Laugh Machine: Michael McCreary

Mono’s Michael McCreary uses his stand-up to shed light on what it’s like growing up and dealing with social situations as someone with Asperger’s.

November 20, 2018 | Janice Quirt | 25 Under 25

Laugh Machine: Michael McCreary, 22, Mono. Photo by Pete Paterson.

Michael McCreary’s energy and humour fairly sizzle across all topics of conversation. The stand-up comedian, who grew up in Hockley Valley (brother of Andrew, also a 25 Under 25 Award recipient), uses his routine to shed light on what it’s like growing up and dealing with social situations as someone with Asperger’s. Performing at the 25 Under 25 event this October, Michael had the crowd doubled over in laughter with his sharp, yet warm wit.

Michael has toured his comedy across the country and the continent since age 15 and says he loves his job, the most gratifying aspect being the chance to connect with folks like him on the autism spectrum. He recalls the glow he felt performing on stage for an autism group for 90 minutes and then chatting for another three hours with the audience.

The funny man has found a way to make a living doing the thing that interests him, and that’s advice he gives to anyone, especially those living with neurodiversity. Rather than trying to fit in, he recommends celebrating the unique ways each individual mind works. “Keep attacking what you love to do, and the rest – how to turn it into a job or career – that will follow,” he says. And Michael is walking the talk. His new book Funny, You Don’t Look Autistic is due out in March 2019.