This is the fourth in a series of blog posts about each this weekend’s marathoners. Don’t know what the marathon is? Find out here!
Mike D’Alonzo is one of the original members of Austin Theatresports, the first troupe to inhabit The Hideout. He has been involved in the world of sketch and improv comedy since 1989, having performed live and on television all over the world. Mike was an Executive Producer of Out of Bounds for three years, was a founding member of The Knuckleball Now and Gravy, and is a current member of Los Angeles Theatresports. He is thrilled to perform in his first Marathon with such a talented, warm, and friendly group of compatriots, and looks forward to hour 37.
Why did you want to be involved in the marathon?
I really wanted to push myself and see if I could do it. Also, I wanted to be able to play in all of these formats with all of these amazing people. It’s honestly a vacation for me, and I’ve been looking forward to it for months.
What excites you most about doing the marathon?
The idea of just letting go and seeing how my brain will work with even fewer filters than normal, and giving in to the experience and trusting the people I’m in it with.
What scares you most about doing the marathon?
Sleep deprivation. Without a doubt. Scares the crap out of me. I’ve never been awake more than about 30 hours at a time.
Which format are you most excited about?
So many! I can’t wait to do some of the genre formats, like Dickens and Golden, and the Tech Nightmare. But I’m honestly looking forward most to the Cupholders-Fakespeare-Final show trifecta.
What’s the longest you’ve ever stayed awake?
30 hours.
What’s your dumb comfort item you’ll be bringing with you?
I haven’t decided yet. I’m leaning toward making some fashion statements onstage that will be the sort of dumb comfort I’m looking for.
What’s your pump up song?
I have a couple. “Lay Your Hands on Me” by Peter Gabriel is my all-time go to. I’m also surprisingly fond of “Turn Down For What.”