Phil's Last Olio

Olio is a show Phil has produced for the past year and some change, first at the Upstairs Gallery then at the Annoyance. Each Olio contains 4 to 5 original 5 minute plays written and rehearsed the week proceeding the show, after the plays all the characters do an improv set. It has been one of my favorite shows to see and be in.

The show has been a great opportunity and inspiration for people to write and act, two things people in the improv community rarely do but can actually do rather well. It's always an eclectic mix of genres and perspectives. Risks are always taken and the show, week to week, is exciting and fresh.

Last night was Phil's last before he moves to NYC. It was a fun one. Danny's play with Eleanor, Jo, and Sarah as identical, monotone, working-men ordering food in a cafeteria was especially hilarious and bizarre. Phil created a show that offered not only a lot of opportunity but variety too. A show where many people could get involved and experiment. Shows like that, and more importantly people like Phil, are in short supply.