Frank Chirisa finds new home

BARELY a week after being shown the exit door by Umahlekisa Entertainment, comedian Frank Chirisa has found a new home with local record label, Wreckersvale Entertainment.

Wreckersvale Entertainment’s founder and talent manager, Lynden Lungu, in a press statement, announced the record label’s partnership with Chirisa.

“Wreckersvale Entertainment has been dedicated to discovering, nurturing and rehabilitation of talented individuals within the music community in Bulawayo. At this point in time, we have decided to expand our roster, choosing to welcome Frank Chirisa as our first comedian.

“We believe in second chances, in dreams fulfilled and most importantly, supporting individuals dedicated to pushing the boundaries. We hope Frank will find healing, comfort and a sense of belonging with us,” read part of the statement.

Lungu explained the basis and foundation of the contract, citing future projects that Chirisa will be able to complete.

“As we embark on this journey, the following will be key points of intervention; seeing Frank debt free by the end of the year, seeing him take up his place in comedy and finish off his tour. We also wish to see Frank rediscover his love and commitment towards Mental Health Awareness Projects, and finally release the long-awaited Seamen Animation,” said Lungu.

Chirisa who has been given a new lease of life said this second bite of the cherry came as a relief.

“I’m excited to get a second chance. I’m excited to get a team that can help me work on realising my full potential. It came as a relief because with all that’s been happening, I just didn’t know how to pick myself up,” he said.

Chirisa said Wreckersvale picked him up, dusted him and started leading him.

“As addressed in the press statement, they have addressed the problems at hand and together we will rise,” he said.

Umahlekisa Entertainment last week communicated that they had axed Chirisa from their stable as he had not been entirely frank in his dealings, putting the organisation’s name into disrepute.

“Umahlekisa Entertainment would like to inform all stakeholders that we have discontinued our working relationship with comedian Frank Chirisa.

This has been necessitated by a series of misconduct by the comedian that put the brand, stakeholders and sponsors’ reputations at risk. We, therefore, advise the general public and fans alike that Frank no longer represents the brand and any dealings concerning him are his personal projects with zero endorsement from Umahlekisa Entertainment or Comedy Club,” read a statement by Umahlekisa Entertainment.

In response to this, Chirisa said since he was robbed and assaulted by thieves last year, he has been struggling with clearing debts.

“I acknowledge that since last year’s robbery, I have struggled with clearing my debts but have worked hard enough. I have paid $1 570 from the initial balance of $2 500 and I will keep working hard to make sure I am debt free by the end of the year.

“. . . I also lost my management deal with Umahlekisa Comedy Club. They felt they couldn’t work with me anymore for the alleged series of misbehaviour. I respect their decision as I have allegedly risked the brand on and off the stage,” he said. – @MbuleloMpofu