Alan has contributed extensively to research and advocacy around both disability rights and disability performance. His Master's Thesis, published by Carleton University in January 2006, highlights arts and culture as a site of political struggle and explores the connections that are being made between the disability arts and culture movement and the struggle for the equality and human rights of disabled peoples. Alan holds an Honours BA in Political Science and Sociology, as well as a Master’s Degree in Social Work.

He has published articles in prominent national publications such as  Blizzart, Canadian Theatre Review, Abilities Magazine, Canadian Social Trends, and the Disability News Service. He has also been the subject of numerous research documents on disabled artists such as Art Smarts published by the Society for Disability Arts and Culture (S4DAC), and has sat on several panel discussions such as for the School of Disability Studies (Ryerson University), for Abilities Festival (Toronto) , for Balancing Acts Festival (Calgary), for Sixth Sense Performance Festival (Taiwan), and for PACT (Professional Association of Canadian Theatres). Alan was the primary researcher for a pilot project entitled Art Works conducted by the School of Disability Studies at Ryerson University. This study documented the careers of disabled artists and the strategies they employ to address issues around disability. Alan was also contracted as a consultant by the Australian Arts Council for documentation to assist arts organizations on the inclusion of disabled people. Alan has additionally taken on several leadership roles within the area of disability and performance. He was invited by the Canada Council for the Arts to present to directors and upper level managers on disability arts. As well, he was a delegate to an inaugural two day consultation group on the development of policy around supporting the disability arts movement in Canada.

He also co-founded Propeller Dance to provide ongoing training, education and performance opportunities for both disabled and non-disabled adults, youth and children.