The stage is set for a laugh-filled weekend as the finalists of Cape Town’s Festive Lights Switch-On (FLSO) Comedy Competition go head-to-head at the V&A Waterfront, Cape {town} Etc reports.
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The top 10 comedians will compete for generous cash prizes and the opportunity to perform at the city’s iconic Festive Lights Switch-On event on Sunday, 1 December 2024, at the Grand Parade.
The finalists – Ivan André, Baydu Adams, Inkosi James, Marius Rossouw, Milton Gengaya, Mzwa Seme, Nathan Kalala, Prince Mbaya, Rafique Ismail, and Rameez Cassiem – will showcase their comedic flair under the watchful eyes of judges Lunga Tshuka, Stuart Taylor and Angel Campey. The grand prize winner will take home R10 000, while second and third place winners will receive R5 000 and R2 000, respectively.
‘Cape Town is an example of South Africa’s rainbow nation. In good and bad times, comedy connects people, and Cape Town shows off with some of the greatest comedians our country can offer,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security JP Smith. ‘Since the theme promotes Capetonians to be people of hope, this comedy competition is a fantastic platform to bring our people together with some comedians to shine bright. We’re looking for fresh, dynamic humour that reflects the city’s vibrant spirit. I can’t wait to see what these finalists bring to the stage — both during the showdown and at the annual Festive Lights Switch-On itself.’
A festive tradition with a message of hope
This year’s theme, ‘People of Hope’, celebrates Cape Town’s resilient and diverse communities. The annual Festive Lights Switch-On event is one of the city’s most anticipated gatherings, drawing thousands of locals and visitors. The switch-on of the Adderley Street lights at approximately 8:45pm will mark the official start of the summer season.
The evening promises a stellar lineup of performers, including Three Tons of Fun, Carletheia, Blackbyrd, Meneer Cee, Cheree and Wynand Strydom, Mafikizolo, Mörda, Dr. Victor and the Rasta Rebels, and more. With a programme starting at 4pm, it’s an event for the whole family to enjoy, offering a vibrant mix of music, entertainment, and community spirit.
A weekend of fun and laughter
The FLSO Comedy Competition will kick off the festive weekend at the V&A Waterfront, where audiences can witness the next wave of Cape Town’s comedic talent. The event is open to the public, promising a fun-filled evening of laughter and entertainment as the city celebrates its unique sense of humour and community connection.
One of the finalists, Ivan André, recently relocated from Johannesburg to Cape Town and is due to perform his first one-man show at 209 Long Street (Backpackers) on 30 October.
Speaking to Cape {town} Etc, he said that he was both excited and somewhat nervous about the prospect of performing on stage in front of an audience of tens of thousands next weekend.
‘I’m sweating both crude oil and bullets’ he said.
‘It feels like showing up to planet earth and having to paying rent.’
‘I’m nervous of course but very excited.’
For more details on the event and performers, visit www.capetown.gov.za/general/festive-lights-switch-on.
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Festive Lights Switch-On 2024 launches new comedy competition
Picture: City of Cape Town
