Siphakeme .Mnindwa
Faith Ndlovu
Award- winning comedian Frank Chirisa is set to celebrate five years as an active wordsmith in the stand-up comedy scene with a special show slated for February 15 at Hillside Walk in Bulawayo.
The event will feature a stunning line-up of funny ace men including Dalu Da Comedian, Brandon Masuku, CJ Zulu, General, Mekayla and Absoll.
Chirisa is over the moon as he can’t believe how far comedy has taken him as it gave him wings to fly and represent Zimbabwe in countries like Botswana, South Africa as well as Zambia.
When he turns back the hands of time, the comedian reflects that what started as a one-night gig has evolved into a passion-filled career that has given him a platform to express himself, challenge his creativity and connect with cosmopolitan audiences.
For him, comedy is more than just a career — it’s therapeutic.
“Comedy was supposed to be a thing I could have done for one night and leave. But, surprisingly, on that first night, I got attached and my relationship with the microphone has gotten better over the years.
Frank Chirisa
“My walks in the comic space have been my therapy. Comedy has given me a platform to express my thoughts and imaginations,” said Chirisa who is a mental health awareness champion.
For the past five years, Chirisa has been a game changer and a pace setter in the world of comedy.
In his career, he has headlined a number of shows, including Miss Super Globe Zimbabwe 2022, Funny Stories 2022, Miss Ecotourism 2023 and Your Choice 2023.
He has also shared the stage with comedy gurus including Ntando Van Moyo, Long John (on the Homecoming gig in 2021) King Kandoro’s Family Meeting in 2022, and Umahlekisa’s tenth anniversary in 2023.
From all the gigs he has made so far, his major highlight is his countrywide solo tour, which he did last year titled “Funny Stories That Heal” – an initiative, which was all about him scaling up his career, expressing hopes that this show may open new doors for him.
“As I look back on my career, “Funny Stories That Heal,” is something that’s never been done before and it’s very close to my heart as I broke records hosting sold-out gigs nationwide.
“As I am about to stage a gig celebrating my milestone in the game at Hillside Walk, I want this to be a turnaround for my family, career and for other comedians too. After that, I hope for endorsements, more work and more bookings. I hope to get higher platforms,” Chirisa said.
Online Reporter