'Laughs for Mike' to honor the life, laughs, passion of local comedian Jan. 5
In January of this year, Buffalo Grove and the Chicago comedy community lost a great talent when 21-year-old Michael Yancovich died suddenly in his sleep from a fatal drug reaction.
Yancovich inhabited several roles in his short life. He was a son, brother, friend, musician, actor, rapper and animal advocate. Though, when asked, he would first say he was a comedian. The craft of writing and performing stand-up comedy was his passion.
At 21, he was an up-and-coming comedian in the Chicago scene who had earned the respect of his peers as he worked out his original material at countless open mics and booked gigs.
His dream was the motivation for the Michael Yancovich No Joke Foundation, founded in 2018 by his family and friends.
The nonprofit emerged out of a pursuit to inspire and encourage the community, and is driven by progressive ideas, bold actions and a strong foundation of support.
Many organizations provide the resources and support necessary to move past life's challenges - very important missions and invaluable services. The new "No Joke Foundation" focuses on the purpose and joy that come from finding one's passion.
As a kickoff, the foundation, along with Big Deal Productions of Buffalo Grove, Illinois, and Funnier By The Lake Comedy and Best Corporate Comedy, both of Highland Park, Illinois, are presenting "Laughs for Mike," a night of live stand-up comedy, co-headlining nationally touring comedians and Chicago favorites, Kristen Toomey and Reena Calm, and special guest, local comedian and friend of Michael's, Steven Curry.
The evening begins at 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 5, at the newly renovated Buffalo Grove Park District Community Arts Center, 225 N. McHenry Road. It will include a video honoring the life of Michael Yancovich, appetizers from Max and Benny's Restaurant, a raffle and a comedy showcase co-hosted by comedians Ricky March and Larry Bloom, of Best Corporate Comedy and Funnier By The Lake Comedy, respectively.
Proceeds will benefit the Michael Yancovich No Joke Foundation.
Advance tickets are $18 per person; advance purchase highly recommended at bigdealproductions.org. Or get a VIP table for four for $120; limited availability.
Tickets are $20 at the door.
The evening will begin with a program honoring Michael Yancovich, appetizers from Max and Benny's, and a cash bar from 7 to 7:45 p.m.
The "Laughs for Mike" Comedy Showcase will be 8 to 9:30 p.m.
Contact Jessi Hersman at (847) 850-2152 with questions or to reserve a VIP table.
For more on the fundraising event, visit funnierbythelake.com.
Follow the Laughs for Mike Comedy Showcase Events page on Facebook.