2022 – 2023 Long-Term Problem Synopses

Problem 1: Pirates and the Treasure
Divisions I, II, III & IV
Ahoy OMers! In this problem, a group of pirates sail their “ship” to reclaim stolen treasure and return it to the Queen. The pirates will battle an original sea monster that guards the treasure. The performance will also include a pirate captain, flag, and song.

Problem 2: Because iCan
Divisions I, II, III & IV                                      
Some contraptions and devices seem to make tasks much more complicated–and in this problem, that’s a good thing! Teams will create a device that will perform tasks including raising a flag and ringing a bell simply because they can. Once the device starts, it will complete the series of tasks without team assistance. The setting will be a team-created laboratory, and the performance will include an inventor character and a costume that changes its appearance.

Problem 3: Classics… The Walls of Troy
Divisions I, II, III & IV
OMers know there is more than one way to get past any type ofbarrier–and, in this problem, they will prove it! Ancient Greek Poet Homer created The Iliad, which tells the story of Achilles and the Trojan War. Now, OM teams will put their spin on the popular concept of the “Trojan Horse” by creating one of their own. It will be used to get past a wall in a performance that also includes a character from The Iliad, an original Greek Chorus, and an unusual statue.

Problem 4: Where’s the Structure?
Divisions I, II, III & IV
In this problem, teams will have audiences wondering, “Where’s the structure?” Teams will design and build a structure made of only balsa wood and glue that balances and holds as much weight as possible. It will have three parts and each part will be hidden in plain sight. During the performance the team will reveal each part and assemble them into a final structure for testing. The performance will also include a poem about searching for something special.

Problem 5: The Most Dramatic Problem Ever!!!             Sponsored by ARM & HAMMER™
Divisions I, II, III & IV
OMG! Can you believe that happened? Teams will create a humorous performance about a dramatic character that overreacts to common events. The performance will showcase different theatrical styles as the character overreacts. However, in one situation their reaction is justified, but they are ignored. The performance will also include something that grows and a costume that represents two characters.

Primary: Dinos on Parade!
Grades K-2
What better way to celebrate a new discovery than with a parade? Teams will create a performance all about dinosaurs. There will be a paleontologist character that discovers a “new” dinosaur that is invented by the team, an artistic representation of an already discovered dinosaur, and another portrayed by a team member in costume. These will all be presented in a fun parade!