dyton mupawaenda
Laura Maposa
LEARNMORE Jonasi might have failed in his bid to make history and become the first comedian, without a puppet, to win America Got Talent but the Zimbabwean artist gave it a good shot in Las Vegas.
Jonasi finished fifth in the quest for the US$1 million first prize jackpot with America’s Richard Goodall taking home the winner’s cheque.
The grand finale included performances by Olympic star Simone Biles, Michael Bublé, Neal Schon, members of Journey, Steve Aoki, comedian Gabriel Iglesias and the Magic Mike Live Las Vegas cast.
Yesterday, Jonasi flew into Harare ahead of his performance at the Shoko Festival today.
The United States-based comedian has reached a significant milestone in his career and is already a recipient of the Steve Harvey’s Spotlight Award and the Boston Comedy Award.
Speaking shortly after his arrival back home at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport yesterday, Jonasi said:
“I am so happy to be back in the country.
“I am international now, not random anymore, I am looking forward to meeting all my fans.
“Come to the show tomorrow (today).”
Shoko Festival director, Samm Farai Monro, who is also known as Comrade Fatso, said:
“We are proud to bring home Zimbabwean talents like Learnmore Jonasi and Nadia Nakai as our headliners.
“The festival will close out with the main event, Peace in the Hood, at Chitungwiza Unit L Community Hall Grounds.
“It will feature more exciting acts including Master H, Voltz JT, Young Gemini, Tamy Moyo, and more.”
The Shoko Festival gets underway at Harare Gardens with the Shoko Comedy Night.
Jonasi will be headlining the show.
The Mash Up Night will be held tomorrow and will feature over 15 acts in one night, including Nadia Nakai and Kayflow.
“This year, we’re celebrating Zimbabweans who are doing it big on the international stage.
“Running under the theme, #BothSidesOfSamora, this year’s theme shines a light on the road that has historically separated different social classes between North and South.
“At the same time, we are so excited to present powerful new Zimbabwean urban acts and unique programming that challenges the norm and stirs things up.”
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter