RUEN

Superheroes

Also known as: Time of Justice

A quick scene for justifications and bold character entrances. A "thief" tries to snatch a bag, the "victim" calls for superheroes themed around a word from the audience. Good for training concise lines, status and tempo-rhythm.

Players

4–8

Difficulty

Beginner

Full description

Setup and Launch

Assign roles: one performer is the thief, one participant is the victim with a handbag. Ask the audience for one specific theme-word (e.g., "leg", "toaster", "mother-in-law"). Explain that the woman will call for superheroes, making up names based on this word (Leg-Man, Super Toaster, Wonder Mother-in-Law, etc.).

Two other performers wait in the wings. Their job: enter big and on-theme, deliver 1–2 clear excuse lines for why they can't help, and immediately leave. Emphasise: no prolonged scenes, no fights or lunges — safe physicality and quick entrances/exits.

How It Goes

1) The inciting conflict

The thief begins the attempted theft with clear and safe physicality. The victim reacts, raises the stakes with voice and status, and for the first time calls for a hero named after the suggested word.

2) Hero enters and gives excuse

The first "superhero" flies in big, briefly establishes their ability/image on the theme, and in 1–2 lines explains why they can't help. Immediate clean exit from the stage.

3) Rhythm and escalation

The victim immediately calls for the next hero on the same theme; the thief maintains pressure without blocking the partners. Watch the pace: each hero is a brief beat. Avoid repeating excuses; encourage variety. When energy peaks and the jokes stop escalating, give a stop/blackout signal.

Key rules

  • Keep excuses short: 1–2 lines maximum, then a clean exit. If someone lingers — clap/stop and bring in the next hero.

  • The victim stays within one given word; if things go off-track, the coach repeats the suggestion and reminds them of the thematic connection.

  • The thief maintains threat but safely: no lunges or physical pressure; high status, minimal text.

  • Only one hero on stage at a time: avoid "mob rushes". The next entrance happens only after the previous performer has fully exited.

  • Watch for variety in excuses (not just "I'm busy"): change the reason and the character's angle to avoid repetition.

Context

🧺 Cart