French kissing is an art. It’s been perfected in movies, stories, magazines, and photos, but can often be hard to ace when it comes down to that awkward moment before the kiss begins. Eyes open or closed? Head angled to the right or to the left? Lots of tongue or no tongue at all?

This Saturday, The Boston Babydolls, a popular local burlesque ensemble, is giving you a chance to show your stuff in a kissing competition they’re hosting near Harvard Square. The group is hoping to promote the troupe’s new show “French Kiss,” which will be performed at the Oberon on April 25 and April 26 at 8 p.m.

The kissing marathon will begin at 5 p.m. this upcoming Saturday. The location is Winthrop Square, the romantic grassy area right near Peet’s Coffee & Tea and Upstairs on the Square.

The rules of the game are as follows: to compete, you must be at least 18 years old and enter with a partner. Lips must stay connected throughout the duration of the kiss and no sleeping is permitted. The winners will receive VIP tickets to the show as well as gifts from various local shops. All competitors will get a gift for participating.

If you want to compete, but feel like your kissing skills are a bit rusty, here are some tips to consider.

1. Make sure you know and like your partner. Extended kissing with an unknown or disinterested partner can result in unfavorable results.

2. Brush your teeth and shower prior to the event. No one wants to kiss something smelly, especially for long periods of time.

3. Use the bathroom beforehand. Needing to pee, or worse, is not a good feeling to have while locking lips with your partner.

4. Wear lots of Chapstick and lick your lips before going in for the kiss. Chapped and dry lips are a no for good, soft kissing.

5. Finally, close your eyes, go slow, and remember to breathe.

Both competitors and observers are encouraged to attend the event. It promises to be a steamy, exciting few hours and should be an excellent way to fire up Saturday night.

Photo courtesy of KoS/Wikimedia Commons.