LaughFest lineup announced

Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids has unveiled the star-studded lineup for the 2024 LaughFest, scheduled for March 6-10, 2024. The event will feature comedic talents such as Tammy Pescatelli, Josh Johnson, “Piff” the Magic Dragon, and Demetri Martin. Notably, Tom Papa , comedian, actor, and author, is set to headline the Gilda’s Club annual Red Door Gala on March 14 at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

“We have a great lineup for this year’s LaughFest and Red Door Gala that will bring doses of laughter to West Michigan,” said Wendy Wigger, President of Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids. “With a variety of seriously fun events for all ages, this annual festival gives the community an opportunity to laugh and have fun, while raising awareness and funds for our free support programs.”

Sal Semola, president and chief operating officer of Gun Lake Casino, expressed the organization’s pride in partnering with Gilda’s Club for the twelfth consecutive year. “The work they do in providing a broad spectrum of support for those affected by cancer and grieving death is extraordinary. Their impact is immeasurable,” said Semola.

The festival will include ticketed shows and free events like Sunday Night Funnies, Kids Joke, Family Improv, and the Cancer Survivors Showcase. Tammy Pescatelli, known for her bold voice and wit, will perform multiple shows. Josh Johnson, an Emmy-nominated writer and stand-up, will showcase his comedic prowess, as will Piff the Magic Dragon and Demetri Martin.

The Clean Comedy Showcase returns to The B.O.B. and Dr. Grins Comedy Club, featuring nationally-touring comedians with adult content sans profanity or vulgarity. The showcase will run from March 7 through March 9, with a special anything-goes showcase.

Proceeds from LaughFest and the Red Door Gala support Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids in providing free emotional health services to those navigating cancer or grief. Ticket and sponsorship information for the Red Door Gala can be found at gildasclubgr.org/reddoor .

Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids provides free emotional healthcare to individuals on any cancer journey or those grieving a loss. The organization operates through charitable donations, offering support groups, educational opportunities, and social activities. For more information, visit gildasclubgr.org .