Comics And Artists Standing Up To Opiates During Duo Of Hamptons Fundraisers

Comics and artists unite this May to bring awareness to the opioid epidemic that affected many communities in this country. New Hope Rising has organized two fundraising events hosted by comedian Jeff Nichols and The White Room Gallery. The first event, an art fundraiser, is Saturday, May 5 at the Bridgehampton-based gallery. The second event is a night of stand-up with Nichols and several headliners at 230 Elm in Southampton on Saturday, May 12 at 8 p.m. Portions of proceeds from both events will go towards New Hope Rising.

On view at The White Room Gallery will be the newest exhibit, Impetus, which has its opening reception – that will also serve as a benefit for New Hope Rising – on Saturday, May 5 from 6 to 8 p.m. Over twenty artists will be on display including Joss Parker, Martha Macaleer, Alicia Gitlitz, David Geiser, and Seek One. The exhibit will remain on view until Sunday, May 13.

“The White Room is proud to be hosting an art event to raise money and awareness against opioids,” said gallery co-owner/co-director Andrea McCafferty. “We have teamed up with comedian and writer Jeff Nichols to create a unique art experience and showcase amazing national comedy acts for people to have a great time while also helping an incredible cause!”

The second event features comedian, writer, and speaker Jeff Nichols, who is personally effected by the cause as he has struggled with drug and alcohol abuse as well as learning disabilities. Born and raised on the Upper East Side, Nichols went on to publish a memoir, Little Yellow Bus, which was later adapted for the big screen and inspired by his personal experiences. For his lectures and shows, Nichols has traveled to universities all over the country, never shying away from subject matter that some may find taboo. In a sometimes self-deprecating manner – Nichols addresses the topics such as substance abuse with comedic anecdotes and candor.

Additionally, Nichols has worked with numerous non-profits to raise money for causes such as multiple sclerosis, autism, diabetes, local fire departments, and local schools. Last year’s comedy show raised money for a Southampton fellowship program that educated doctors about addiction. For this year’s show, Nichols will be accompanied by three national headliners – Eagle Witt, winner of the New York City’s 2017 Devil Cup, Dan Naturman, who has appeared on HBO’s Crashers, Comedy Central, America’s Got Talent, and Conan, and Joey Kola, who has performed on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Letterman, and Comedy Central.

“What better way to increase awareness about this tragedy than through comedy and the arts?” McCafferty added.

New Hope Rising is a non-profit organization founded in 2014. It provides recovery housing, free community outreach programs, and wellness activities and services for those struggling with/affected by addiction.

The White Room is located at 2415 Main Street in Bridgehampton. 230 Elm is located at 230 Elm Street in Southampton. For more information about Impetus, please visit www.thewhiteroom.gallery. To buy tickets for the comedy show or to make donations, please call Jeff Nichols at 631-466-7223 or visit jeff-nichols.com for more information. For more information about New Hope Rising, visit newhoperisingny.org.