5 Questions with Matt Holmes

of improv group Rare Birds Show

 Interview. Philly Improv Theater has quite the busy weekend lined up. In addition to self-proclaimed psychotherapist Dr. Lisa Levy stopping by, there are cagematch competitions, shows inspired by cubicle life, and both long- and short-form antics. We caught up with Rare Bird Show’s Matt Holmes, who is performing tonight with his fearless side project, m@& (pronounced “Matt and”).

The phrase “rare birds” is already used by two Philly bands. What’s your claim to it?
Luckily, ours is slightly different — it’s  Rare Birds Show — and we’re the only Rare Birds in improv.

Do you ever reject an audience suggestion?
If it’s crude or dirty or too funny on its own — sometimes you can’t do anything with these.

A random audience member stars with you in m@&. Anyone can do this?
Well, we’ll see. Hopefully it’ll be a challenge that provides a good product.

Are comedians fierce enough to cagematch?
Angry People Building Things are eight-time returning champs. They put on a great show and are really funny, not just angry.

Anyone you’re afraid to get in the cage with?
There are a lot of great groups in Philly now, but that’s good — it keeps you wanting to be better and on top of the heap.

Philly Improv Theater
Tonight, 8, Shubin Theater, 407 Bainbridge St., $5
www.phillyimprovtheater.com