Del Close Marathon

Overview

The Del Close Marathon (DCM) is one of the most prominent improv events in the United States - a multi-day, nonstop improv marathon produced by the Upright Citizens Brigade. Named after legendary improv teacher Del Close, the marathon was founded in 1999 by UCB co-founders Amy Poehler, Matt Besser, Ian Roberts, and Matt Walsh following Close's death. The format features roughly 56 hours of continuous improv across multiple stages and venues.

DCM ran annually in New York City from 1999 to 2018, moved to Los Angeles for its 21st edition in 2019, then went on hiatus during the COVID era and UCB closures. With UCB NYC's reopening at 242 East 14th Street in September 2024, DCM22 marks the marathon's return to New York. This edition also expands beyond pure improv for the first time, welcoming stand-up, podcasts, sketch comedy, and alternative programming alongside the traditional improv lineup.

Headliners

DCM22 features Bigger! w/ Brennan Lee Mulligan and Izzy Roland, Rory Scovel, Yeti, Improv4humans with Matt Besser, The Big Team, Big Grande, Dinosaur w/ Paul Scheer, Astronomy Club, Adam Conover & Friends, the 10th Anniversary of Asian AF, and several all-star ASSSSCAT ensembles including an all-black ASSSSCAT. Pre-marathon headliner showcases take place at Theater for the New City and UCBNY.

Submissions

Submissions for DCM22 opened February 2 and closed February 28, 2026. Categories included improv teams, improv show formats, late-night bit show pitches, and non-improv/alternative programming. Submission fee was $15 ($5 for late-night bit shows), with waivers available. Current Harold teams on both coasts were contacted directly.

Sources

• UCB Comedy - DCM22
• UCB Comedy - DCM22 Submissions
• LAist - UCB Moved Its 55-Hour Improv Marathon to LA
• IRC Improv Wiki - Del Close Marathon
• Flaunt - UCB Del Close Marathon