Directing Guests to John Mulaney at DPAC

Blog by Corra Balding

The other night, I had the wonderful experience of being one of the DPAC Ambassadors at John Mulaney's show.

I was given the privilege of being an American Tobacco Campus (ATC) attendant, where I had the opportunity to greet everyone as they arrived at the ATC and provide directions as needed. Most people knew where DPAC was; however, it was fun to see how excited everyone was to see John Mulaney. Some people went all out, dressing up in fancy outfits, and I saw a few people had on merch. It was a beautiful night outside, and so being an ATC attendant truly was an amazing experience. 

One of the DPAC Wayfinders I got to speak with had been volunteering at DPAC for a couple of years now. She told me about how she used to work in the music industry in Los Angeles, and that was why musicals were some of her favorite shows to see (she is most excited for Hell's Kitchen).

We spoke about the different paths people can take to stay connected and inside the entertainment industry, and how volunteering at DPAC has allowed her to see all the different kinds of shows. While speaking, we found common ground in our love for music and how much we both miss traveling. She made it clear to me that there is a space for anyone in the theater and the entertainment industry as long as you look for it!

Throughout the night, it was wonderful to see how excited everyone was for the show. Walking back to the theater and sitting down in my chair, the energy in the room was electric. Right as I was sitting down, I got to meet another lovely volunteer who had been working at DPAC for 16 years!!! She told me that working at DPAC had been one of her favorite experiences, and we talked about how inviting the theater community is. Hopefully, I can someday work alongside her. 

The rest of the night was a blast! John Mulaney and his openers were hilarious. I had never been to a comedy show before, and it was delightful. Not many times are you able to experience the audience feeling like a friend group in a way, but due to the nature of the show, everyone was feeding off of the other person's energy, not just the comedian. There were times I was crying from how much I was laughing. Leaving the theater, I spoke with my fellow Ambassadors about their favorite jokes. I am grateful to have met these ATC attendants and for the experience of seeing the excitement of guests as they head toward the theater!