Amidst much hooting, cheering and hilarity at Teatro Montecasino this past weekend, eight South African comics walked away with one of the most prestigious award the local comedy industry has to offer – a Waldo statuette. Directed by funny man, Alan Committee, the show was a slick blend of satire, music, sketch and, of course, stand-up comedy by all the winners who were present.
Marc Lottering, Tamara Dey, Tracey-Lee Olivier and many others provided entertainment at the comedy awards. Many agree it was only a matter of time until much-loved new comic, Yaaseen Barnes, walked away with a Waldo, while a previous recipient in the Newcomer category, Schalk Bezuidenhout continues to impress, taking home the award for Intermediate comic.
The audience shared in a touching moment when Ndumiso Lindi handed Joe Mafela his Lifetime Achiever award, and to hear the great man’s humility and love for his craft as he recalled stories from decades ago was heartwarming.
The crowd went postal at the news that the first ever “Non-English Award” was bestowed on Mashabela Galane, a trail-blazer in the vernacular comedy world. More cheers ensued for Chris Steenkamp who was finally recognised for his wonderful writing and received the Comic’s Pen award.
The Audience Choice Award is the only category in which the public is allowed to vote – and they overwhelmingly chose Khanyisa Bunu, who proved why she keeps fans in stiches.
Another new award, The Best Friend of Comedy was created as Waldo’s birthday present to the industry and awarded to Goliath & Goliath, for their contribution to local comedy in a non-performance role.
The man of the hour had to be Trevor Noah, who continuously resets the realms of professional possibility, and once again scooped the Comic of the Year award, and also the brand new Flying Solo Award, which recognises a brilliant one man/woman show.
