FRESH FROM OFF-BROADWAY: Comedian-turned-artist Sam Kissajukian chronicles his mental health journey in “300 Paintings,” which won him several comedy awards, in performances at McCarter Theatre October 29-November 2.

Sometimes a breakdown coincides with the biggest breakthrough. In 2021, Sydney comedian Sam Kissajukian quit stand-up, rented an abandoned cake factory, and became a painter. Over the course of a six-month manic episode, he created 300 large-scale paintings — unknowingly chronicling his mental state in real time.

In 300 Paintings, coming to McCarter Theatre October 29-November 2, Kissajukian takes audiences on a funny rollercoaster ride exploring creativity, mental health, and the artistic process. Following each performance, audiences are invited to meet Kissajukian and view his paintings in a curated lobby exhibition.

Originally intended as a one-night-only performance, 300 Paintings quickly drew critical and festival acclaim, winning multiple awards in Australia and the U.K. before an off-Broadway run at New York’s Vineyard Theatre. The recognition includes Best Comedy Award, Sydney Fringe 2022 & 2023; Best Comedy Weekly Award, Perth Fringe World 2023; and Outstanding Show Award, Edinburgh Fringe 2024.

Kissajukian toured globally as a stand-up performer across the U.S., U.K., and Europe for over a decade. His creative practice now bridges art and comedy, blending storytelling and visual exhibition to examine the intersections of creativity, mental health, and recovery. Since his first solo exhibition in 2022, Kissajukian has received acclaim for his two-tiered approach — melding live performance and visual art to explore the creative process and emotional expression.

McCarter Theatre is located at 91 University Place. Visit mccarter.org for tickets and performance times.