The Anxiety of Laughing
Fundraising Campaign
Transforming lives through laughter and support for disability initiatives.
Our Mission
We are seeking to raise funds to present a heartwarming play titled "The Anxiety of Laughing" by Andrew Justvig at the Midtown International Theatre Festival in June 2026. This story revolves around the themes of resilience and love, following a stand-up comedian with cerebral palsy and his fiancée, a talented ballerina who becomes paralyzed from a car accident. Despite their challenges, they discover the depth of their commitment to each other against all odds.
We are committed to raising public awareness about the invaluable contributions of disabled artists and their powerful expressions on the theater stage. It is essential to educate society on the perspectives of disabled individuals, showing that physical or mental challenges are not barriers to achievement but rather unique experiences that enrich our cultural landscape. By cultivating empathy and respect for individuals with disabilities, we can transform societal attitudes, embracing them as integral members of our communities rather than outsiders. Together, we can create an inclusive environment where everyone’s talents are celebrated and valued.
Growing up with Cerebral Palsy, Andrew found inspiration in the Walt Disney quote, "It's kind of fun to do the impossible." These words not only gave him the courage to become an independent walker and excel in school, but also drove him to pursue his dream of becoming an actor and storyteller.
While a Theatre & Media Arts major at Brigham Young University, Andrew wrote his first plays while performing stand-up comedy routines at an on-campus club. In 2015, he was awarded a Commendation for Achievement in Performance from the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival for his portrayal of Howie Newsome and Simon Stimpson in Brigham Young University's production of Our Town.
While pursuing his Master of Fine Arts at UC Riverside, Andrew soon recognized that opportunities for actors with diverse abilities were limited, so he began writing stories that focused on the disabled experience. The resulting full-length plays, Turkey, Stuffing and Cerebral Palsy (2019) and The Anxiety of Laughing (2021) each earned him Kennedy Center awards at their College Theater Festival.
In 2021, Andrew adapted The Anxiety of Laughing for the screen, and it had several screenings at Festivals around the world, including premiering at the TCL Chinese Theater at Dances with Films. After winning a playwriting contest, Andrew connected with Fred Rohan Vargas of Mixing It Up Productions, and the two of them began dreaming of bringing the play, "The Anxiety of Laughing," to the stage.
Besides writing, Andrew works at Walt Disney World, where he enjoys raising his 5-year-old son, Eric, with his wife Carrie.
About the Playwright
Our Fundraising Efforts
Goal To Meet
Donor Exchange
To bring our vision to life, we need $23,903, which will empower us to deliver an outstanding production. This funding will ensure we have the essential equipment, a talented cast, and a dedicated crew to achieve our goals. The pie chart illustrates how your generous contribution will directly support these critical elements.
Event This Summer
Your generous support can make a meaningful difference. With your help, we will cover the essential costs to bring Andrew’s powerful story to the stage. Every contribution counts, and as a token of our gratitude, your name will be proudly acknowledged in the program for all performances.
Additionally, all donations are tax-deductible, thanks to our fiscal sponsor, Pentacle’s Unique Project Program. Donors who contribute $500 or more will have their names and titles featured on the cover of our playbill, receive an exclusive invitation as honored guests to experience the show, and enjoy a unique opportunity to capture memorable moments with the author and cast. Help us make this unforgettable experience a reality! Below are the donation categories:
$10,000
Associate Producer
$5,000
Assistant Producer
$1,000
Co-Producer
$500
Supporting Producer
$250
Gold Donor
$100
Silver Donor
$50
Bronze Donor
$25
Honorable Donor
"The Anxiety of Laughing" is poised for an exciting two-week run featuring seven performances at the American Theatre of Actors, situated in the heart of New York City's vibrant theater district. After experiencing a captivating staged reading of the play, John Chatterton, the founder and Artistic Director of the Midtown International Theatre Festival, enthusiastically invited us to join this year's festival, kicking off in July 2026. Don't miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable theatre experience.
Contact Information:
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