Laughs and nominees in Sandton
Comedians and fans came out in numbers as the Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards announced this year’s nominees and confirmed The Goliaths as hosts for the upcoming ceremony.
There is nothing quite like a good laugh, and in South Africa, comedy continues to bring people together.
On March 11, the Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards hosted its nominee announcement event at the Artistry, where comedians, media and fans gathered to celebrate the local comedy industry.
Read more: Michael Mount Grade 11 learners to take on comedy mystery Clue
The event set the tone for what promises to be another big year for South African comedy, with the main awards ceremony scheduled for May 2 at the Lyric Theatre.
Addressing the audience, Darren Sandras, managing director at One Eyed Jack, said the awards play an important role not just for comedians but also for audiences.
“It’s a big deal for the industry, but it’s also a big deal for consumers and for your fans. It’s an opportunity for them to engage you. While the industry nominates and primarily votes, the awards show itself is where fans get to buy tickets, come see you and connect with you.”
Also read: Brescia House hosts star-studded Comedy Gold for a good cause
Sandras added that the platform helps grow the industry and strengthens South Africa’s global comedy presence.
“We have seen many of our nominees and winners perform overseas, which is a big deal. But performing on home soil remains the most important.”
He highlighted that this year’s ceremony will be hosted by The Goliaths, who are set to bring their signature humour to the stage.
The awards feature 12 categories, with three decided by public vote. These include Breakthrough Act of the Year, Comedic Content of the Year and Best Comedy Festival Show. Voting for these categories opened immediately after the nominees were announced.
Sandras also highlighted a new addition to the awards: the Legacy Award, which allows comedians to nominate a peer for recognition.
“Comedians judge each other all the time. But here, they get to vote in a system that is independently audited.”
Follow us on our WhatsApp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!
