Night of clean comedy benefits Myasthenia Gravis Association of Western Pa.

Family problems, health problems, fear of aging — they’re topics that most everyone can relate to, but not everyone sees the humor in them.

Pittsburgh comedian David Kaye can, and he’ll share his wry observations during Comedy for a Cause on July 16 at Elements in North Huntingdon.

“I look at life through a sarcastic lens that I learned from my mother,” Kaye said. “Sarcasm was deeply steeped in my upbringing.”

The seventh annual event is a benefit for free patient support services provided by the Myasthenia Gravis Association of Western Pennsylvania, which is based in Pittsburgh’s North Side. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., followed by buffet dinner at 7 and show time at 7:3o.

Myasthenia gravis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes weakness in muscles responsible for functions involving breathing and movement of the arms and legs. Muscles that control eye and eyelid movement, facial expression, chewing, talking and swallowing also can be involved.

Kaye’s act shares stories of family dysfunction from his blue-collar Pittsburgh upbringing as the youngest child of a steel mill worker and a waitress.

“I talk about my relationship with my wife, my fear of getting older, my health, my relationships with my family members,” he said. “It’s very personal, but it’s very relatable.”

A veteran of corporate, casino, cruise line, college and comedy club shows, Kaye also has performed in independent films and on television. He is the owner of Pittsburgh-based Slapsticks Productions, which produces the annual comedy event in conjunction with MGA.

Kaye will open the evening for headliner Tom Anzalone, a good friend with whom he’s worked many times.

Anzalone does quirky musical impersonations of artists such as Elvis, Elton John, Bruce Springsteen – reciting the alphabet to the tune of “Born In The U.S.A.” – and a host of others.

His resume also includes television, radio and cruise ship comedy.

“A lot of people don’t know this, but he’s also a very accomplished opera singer,” Kaye said. “He’s talented and hilariously funny.”

Although the show is for guests 21 and older and a cash bar will be available, the comedy will be clean.

“We’re there to raise funds and have a good time, not to shock or offend,” Kaye said.

“They always say that laughter is the best medicine, and we like to offer events that the people we serve would be able to attend,” said Jim Joyce, executive director of the Myasthenia Gravis Association of Western Pennsylvania. “A comedy show is something that pretty much anyone can enjoy, regardless of their physical limits.”

The evening will feature a silent auction of autographed sports memorabilia and other prizes, along with a basket raffle.

The $50 admission includes dinner. For tickets, call 412-566-1545 or visit slapsticksproductions.com.