The Funny Side of South Africa: SA Comedians Who'll Have You Laughing into 2025
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South Africa is home to some of the quirkiest, sharpest and downright hilarious comedians who've mastered the art of making us laugh at our culture, politics and all our wonderfully weird quirks. These comedy legends are gearing up to keep us in stitches all through 2025. Here's a look at six comedians who are redefining funny and why you should already be booking those tickets.
1. Riaad Moosa: Prescribing Laughter Since Forever
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Riaad Moosa isn't just a comedian; he's a Cape Town born doctor who swapped stethoscopes for stand-up mics because, apparently, laughter is the best medicine (and has fewer malpractice lawsuits). Whether he's poking fun at overprotective aunties or the chaos of family life, Moosa delivers perfectly timed punchlines that hit harder than your medical aid's co-payment. His skit "Doctor's Orders" hilariously explores life as a doctor-turned-comedian, proving that treating people with laughter is far more enjoyable.
Catch him on 6 January 2025 at the Baxter Theatre in Cape Town. Trust us - this is one prescription you won't want to skip.
2. Alfred Adriaan: The Everyman We All Relate To
Image source: https://tinyurl.com/udxbyfbu
Alfred Adriaan is the "Ordinary Guy" whose comedy feels like he's been reading your WhatsApp messages. From the horrors of married life (why does it always come down to whose family makes the worst curry?) to growing up in the small town of Hankey, Eastern Cape, Adriaan's humor is painfully relatable. In his skit "Marriage Chronicles," he dives into the hilarious miscommunications between spouses - like how saying "I'll do the dishes later" apparently means "never."
While his 2025 event is still under wraps, you can bet your last packet of NikNaks that Adriaan will bring the kind of belly laughs that make you forget the Wi-Fi is down.
3. Nina Hastie: Unapologetically Real (and Ridiculously Funny)
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If honesty is the best policy, Nina Hastie is its CEO. Known for her fearless, no-filter approach to comedy, Nina tackles everything from mental health to the wild world of dating in South Africa. Her skit "Single AF" is a laugh-out-loud guide to navigating Tinder nightmares, awkward first dates and ghosting (because, let's face it, we've all been there).
Expect her 2025 performances to be equal parts hilarious and empowering. Just don't sit in the front row unless you're ready to be roasted.
4. Loyiso Gola: Satire with Swagger
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If satire were a sport, Cape Town born Loyiso Gola would have more trophies than Bafana Bafana has excuses. Gola's razor-sharp wit cuts through South African politics and social issues like a hot knife through butter (or a government tender). His iconic skit "State of the Nation" transforms mundane headlines into comedy gold, making you laugh at things you normally wouldn't.
With his laid-back style and sharp insights, Gola's 2025 shows promise to make you laugh, think and question how you ever survived without his humor.
5. Tumi Morake - Fearless, Funny and Fiercely Relatable
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Tumi Morake is a force to be reckoned with in South African comedy. Known for her fearless, unapologetic humour, she brings a unique perspective to the stage that resonates deeply with audiences. Tumi's standup comedy is a brilliant mix of candid observations on everyday life, gender, race and the complexities of being a woman in South Africa. Her ability to tackle sensitive topics with wit and authenticity has earned her a loyal following, making her one of the most respected and loved comedians in the country. Whether she's performing stand-up, hosting, or acting, Tumi brings a refreshing, bold energy to everything she touches.
In 2024, Tumi's exceptional contribution to comedy was recognised when she was named Best Comedian at the National Film & TV Awards South Africa. This prestigious accolade is a testament to her talent and influence in the entertainment industry. Tumi's dynamic performances, her unfiltered voice and her ability to turn personal and cultural experiences into comedic gold have solidified her place as one of the top comedians not only in South Africa but across Africa. See Tumi Morake live on the stage in 2025 and she'll have you laughing so hard, your tummy will be in a constant up-and-down motion!
6. Kevin Fraser: South Africa's Favourite Expatiator
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Kevin Fraser is that guy who turns the chaos of South African life into comedy gold. His skit "Biltong and Potroast" hilariously captures the joys and woes of being a South African abroad, from explaining what a "robot" is (hint: it's not a machine) to dodging expat BBQs with dodgy sausages.
Fraser's 2025 show will have you roaring with laughter as he brings high-energy performances filled with quirky characters and those "only in South Africa" moments. If you've ever laughed at how we complain about Eskom but still don't buy a generator, Fraser's your guy.
Now, we promised you six South African comedians, but this guy had us rolling on the floor with laughter and so we give you as a "Dezember" bonus:
Schalk Bezuidenhout - South Africa's Humourist-in-Chief
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With his colorful sweaters, iconic moustache and very Afrikaans sense of humor, Schalk Bezuidenhout is like the cool cousin you wish you had. In his skit "Moenie Worry Nie," he hilariously unpacks the trials of dating, awkward family Christmases and the eternal struggle of pronouncing English words like "queue."
Performing at the George Arts Theatre in the Garden Route, on 19 and 20 February 2025, Schalk's show will leave you clutching your sides and wondering how he makes even the simplest observations so ridiculously funny.
Jive Cape Town Funny Festival 2025: The Ultimate Winter Warm-Up
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Event: Baxter Theatre, Cape Town, 2 - 29 June 2025
When it comes to comedy festivals, the Jive Cape Town Funny Festival is more than a gem - it's the comedy crown jewels, complete with bedazzling punchlines and a glittering lineup of talent. For over two decades, this festival has been Cape Town's answer to winter blues, transforming chilly evenings into sidesplitting nights of laughter. Forget cosy blankets and hot chocolate, this is the real way to heat things up.
A Smorgasbord of Laughs: Local legends and global comedy stars converge at the iconic Baxter Theatre for a laugh-a-minute variety show that truly has it all. Expect stand-up sets that'll have you nodding along like, "That's so true!", slapstick antics worthy of a popcorn-choking moment and improv so sharp it could carve a pumpkin. Oh, and don't forget the quirky musical acts - because who doesn't need to hear a ukulele ballad about Eskom?
A Timeless Classic: Since its debut in 1997, the Jive Cape Town Funny Festival has been more reliable than Cape Town weather predictions. Running annually in June, July or August - and respectfully avoiding the Holy Month of Ramadan - it's become the Mother City's comedy Olympics (At this event, everyone wins gold, especially the audience).
The festival's formula is simple but brilliant: a mix of South Africa's best comedic talent and international acts that keep the laughs rolling. It's a hit every year, with some fans returning for multiple shows in a single season - because let's face it, you can never have too much of a good chuckle.
Laughter for All Ages: From pun-loving parents to meme-obsessed teens, the Funny Festival's diverse lineup has something for everyone. Whether you're coming to laugh at the ridiculousness of modern life, enjoy light-hearted escapism or simply to see your overly enthusiastic aunt laugh until she cries, this event delivers on all fronts.
Whether you're a hardcore comedy enthusiast or just someone who needs a night out, the Jive Cape Town Funny Festival is your ultimate winter escape. It's slapstick, satire and silliness all bundled into one unforgettable show. So, grab your tickets, call up your crew and get ready for a night of giggles, guffaws and good vibes.
Mzansi, Get Ready to Laugh
South African comedy is in a league of its own, and these comedians prove why. Whether you're into satire, storytelling or just plain silliness, 2025 is shaping up to be a year filled with laughter. So book your tickets, grab your popcorn and prepare for skits that'll have you quoting punchlines for months. Just remember: no laughing with a mouth full of biltong - it's a choking hazard.
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Author: Twaambo Chirwa