Lynn resident Bob Seibel has kept audiences laughing for more than 35 years in performances both here in New England and in places such as Las Vegas and Atlantic City.
One of the region’s most respected comedians, Seibel has helped out numerous organizations with his appearances at benefits, fundraisers, and special events.
But now the 73-year-old Seibel himself is in need of a helping hand. The legendary comic is battling brain cancer, undergoing regular treatments at Dana Farber Institute in Boston.
Fellow comedians, led by Johnny Pizzi, have planned a fundraiser, “Laugh For a Cause” in honor of their friend, Bob Seibel. The star-studded show will be held on Feb. 8 at 2 p.m. at St. Michael’s Hall in Lynn. The cast of performers is a “who’s-who” of the comedy scene, featuring giants such as Lenny Clarke, Steve Sweeney, Tony V., and Paul D’Angelo, along with musical guests, North Shore Acapella, Street Magic, Joey Canzano, Sharon DeFronzo, Vynyl Groove, and Ritchie Willis ‘The Jewels.”
Pizzi, a popular host at Giggles in Saugus, said Seibel has always supported charities and reached out to assist others in need.
“Bob is one of the most charitable people, constantly giving back to the community and people in need – and now he’s in need,” said Pizzi. “He’s always been there to help people.”
Seibel has been a well-conditioned, long distance runner who has finished 17 Boston Marathons and 33 worldwide marathons.
“Bob has walked the Appalachian Trail four times and scuba dived in Fuji. He’s performed his comedy all over the world.”
Pizzi said in November Seibel went to see his physician after experiencing headaches. “At first, they attributed Bob’s headaches to a fall off his motorcycle that he had in the summer, but when they took a scan, the doctor discovered that Bob had brain cancer. This is a 73-year-old guy that was in great shape.”
Seibel underwent surgery in December and is now faced with extensive radiation and chemotherapy.
“Bob has a long way to go and a tough battle ahead,” said Pizzi. “He wants to live and he wants to keep making people happy and doing the things he does and we’re trying to help him out.”
Pizzi said tickets to Laugh For A Cause are $40 person and include the show and a buffet.
“We’ve already sold more than 200 tickets,” said Pizzi. “We’re expecting a sellout. The entertainment is going to be off the charts. The minute I found out about Bob’s situation, I called Lenny Clarke and Mike Clark, and within a half hour every comic called me right back to be a part of this tribute to Bob Seibel. They said, ‘Whatever we can do for Bob Seibel, we’ll do.’ “That’s how much Bob is revered in the field of entertainment.”
For more information about the show, please contact Johnny Pizzi at 781-420-1036