RUEN

Handbags

Two performers play a scene, pulling objects from two audience members' bags and instantly weaving the finds into the plot. Useful for training justification of surprises, "yes-and" and physical play, and also effective in shows.

Players

2

Difficulty

Beginner

Props

Yes

Full description

Setup and Launch

Ask the audience for two bags or backpacks from volunteers, agreeing on boundaries in advance: you can take out and use objects, but don't read personal notes, don't open wallets, and don't touch phones or medications — owners can remove these beforehand. Place the bags at the edge of the stage; each performer takes one. Get a simple suggestion (relationship/location/occasion) to set the scene's frame, and remind performers: the story comes first, objects are gifts for developing the plot.

How It Goes

  1. Scene start. Performers begin playing as if it's a normal scene, establishing relationships and location. The first few lines — without the bags — to anchor context and character intent.

  2. First finds. When the need arises, a performer reaches into the bag and pulls out one object, immediately justifying it within the world of the scene. The partner accepts the offer ("yes-and") and helps give the object a meaning connected to the theme or the relationship.

  3. Rhythm and safety. Don't "rummage" for long: one object — one action or turn. If a personal or unsuitable object appears, set it aside silently. Avoid liquids, sharp objects and fragile items; handle everything carefully.

  4. Escalation and conclusion. Use objects to raise stakes and create thematic connections, not just to list them. When energy peaks or a strong button image is found — end the scene, return the objects to their owners and thank them.

Key rules

  • Story over inventory: take one object at a time and connect it to the relationship/theme, or the scene will fall apart into a show-and-tell.

  • Set boundaries with the audience: no reading notes, no wallets and phones; owners can remove sensitive items beforehand.

  • Watch for safety: don't throw or open containers with liquids, handle fragile items carefully.

  • Don't linger in the bag: if the search takes more than a couple of seconds, stop and play with what you've found, keeping the pace.

  • Maintain partnership: every offer from the bag must get a "yes-and" and development from both performers, not turn into solo tricks.

Context

🧺 Cart