Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards bring fresh laughs with new talent

The much-anticipated 10th edition of the Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards made a grand comeback this year with a star-studded event at The Galleria in Sandton.

The ceremony was emceed by comedian Loyiso Gola, who led the show and brought all the pieces together.

Savanna Comedy Awards

For those who missed the opportunity to attend the extravagant event in Johannesburg, Me Channel 115 will broadcast two TV specials next month, giving fans a chance to relive the incredible journey.

Newcomers

The initial show will highlight emerging comedians who were provided with an opportunity to exhibit their talents through the Savanna Newcomer Showcase.

The purpose of this platform was to introduce newcomers to the industry so that voters would know who to select in the newcomer category for the awards.

Among the performers who displayed their comedic abilities were Wazi M Kunene and Jam Jam, to name a few.

ALSO READ: Faith Mangope and Brighton Mhlongo join eTV’s Morning Show team

Shortlisting

The local comedy industry selected these up-and-coming comedians based on their drive, delivery, confidence, and jokes presented in an entry video, as well as their ability to distinguish themselves from others.

The purpose of this platform was to showcase and highlight emerging talent, providing them with a stage to demonstrate their abilities.

ALSO READ: ‘The Real Housewives of Durban’ reunion: Another man has been chosen to host 

Newcomers grateful

Wazi M Kunene, a rising comedian who was selected for consideration in the Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards, talks about his journey into comedy and the reasons behind his decision to pursue this profession.

“I watched comedians for about four years because you know there’s no formal school for comedy. Then, one day it was time to put all the learning into action.

“How comedians reflect the times in real-time and are agents of healing really inspired me to pursue a career in comedy,” said Kunene.

ALSO READ: PICS: Who is on the ‘Real Housewives of Johannesburg’ cast?

Kunene also discussed his response upon receiving the news of his selection for consideration.

“I was so excited. I started outwardly claiming this win, I did skits and standup about being on the journey of becoming the first woman Newcomer all throughout this process.

“I even signed my name with the 2023 winner on the poster after our showcase. I was so happy and ready to have a dope performance and trust that all the work I’m putting in, comedians have been seeing,” added Kunene.

ALSO READ: Meet the cast of ‘The Real Housewives of Johannesburg’ season 2

The excitement continues

Wazi M Kunene is not the only one having mixed emotions.

Another winner, Jam Jam, is also feeling the jitters, as he can hardly believe that he has been selected for consideration.

“I got into comedy through my friend who is also a comedian Vuyisa Xaba who had started to do comedy in Joburg and he said I should try it out. 

“When I went to an open mic show with my friend, I did very badly but I really knew I could only get better,” said Jam Jam.

Reaction to the news

Jam Jam still recalls his response to the thrilling news as if it had happened only yesterday.

“I remember being very emotional when my name was selected for the Savanna newcomer showcase.

“I wanted to be part of it because it would be a good platform to grow my career. I’m already seeing the benefits of being nominated as one of the newcomers of the year,”Jam Jam further elaborated.

ALSO READ: Mfundi Vundla honoured with the Order of Ikhamanga Silver

A word from the experts

Manuela Dias de Deus, the Managing Director of One-eyed Jack and producer of the awards ceremony, discusses her experiences working with emerging comedians in the industry.

“Working with up-and-coming comedians has been a dream come true. There are moments of exhilaration when someone with so much raw, untapped talent makes their debut and starts making a name for themselves.

“Watching new stars being made in the comedy space is certainly something that is so special to be a part of,” said Manuela.

ALSO READ: RHOWL: Anita’s next f*ck*ng level potty mouth has tongues wagging

Importance of events like Savanna Newcomer Showcases

Manuela talks about the importance of events such as the Savanna Newcomer Showcase in discovering fresh talent.

“The showcase gives a platform to those who may not have had the opportunity to perform on such a big stage throughout their careers so far. It’s an important element of the Savanna Comics’ Choice Awards and a great way to open up the industry and introduce the local comedy space to some fresh talent.

‘Additionally, having the newcomer incubator workshop allowed key industry players to share some valuable knowledge with these comedians – something that’s incredibly important for us as the new team behind these awards,” further stated Manuela.

NOW READ: Wright Ngubeni is back in front of the camera hosting black tax show ‘kuRuff’