LaughAbility comedy show returns to Halifax

Laughabitliy is a funny fundraiser that supports adults with intellectual disabilities.

The annual comedy fundraiser LaughAbility, hosted by the Dartmouth Adult Services Centre will take place Thursday night.

Dartmouth Adult Services Centre (DASC) supports and empowers individuals with intellectual disabilities. LaughAbility is their largest fundraising event and started four years ago.

“Literally everyday people will come by my office and share with me their jokes, and we thought why don’t we extend this to the wider community and give people the opportunity to share their comedic styles with a wider audience,” says Henk van Leeuwen, DASC executive director.

The team at DASC refers to the event as a feel-good fundraiser, as every laugh supports their programs for persons with intellectual disabilities.

“We have two comedians who are joining us, Ryan Niemiller, has a physical disability and he has been doing standup for a couple of years, and Jose Piranian incorporates his stutter and how he has overcome his stuttering in a comedian act. Its people making jokes and referencing their own abilities or disabilities, but not making fun of it,” adds van Leeuwen.

The opening set is from the crew at DASC. The event allowed their participants to be seen, heard and shared their talents and it means so much to them.

“I always loved jokes since day one when I first came here and everyone just says to me why do you have so much pizazz and I say it’s just my nature,” says Chelsea Leroy, DASC participant and performer at LaughAbility.

Chelsea Leroy has been a participant at DASC for over a decade and it’s a special place to her. This year she is excited to flex her sense of humour on the stage at LaughAbility.

“I love the category of celebrities, and I also have a few about Donald Trump and Will Smith,” adds Leroy.

The event kicks off at 7 p.m. and they are expecting a turnout of around 250 people.

“One of the favourite things that I love about this event is when the video of our participants telling jokes gets played at the event it’s everyone’s unique style, voice being heard and appreciated for them,” says van Leeuwen.

There are currently still a few tickets available, people can purchase them on their website.

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