SUBMITTED BY ARTSPRING
Author, comedian, actor and TEDx speaker Michael McCreary has a lot in the works: a play, a book, a documentary and even getting his driver’s licence. Now, he’s adding a comedy tour to the list. On Friday, Oct. 24, McCreary is launching his B.C. run of Funny, You Don’t Look Autistic at ArtSpring, as part of the ArtSpring Presents series.
Green Thumb Theatre, the show’s producer, prefaces its description with a piece of advice: “Whatever you think you know about autism, think again.”
Named after McCreary’s hit memoir, Funny, You Don’t Look Autistic is a masterclass in funnelling lived experience into razor-sharp comedy. He tackles the challenges and misconceptions of being neurodivergent in a neurotypical world with a signature deadpan delivery and heartfelt storytelling. By challenging the audience’s expectation of what autism “looks” like, McCreary delivers an insightful and hilarious lesson in dismantling preconceptions. He highlights the complex, nuanced and often joyful reality of life on the spectrum and empowers those who feel misunderstood. This is more than just stand-up; it’s officially described as “part stand-up, part storytelling, and all heart.”
Though only 28, McCreary has been in the comedy game for well over a decade, having first caught the stage bug at age 13. Since then, he has performed and given keynote addresses in every Canadian province and across the U.S., and has been featured on both The National and CBC Radio’s Laugh Out Loud!. He also gives life to neurodivergent characters on the screen. McCreary played Eggs in the show Astrid & Lilly Save the World and Chris in Ginny & Georgia, and consulted for the show Ransom to ensure the authenticity of an autistic character.
Green Thumb Theatre is a Vancouver-based theatre company known for producing shows that hit home for children, youth and young adults. Green Thumb spotlights social issues that affect young people and provides “theatre that celebrates the language and stories of today’s generation and culture to stimulate empathy, debate and critical thinking.”
This powerful performance has garnered critical praise for its honesty and humour. Whether you are on the spectrum, know someone who is, or are simply looking for a comedy show with substance, McCreary delivers an unforgettable experience.
The show, which begins at 7:30 p.m., is appropriate for all ages.
For tickets, visit purchase.artspring.ca or the ArtSpring box office.