The laughter was loud, the energy electric, and the stakes high at the 2025 Savanna Newcomer Showcase, held on Sunday, January 26, in Sandton. This sold-out event, hosted by award-winning comedian Tumi Morake, saw 20 of South Africa’s freshest comedic talents battle it out with their best five-minute sets, all vying for a nomination in the prestigious Savanna Newcomer Award category at the upcoming Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards on April 12.
Nelson Mandela Bay in the Spotlight
This year, Nelson Mandela Bay proudly had three representatives on stage:
- Chantal Harris – (@chantal_harris_comedy)
- Dombolo – (@domboloralo)
- Zaheer Gaida
These local stars brought their unique comedic perspectives to the national stage, showcasing the humor, charm, and grit that make Nelson Mandela Bay a hub of talent.
A Diverse Cast of Newcomers
While our hometown heroes shone brightly, the other 17 contestants were no less impressive, each adding their own flavor to the night. Here’s the full lineup of this year’s comedians:
- Aiden Ho – (@aiden_.ho)
- Christie van Niekerk – (@christievniekerk)
- Daniele du Plessis – (@daniele.bia)
- Dr Mathews – (@_drmathews)
- Farieda Metsileng – (@pharoahfi)
- Jerry McSpanky – (@jerry.mcspanky)
- Kamaney – (@g_kamaney)
- Keketso Hutamo – (@keketso_hutamo)
- Khanyisile Ngwenya – (@khanyisilecomedy)
- Nate Levinrad – (@natevuyolevinrad)
- Ngosa Kangwa – (@ngosakang)
- Ntsundeni Ndou – (@ntsundenindou)
- QuarterLeg De Comedian – (@quarterleg17)
- Rafique Ismail – (@rafique_ismail)
- Sala – (@sala_u_joke_2_much)
- Thendo Musetha – (@thendo_m)
- Wesley King – (@wesley_king__)
Each comedian brought their A-game, from razor-sharp punchlines to clever wordplay and unexpected twists. The mix of styles and personalities made for an unforgettable night of laughs.
Mentorship and Magic
Comedy heavyweights like Mpho Popps, Robbie Collins, Celeste Ntuli, and Sifiso Nene showed their support, proving that the South African comedy scene thrives on mentorship, camaraderie, and the occasional well-timed roast.
More Than Just an Event
The showcase was a polished and premium affair, thanks to the efforts of Savanna, Mrs. Ball’s, and One-eyed Jack. The evening didn’t end when the lights went down; it transitioned into a buzzing afterparty filled with music, mingling, and impromptu jokes.
The Road Ahead
For Nelson Mandela Bay’s own Chantal Harris, Dombolo, and Zaheer Gaida, the journey is just beginning. These talented locals have made their mark, and with the spotlight on them, the sky’s the limit.
Keep an eye out for highlights from the event on Comedy Central and follow the journey to the Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards on April 12.
Let’s cheer on all 20 comedians and, of course, give an extra loud round of applause to our NMB stars!
For more updates, visit www.comicschoice.com and follow the conversation using #SavannaCCA.
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