Slap a Big High 5, as some of the continent’s most sought-after performers get their act together for another comedy-and-music spectacular. If your stomach muscles is up to it, do not miss this year’s national Big 5 Comedy Show, proudly supported by Comedy Central Africa, kicking off at the Teatro in Montecasino on Friday 26 July & Saturday 27 July.

Soak up the laughs when Stuart Taylor, John Vlismas, Schalk Bezuidenhout, Tats Nkonzo and Kurt Schoonraad take to the stage with plenty of fresh quips in their comedy arsenal.

After last year’s sold-out shows, this year’s edition promises to be another ground-breaker as Schalk, Kurt and Tats join the line-up. No doubt these household names will add tang, spice and new angles to the Big 5 family.

Entrepreneur, comedian and founder of Taylor Made Productions, Stuart Taylor once again returns as host with an even mightier team of funny men and a new line-up of exceptional talent. The man who is ‘Going Everywhere Quickly’, Stuart is the ringmaster who has the experience and know-how to keep his audience knee-slapping with mirth while introducing each of the Big 5 acts.

A comic artist who has carved a fresh set of grooves on stage, Tats Nkonzo is a renowned treasure-chest of humour, who cleverly combines musical vibes and charming wit, both in South Africa and abroad. The world is not enough for this talented artist who has won the Montreux Comedy Contest in Switzerland, back in 2014 and is currently a judge on the new global talent competition on CBS, ‘The World’s Best’ along with the likes of Drew Barrymore, Faith Hill and RuPaul.

Schalk Bezuidenhout has become a comic-giant, having racked up several nominations and awards whilst storming on the domestic and international stage. His quirky ‘stache’ and ‘fro’ complement a sharp tongue and a unique take on modern society. This performer truly is the epitome of young and smart comedy which represents the future of this industry.

An innovator and stalwart of the comedy scene, Kurt Schoonraad joins the team with his brilliant and witty jabs, all delivered with a distinct Cape Town flavour. A long road of fame and success which includes numerous local and international performances, as well as several film appearances, has made his performances truly exceptional, so prepare for loads of belly-laughs when he takes to the stage.

One of the heavy weights of SA Comedy, John Vlismas needs little introduction after many years on the comic circuit. Thought-provoking in his approach, there are no sacred cows he leaves untouched to bring his audience a different perspective. Get ready to rethink your opinions while laughing out loud with John’s unique style which completes the line-up for this awesome show.

Returning for more, The King of Beats is back. Big 5 Comedy’s resident scratch boss and legend, DJ Ready D, will use his award-winning skills to create an electric atmosphere. But be warned – he may just having you dancing in the aisles!

Doors open at 7:30pm and the show starts at 8pm.

Tickets are available at Computicket and range from R180 to R350 (with a 10% discount for block bookings of 10 or more people). Please note that the show is rated PG16.

The post The Big 5 Comedy Show appeared first on Stage and Screen.

Patricia de Lille, Cape Town’s executive mayor, released the following statement:

A few nights ago, I conducted a successful test switch-on of the festive lights on Adderley Street, as we prepare to usher in the holiday season.

I was joined by top Cape Town talents, DJ Ready D, Heavenly Quartez, and members of The Rockets (who are celebrating their 50th anniversary).

These artists form part of an exciting line-up of entertainers set to wow Capetonians next month at the Cape’s biggest, free open-air event.

Each year thousands of Capetonians and visitors enjoy the celebration. This event is indeed a key example of how we are building an inclusive city as we come together to enjoy safe fun and the best in local entertainment.

The performers set to take the stage at the annual City of Cape Town festive lights switch-on from 16:00 on Sunday, 3 December 2017 include:

• Baby Boy
• Paxton (Idols finalist)
• Soul Kulture
• Heavenly Quartez
• Koos Kombuis
• Vicky Sampson
• Craig Lucas (winner of The Voice South Africa)
• Jimmy Nevis
• Freshlyground
• The Rockets and Friends (celebrating 50 years)
• DJ Reddy D
• MC: Joe Barber and Boeta Gamat

The Grand Parade and surrounding streets will be energised by a shining line-up of fan favourite music acts, ahead of the eagerly awaited illumination moment at 20:30. The concert will end with a spectacular 3D video mapping display. As always, the first crossing in Adderley Street will carry a brand new light attraction that this year will spark the 2017 theme: Cape Town celebrates summer.

The festive lights switch-on is always a highlight on the city’s annual events calendar, as it is a wonderful family occasion for young and old to enjoy.   Attracting not only local residents, but visitors from afar, all are met with a warm and true Capetonian reception – something the city has now become known for around the world, as Cape Town celebrates its status as the ‘Events Capital of Africa.’

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