Laughs, Drinks and Doing Good: Our Virtual Brew Ha Ha Comedy Night

Brew Ha Ha Kicking off World Down Syndrome Day Celebrations

Who could use an evening full of fun and laughter, great drinks and snacks, all from the comfort and safety of your own home? We are excited to kick of World Down Syndrome Day celebrations with our first Brew Ha Ha, Saturday, March 20, 2021 at 7 PM.  

This virtual event features a comedy show by Rob Snow, a take home box for attendees with local beer and hard cider from Griffin Claw Brewing Company, etched beer steins and crackers and cheese spread. Additionally, there will be a silent auction with some amazing experiences and items to bid on. 

“Our first Brew Ha Ha event provides a safe opportunity for people to have fun and laugh, which is some of the best medicine we all could use right now,” said Lisa Kocab, GiGi’s Playhouse Detroit Board President. 

Griffin Claw Brewing Company Providing the “Brew”

We are thrilled to have the Birmingham based Griffin Claw Brewing Company supporting our event. Two cans of beer and two cans of hard cider all from Griffin Claw Brewing Company will be included in every take home party box. For those who require a gluten free diet, the hard ciders are both gluten free. They are: Cheap Cran Cherykee made with black cherries and Michigan cranberries, and Fineapple made with Michigan apples and pineapple juice. 

We asked Pat Craddock, Chief Financial Officer at Griffin Claw Brewing Company why they wanted to partner with us this year for the Brew Ha Ha. 

“Simply put, it’s the right thing to do. We teamed up with GiGi’s last year for an event on World Down Syndrome Day, but much like everything else in 2020, COVID ruined those plans,” said Craddock. “As such, we couldn’t say ‘yes’ quick enough when presented the opportunity to participate in this year’s Brew Ha Ha with the hopes it generates some support for the GiGi’s organization, but more importantly, smiles for the GiGi’s community during a time we could all use some.” 

Livy Lou Designs is providing two commemorative etched beer steins for each box. And Frankenmuth Cheese Haus is providing their garlic cheese spread. A non-alcoholic party box with local Faygo pop is also an option for those not of age or able to consume alcoholic beverages. The party boxes are $25-$50 depending on which kind you purchase, and will not be shipped. They can be picked up in person at the Playhouse, starting Friday, March 19. Quantities are limited, so purchase your party box today! 

Comedian Rob Snow Providing the “Ha Ha”

Providing the laughter for the evening is motivational comedian Rob Snow. Rob trained at a comedy club in Chicago and is the founder of the Improvaneers – a drama improv group in which all of the actors have Down syndrome. Snow also has a son with Down syndrome. We are excited for his family-friendly show and the laughter he will bring into our homes! 

In addition to the comedy show, will be revealing the new faces that will adorn the windows of our Playhouse. 

A Critical Time for Our Playhouse and Programs

“The COVID-19 pandemic has shuttered in-person fundraising events,” said Kocab. “This virtual Brew Ha Ha will provide critical funding to continue the life-changing programs GiGi’s provides our Down syndrome community across the state of Michigan.” 

Sponsorships are underwriting opportunities are available to further the impact of this event, while providing branding opportunities for corporate sponsors. Levels range from $250 up to $10,000. Interested sponsors can obtain more information through our Brew Ha Ha event page or by contacting us at detroit@gigisplayhouse.org. The deadline for branding on the take home party boxes is March 7. 

The silent auction will include several unique experiences and items, and is available for supporters out of town to participate in if they can’t purchase a Brew Ha Ha take home party box. A few of the auction items include: a personal airplane flyover ride, a condo at Boyne Mountain, Detroit Grand Prix experience and more!

We can’t wait to virtually come together for an evening of fun, laughter, drinks and celebrating our loved ones with Down syndrome! Check out all the ways you can get involved over on our event page. 

The Celebration Continues on Sunday, March 21 – World Down Syndrome Day!

We are so grateful to Griffin Claw Brewing Company for partnering with us for our Brew Ha Ha event. But they are going an extra step on World Down Syndrome Day – Sunday, March 21. They will be giving a portion of the proceeds to GiGi’s Playhouse from orders at both their Birmingham and Rochester Hills Tap Rooms! So you can support a local restaurant AND GiGi’s Playhouse on Sunday, March 21, by enjoying a brew and meal!