There’s a celebratory feel to The Jive Cape Town Funny Festival this year. The popular Festival has always been the pinnacle of the local art form in the city, showcasing the best stand up in the country, alongside a range of top class international performers. This year, its 15th anniversary, shows off a glittering line-up, manifesting in nightly standing ovations.
Supreme Master of Ceremonies, Alan Committie, sets the tone of the show perfectly, with his unique brand of observational comedy. His fascination with the Latin language and school education, when we still had standards as opposed to grades, is hilarious. If you’re a teacher in Cape Town, the routine alone is worth the ticket price. The sophistication of his content and delivery lays the foundation for a wonderful evening of comedy.
Each act is clever and entertaining. Local funny men Carvin H Goldstone from Durban and Sifiso Nene from Sandton via Midrand, are absolutely hilarious. They both give strong performances, confirming their leading status in South Africa’s comedy hierarchy.
Classically trained International pianist, Kev Orkian, brings the house down with his Armenian routine whilst Australian magician and mentalist, Matt Tarrant thrills the audience with his sleight of hand musical card trick. Both are fascinating to watch.
Lindy Johnson, who broke into the industry via the Funny Festival’s new comic search two years ago, opens the show. The likeable Paarl comedian has vaulted up the comedy ladder moving to Johannesburg, keeping herself at the coal face of the industry.
Kasi Comedy Showdown winner, Obakeng Moroe, displays characteristics of a stage veteran, which belies his short time as a stand-up comedian. The Kasi Showdown searched the Cape Town’s Flats and Townships for the past four months for a new face in the industry.
The ever popular Big Boys from the Kalk Bay Theatre give a “cheeky” display of gymnastics, dance and sensuality. Their routine is a gem.
The evening is brought to an end by Cape Town legend Emo Adams and two musicians. The routine, a combination of funny songs and stories of the entertainer’s like.
The Jive Cape Town Funny Festival has been part of the Cape Town theatre landscape for the past fifteen years. It has never failed to disappoint and this year may even be its best.
The Funny Festival runs till the 28 July at the Baxter Theatre and tickets can be bought through Webtickets.
