Laughing Without Limits: Toronto’s Dynamic Duo Bringing Disability Pride to the World

By Daniel Shehori

Daniel Shehori is an award winning comedy writer, director, and publicist based in Toronto, Canada.

They’re funny, fearless, and they’re proving that laughter truly has no limits. Meet Jared Nathan and Blair Williams, two Toronto-based comedians that are on a mission to change the face of comedy.

They’ve launched Disability Privilege Productions, a platform dedicated to showcasing comedians with disabilities and making comedy accessible to everyone. This includes a new website (disabilityprivilegeproductions.com), a podcast, and a monthly live show called “Laugh Without Limits” at Toronto’s Comedy Bar Danforth – one of the few fully accessible comedy venues in Canada.

Jared, a Kill Tony veteran known for his robust and relatable style, draws inspiration from comedy legends like Robin Williams and Mitch Hedberg. He’s not afraid to mine his own experiences, including living with a stutter, for comedic gold. As Jared puts it, “Laughter has always been a big thing in my life.” He wants to ensure that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can share in that joy

Blair, a wheelchair user with a sharp wit and a passion for stand-up, grew up idolizing comedic giants like George Carlin and Richard Pryor. He knows firsthand the power of laughter, calling it “better than any drug on the market.” After a hiatus from the stage, Blair is back in the game and ready to share his unique perspective with the world.

Together, Jared and Blair are a force to be reckoned with. They’re not just telling jokes; they’re challenging perceptions and creating a more inclusive comedy scene. “Laugh Without Limits” isn’t just about showcasing talented comedians with disabilities; it’s about creating a space where everyone feels welcome and part of the experience. As Blair emphasizes, “The audience is integral to a comedian and to comedy. We need our peers with us just as much as they need to be part of an inclusive society.”

The reach of “Disability Privilege” extends beyond the stage. Jared and Blair, along with their co-host Todd Blenkhorn (who is blind), also host the “Wheel Stutter Blindly” podcast. This isn’t your typical comedy podcast; it’s a raw and unfiltered conversation about life, disability, and everything in between. With each host bringing a unique perspective to the table, they tackle everything from everyday frustrations to society’s misconceptions about disability, all with a healthy dose of humor and self-deprecation.

With plans to tour “Laugh Without Limits” across North America, Jared and Blair are poised to become leaders in the movement for accessible comedy. Catch them live in Toronto while you can, or tune in to “Wheel Stutter Blindly” for a preview of what’s to come.

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