The Harry & Rose Samson Family Jewish Community Center (JCC) announced Wayne Brady as the headline performer for Laugh It Up Milwaukee 2018, the annual fundraiser that celebrates community partnership.

Brady, an internationally adored comedian and performer is the current host of “Let’s Make A Deal” who recently starred as Aaron Burr in the Pulitzer Prize-winning Hamilton in Chicago, will take the Riverside Theater stage on Saturday, January 27th, with proceeds going to support the programs of the JCC and Laugh It Up Milwaukee 2018 partner beneficiary, Safe & Sound.

“Not only has Laugh It Up Milwaukee grown to be a signature event on the community’s social, cultural, and performance calendars – it has become the embodiment of everything we at the JCC aspire: partnering to build a healthier Milwaukee,” said JCC President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Shapiro. “Beyond an evening of comedy and community, Laugh It Up is also an opportunity to celebrate the incredible work of partners like Safe & Sound, who share our commitment to ensuring that our neighborhoods are safe and our neighbors healthy.”

Past beneficiaries and partner agencies of Laugh It Up Milwaukee include Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin (2013) MACC Fund (2014), Hunger Task Force (2015) and Special Olympics of Wisconsin (2016) and featured performances from Seth Meyers, Susie Essman & Richard Lewis, Martin Short, Howie Mandel and Patton Oswalt. Since its inception – and through the generosity of sponsors and donors – over half a million dollars has been raised for community programs that combat cancer, bullying, hunger and intolerance.

“We’re honored to be joining the JCC in this evening and effort,” added Katie Sanders, Executive Director of Safe & Sound. “Every day we work to unite residents and communities, and Laugh It Up Milwaukee is a powerful demonstration of what can happen when like-minded organizations come together towards a shared goal.”

The Harry & Rose Samson Family Jewish Community Center

Wayne Brady