Latest news with #TheatreofMarcellus
The Citizen
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
How some of your favourite comedians would fix the world
It's one simple question put to them: How would you change the world? Riaad Moosa and other comedians have some ideas on how to solve the world's problems. Picture: Supplied Few people can mount a stage like it's a pony and take the audience for a ride down a healthy dose of satire, funnies and a whole lot of subtext. South Africa, in particular, can boast some of the funniest and most talented comedians in the world. Like Billy Connolly and Andrew Dice Clay, Ricky Gervais and even Jerry Seinfeld, comedians are socio-political commentators who dress up serious perspectives in, well, a joke. This month, some of the country's finest voices will be taking to the stage at the Theatre of Marcellus at Emperor's Palace on the East Rand. Jokers in July is an annual festival with a lineup that promises to warm you up even better than a few litres of Glühwein or a hot water bottle. Tickets are available at Ticketpro. But funny can be serious, and The Citizen checked in with a few of the funnymen who'll be performing at Jokers in July. It's one simple question put to them: How would you change the world? Here's how they'd fix the world Darren Maule The South African edition, top-line stuff: universal basic income, free transportation, and quality food for the elderly and schoolgoers. These are no brainers, and what do you do on day 2 after this is done? I have thought of that too, like having more public holidays. Yeah, only because the more people don't go to work on a public holiday, the less bad it feels to be unemployed. ALSO READ: 'The Rookie' is no amateur of a show Also starting a new Political Party. Nothing gives more hope than the prospect of a new Party coming in to save the day. When a new Party comes around people get excited and filled with hope. They are energized again and then a couple of months later they are disappointed because this party is the same as the previous party just a different color T-shirt. But for a moment there – we were hopeful. My third one, and I have a patent for this, is an electrified polygrapher that you strap onto every politician and the moment they lie: 220 V of electricity flow through their body. There's a double whammy because you replace them with someone under 25 years old. You fix corruption and youth unemployment simultaneously. Laughter can fix anything Eric Jansen As a comedian, with as many jokes and as many shows as possible because where there is laughter, there is peace. Now, as a superhero, well obviously, take out the bad guys and maintain the peace from there. As the president of South Africa, I'd have to sit down with the smartest, wisest, most technical and clever people and devise a plan to help our country in a way that people see and extend our plan to them. But as who I am right now, a person, just by trying to be a good person to someone who needs it, because doing a good deed for someone can cause a snowball effect of goodness to follow, my act of kindness could lead to more acts of kindness down the road, the more of us that are kind to each other, the better state the world could be in. Riaad Mossa The basic problem with the world is that everyone is caught up in the same game of deception, driven by selfishness. The solution, at least in theory, is simple—people just need to tell the truth and be less selfish. Of course, that's far easier said than done. In the end, though, nothing really changes. All that's left is to watch some stand-up comedy. It won't solve anything, but it does make everything feel a little better. Adults must have nap time Ntosh Madlingozi Mandatory nap time for adults. It doesn't look like these leaders out here are getting enough sleep with all the bad decisions they are making at the moment. Politicians must wear superhero capes during serious debates, we need to laugh. Also, a mandatory 60-second laugh break at work to get those endorphins to skyrocket Hans Brummer Well, in a world of fantasy, we could all escape at night to dreams where we practice being kinder and more patient with other people, and as we awake and learn, we try to apply that to our actual lives, but that's kind of a long game. More immediately, and I don't want to sound anti-authoritarian, but a world leader Battle Royale/Hunger games-style reality show would be great entertainment, and it could sort out some stuff. Just saying. Chris Forrest Instead of war, world leaders should settle their conflicts with naked pillow fights. It probably wouldn't solve anything, but at the very least, it would be far more entertaining to watch. Now Read: 'Roger Waters: The Wall' is an epic watch of powerful music
IOL News
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Joburg's weekend line-up: comedy gold and adventurous escapades
South African comedian Robby Collins will be at this year's 'Jokers in July' comedy showcase. Image: Supplied Jokers in July Some of the nation's top comedians are set to headline the 'Jokers in July' comedy showcase. The latest edition of the annual event will be hosted by award-winning comedian and radio presenter, Darren Maule. Those who will take to perform include top acts such as Chris Forrest, Mpho Popps and Robby Collins. Where: The Theatre of Marcellus at the Emperor's Palace. When: Friday, July 11, from 8pm. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Girls on Bikes This exhilarating bike ride through the streets of Joburg is making its return this weekend for its winter edition. The simple route will include some scenic detours, presenting an opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors while experiencing Jozi in a different way, all while enjoying the all-female company. Where: The meeting spot is at the Cycle Boutique in Braamfontein Werf. When: Saturday, July 12, from 8.30am to 12.30pm. Le Petit Playhouse Keep the kids entertained these winter holidays at the Mall of Africa, which will be hosting fun-filled activities for youngsters, aged two to seven. This will include themed zones such as the Fire Station, Police Station, Vet, Beauty Salon, Medical Centre, Café and Market with various curated props and dress-up attire to satisfy their natural curiosity. Where: The Nando's Court at Mall of Africa in Midrand. When: Runs until July 21, with sessions from 9am to 8pm.
