Cork comedian Chris Kent and company will raise funds for stroke victims tonight. Photo: Steve Ullathorne

Comedy heroes raise funds for stroke victims

A gag-gle of comedy legends will take to the stage in Cork city tonight for an evening of laughter in support of stroke survivors.

Led by Leeside funny man Chris Kent, the annual Jokes for Strokes comedy night will once again raise funds and awareness for Cork Stroke Support at Cork’s Everyman Theatre.

In addition to Kent’s hilarious story-telling and observational humour, audience members will get to enjoy a phenomenal comedy line up including Cork’s comedy queen Laura O’Mahony, Bernard Casey, Alison Spittle, Mike Morgan, Richie Bree, and Lesly Martinez.

Most of the headline comedians sell-out solo shows, so this event provides a unique opportunity to see these great acts all in the one location.

On top of taking to the stage for Cork Stroke Support, the comedians are also waiving their fees, maximising the funds to support the work of this crucial stroke support service. The production crew on the evening will also be waiving their fees.

Speaking ahead of the event, Chris Kent said: “This is the third year that we have brought comedians to the Everyman stage for this important cause. The work of Cork Stroke Support provides life-enhancing supports for people living with the impact of a stroke.

“Every one of the comedians in this show is taking to the stage to support Cork Stroke Support. This sound bunch are going to create a hilarious show that you do not want to miss. I’m proud to be part of this group and I know the audience will love it,” he added.

Cork Stroke Support is a charity founded in 2010 by volunteer health professionals working with stroke survivors and their families. In recent years, the charity has gone from providing support services one day a week to a five day service providing a wide range of supports.

Chairperson of Cork Stroke Support Dan Cronin said: “Life after stroke is a journey, both for the survivor and their family. At Cork Stroke Support we recognise that the journey is multi-faceted and has its ups and downs. Our service provides practical support, while also creating a community. There is also space for fun in our approach, making this event an ideal way to support our service and reminds us that it is important to find moments for laughter.”

Jokes for Stroke, presented by Cork Stroke Support and Astra Construction Ltd, will take place on this evening, Thursday, at the Everyman Theatre. Tickets are €31 and are on sale at everymancork.ticketsolve.com. Doors are at 8pm.