YELLOWWOOD Park Sports Club echoed with the sounds of thunderous laughter recently when it hosted a night of comedy featuring Yellowwood Park’s own Mmangaliso Mhlongo.

Also read: A full house of fun at Yellowwood Park Sports Club’s bingo night

The line-up drew a sold-out crowd, as residents of the neighbourhood packed the club hall to see a superb line-up of up-and-coming and veteran comedians.

Mhlongo, a former high school English teacher turned full-time comedian, said the evening was special for him, not just because it was taking place in his hometown, but it was a chance for many to see how he has developed.

“I started doing comedy after my best friend dared me. He told me I was funny and should try it, and a week later he died. A week after his funeral, I kept to my word and I tried my first hand at it and received a standing ovation, and since then I have never looked back,” said Mhlongo.

Hosting the night was veteran comedian and East Coast Radio presenter, Darren Maule, who kept the crowd engaged between acts.

“Doing gigs like these are so important. They give comedians the chance to practise their art and improve, and it ultimately helps keep the industry alive. I would be doing a lot more of these types of shows if I had more time,” said Maule.

The night also featured newcomers such as Mzwandile Seme, who has been on the comedy scene for only two years. “I have been having the most incredible time, my favourite moment performing is seeing the people laugh. When I see that, then I know that I’m doing it right,” said Seme.

Liam Whitcher, in comedy for three years now, started as a comedy writer before transitioning into a performer. “Being on that stage and being able to do stand-up is truly an art form like no other,” said Whitcher.

Rounding out the group was Smangaliso Gasa, known by his stage name Prince K, who has been making his way through the comedy circuit for five years. “It’s completely amazing to be involved in a show like this. As stand-up comedians, our journey is so different, we don’t necessarily receive the exposure other acts do. Nights like these give me hope,” said Gasa.

The talented line-up had the Yellowwood Park Sports Club in stitches. Clive Smith, the chairperson of Yellowwood Sports Club, thanked Mhlongo for the laughter-filled show.

“We feel absolutely privileged that Mmangaliso chose our club to showcase his talent and that of his fellow comedians, what an awesome night. They really made us feel at home as South Africans by finding the funny in our everyday lives,” said Smith.

Mhlongo thanked Maule, fellow comedians and everyone who supported the show. He gave a special thanks to the Yellowwood Park Sports Club committee and hinted that a follow-up event is already in the works.

For more Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter and get news delivered straight to your inbox.