South African comedians set to break ribs in Bulawayo

Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub

HE might have failed to find love on Mzansi Magic’s Date My Family dating show, but South African soft-spoken funny man, Siyanda Maphumulo, has vowed to win over hearts next month. This vow has been shared by his compatriot, Khanyisile Bunu, a former teacher ready to crack the whip.

These two comedic gems are set to take the stage at the Large City Hall in Bulawayo on August 23, stepping in for the US-based, America’s Got Talent (AGT) finalist, Zimbabwean comedian, Learnmore Jonasi. And speaking of stepping in, the show has recently undergone a rebranding, transforming from “Coming from American” to “The Cross Border Comedy Show.” Clearly, the organisers, Umahlekisa Entertainment know that comedy knows no borders – or at least they’re hoping the punch lines don’t!

Khanyisile, known for her delightful charm and sharp wit, first made waves on the reality show, “So You Think You Are Funny” back in 2009. Fast forward to 2015, and she made history as the first female to win the Comics Choice Awards’ Audience Choice Award in South Africa. With such accolades under her belt, one would think she’d be too busy counting awards to perform, but not her!

“I am very excited about performing in Zimbabwe next month. Last time was great; I hope it will be even greater this time,” Khanyisile exclaimed.

So, what can Bulawayo expect from this comedic powerhouse?
“My Bulawayo faithful may expect laughter and loads of lessons to learn. I’m bringing my freshest jokes from my current tour, ‘Teacher Dropout.’ It’s going to be fire!” she promised.

And if you’re wondering about the content, Khanyisile plans to share her hilarious tale of failing dismally at being a teacher for 11 years.

She has been heard making fun of herself and her students during her tenure as a teacher in past comic specials. Who knew that laughing at her former students was a thing?

Meanwhile, Siyanda Maphumulo is ready to charm Bulawayo with his unique blend of humour. An 8-time finalist at the Satma awards and a regular on stages like 99 percent Zulu Comedy, he’s no stranger to the comedic spotlight. His fans will remember that time he performed “iMoto’eNtshontshimali” on Idols in 2014.

“I’m super excited to be performing in Zimbabwe next month! My Bulawayo friends should expect a mix of IsiZulu and English material that resonates deeply with them. It’s all about inclusivity!” Maphumulo shared.
Maphumulo also expressed curiosity about Zimbabwe’s comedy circuit.

“I don’t know much about it, but I have a few comedian friends there. I just know there’s a lot of comedy talent in Zimbabwe. Besides Ntando Van Moyo, I’ve heard of guys like Q Dube and the late Clive Chigubhu — legends!”

Bulawayo’s comedy scene has been on a meteoric rise lately, with local comedians stepping into the spotlight and making waves. The city is becoming a hub for comedic talent, and the addition of Siyanda and Khanyisile is just the cherry on top of the comedy cake.

“I think it’s fantastic to see how comedy in Bulawayo has evolved. It’s like fine wine — getting better with age! I’m looking forward to meeting the local comedians and learning from them. With the addition of talents like Siyanda Maphumulo and Khanyisile Bunu, we’re witnessing an exciting new chapter in our comedy landscape,” said Ntando Van Moyo, Director of Umahlekisa Entertainment who is also set to host the gig.

The city has also hosted comedy roasts in the past and recently, unknown acts have been emerging in the circuit, winning fans over.

Maphumulo’s comedy set is inspired by international comedian Rowan Atkinson, best known as Mr Bean.
“I love how he communicates without even saying much. I aim to bring that same energy to my show!”
Khanyisile’s material may cover everything from her teaching misadventures to the absurdities of adulting.

For local acts curtain-raising the show, this will be a good learning curve from South Africa’s established talent.
These include Zwe Hlabangana, dark-humour enthusiast Ble Mutandwa, D’Juni, 23rd National Arts Merit Awards (Nama) nominee, Mbongeni Ignatius Ndlovu, and General Lesley. —@MbuleloMpofu