
I’ve been diving into the world of two hander plays lately, and it’s honestly fascinating. If you’re not familiar, these are plays that rely entirely on the dynamic between just two actors. It’s like stripping back all the noise and focusing on the core of storytelling – the raw, intense exchanges between two people. Whether they’re caught in a battle of wits, a deep emotional connection, or exploring life’s big questions, these plays have a way of getting under your skin.
I’ve put together a list of these plays, and it’s quite the mix. There’s something about watching just two actors on stage, navigating everything from personal dramas to the quirks of daily life, that feels incredibly intimate and revealing. It’s like these plays magnify the essence of human relationships and serve it up in a way that’s both engaging and thought-provoking.
This isn’t just a random selection of titles. Each play offers a glimpse into the endless possibilities of what can happen when you put two characters together and let their stories unfold. From heart-wrenching dramas that tackle serious issues to lighter tales that might just make you laugh out loud, it’s a showcase of how powerful and versatile this format can be.
Two Hander Plays
- “Constellations” by Nick Payne – This play explores a relationship between a man and a woman through multiple universes, showcasing how their interaction could play out in myriad ways, depending on the universe they’re in. It’s a deep dive into the themes of choice, love, and quantum multiverse theory.
- “The Meeting” by Jeff Stetson – Imagines a fictional meeting between Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, offering a powerful exploration of African-American politics and culture during the 1960s. The entire play is a dialogue between these two characters, providing a profound look at two contrasting philosophies within the civil rights movement.
- “Stones in His Pockets” by Marie Jones – A unique play where two actors play over a dozen characters between them, set in a small town in Ireland that’s overrun by a Hollywood film crew. It’s a comedic yet poignant examination of the impact of the film industry on rural communities, with the two actors switching roles at a dizzying pace.
- “2-2 Tango” by Daniel MacIvor – This play is a dynamic exploration of a relationship between two people, using dance as a metaphor for communication and connection. It requires both actors to engage deeply with each other, portraying a range of emotions and scenarios within their relationship.
- “The Old Neighborhood” by David Mamet – While Mamet’s work often features larger casts, this play includes scenes that are essentially two-handers, focusing on conversations between the protagonist and various people from his past. For a list focused strictly on two-actor plays, we’d highlight scenes rather than the entire play, aiming for those moments that capture the essence of two-person interactions.
- “This Wide Night” by Chloë Moss – Explores the complex relationship between two women who were formerly cellmates, as they attempt to adjust to life outside prison. The play delves into themes of freedom, friendship, and the invisible chains that continue to hold them even after their release.
- “The Fourposter” by Jan de Hartog – Chronicles the marriage of a couple from their wedding night in 1890 through to 1925, all set in their bedroom, symbolized by the four-poster bed that witnesses their life together. It’s a poignant and humorous look at the evolving nature of love and marriage.
- “A Life in the Theatre” by David Mamet – Focuses on the relationship between an older, experienced actor and a younger, up-and-coming actor. Through their conversations and interactions, both backstage and on stage, the play explores the nature of performance, rivalry, and mentorship in the theatre world.
- “The Chess Lesson” by Idris Goodwin – A unique play that uses the game of chess as a metaphor for life, focusing on the interactions between a chess instructor and his student. It’s a deep dive into themes of strategy, life choices, and the lessons learned from both victory and defeat.
- “Novecento: The Legend of the Ocean Pianist” by Alessandro Baricco – Originally a monologue, it has been adapted into a two-hander format for some productions, focusing on the story of a pianist born on a ship who never sets foot on land. The play explores themes of art, music, and the meaning of home, with the second actor playing various characters from Novecento’s life.
- “Bill W. and Dr. Bob” by Samuel Shem and Janet Surrey – This play tells the story of the two men who founded Alcoholics Anonymous. It’s a moving exploration of friendship, struggle, and the journey to recovery, focusing on their personal battles with addiction and how they helped each other find hope.
- “The Owl and the Pussycat” by Bill Manhoff – A quirky and engaging story about a bookish man and a quirky, free-spirited woman who end up sharing an apartment in San Francisco. Their dynamic and evolving relationship, filled with witty banter and unexpected moments of connection, forms the heart of the play.
- “Tuesdays With Morrie” by Jeffrey Hatcher and Mitch Albom – Based on Mitch Albom’s real-life experiences with his college professor Morrie Schwartz, this play delves into themes of life, death, and the lessons learned in between. It’s a heartwarming and thought-provoking exploration of mentorship and friendship.
