Aspergers Are Us are a sketch group formed of Ethan Finlan, Jack Hanke, Noah Britton, and New Michael (or just Michael Ingemi), all of whom have been diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome, performing a set of deadpan sketch comedy, a form which they describe as “without connotation or meaning”. In 2016, they were the subject of an HBO documentary named after the troupe. Admirably, rather than telling their story for them, or using patronising language such as ‘inspirational’, the film follows the four-piece through their day-to-day lives, allowing them to narrate.
You may think from reading the name that Aspergers is directly tied into their comedy. Indeed, pieces like Job Interview Sketch and The Restraint Song could be seen to comment on difficult social situations, or the expectations placed on autistic individuals. However, as they clarify via email: “We almost changed our name to ‘Funny’ because we’re really sick of people expecting the show to relate to autism in any other way than the style of humour we use.”
Notably, they cite their heroes as Monty Python and Kids In The Hall. Not necessarily because they reflect any of their tropes or influences though, but because “they both regretted their names, but were stuck with them after they got a following from TV and movies. We’re the same.”
When asked how they feel about performing in the British Isles they say they’re excited to return. Yet, in typical absurdist style, they add, “If the queen dies while we’re there, we hope we’re quickly exonerated as suspects, as we have nothing against her and want her to teach us how to wave so painlessly.”
Importantly, Aspergers are Us make clear that they enjoy what they do. Theirs isn’t necessarily the style of comedy which can be easily retold in less than five minutes. Rather, there’s a lot of subtle wordplay and suggestion which will serve to catch you off-guard, making you contemplate, while you’re laughing out loud.
words Alex Swift
Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff, Wed 26 June. Tickets: £11/£9. Info: 029 2030 4400 / www.chapter.org