Sidumisile Mabena
Gift Moyo [email protected]
It is rare for two people to share the same birthday, pursue the same career path, and maintain a close friendship, but that is exactly the story behind Bulawayo comedians Ntando Van Moyo and Mbongeni Ignatious.
The two respected and contrasting figures in Bulawayo’s comedy scene are set to headline a special comedy showcase titled One Night Stand, an event that will celebrate not only their birthdays, but also their contribution to the growth of comedy in the city.
The show is scheduled for May 11 in the city.
Adding excitement to the event is the inclusion of popular Bulawayo-based content creator Yung Steazy, who will be making his stand-up comedy debut on the night. Speaking ahead of the event, Ntando Van Moyo said he was thrilled by the idea, crediting Mbongeni Ignatious for initiating the concept.
“I’m really excited and have to credit Mbongeni for coming up with the idea. He approached me and suggested that since we share the same birthday, we should celebrate it together by giving Bulawayo a night of comedy.
“We come from different generations, but I immediately loved the concept and wanted to be part of it. Yung Steazy also showed interest in joining the show and, since he has been looking for a way into the comedy scene, this is the perfect opportunity for him to gain experience. I think it’s going to be an exciting celebration and a memorable evening,” said Van Moyo.
Mbongeni Ignatious said this will be his first major birthday celebration.
“For someone who’s never had a big birthday celebration, I told myself I’d work so hard that one day, not only my family, but the whole country would celebrate my birthday. Comedy is the craft that gave me recognition, so combining it with my birthday feels special. Last year, after my first special Let It Out, I was surprised with a birthday cake after the show, and that is where the idea came from — celebrating my birthday through comedy.
“Sharing a birthday with a comedy legend who also played a huge role in my early days made it even more meaningful. After discussing it, we decided to turn it into more than just a birthday celebration, but a comedy movement bigger than the two of us,” said Mbongeni Ignatious.
He also expressed gratitude for the support they have received from fellow creatives and audiences ahead of the show.
The opening acts will include seasoned comedian D’juni and Yung Steazy, who will be trying stand-up comedy for the first time.
“This is bigger than just celebrating two comedians being born, it is about celebrating the art form that made Ntando and I loved by the people, while giving that love back through a great comedy experience,” he said.
Online Reporter