More comedians coming to town after uproarious show at Back Yard

Comedians from across SA are set to tickle the funny bones of East Londoners on a regular basis after a successful night of laughs at The Back Yard restaurant on Wednesday.

The organisers of the comedy session said it would be the first of many shows coming to town.

The initiative was introduced by Ranique Roberts of Big Mouth Entertainment to give comedians a space to showcase their talents.

Roberts, who is based in Gqeberha and manages comedians from across SA, said comedy sessions would be held monthly at the restaurant.

“When I was in East London I visited The Back Yard and identified their space as perfect for comedy shows.

“I started discussions with the owners and they were keen to make it happen, so we had our first performance this week.

“The next one will be in April.”

She said her entertainment company had a pool of comedians from across SA ready to take to the East London stage.

Wednesday’s enthusiastic turnout was proof there was an appetite for comedy in the city.

“I am excited, it means there is definitely something that we can build here.

“We want South African comedians to be creative, create names for their brands and add to their experience.”

The first comedian to take the stage on Wednesday was the award-winning Dalin Oliver from Cape Town.

Oliver, 34, who has performed in East London several times, said the audience had been warmly welcoming.

The funnyman, who started joking his way through life at just 13, scooped the Standard Bank Ovation award at the National Arts Festival in Makhanda.

“The show at The Back Yard was fantastic, with lovely East London people.

“Even though it was not the first time I’ve done comedy in this town, it was my first full comedy show.

“I was over the moon about it, the crowd was really fantastic. We had about 60 people there.

“Now I’m looking forward to performing to audiences all over the country.”