On March 22nd, the Cobblestone Arts Center will host its first-ever "Laugh Out Loud" comedy event, promising an evening filled with uproarious laughter and heartwarming moments. Headlining the event is the acclaimed comedian Dan Kulp, with special guest Dan Viola and emcee Greg VanAlstine adding to the lineup.
For Dan Kulp, this performance holds a special significance beyond just entertainment. Cobblestone Arts Center isn't merely a venue; it's an extension of his family life. His daughter, Danielle, is enrolled in the Celebrating the Arts Day Program at Cobblestone, making this event a deeply personal experience.
"Danielle loves people and she loves being active and doing fun things. She also loves to help others and to do tasks," Kulp shares. "In all honesty, when we failed to find a work program for her, we turned to Cobblestone because it just seemed to fit her personality. So far it has been a wonderful place for her to participate in all sorts of activities that keep her engaged with the community, active and amongst friends."
As a father of five children, three of whom have special needs—including Down's Syndrome and Autism, Alfi's Syndrome, and Spina Bifida—Kulp brings a unique perspective to his comedy. Moreover, he hails from a family where Down's Syndrome is not uncommon; he has four siblings, three of whom were adopted and have Down's Syndrome.
"This experience has been incredibly rewarding for me," Kulp reflects. "The most rewarding thing for me is simply being able to have them as part of my life and me being able to be a part of theirs. Not many people understand the joy associated with children who have special needs and it is an honor to live life with them."
This personal connection to disabilities and the value of life shapes Kulp's comedic style and content. His experiences as a parent and sibling provide a rich tapestry of stories and insights that resonate deeply with audiences. Through laughter, Kulp navigates the challenges, joys, and idiosyncrasies of family life, offering a refreshing perspective on what it means to embrace diversity and celebrate individuality.
"I always hope the audience takes away two basic things from my performance," says Kulp. "The first one, maybe obviously, is laughter! That's why they came. But the second is inspiration. On top of those two things, if they walk away with an appreciation or more awareness of people with special needs, or if they leave with the urge to consider adoption for their families - that is a bonus!"
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Joining Kulp on stage is Dan Viola, adding his own brand of humor to the evening. Viola's comedic prowess is sure to complement Kulp's style, promising a dynamic and entertaining show for all attendees.
Guiding the audience through the evening's festivities is the talented emcee Greg VanAlstine, known for his mastery of parody and quick wit. With VanAlstine at the helm, attendees can expect a seamless and laughter-filled experience from start to finish.
The inaugural "Laugh Out Loud" comedy event at Cobblestone Arts Center isn't just about entertainment; it's about fostering a sense of community and understanding. Through the power of laughter, Kulp, Viola, and VanAlstine invite attendees to embrace diversity, celebrate life's quirks, and find joy in shared experiences.
Tickets are on sale now for $25. The show starts at 7pm and before, enjoy a cocktail hour with wine and small bites at 6pm.