The Improv Show

Between the major performances of The Outsiders and Amadeus, Moeller Theatre held its annual improv performances on February 14, 15, and 16. Arranged and produced by Mr. Girard and coached by Alex Morris from ComedySportz Cincinnati, two teams of actors provided each night with a unique experience. Most of the actors had no previous experience with improv but went from zero to hero in just ten practices. The teams were led by Nathan Otten and Ben Gill, drawing from a pool of performers including Paul Shaffer, PJ Morman, Audrey Blust, Ben Meiners, Chloe Tudor, Clare Olliges, Quinn Wheeler, Asher Georg, Evan Crabb, Devlin Steele, Charlie Morman, Charlie Meyer, Tommy Bosco, Ian Shannon, and EJ Turnbow.

ComedySportz is a performance where improv games award points to the teams, with face-offs for the audience to determine which team is better. Games such as Freeze Tag, Four Things, and New Choice were well-liked by both the performers and the crowd. While none of the nights sold out, they were all successful and enjoyable. Mr. Girard, Alex, and the actors were all delighted with the outcome. Paul Shaffer said,

“I really enjoyed it. I thought all the shows went great and I had a lot of fun. My favorite game was probably New Choice because of how well it went and how the audience received it.”

Teachers who attended also complimented the performances, even awarding extra credit in some cases. Moeller Theatre hopes to continue the tradition, looking for new leaders next year with the graduation of Ben Gill and Nathan Otten. Improv has helped refresh actors for Amadeus, and everyone is excited about participating in improv again.