Shingirai Manyengavana
Celebrated stand-up comedians Victor ‘Doc Vikela’ Mpofu and Admire ‘Bhutisi’ Kuzhangaira are gearing up for their highly anticipated national stand-up comedy tour, dubbed ‘Comedy Junta’.
The tour targets a wide audience across Zimbabwe and is scheduled to kick off on March 30, at the Triangle Country Club in Triangle.
Doc Vikela expressed his motivation behind the comedy show.
“Bhutisi suggested the idea of a national tour, driven by our desire to explore different issues that arise from traveling and connect with diverse communities.
“I am convinced that this tour will not only entertain but also inspire and motivate young people to contribute to the comedy industry,’’ said Doc Vikela.
On selecting the tour venues, Doc Vikela said they relied on Bhutisi’s contacts and previous visits to various towns in 2017.
‘’We aim to inspire others through our stories.
“As comedy pioneers in Zimbabwe, Bhutisi and I and Simuka Comedy and PO Box want to bring value and inspiration to each place we visit.
“We hope to strengthen the comedy scene in our country and make a lasting impression everywhere we go,’’ added Doc Vikela.
Despite the challenges involved in planning and preparation, Doc Vikela expressed his readiness for the tour.
“Securing partners has been crucial, and I am happy to share that we have taken care of everything, including travel arrangements.
“Bhutisi and I have been working hard on new material, guaranteeing that the audience can anticipate a show packed with laughter and craziness,’’ he said.
Doc Vikela emphasized that the primary objective of the “Comedy Junta” tour is to strengthen and solidify the comedy industry in Zimbabwe.
“By collaborating with comedians like Nijo and King Kandoro, our tour aims to boost comedy’s growth and recognition as a popular form of entertainment.
“The increasing number of bookings we’ve received reflects its rising popularity.”
Dumisani Nkomo, the Food and Beverage Manager for Triangle Country Club, and one of the tour hosts, shared his excitement about the upcoming event.
“The show will bring laughter and highlight the country club as a safe and exciting tourist destination in the Lowveld.
“With top-notch sporting facilities like golf, cricket, bowling, tennis, boating, and angling, hosting the comedy show will boost our market share and establish them us as a premier venue for events,’’ said Nkomo.
The “Comedy Junta” tour is expected to tap into a niche market for stand-up comedy in the southeast lowveld of Zimbabwe.
“I encourage local artists to see comedy as a viable business and take advantage of the opportunities in the growing industry.
“Embrace the potential for growth and make the most of this thriving field,” added Nkomo
