Top 21 Quotes & Sayings by Del Close

Explore popular quotes and sayings by an American actor Del Close.

Last updated on April 22, 2025.

Del Close was an American actor, writer, and teacher who coached many of the best-known comedians and comic actors of the late twentieth century. In addition to an acting career in television and film, he was one of the influences on modern improvisational theater. Close is co-founder of the iO, or iO Chicago,.

American - Actor | March 9, 1934 - March 4, 1999

Source: Wikipedia

No one else has performed in a play after they've died, and I want to be the first person to do it.

Del Close

It's a grim business, this being funny. Every time you come up with a strong, satiric idea, the world tops it.

Del Close

There is something irresistibly funny about a funeral. More basically, I think the point is that beyond the deepest tragedy, there is laughter. Even in the midst of tragedy, there is always the possibility for it.

Del Close

The world is a slightly better place for having improvisation in it than it was before. There's something about it that says something positive about the human spirit, that a bunch of people can get together and by following a few simple traffic rules can create art and can entertain an audience and can thrill and exalt each other.

Del Close

The kind of improv that I'm particularly addicted to is the kind that... aims at creating a momentary, fragmentary experience that has a totality to it. It's kind of like fireworks. It's the more ephemeral of art forms - once it's gone, it's gone, baby.

Del Close

No scene is ever about the words being spoken.

Del Close

I'm tired of being the funniest person in the room.

Del Close