Teen Holds Comedy Show to Pay for Leukemia Costs

Avery Thompson, a talented teen from West Orange, will be putting on a comedy show at the South Orange Performing Arts Center to offset the costs of his leukemia treatment.

Now 16, Thompson was diagnosed last year with leukemia, but never let that stop him from pursuing his dream of performing music and comedy. He even made it to the finals for America's Got Talent before his diagnosis.

Thompson will take the stage at SOPAC on Thursday, Sept. 19 to perform comedy and play music with many renowned local musicians. The cost of admission is free but donations will be accepted to assist with his healthcare costs.

“The Dream Big concert is going to be a once in a lifetime event. It features some of the most talented artists of today, as well as various styles of music and comedy,” said Avery. “It’s a show you don’t want to miss.”

Thompson does dozens of impressions including President Obama, Jay Z, Sean Connery, Morgan Freeman, Biggie Smalls and more.

“Avery has been singing, telling jokes and putting on plays since he was a toddler,” said Dr. Mindy Thompson Fullilove. “Even in the hospital while recovering from a bone marrow transplant, he entertained doctors and nurses with songs and impersonations.”

Avery will be joined on stage by his father, Joshua Thompson, a musician and producer, and by the 12-member Dream Big band.

The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 19 at the South Orange Performing Arts Center, located at One SOPAC Way in South Orange.

The free tickets must be reserved in advance at Brown Paper Tickets.