In recognition of Autism Awareness Month (April), the Comox Valley Child Development Association (CVCDA) will be hosting a performance by AspieComic, Michael McCreary.
The fundraising event takes place Friday, April 26 at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 in the Stan Hagen Theatre at North Island College, 2300 Ryan Rd.
His presentation of Does This Make My Asperger’s Look Big? touches on many topics as they are experienced by someone on the autism spectrum who also struggles with anxiety: being socially awkward, relationships and dating, relationships with family, living independently, high school, autism, parents, getting a job, getting your driver’s license and remarks on the history of autism.
McCreary has combined his love of comedy and his obsession with Hollywood movies, and trained under David Granirer, founder of Stand Up for Mental Health, to create this act. Attendees will view the world through his eyes as he takes you on a comical journey through the lighter side of Asperger’s Syndrome.
McCreary, 22, was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome at the age of five. At 13, in an act of self-preservation, combined with the desire for constant attention and the inability to stop talking, stand-up comedy seemed inevitable.
In the past seven years, he has performed stand-up shows, keynote addresses and panel presentations in every province in Canada and across the United States. You may have seen him featured on The National or may have heard him on CBC Radio’s Laugh Out Loud and q. He’s hosted videos explaining autism, delivered a TEDx Talk, consulted on the TV show “Ransom” to ensure the authenticity of a character with autism, and done a cross-Canada tour hitting every province performing shows and interviewing families to find the positive ways people are dealing with life on the spectrum.
Most recently, McCreary has delved into the world of writing and authored his first book. Released this past March, Funny, You Don’t Look Autistic (Annick Press) is a unique and hilarious #OwnVoices memoir breaking down what it’s like to live with autism for readers on and off the spectrum. In partnership with Laughing Oyster Bookshop, copies of the book will be available to purchase at the event with partial proceeds coming back to the CVCDA.
To learn more about McCreary, visit https://www.aspiecomic.com
Event tickets are $20, available online or at the CVCDA’s main reception, 237 3rd St. in Courtenay.
All proceeds will go towards the CVCDA.
Visit www.CVCDA.ca or phone 250-338-4288 for event tickets and information.