Parallel Universe (Swedish Story variation)
One person begins telling a true story and the instructor hands slips of paper with Emotion, Place, or Object for them to incorporate into their story.
by Erica MarxGoal
How easily can you accept something that is not true?
Discover joy of letting go of your story
Materials
Instructions
Prep: Have player write down Objects, Emotions, and Places on individual slips of paper and put in envelopes (3 envelopes, 3 colors of paper)
Form pairs
Choose topic for stories (ie. your first date / job / road trip etc.)
Round 1: Each person tells 1 min story while the other person listens.
Round 2: Person A begins to tell a true story and has to incorporate the info on the slips of paper that the instructor is handing out into their story.
Note: I walked around the room at a steady pace delivering slips of paper, about 8-12 per storyteller.
Variations:
Have the partner say random words for the person to incorporate (ie. Swedish
Story)
Lead into "Remember the time" and two people go back and forth
Remember the time + the slips of paper
Background
Erica/Jim adaptation of Swedish Story to use slips of paper (easier for beginner class or applied context)
Author
I lead a team that helps multi-stakeholder groups tackle high-stakes, complex work with clarity and connection. We design and guide strategic planning sessions, workshops, retreats, and conferences where people think well together, make sound decisions, and take coordinated action. Our team is trained in improvisational theater, and as active members of the International Applied Improvisation Network, we bring adaptable, creative methods that build trust, surface essential perspectives, and keep momentum strong. We also share what we know, offering facilitator training that blends inclusive process design with the flexibility and presence of improv.
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