Following her smashing Laugh Factory stage debut on Thursday, 8/21 (LA Comic-Con-branded “Nerd Night Out” with Tiffany Haddish!), animator/educator/autism advocate/performer Dani Bowman- Netflix’s LOVE ON THE SPECTRUM breakout star –  is among the fancy comedian line-up for our EXTRAORDINARY Fundraiser! She is a natural. We are grateful that beloved toy legend and Laugh Factory President David Fuhrer sees the potential in her and in our other neurodivergent colleagues. The whole cast is sure to sparkle on that iconic West Hollywood stage!

On Sunday, September 7, at 1:30 p.m., the world-famous, Sunset Boulevard-ensconced Laugh Factory comedy club rolls out the red carpet for an extraordinary afternoon of humor, inspiration, and celebration! The Autism In Entertainment Workgroup proudly presents a star-studded fundraiser that offers an eclectic program of stand-up comedians alongside groundbreaking, live musical and improv performances, plus a special documentary short film premiere.

Headlining the comedy showcase are stand-up sensations Willie Hunter, Josh Meyrowitz, Nic Novicki, Alice Payne, and Jeremiah Watkins. All bring quirky perspectives that promise to leave audiences both tickled and thought-provoked.

Adding to this already exhilarating lineup, reality show fan-favorite Dani Bowman – known for her 3+ season series-regular status on Netflix’s Emmy® award-winning *LOVE ON THE SPECTRUM* and acclaimed work as an animator with her own studio/school Danimation (an official AIE educational partner) – reprises her recent Laugh Factory ‘90s animation trivia spectacle. Bowman’s unique blend of wit and creativity injects an electrifying energy guaranteed to encourage audience participation.

The event also marks the world premiere of EXTRAORDINARY CHARACTER, a captivating mini-documentary directed by Alex Astrella. This non-fiction film highlights powerful stories from neurodivergent individuals and spotlights their incredible talents and paths to achievement.

Staged acts from talented trainees of AIE Educational Partners Jazz Hands for Autism, The Miracle Project, Performing Arts Studio West, Spectrum Laboratory, and Yes I Can Unity Through Music & Educationare sure to be unforgettable. Also expect surprise activations that add an element of unfettered joy!

Autism in Entertainment Founder and Workgroup Chair Judi Uttal is beyond excited about the upcoming special evening. “There will be neurodivergent individuals involved in every aspect of this production. We practice what we preach! Employment is our main goal, and it is a pleasure to watch our members shine.”

Laugh Factory President David Fuhrer echoes Uttal’s effervescence. “We welcome this opportunity to give a platform to performing artists on the autism spectrum. We are proud of our partnership with AIE and admire the work they do.” 
More than a matinee, this fundraiser is a call to action. Every purchased ticket fuels Autism In Entertainment’s mission to open doors for autistic talent in the entertainment industry and foster a more inclusive and welcoming community.

Reserve your seats now! Don’t miss your chance to be part of the fourth Autism in Entertainment x Laugh Factory neurodivergent event in which every chuckle counts toward changing lives.

For tickets and information, visit https://lnkd.in/grHtrEug

To make a tax-deductible donation to Autism In Entertainment via parent non-profit organization Orange County Asperger’s Support Group (OCASG), visit https://buy.stripe.com/7sY8wQeX93xO1VOffG2B201

About Autism In Entertainment

Formed in 2022, Autism In Entertainment (AIE) is an employment initiative of The Orange County Asperger’s Support Group (OCASG), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on improving the lives of teens and adults on the autism spectrum through education, support, and social activities. AIE seeks to expand employment and inclusion within the entertainment industry for autistic individuals trained in entertainment-related fields. 

In April 2024, AIE hosted the world’s first Autism In Entertainment Conference, drawing over 400 attendees and bringing together work-ready autistic talent with employers and educators to network and create pathways to employment. Since the Conference, AIE continues to host monthly webinars to educate members on careers in entertainment and increase their employment readiness and opportunities. Earlier this year, AIE launched its innovative Creator Community initiative, quarterly meetings – both in-person and virtual – designed to connect creative neurodiverse individuals to collaborate and take the reins of their storytelling journeys. 

In its short existence, AIE, in partnership with job development partner, Zavikon, has already enabled members to secure meaningful internships and employment at entertainment companies, including major studios like Disney, NBC Universal, and DreamWorks, and voice talent to be cast in exciting animated series through representation by Sandstone Artists. 

For more information on AIE, visit autisminentertainment.org.