Sadly I’m unable to attend the Del Close Marathon this year, but I thought I’d write-up a list of tips garnered from my many years of DCM experience.

1. Stand in line as much as you can. 
The best shows at DCM aren’t happening on stage, they’re happening on the sidewalks outside the theatre. Stay out there as long as possible.

2. Go to the party space, stand by the keg and make everyone who tries to get a drink tell you their definition of Game.
The party space keg is the best place to have long, heated discussions about improv theory.

3. Pick a favorite city and tell everyone you meet you think that city is the best.
All improv from a certain city is the same. And only one city can be the best. 

4. Do NOT see Convoy.
This three-man group represents everything that’s wrong with ironic, uncommitted, lowbrow improv.

5. Eat plenty of beef stew.
The Gardenia Deli on 8th Avenue serves delicious 2-3 day old stew that will keep your body busy while you crouch on the floor behind a pole to listen to an improv show.

6. Every time you see Will Hines, give him a long hug. 
Will Hines thrives on close, intimate physical contact. Especially on hot days. 

7. Be real judgy.
DCM shows are always the very best performance a group does all year. So if you think your group is better than the group you’re watching, you’re definitely right. 

8. Jump on stage with a musical improv group.
Musical improv requires audience participation! Make sure to sing and dance on stage with at least one this weekend. WARNING: If you’re planning to perform with Baby Wants Candy, you’ll need to wear khakis.

9. Be late to your workshop.
Skip the warm-ups and initial instructions from the teacher.  Just show up twenty minutes late and do a lot of walk-ons so the teacher sees how good you are.

10. Have fun!
Here’s a little secret: The UCB Theatre can only afford all-expenses paid trips to the DCM for 100 groups. So if you had to pay your own way, don’t let it ruin your weekend. (But do ask everyone else if they got paid. The first person who figures out all 100 groups gets a free trip next year.)