Quick Description
He Said She Said is a two-player game where one player speaks the dialogue and the other invents the physical action, resulting in playful surprises and unexpected behavior.
How to Play
- Two Players Step In
Choose two players to begin the scene. Each player is responsible for their own dialogue, but their partner controls their physical actions. - Start with Dialogue
Player 1 begins the scene by saying a line of dialogue. For example:
“Hey there, Jim.” - Add the Action
Player 2 immediately follows with a narration that starts with “He said,” “She said,” or “They said,” and describes the physical action Player 1 should now do. For example:
“He said, snapping his fingers and pointing them like finger guns.” - Act It Out
Player 1 then performs the action exactly as described, even if it’s strange, exaggerated, or surprising. - Switch Roles
Now Player 2 says their line of dialogue:
“Right back at you, Sam.”
Player 1 follows with:
“He said, grinning wildly and nodding three times.” - Continue the Scene
Players continue alternating dialogue and action in this way, building the scene moment by moment. Each new action is provided by the other player, creating a constant cycle of surprise and collaboration. - End Naturally
The scene can come to a close when it reaches a natural or satisfying stopping point—either emotionally, comedically, or narratively.
Notes
- This game often confuses adults at first! Take time to rehearse the structure slowly before expecting full scenes.
- Focus on clarity: leave a distinct pause between the line of dialogue and the accompanying action.
- Encourage bold physical choices, especially when they contrast with the tone of the dialogue—it heightens the fun.
- This game sharpens players’ listening, timing, and awareness of narrative rhythm.
- This game captures the shared control that is at the core of improvisation.
Variations
- Separate jobs: One player provides the dialogue for both players (similar to dubbing) and the other player provides the action for both players.
Origin
I learned this He Said She Said from Keith Johnstone, one of the pioneers of modern improvisation. He emphasized that while the format may seem tricky at first—especially for adults—it unlocks a world of spontaneous physical comedy and deepens player connection.
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