Sick Humor

It was Carol Burnett who said, “Comedy is tragedy plus time.” And it was Robert Schimmel who said lymphoma plus questionable sexual exploits plus the death of a son at age 11 (also cancer) plus frank honesty equal some of the most hard-hitting comedy around.
OK, Schimmel didn’t say it himself, but the fact that he has overcome those obstacles makes his material as steely as his own determination. His Laughter Is the Best Medicine charity has created comedy libraries in cancer-treatment centers across the country. He headlines the Improv at the Majestic Theatre (7430 Northwest 87th Street) at 7:30 tonight, with additional shows at 7:30 and 9:45 p.m. Friday and Saturday and a 7 p.m. show on Sunday. Tickets cost $18 to $20; call 816-587-4500 for more information.