Robby Collins set to host the 2024 Newcomer Showcase, which comes to Sandton for the very first time
As the 11th Annual Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards returns to celebrate the very best in local comedy this April, the awards are set to host a series of events in the lead-up to the big night.
What has fast become one of the country’s most anticipated comedy events of the year, the first of the lead-up events; the Newcomer Showcase, is set to come to Sandton for the very first time.
The showcase was founded in 2013 as a platform for up-and-coming comedians to each have five minutes on stage to show the comedy industry, casting agents, talent scouts, and comedy promoters what they’re made of, all in the hope of building their careers and being nominated in the Newcomer Award Category.
This intimate event is now one of the hottest things on the comedy circuit, and is attended by the best comedians in the country, who join the media to come out and show their support and to discover the ‘next big thing’.
The 20 newcomers who are being flown in from all over the country to show off their comedic chops are: Mzonke Maloney, Wesley Paulse, Emile Alexander, Obakeng Moroe, Zachary Esau, Chuma Bentele, Céline Tshika, Molokela Makola, Sipho Luther, Thula Sithole, Kaashif Stellenboom, Nhlanhla Biokgantsho Shabangu, Khabane Moloi, Lerato Sokhulu, Nolwazi Nkwandla, Callum Hitchcock, Sarah Abraham, Mick Pillay, Vincent Joseph, and Mr Chase.
The fast-paced, two-hour show will be hosted by last year’s Comedian of the Year winner Robby Collins, who will be on hand to support the newcomers and guide the audience through an afternoon of uproarious entertainment.
"There is so much great new talent coming onto the local comedy scene so I’m so excited to be hosting this year’s showcase,”
Robby shares.
“Get ready to laugh your socks off as we spotlight the absolute best from the fresh faces in comedy – it's gonna be a blast!”
The Newcomer Showcase takes place on Sunday, 21 January 2024 at the Theatre on the Square, Sandton.
The event kicks off with at 16h00, setting the stage for an unforgettable comedy experience.
The show begins at 17h00, ensuring a tightly packed two-hour window of non-stop laughter, concluding at 19h00. Guests are invited to rub shoulders with the comedians after the show.
Tickets for the Newcomer Showcase are priced at R150 and can be purchased through Computicket or by calling 011 340 8000. However, tickets are limited so get yours ASAP to avoid disappointment.
Not only is the Newcomer Showcase a night of entertainment, but it also serves a greater purpose. All proceeds from ticket sales will go towards funding an incubator workshop designed to nurture and support emerging comedic talent, ensuring a bright future for the next generation of South African comedians.
About the Awards:
Now in its 11th year, the Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards were created to build the industry, to highlight the stalwarts that have pioneered new paths, and to support emerging talent to be the best it can be.
The aim is to elevate careers, to help comedians sell out their shows, and for corporates to look to comedians to MC and host their events. The ultimate goal is for international comedy festivals to book our incredible local talent to perform abroad, and for South Africa to be attracting top international acts to tour here too.
