The show is scheduled for this Friday, April 10 at 7:30 in the W.D. Powell Theatre. It sold out more rapidly than any Union theater production before it, according to team co-leader Garyn McIntyre, sophomore theater and French double major. It is also the first time one of Union’s presidents has participated in an improvisation show.
“I was really surprised it sold out that quickly,” McIntyre said.
He and co- leader Elizabel Sartin, junior theater major, attributed part of the high demand for tickets to strategic marketing emphasizing Oliver’s involvement in the show.
Sarah Cline, sophomore psychology major and secretary of Blank Slate Improv and David Parks, junior digital media communications major, designed custom posters of the team posing with Oliver.
“Talking about the show, taking pictures for publicity, rehearsals – it has all been fun,” Oliver said. “I am excited about the chance to perform and give it my best; I hope it is entertaining. Working with the team has been great. They are encouraging and energetic and creative and full of joy.”
McIntyre and Sartin asked Oliver to work with them at the beginning of the year. They said the president quickly warmed to the idea.
“He was really excited about it and supportive and he hadn’t even seen a show yet, so that was quite the leap of faith,” Sartin said.
This isn’t Oliver’s first foray into the dramatic arts. According to Sartin, he was part of a production of Pride and Prejudice one year at his previous school, East Texas Baptist University. Although it will be his first time trying improvisation, he rehearsed with the team Tuesday night and will rehearse again Thursday night.
“I’m excited to see his sense of humor,” McIntyre said.
Oliver said his sense of humor, or perhaps lack thereof, is the only aspect of the show he is nervous about.
“I’m nervous about not being funny,” he said. “I have said to people that I think some people want tickets to the show in case it may be a train wreck. I guess failure could be funny too.”
Sartin said she is confident Oliver will perform well.
“I’m not worried, I think he will be a great addition to the team,” she said. “I just hope he enjoys its and isn’t stressed out.”
Nick Hancock, junior history major, said he wanted a ticket to the show to see Oliver in a role other than university president.
“Dub is great,” Hancock said. “I’m excited for the show and I want to see him in a different element.”
Due to the show’s high demand, ten tickets will be sold at the door. Jared Dauenhauer, assistant director of student leadership and engagement, will host the last show of the year May 2.
