Autism in Entertainment Benefit at The Upstairs Comedy Club at Upstairs Comedy Club Los Angeles

Autism in Entertainment (AIE), an organization dedicated to advancing employment opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum, throws a comedy and variety benefit on Sunday, March 29 at The Upstairs Comedy Club in downtown Los Angeles. The event hosts Craig Robinson(THE OFFICE), Stephnie Weir (MADtv), and Jeremiah Watkins (DC SUPER HERO GIRLS) alongside performances from a roster ofneurodivergent and neurotypical artists. The 2026 Comedy Fundraiser begins at 3:00 p.m. within the recently opened Upstairs Comedy Club.

What’s in Store?  

 Music (3:00 PM)  

Emerging performers from partner organizations -including Spectrum Laboratory, Jazz Hands for Autism, Yes I Can: Unity Through Music & Education, Performing Arts Studio West, and The Miracle Project- showcase music and other forms of creative interpretation.

 Comedy (4:30 PM)  

It’s a V.I.P. stand-up line-up! Craig Robinson (of THE OFFICE and HOT TUB TIME MACHINE franchisefame)headlines. Additionally, the who’s-who of humor includes emcee Joshua Meyrowitz (Comedy Central’s ROAST BATTLE) and Vargus Mason, founder of Laff Philanthropy, who struts his stuff behind the scenes as production supervisor. Mason says, “I love AIE's commitment to finding a place for our fellow entertainers. There's room for all of us at the table, and our laughter together will help just that.”

Further fab fun-makers are Stephnie Weir (MADtv), Joy Moore, Monique Marvez, Hal Sparks, and Jeremiah Watkins, thereby framing this production as an authentically uplifting afternoon.  With fan-favorite comedians gathering for an uproarious time, audiences are sure to ride the natural high all the way home.

Judi Uttal, Founder of Autism in Entertainment and Work Group Chair, says, “We’re proud to unite such talented and compassionate performers in showing how creativity, inclusion, and opportunity can transform lives. Proceeds from the event will directly support efforts to increase employment opportunities for autistic professionals.”

Sam Sleiman, CEO and Founder of the Upstairs Comedy Club and Tarik Heitman, Founding Partner, agree. “This is exactly the kind of show we love: an incredible lineup, a great audience, and a meaningful purpose behind it all. We’re excited to host an afternoon that celebrates talent, inclusion, and the power of live comedy.”

Marlene Sharp, Producer, Sandstone Artists Neurodivergent Talent Manager, and Co-Lead of the Television Academy’s Disability, Accessibility and Neurodiverse Affinity Group,proclaims, “This isn't just another revenue generator; it's an extravaganza of community, inclusivity, and unbridled joy. In short, it is a chance to combine heart and hilarity into one roof-raising and fundraising afternoon. It’s gonna be a hoot!”

Event details:  

- When: Sunday, March 29  

- Time: 3:00 p.m. (Doors open at 2:15 p.m.)  

- Where: Upstairs Comedy Club, 1415 S. Los Angeles Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015  

- Parking: $8 at 1501 S. Los Angeles Street 

- Tickets: https://www.tixr.com/groups/theupstairsla/events/autism-in-entertainment-178650

Related News

In related news, this event also marks the first activation ofAutism Society Orange County (ASOC) (formerly The Orange County Asperger’s Support Group) since becoming an official affiliate of the Autism Society of America, a national organization with a network of nearly 70 affiliates across the United States. Autism Society Los Angeles boards the celebration as a community partner.

Autism in Entertainment is proud to collaborate with Exceptional Minds in structuring an animation and visual effects mentorship program for neurodivergent talent, and connecting early-career participants with veteran industry advisors, including Mike Young (Kabillion), Angela Lepito (DreamWorks), Pramita Mukherjee (DreamWorks), Pradipto Sengupta (DreamWorks), Hitoshi Inoue, Jefferson Jay (The Good Vibe), and Walter Santucci (Evil Catland).