FROM Building A TEAM tO DIRECTING THEIR show
RHYME & PUNISHMiNT
True to his passions, Oliver wanted to find a team and create another musical improv show that pushed the limits. From the stylings of “Cats” and “A Chorus Line” to “Heathers” and even “Wicked”, the Musical Improv team Rhyme & Punishmint mastered the art of creating feature-length shows in the various styles of Broadway's favorite musicals. After the genre based on an already established musical is chosen by the audience at the top of the show, this highly talented cast then creates a full Broadway musical's worth of scenes, songs and show stoppers. With adept skill in musical stylings from jazz to classical to rock, this ensemble ensures Tony award winning moments for every taste week after week. Under Oliver’s direction the team would be the official selection of The Phoenix Improv Fest, San Diego Improv Festival, Chicago Improv Festival, Chicago Musical Improv Festival.
Turning that group into a full show
With the Indy team’s shows receiving so much critical acclaim, Oliver developed a new show for the cast. 3 BLOCKS FROM BROADWAY would be a more polished form of the teams signature style.
Instead of having a pre-selected form/genre the audience would be invited up on stage to spin a wheel with 4 show forms on it. This would mean that the cast and band would have to be prepared for all 4 show’s forms. Once the form was chosen the team would run to their dressing rooms to put on that corresponding show’s costume while the opening act performed.
This highly structured interactive show was an instant hit at the Annoyance Theater in Chicago and the scheduled run was extended 3 times.
“After working with Oliver on the FRIENDS MUSICAL I knew to pick up the phone when he calls. I have never had a Director/Producer that could do what Oliver did with Rhyme & Punishmint. He built a perfectly balanced ensemble that from the moment we stepped on stage felt like something special. He genuinely challenged us with intricate forms and show mechanics. He elevated what was a simple improv show into something more. It truly was the perfect storm of talents and fun”
Scott Allen Curry - Ensemble Member