If laughter is indeed the best medicine, there will be a whole lot of healthy Bergenites at the November 1 "Ladies of Laughter" event to raise money for Gilda’s Club Northern New Jersey. Hosted by legendary comic Freddie Roman at Hackensack’s Bergen Academies Auditorium, this comedy showcase (for mature audiences only) brings together three comedians, who are donating their performances in tribute to the organization’s namesake and inspiration, Gilda Radner. Radner, best known for her years on Saturday Night Live, succumbed to ovarian cancer 20 years ago.

"This is a great way to honor Gilda, who opened the door for other female comedians and whose spirit is very much here in our clubhouse," said Lenore Guido, chief executive officer of Gilda’s Club NNJ. Headliners include self-proclaimed "Queen of Mean" Lisa Lampanelli, world’s funniest daughter-in-law Sunda Croonquist and Last Comic Standing finalist Cory Kahaney, all groundbreaking stand-ups.

"It’s the biggest event we’ve ever had—and a really big show for Northern New Jersey," added Guido.

The high-profile fundraiser is part of a revitalization plan that positions Gilda’s Club NNJ for a new era in helping people living with cancer. The Hackensack clubhouse has undergone an extensive greening/reconstruction overseen by Deirdre Imus, noted humanitarian and advocate for people with the disease. Designed using non-toxic materials, the clubhouse, with its signature red door, is a welcoming and healthy retreat, a place that addresses the emotional and social needs of those whose lives have been touched by cancer. All services are free and open to anyone—men, women, children and teens.

"Cancer is a very isolating disease," said Guido. "Studies show that people who seek support are less stressed, more positive and hopeful."

And the "Ladies of Laughter" will no doubt leave them in high spirits, too.

Ladies of Laughter
Sunday, November 1 at 7:00 p.m.
Bergen Academies Auditorium, Hackensack
Tickets
www.showclix.com; 1-888-718-4253;

Gilda’s Club Northern New Jersey, Hackensack
www.gildasclubnnj.org; 201-457-1670