The shamisen is quite difficult, but with scoop shamisen, wouldn’t it be easier? How about livening things up with J-pop instead of folk songs?