The Comedians with Disabilities Act is a fabulous collection of comedians who have disabilities, both seen and unseen, and bring forth the humor they find in their experiences. The show is the brainchild of comedian Michael O’Connell, who started the group in 2010, and was later joined by Steve Danner and Nina G, not long after. In 2016, O’Connell sadly passed away - but the show he created lives on, spotlighting a variety of Disabled and outrageously funny comedians.
Going on its fourteenth year, the Comedians with Disabilities Act Tours the country via in person shows and Zoom. Each show is tailored to the audiences they perform to. The Comedians with Disabilities Act brings laughter and Disability awareness/celebration to colleges, corporations, fundraisers and conferences. The core of the group includes:
Nina G is a comedian and also a college and corporate speaker and author of three books. Her memoir, Stutterer Interrupted: The Comedian Who Almost Didn’t Happen, was released to critical acclaim in 2019 and is about realizing her lifelong comedy dream while overcoming internalized stigma. In February 2022, she launched her new book co-authored by OJ Patterson, Bay Area Stand-Up Comedy: A Humorous History. Nina has performed all over the United States and appeared on many daytime TV talk shows, NPR broadcasts, and podcasts.
Steve Danner’s comedy career began as an audience member at a comedy club. That night, the comedian on stage started riffing with him and after Danner showcased his own riffing skills, the comic approached Danner after the show and suggested he give comedy a try. He soon began a career as a comedian and producer and has opened for many headliners such as Last Comic Standing Winner Felipe Esparza.
Comedian Mean Dave has opened for many notable comedians like Josh Blue, Big Jay Oakerson, and Jay Mohr, and has performed at colleges across the US. Mean Dave’s role in the Comedians with Disabilities Act helps to bring his critical message about addiction and disabilities to audiences around the world.
Michael Beers was the winner of the Norman G. Brooks Comedy Competition at the Hollywood Improv in 2005. Michael was also the previous winner of Funny Fest (Calgary Comedy Festival) and has opened for comedians like Gilbert Gottfried. He is also a sought after keynote speaker on topics like humor, disability advocacy, education and community building.
