MixMatched to bring atypical love stories and neurodivergent comedy to the Bookie stage

By Andy Malt

Founded in 2022, MixMatched is a creative arts organisation based in Kent with a focus on neurodivergent+ inclusivity. As part of Margate Bookie’s Margate Week, they will host a night in two parts at The Margate School on Monday, 30th September.  

For the first section of the evening, Atypical Love Stories & Noughties Nostalgia sees the launch of Atypical Love, MixMatched’s new anthology of romantic short stories by neurodivergent authors. This part of the night will include a discussion with queer British-Ghanaian novelist Elvin James Mensah.  

“This event will be the first time we release our anthology to the public, so we are very excited,” says the organisation’s Alice Riley.  

“We will be discussing diversity in love stories and why it is important. Our co-directors are both autistic; autistic people are often stigmatised as ‘undateable’, and our anthology aims to combat that stereotype and show that everyone deserves to be loved. 

“Elvin's novel Small Joys is about a young black gay man whose very religious father has disowned him due to his sexuality,” she continues. “We will discuss our experiences growing up and how they would differ from today. Small Joys is set in the noughties so there may also be passionate discussion of the Spice Girls, MSN Messenger and the Marvel Cinematic Universe.” 

Next, the MixMatched Comedy Show will bring six neurodivergent or disabled comedians to the stage to perform material on the theme of love and despair. Performers on the bill include Scott Fishenden, Gabby Rolls, Adam Dorr, Ribs Norman, and Funny Cuts host Sham Shakil.  

“All our comedians are neurodivergent or disabled and up-and-coming on the circuit, so we are proud to give them the opportunity to be paid to showcase their talents,” says Alice. “Our loose theme is love and despair, so expect funny stories about the trials and tribulations of modern dating, and how neurodiversity and disability can bring additional complexities! We have some really talented acts so I'm really excited to watch the show.” 

Atypical Love Stories and the MixMatched Comedy Show will take place at The Margate School on Monday, 30th September from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Tickets cost £5 plus booking fee. Book now.