Louie Benson encourages everyone to bring their sense of humor to Port Cape Girardeau tonight and leave their baggage at the door for "Comedy for a Cure." Proceeds from the show will go toward the American Cancer Society via Relay for Life.

"Comedy for a Cure" is the brainchild of Benson, a local comedian who lost his mother to cancer several years ago.

"Everybody in one way or another is affected by cancer," Benson said. "If I can raise a little bit of money to help find a cure, why not?"

According to Benson, those in attendance can expect a little bit of everything. However, the content is not be suitable for those younger than 18.

"If I think it is funny I will write it down and try it on stage," Benson said.

He said his comedy routine contains material that touches on matters from his dating life to catching a Pokemon.

Benson will be joined by other local comedians including Ross Kelly, Andrew Chandler, Mike Garvin, David Sharp, Tradd Hess, Erin Moss, Michael Yetman, Landon Hill and Travis Williams.

Hill said he is excited to see more opportunities in Cape Girardeau to perform and do comedy.

"I'm hoping that it is a trend that is picking up and catching on," Hill said.

According to Hill, his routine will cover subjects such as his height and odd religions.

Chandler said he was happy when Benson asked him to be part of the show because the money raised will go toward cancer research and because there is not much of a comedy scene in Cape Girardeau.

"Only once before have I really done comedy for charity," Chandler said.

Chandler described his comedy acts as a combination of word devices and a stage persona of an awkward child.

"We are a pretty sporadic group of comedians," Yetman said.

Yetman draws inspiration for his material from personal events, such as his family and dating life. He said he is always excited to perform, but especially for events like "Comedy for a Cure."

"There is going to be a lot of really good talent," Yetman said.

This is the first year for "Comedy for a Cure" and Benson is unsure how many people the event will attract. However, he is estimating more than 100.

"If we can get at least 100 people, that is $500 to charity," Benson said.

A performance by local band Headley Grange will take place after the comedy portion of the show.

Drummer Scot Kluesner said the band plays many benefit shows.

"It is always cool because you have a different kind of crowd." Kluesner said. "Everyone is always positive when we play benefit shows."

The cover charge is $5. Food and drinks will be available starting at 8 p.m. The performances will begin at 9 p.m.

"Imagine that everything you love most in the universe got together and had children and then those children went on to have more children and those children exploded into a flash of greatness and wonderment. That's what this show will be like," Benson said.

ajones@semissourian.com

388-3654

Pertinent address:

19 N. Water St., Cape Girardeau, MO