Jan 25, 2013 By Hayley Martin for The 2 min read

A comedian with ties to Fayette County will host a local comedy show featuring several famed funny men in the name of charity.

The show, now in its third year and set for 8 p.m. Saturday at the Uniontown Volunteer Fire Department, is being organized by Joel Richardson of New York, known on stage as Soul Joel.

“My dad is originally from Fayette County and my grandmother still lives in town,” said Richardson, who noted that some members of his family serve at the fire department.

Headlining this year’s event is New Yorker and Last Comic Standing alumni Joey Gay. Gay has made several appearances on television including the reality comedy competition, “Last Comic Standing.”

He’s also appeared as himself on “Live at Gotham” and “Kathy Griffin: My Life On the D-List” as well as carried roles in several “Law and Order” episodes.

“Joey is one of those guys (who treats comedy) like a boxing match,” said Richardson. “He doesn’t let up.”

In addition to Gay, comedian Matt Scarpelli of New York will take the stage. Scarpelli and Richardson are business partners who met through MySpace when Richardson was searching for comedians for a show in New York. Richardson describes Scarpelli as a comedian who draws inspiration from life.

“Most comics either make stuff up or they’re story tellers,” said Richardson. “Matt formulates both into his act.”

Richardson said he enjoys helping charities through benefits such as the one schedule this weekend.

“Some people didn’t think the comedy show would work because a lot of people don’t know the comedians,” said Richardson.

“Last year in January, it was standing room only with over 300 people. People loved it. It’s always a good time when people come up asking when the next show is before they even leave,” Richardson said.

Tickets are $20 and are available by calling 724-439-1690.

The comedians will hold a meet and greet to sing autographs after the show.

Richardson said the exciting thing about the event is the win-win outcome.

“You’re supporting the cause and you get something in return — a great comedy show,” he said.

“It’s a no brainer really. It’s an inexpensive night full of laughter.”