Whew. It’s over, and I can’t wait to go back.
First, the details of Philly’s incredible comeback victory over Chicago. After a less-than-stellar round of Elimination Rap, our team forged an incredible round of Sing-It, complete with Alexis’ Grandma sticking her sexy tongue in my face to close out the final song. Coupled with perhaps the greatest game of Bedtime Story I’ve ever been a part of (including TWO eager audience volunteers), Philly pulled out the dramatic 15-10 victory.
After sharing a delicious meal with our new friends from Chicago, we ventured to Jumer’s Rock Island Casino. The atmosphere was decidedly old-school. Or let’s just say old. It smelled funny. However, $1 roulette minimums could not keep us away. Two hours later and $80 lighter, I returned to the hotel vaguely happy.
The rest of the weekend was a blur of memories. More board games. An awards ceremony where we received a 15-year plaque, and Dave gave a great speech. A superb championship match where Quad Cities grinded out a win vs. Dick Chudnow and Milwaukee’s Finest. There is nothing funnier than a 7 foot 350 pound man singing a ballad and strumming a guitar. And of course, the all-nighter we pulled before travelling home, complete with stunning dance party.
I can honestly say this was a great week. It made me think about how lucky we all are, to be “in-the-know” about improv and its magical, mystical, recuperative, restorative powers. To be a part of this community, both here in Philly (WOOT!) and around the world (Manchester, word!). We are the laughers, the healers, the makers of dreams and blurring agents of reality.
Myles Nye from LA said it best, in describing the events of the week: “Imagine moving to a village where no one gets tired of playing games. You can’t live there forever, but the time you do spend there is priceless.”
Next year, the village is Portland. And I can’t wait.
:0
Jason
Posted by Matt Nelson 
