Cage Match

The Cage Match is not an Improv Format, but rather a show concept, involving a competition between long-form improv troupes. It was developed by Kevin Mullaney, and the idea is the following:

• 2 teams compete for the audience`s vote
• each team gets 25 minutes to perform. A timer is provided on-stage
• each team can call one 30 seconds time-out
• each team needs to bring a song/CD/cassette for their `entry` - for teams that don`t bring their own song something lame will be played
• each member of the audience gets one ballot as they enter the theater
• in order to be allowed to vote, the audience member must see both teams perform
• the performers are not allowed to vote; anyone else present is
• the host is responsible for counting the votes. Team with the most votes wins and returns next time (against another team). Host decides who is the winner in case of a tie.
• decisions of the host are final. The host can make up rules and dish out punishments at his sole discretion.
• stacking the audience is not only allowed, but encouraged
• apart from the above, anything goes, as long as it`s long form improv.

The `official` rules can be found on www.cage-match.com/rules.php.