- “Mass Appeal” by Bill C. Davis – Centers on the relationship between a conservative Roman Catholic priest and a young, idealistic seminarian. The play examines issues of faith, authority, and the challenge of maintaining personal integrity within the church.
- “Last Train to Nibroc” by Arlene Hutton – Set during World War II, this play follows the developing relationship between a discharged soldier and a young woman with her own disappointments. Their journey toward love and understanding provides a touching exploration of hope and resilience.
- “The Woolgatherer” by William Mastrosimone – A drama that centers on the unlikely romance between a shy, dreamy girl and a rugged truck driver. Their interactions reveal deep-seated fears, desires, and the possibility of connection despite significant differences.
- “Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune” by Terrence McNally – After a one-night stand, a waitress and a short-order cook spend the night together in her apartment, talking about their lives, fears, and hopes. It’s a raw and tender exploration of the possibility of love in middle age.
- “Out of Sight…Out of Murder” by Fred Carmichael – A comedic mystery where an author becomes embroiled in a murder plot with characters from his novels. With only two actors, they play multiple roles, creating a fast-paced and humorous exploration of narrative and reality.
- “Brilliant Traces” by Cindy Lou Johnson – The play unfolds in a remote cabin in Alaska, where a runaway bride in her wedding dress breaks into a reclusive man’s home during a snowstorm. Their ensuing interaction explores themes of isolation, connection, and the healing power of understanding another’s pain.
- “The Guys” by Anne Nelson – In the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, a fire captain who has lost most of his men and an editor who helps him prepare their eulogies come together. It’s a poignant exploration of grief, heroism, and the human capacity to find words in the face of unspeakable loss.
- “Bash: Latter-Day Plays” by Neil LaBute – A collection of three one-act plays, each featuring two characters, delving into dark, contemporary themes. These intense dialogues explore the consequences of violence and the complexity of human nature.
- “The Story of Mary Maclane by Herself” adapted by Bo List – While originally focused on the autobiographical writings of Mary Maclane, adaptations have turned it into dialogues between Maclane and a figure representing her inner self or societal expectations, offering a unique introspective and biographical exploration.
- “Gruesome Playground Injuries” by Rajiv Joseph – Follows the lives of Doug and Kayleen from ages 8 through 38, showing how physical and emotional wounds bring them together and tear them apart. It’s a compelling exploration of friendship, love, and the pain we inflict on each other.
- “The Letters” by John W. Lowell – Set in a Soviet-era institution, this intense thriller revolves around a director and one of his employees. The play is a cat-and-mouse game of psychological manipulation, centered around the control of information and the dangerous dance of power.
- “Gidion’s Knot” by Johnna Adams – Over the course of a parent-teacher conference, a grieving mother and an overwhelmed teacher confront each other about the suicide of the mother’s son. The play is a powerful examination of grief, responsibility, and the complexities of freedom of expression in schools.
- “Falling” by Deanna Jent – Explores the dynamic within a family dealing with an autistic son. While it usually features more characters, it can be adapted or focused on scenes that are essentially powerful two-handers, emphasizing the challenges and love within a family context.
- “A Number” by Caryl Churchill – Investigates issues of identity, fatherhood, and ethics through the lens of cloning. The play is a series of duologues between a father and his several sons (clones), offering a riveting exploration of nature versus nurture.
- “On the Ceiling” by Nigel Planer – Centres on two plasterers in the Vatican in 1508, tasked with the initial work before Michelangelo begins painting the Sistine Chapel ceiling. It’s a humorous and human look at the little-known characters behind a monumental moment in art history.
- “The Mercy Seat” by Neil LaBute – Set on September 12, 2001, the play examines the affair between a woman and her much younger lover, who contemplates using the national tragedy of 9/11 to disappear from his own life. It’s a morally complex exploration of personal responsibility and the human instinct for self-preservation.
- “My Romantic History” by D.C. Jackson – A sharp comedy about office romance, looking back at past relationships, and the idea of “the one.” It’s a relatable and humorous examination of love, memory, and the paths we choose.
- “The Quiet Volume” by Ant Hampton and Tim Etchells – A unique piece of experimental theater that takes place in a library. Two participants follow a set of written instructions, experiencing a blend of reading, whispering, and the ambient sounds of the space around them. It’s a meditation on the act of reading itself and the silent interaction between the participants.
