Caroline Rhea Among Comedians to Perform in 'Stand up for the Children'

Caroline Rhea Among Comedians to Perform in 'Stand up for the Children'

The Reader's Digest Annual Event Benefits St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

PLEASANTVILLE, N.Y., March 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Four top comedians, three celebrity judges, and a star-studded list of patrons and contributors will gather on March 21 at Gotham Comedy Club's new flagship location in New York City to raise money for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. The second annual event, co-chaired by Marlo Thomas and Bob Balaban, was created by Reader's Digest magazine, whose popular column, "Laughter, the Best Medicine," inspired the idea.

"We're flying in five gutsy readers ready to jump on stage to tell a joke," said Jackie Leo, editor in chief of the magazine. "They'll take the spotlight along with some of the funniest people in New York for a memorable night of hilarious comedy."

Hosted by The Late Show with David Letterman's Eddie Brill, the evening's lineup features comedians Caroline Rhea, Bill Burr, a special appearance by Charles Grodin and the amateur finalists in the Reader's Digest 'Tell-A-Joke' Contest, selected from readers nationwide.

The September issue of Reader's Digest asked contestants to phone in with their best jokes. Five finalists will perform onstage during the star-studded event and the winner will be featured in an upcoming issue of the magazine. Judging the competition will be writer/director Marshall Brickman, Good Morning America's Joel Siegel and comedy producer Marion Grodin.

"Laughter, The Best Medicine" has appeared in Reader's Digest magazine since 1947. Over 20 million people have submitted jokes, quotes and funny stories. Reader's Digest has awarded $25 million dollars to humor contributors.

Reader's Digest reaches about 100 million readers worldwide each month. The magazine celebrates ordinary people doing extraordinary things, and delivers a compelling mix of humor, personal service and other human-interest stories. Reader's Digest is published in 19 languages and 48 editions worldwide.

Source: Reader's Digest Association, Inc.

CONTACT: Scott Gorenstein, or Sasa Nikolic, both of Susan Magrino
Agency, +1-212-957-3005

Web site: http://www.rd.com/

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