Madison comedian Nate Chappell often says, “If you’ve met one autistic person, you’ve met one autistic person.” This highlights the diversity within the autism community. Chappell hosts the “Several Questions” podcast, where he interviews guests and shares experiences. After being diagnosed with autism last year, he decided to host a special show at Gamma Ray Bar on January 20. The lineup will include a group of talented autistic comedians who aim to challenge common misconceptions about autism.
“I’ve never seen a show with only autistic performers, and that’s the idea here,” Chappell said. “I want to highlight autistic voices and put our identity in the spotlight.” The event will feature local comedians Vanessa Tortolano, Shivam Patel, and Grace Murray. It’s also a fundraiser, with proceeds benefiting the Children’s Resource Center at the University of Wisconsin’s Waisman Center.
Chappell’s connection to the Waisman Center is personal. The center provides essential guidance for families navigating an autism diagnosis, something Chappell’s family experienced when his daughter was diagnosed. “When she was diagnosed, we felt lost. The Waisman Center helped us find our way,” he shared.
For Chappell, the January show is a vital opportunity to embrace his identity as an autistic person and share that with the community. “Being open about my autism feels important. I want to show that it’s okay to be who you are,” he said. This live show also aims to dispel myths about autism. Many people mistakenly believe that effective communication means someone can’t be autistic, or that autistic individuals are antisocial. Chappell emphasizes that these ideas stem from misunderstandings about autism, stating, “We often face challenges because societal systems aren’t designed for us.”
The event builds on Chappell’s podcast format, which features quirky hypothetical questions to spark discussion. Examples include, “Would you rather have no belly button or an extra one?” or “If you could replace your hand with anything, what would it be?” These odd questions help break the ice and reveal deeper insights into the guests’ personalities.
Chappell describes his podcast as “a bit autistic” due to his unique approach to conversations. “I wanted to create something that suits my style, especially since small talk can be tough for me. This allows a fun way to get to know people better,” he said.
The “Several Questions” live show is a blend of humor and heartfelt connection, illustrating the experiences and perspectives of autistic individuals. Tickets are available for $10 through the Gamma Ray Bar website, with additional donations welcomed to support the cause.