- “Night, Mother” by Marsha Norman – A powerful and emotional dialogue between a mother and her daughter, who has decided to end her life that evening. This play delves deep into themes of family, mental health, and the complexity of love and understanding.
- “Popcorn” by Ben Elton – A satirical thriller that puts a Hollywood film director and a pair of serial killers in the same room, exploring the influence of media violence on society. Though it may feature more characters in some productions, its core confrontations can be distilled into intense two-person exchanges.
- “The Sunset Limited” by Cormac McCarthy – A dialogue-driven narrative between two characters, Black and White, in a single apartment setting. They discuss beliefs, despair, and the search for meaning in a conversation that is as much a clash of worldviews as it is a search for common ground.
- “China Doll” by David Mamet – A two-character play about a wealthy man, his young fiancée, and an airplane. The dialogue-heavy script examines power, wealth, and the intricacies of human relationships within the confines of luxury and privilege.
- “Beirut” by Alan Bowne – Set in a dystopian future where a virus forces people into quarantine zones, the play focuses on the relationship between a man who is infected and his girlfriend who chooses to join him in isolation. It’s a raw and poignant exploration of love and freedom in the face of societal fear and control.
- “The Woolgatherer” by William Mastrosimone – A touching drama about the unexpected encounter and subsequent relationship between a dreamy, fragile salesgirl and a rough-around-the-edges truck driver. Their conversations reveal deep vulnerabilities and the longing for connection.
- “Afterplay” by Brian Friel – Explores the imagined meeting of two of Anton Chekhov’s characters from different plays, decades after their original stories ended. This play is a reflective and poignant exploration of legacy, loneliness, and the intermingling of lives.
- “Collected Stories” by Donald Margulies – Focuses on the evolving relationship between a celebrated writer and her protégé, exploring themes of mentorship, intellectual property, and the ethics of storytelling.
- “The Meeting” by Jeff Stetson – Imagines a fictional encounter between Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, offering a powerful dialogue on race, activism, and the different paths toward achieving racial equality in America.
- “Freud’s Last Session” by Mark St. Germain – Centers on an imagined meeting between Sigmund Freud, an avowed atheist, and C.S. Lewis, a Christian convert, on the day England enters World War II. The play delves into themes of faith, love, and the meaning of life.
- “Kalamazoo” by Michelle Kholos Brooks and Kelly Younger – A romantic comedy that follows two seventy-somethings who venture into the world of online dating and find themselves on a blind date with each other. Their encounter explores themes of love, loss, and second chances.
- “Dirty Great Love Story” by Richard Marsh and Katie Bonna – Combines poetry and prose to tell the story of two people who wake up together after a drunken night out and their subsequent attempts to make sense of their relationship. It’s a witty, charming, and honest exploration of modern romance.
- “The Meeting” by Jeff Stetson – Presents a fictional encounter between civil rights leaders Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, exploring their differing approaches to fighting racial inequality. The play is a powerful dialogue on activism, leadership, and the struggle for justice.
- “The Return” by Reg Cribb – Set in rural Australia, this thriller explores the tense reunion of two brothers at a remote train station as they wait for the return of a woman from their past. The play delves into themes of revenge, redemption, and the haunting nature of unresolved trauma.
- “Same Time, Next Year” by Bernard Slade – Chronicles the 25-year affair between two people who are married to others but meet once a year at the same inn. The play explores changes in society and their personal lives over the decades, offering a humorous and touching look at love and fidelity.
- “The Storytelling Ability of a Boy” by Carter W. Lewis – Focuses on the relationship between a high school teacher and her student, a troubled but immensely creative boy. The play addresses themes of creativity, the importance of storytelling, and the impact of education on young lives.
- “Lungs” by Duncan Macmillan – In a series of rapid-fire conversations, a couple debates whether or not to bring a child into the world, considering the moral and environmental ramifications. The play is a heartfelt and humorous examination of partnership, parenthood, and the planet.
- “Red” by John Logan – A compelling portrayal of the artist Mark Rothko at the height of his career, “Red” focuses on the intense relationship between Rothko and his young assistant as they prepare a series of murals for the Four Seasons restaurant. The play delves into the nature of art, the act of creation, and the dynamic tension between commerce and artistry, offering a profound look at what it means to be an artist facing the challenges of keeping one’s work relevant and impactful.
- “The Woman Who Cooked Her Husband” by Debbie Isitt – A dark comedy exploring the consequences of infidelity, ego, and the decay of a marriage. Through the interactions between a husband, his wife, and his mistress, the play offers a sharp, witty look at love, betrayal, and culinary revenge.
