By Valerie Milano
Gulf Shores, AL (The Hollywood Times) 5/15/24 – Step into the vibrant world of LGBTQ+ comedy with Quentin Lee’s Laugh Proud, an electrifying showcase featuring nine diverse comics sharing their unique perspectives and humor. From fresh faces to seasoned veterans like Jason Stuart, this one-of-a-kind event is hosted by none other than the incomparable 7G, the world’s first intersex comic. Laugh Proud promises a night of uproarious laughter and unapologetic authenticity, making it a groundbreaking addition to the realm of stand-up comedy.
Comedic aficionado Jason Stuart is an amazing choice for the Laugh Proud line up. He discusses how he found himself in the world of laughter and discloses, ”The honest truth is I couldn’t get a job as an actor because I was gay, and it was the 80s and no one would give me a job to save my life. I had this manager at the time that told me ‘You’re very funny’ to which I said, ‘no, I’m an actor’. She continued to suggest that I should do comedy, so I went on stage, my life flashed before my eyes at the Comedy Store and they made me a non-paid showcasing regular. I went there every week- 3 times a week no matter what- and I kept working on my act for 3 years, and then I got the Merv Griffin show and Star Search. After I won an episode of star search, my career really started to take off from there.”
Click below for our exclusive interview:
While the primary aim is to entertain the audience and ensure the comics’ performances are warmly received, the profound impact of witnessing a diverse array of often marginalized individuals take the stage to authentically share their truth while delivering entertaining comedy cannot be overstated. In this regard Stuart offers, “I was in the closet during this time as well; I was deeply in the closet for the first 10 years of my career. That’s why this whole special has been so uniquely touching for me to be in a group of people that are BIPOC, transgender, fluid, and liquid and on a glass and on a shelf! The folks in this group are so uniquely their own person and I was just so moved by that. I was so moved to be a part of this history and to be included in that history.”
Laugh Proud stands not only as a groundbreaking addition to the realm of stand-up comedy but also as a testament to the power of authenticity and representation on stage. As comedic virtuoso Jason Stuart reflects on his journey, from struggling to find his place in the industry due to societal prejudices to becoming a celebrated figure in LGBTQ+ comedy, it underscores the importance of platforms like “Laugh Proud.” Through laughter and shared experiences, Laugh Proud not only entertains but also fosters understanding, empathy, and celebration of individuality. As the curtains close on this electrifying showcase, it leaves behind an indelible mark, reminding us of all of the transformative power of humor and inclusivity.
