I have to write a short silent play and I'm having trouble coming up with ideas. Can someone help?

Its suppose to be in this format.

1. reveal information
2. raise the stakes somehow
3. have the character do something irrevocable s/he cant take back
4. top that
5. climax and end the play

A silent play, as in mime, or like a silent movie? The irrevocable act could be anything with dramatic or comedic impact. Somebody robs a bank, accidentally (or intentionally) shoots another person (murder, manslaughter, serious injury). It could be someone accused of sexual harassment or assault - anything at all that might provide drama. It could be someone who has died of old age only to have his secret paramour turn up to grieve at the funeral, the first hint to the family that the old man wasn't what he seemed to be - had a secret life. It could be comic, not dramatic. Use your imagination. If you have questions about the format, please ask them specifically, and I'll try to answer them.

i am sure they are referring to a pantomime. i strongly suggest not acting out sexual harassment (even if words were used, this is an unnecessary angle). i remember being in drama where people would pretend to cut and kill themselves, the most uncomfortable thing to watch. in drama, make it interesting for yourself and classmates.

just an idea if there are two people:
person 1 magician, person 2 audience
p1: reveals to classmates the magic is fake
p1: flicks wand
p2: freezes or does something silly
(oh no! the magic worked!)
p1: nervous and flicks wand again
p2: hops around like a frog
p1: attempts to change back into person
p2: turns into predator animal and chases magician off the stage area
end scene

Certainly! I can help you generate some ideas for your short silent play using the format you provided. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to brainstorm ideas:

1. Reveal information:
Think about a situation or scenario where an interesting piece of information can be unveiled. This could be a secret, a surprising fact, or something unexpected that the audience and characters didn't know at the beginning of the play. For example, the main character could discover a hidden letter that reveals a long-lost sibling.

2. Raise the stakes somehow:
Consider ways to increase the tension or difficulty faced by the main character. This could involve introducing a time constraint, a looming threat, or a personal challenge that the character must overcome. For instance, the main character might learn that they only have a limited amount of time to save a loved one who is in danger.

3. Have the character do something irrevocable:
Think about a significant action that the main character can take, which would have profound consequences and cannot be undone. This could involve making a difficult choice, causing harm to someone, or sacrificing something important. For example, the main character might make a decision to betray a close friend to achieve their goals.

4. Top that:
Now, think about how you can escalate the situation further and make it even more intense or challenging for the main character. This could involve introducing a bigger obstacle, raising the stakes even higher, or revealing an unexpected twist. For instance, after betraying their friend, the main character could discover that their actions have put their own life in danger.

5. Climax and end the play:
Create a climax where all the tension and conflict built throughout the play reaches its peak. This could be a dramatic confrontation, a moment of realization, or a resolution to the main character's struggle. Make sure the ending is satisfying and provides some form of closure for the audience. For example, the main character might confront the antagonist and, through an act of bravery, manage to save themselves and reconcile with their friend.

Remember, these are just general guidelines to help you brainstorm ideas. Feel free to modify and personalize these steps to fit your own artistic vision. Good luck with your play!