- “2 Across” by Jerry Mayer – Set on a San Francisco BART train at 4:30 AM, this romantic comedy explores the unexpected encounter between two strangers, both doing the New York Times crossword puzzle. Their differing approaches to solving it lead to conflict, humor, and an unlikely connection.
- “Building the Wall” by Robert Schenkkan – A dystopian speculation on the future of America’s political landscape, this play presents a conversation between a historian and a prison supervisor incarcerated for carrying out the federal policy that has escalated into horrifying territory. It’s a timely examination of accountability and resistance.
- “The Sound of Waiting” by Mary Anne Butler – An angel and a man who has fled his homeland engage in a powerful dialogue on themes of migration, loss, and the universal search for a place to call home. This poetic play humanizes the statistics of migration, offering a deep reflection on hope, despair, and the human spirit.
- “Blink” by Phil Porter – A quirky and touching love story about two shy individuals who find an unusual way to connect and communicate in a lonely city. The play is a sweet exploration of love in the digital age and the importance of being seen.
- “The Quiet House” by Gareth Farr – Follows the journey of a couple undergoing IVF treatment, providing an intimate look at the challenges of conception and the strain it places on relationships. It’s a heartfelt exploration of the desire for family and the resilience of love under pressure.
- “Love Letters” by A.R. Gurney – A unique narrative that unfolds through the reading of a lifetime’s worth of letters between two characters. This play explores the deep connection and missed opportunities over decades of a complicated but enduring friendship.
- “Going to St. Ives” by Lee Blessing – Centers on the intense meeting between a British eye surgeon and the mother of a ruthless African dictator. The play delves into moral complexities, guilt, and the lengths one will go to for peace and redemption.
- “Guardians” by Peter Morris – A provocative exploration of media manipulation and the ethics of representation, juxtaposing the experiences of a British tabloid editor with those of an American soldier. It’s a sharp critique of the war in Iraq and the role of media in shaping public perception.
- “The Blue Room” by David Hare – An adaptation of Arthur Schnitzler’s “La Ronde,” this play explores a daisy chain of sexual encounters and relationships, focusing on the interconnectedness of human desire. Though it involves multiple characters, its scenes can be presented as individual two-handers, offering a unique structure that examines the transient nature of intimacy.
- “A Walk in the Woods” by Lee Blessing – Set against the backdrop of the Cold War, this play depicts the relationship between two arms negotiators, one American and one Soviet, who meet informally after long, frustrating hours at the bargaining table. It’s a thoughtful exploration of the complexities of diplomacy and the possibility of understanding across ideological divides.
- “Oleanna” by David Mamet – A powerful drama that examines the destructiveness of miscommunication and the power dynamics in a relationship between a university professor and one of his female students. The play is a provocative discussion on political correctness, power, and accusation.
- “The Unexpected Man” by Yasmina Reza, translated by Christopher Hampton – Explores the silent musings and eventually spoken dialogue between a famous author and a fan who recognizes him on a train. Their internal monologues and eventual conversation reveal much about human connection, isolation, and the impact of literature.
- “Flowers for Algernon” by David Rogers, based on the novel by Daniel Keyes – While adaptations may vary, the play often focuses on the poignant interaction between Charlie Gordon, a man with an IQ of 68, and either his teacher, Miss Kinnian, or the doctor responsible for an experimental surgery designed to increase his intelligence. It’s a touching exploration of the ethics of human experimentation and the true meaning of intelligence.
- “The Turn of the Screw” adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher from the Henry James novella – A chilling and sparse adaptation in which an actress and actor play the governess and all other roles, respectively. This psychological thriller about a governess who comes to believe her charges are possessed creates a haunting atmosphere with minimalistic staging.
- “Copenhagen” by Michael Frayn – Focuses on a historical meeting between physicists Niels Bohr and Werner Heisenberg in 1941. The play delves into physics, morality, and the uncertainty of past events, engaging with the personal and professional conflicts between the two men against the backdrop of World War II.
- “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change” by Joe DiPietro and Jimmy Roberts – A musical comedy presented in a series of vignettes connected by the central theme of love and relationships. With just two actors, it covers everything from dating and marriage to the agonies and triumphs of love.
- “The Two-Character Play” by Tennessee Williams – Revolving around a brother and sister, both actors, who find themselves deserted by their troupe, they are compelled to perform an unfinished play. The play within a play blurs the lines between reality and performance, exploring themes of isolation, madness, and the nature of art itself.
