The Savanna Newcomer Showcase was developed to allow every eligible Newcomer comedian in the country a chance to come to Soweto and feature in a showcase. They are transported, accommodated and paid a fee, all courtesy of main sponsor Savanna.
Places in the Showcase are meant to be limited to 20, with four previous winners also performing. This rule was put in place to avoid overly long shows that put the last few performers at a disadvantage.
Due to an overwhelming crop of new, eligible talent, as well as the theme, “For the love of laughter...” which is all about the feel-good factor of great comedy, the organisers have decided to allow all 26 Newcomers to perform at the show.
“We just couldn’t turn people with such enthusiasm and passion away – this is what the awards are about – celebrating local comedy, especially as we have secured a television deal with Vuzu Amp, the most exciting channel around.” says executive producer, Taffia Keight, “we discussed it, and the six extra comics represent 30 mins of stage time, so we decided to trim some other bits and voila – we have a spot for everyone.”
At the show, they meet the press, network with fellow comedians, agents, managers and lobby for votes in the hope of winning a shiny Waldo statuette at the main awards show – the 6th Annual South African Savanna Comics’ Choice Awards, held at the Teatro at Montecasino on Saturday, 3 September.
The unique format of the show, where comics each have exactly five minutes on stage, takes place on Sunday, 29 May at the Soweto Theatre, and starts with music and drinks from 14:30. The show starts at 16:30.
“It’s the best way to see the whole future of SA stand-up in one fast and really funny sitting – get there if you can,” urges founder, John Vlismas.
Tickets are close to being sold out. Hurry to book a seat. Tickets are R100 and are on sale now at
www.webtickets.co.za, Pick ‘n Pay stores and
www.sowetotheatre.co.za.
No under 16’s. Alcohol not for sale to persons under the age of 18.