- “Murder, Margaret and Me” by Philip Meeks – A play that imagines a meeting between Agatha Christie and Margaret Rutherford, the actress famous for portraying Miss Marple. As they develop an unlikely friendship, secrets are unearthed, and the line between Christie’s plots and Rutherford’s real life blurs.
- Continuing to explore the rich landscape of two-hander plays, here’s a list that further demonstrates the variety and depth these intimate settings can offer, focusing on unique narratives, diverse themes, and the dynamic interplay between two characters:
- “The Sunset Play” by Simon Stephens – In this reflective piece, two strangers meet on a bench facing the setting sun and share their life stories, revealing hidden fears, dreams, and the longing for connection in a disconnected world. Their conversation, filled with moments of poignancy and unexpected humor, delves into themes of mortality, love, and the beauty of transient moments.
- “Hockey Mom, Hockey Dad” by Michael Melski – A romantic comedy set in the stands of a community hockey rink, where two single parents find themselves bonding over the sport their children play. As they navigate the trials of parenting, past relationships, and the possibility of new love, the play humorously and heartwarmingly explores themes of companionship, rivalry, and the social dynamics of small-town life.
- “The Length of a String” by Emma Gibson – Centering on two women from different generations, connected by a family secret, this play alternates between the past and present, exploring themes of identity, heritage, and the invisible threads that connect us to our ancestors. Through their discovery and acceptance of each other’s stories, the characters confront personal and historical truths, weaving a tapestry of memory and forgiveness.
- “Nuts and Bolts” by Debbie Tucker Green – This minimalist drama captures a day in the life of a couple struggling with the monotony of their relationship and the unspoken tensions that threaten to unravel it. Through terse dialogue and moments of silence, the play examines the complexities of communication, love, and the effort required to keep a relationship alive in the face of routine and disillusionment.
- “Static” by Dan Rebellato – In a world increasingly filled with noise and distraction, “Static” brings together two characters who find solace in each other’s company, sharing a deep bond over their love for vinyl records. As they discuss music, life, and their innermost thoughts, the play explores themes of nostalgia, connection, and the ways in which art can bridge the gaps between people.
- “Eurydice” by Sarah Ruhl – A modern retelling of the classic myth from Eurydice’s perspective, focusing on her choice between staying in the underworld with her father or returning to the living world with Orpheus. This deeply moving play explores themes of love, loss, memory, and the power of language, offering a fresh look at a timeless tale.
- “Matchbox Theatre” by Michael Frayn – An innovative collection of short plays designed to be performed by two actors, offering a humorous and insightful commentary on the nature of theatre, the relationship between performer and audience, and the everyday absurdities of modern life. Each piece, with its unique setting and characters, showcases the versatility of the two-hander format.
- “Ashes to Ashes” by Harold Pinter – In this haunting play, a couple engages in a cryptic conversation that gradually reveals their connections to past atrocities and the oppressive weight of history on individual lives. Pinter’s signature use of ambiguous dialogue and pauses creates a tense atmosphere that explores themes of power, guilt, and the inescapability of the past.
- “Tea and Sympathy” by Robert Anderson – Set in a 1950s boarding school, this play addresses themes of masculinity, conformity, and the struggle to accept one’s identity. Through the compassionate interactions between a sensitive student and the wife of a housemaster, it delves into issues of empathy, societal expectations, and the courage it takes to defy norms in search of personal truth.
John W Lowell says
Mr. Larson, I am delighted that THE LETTERS, found a place on your list. I cannot imagine how you became acquainted with it, but I am most gratified. JWL
James Larson says
Thanks John!
scott harris says
I tutor a gifted boy who is in 3rd grade but is a voracious reader (reading all the Harry Potter books). I’m planning to have him read a play with me (2 characters)…any kid friendly suggestions that come to mind?
James Larson says
That’s a good question! I’m unfamiliar with most children’s plays, but I’d check out TheaterWorks USA, they do a lot of that kind of kid friendly work!
Charles says
Thanks for building the list! It’s interesting and helpful. I still haven’t found the play I am after: short title, comedy, 2 old male protagonists, set on a park bench. One of the old guys tells collosal unbelievable tales while the other guy comments on the story. They try to help and protect a young woman who comes by their bench from a cowboy hat wearing bad guy (pimp or drug dealer). Ahh my wife just found it – “I am not Rappaport.”