The Citizen
05-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Laugh out loud with South Africa's best comedians at Jokers in July 2025
Laugh out loud with South Africa's best comedians at Jokers in July 2025 Get ready to laugh away your winter blues as some of South Africa's top comedic legends take to the stage for Jokers in July, live from the iconic Theatre of Marcellus at Emperors Palace. This much-anticipated annual comedy series promises a month-long, laugh-a-minute takeover featuring sharp satire, cultural commentary, and the best of Mzansi's comedy talent. Comedy lovers can look forward to performances by Trevor Gumbi, Ntosh Madlingozi, Darren Maule, Mpho Popps, Joey Rasdien, Hannes Brummer, Jaxx Justice, Riaad Moosa, Richelieu Beaunoir, Keenan Cerff and many more. ALSO READ: Gospel celebration fills Emperors Palace with praise and worship Presented by Blu Blood, Jokers in July celebrates South Africa's diverse comedy DNA, uniting audiences from all walks of life through laughter and shared experiences. 'Laughter has the power to uplift us. At Blu Blood, we believe in the business of happiness, and comedy is at the heart of that. Giving comedians a stage and a spotlight is part of our DNA as we grow the industry, showcase local talent, and bring people together,' said Osman Osman and Shaaista Khan Osman of Blu Blood. The line-up: • July 5 – Generations Trade your soapies for laughter as this unfiltered show features a cross-generational clash of comedy icons Trevor Gumbi, Ntosh Madlingozi, Modipane A-Lister and Zicco Sithole. • July 11 – Stand Up Joburg Darren Maule returns to Joburg for one night only, reuniting with Chris Forrest, Mpho Popps and Robbie Collins for a Joburg-style comedy affair. • July 12 – Staan Op Joburg Dis snaaks, dis slim, dis lokal! Join Hannes Brummer, Jaxx Justice, Cobus van Rensburg and Melt Sieberhagen for a night of side-splitting Afrikaans comedy exploring life, love, politics and culture. ALSO READ: Boxing fans flock to Emperors Palace for 'The Coronation' tournament • July 19 – Joey Rasdien Live Joey Rasdien is back with a brand-new stand-up show, blending philosophy, absurdity and punchline-perfect comedy as he reflects on life and its ironies. • July 25 – People of Colour(ed) Comedy This powerhouse ensemble of Richelieu Beaunoir, Keenan Cerff, Prins, Gino Fernandez, Dakes and Eric Jansen shares stories from communities across South Africa in a show packed with culture and belly laughs. ALSO READ: Riaad Moosa returns to stage at Emperors Palace on November 1 • July 26 – Riaad Moosa: What's The Point A fan favourite, Riaad Moosa's new show promises a hilarious and thought-provoking take on the chaos of life, delivering a comedy masterclass not to be missed. All shows will be staged at the Theatre of Marcellus, Emperors Palace in Kempton Park. Tickets are available at and all major Spar Payzone kiosks. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
IOL News
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Avatar: The Story of Life brings ancient epics to life on stage
Avatar: The Story of Life - Radha Krishna, written, produced and directed by Kamal Maharaj and Vanita Maharaj, will be staged in Durban, Johannesburg and Cape Town from this month. Get ready to be transported back in time to the era of Radha and Krishna with this dance drama that has been inspired by ancient epics. Avatar is based on a true story with a captivating storyline - where you will witness the trials and tribulations of life, and get a glimpse into the eternal story of Radha and Krishna. The production, by Vishwa Shakti, will feature dance items, state-of-art lighting and LED backgrounds. It will be staged on July 11 at 2pm and 7.30pm and on July 12 at 2pm and 7pm at iZulu Theatre at Sibaya in Durban. The show will then go on tour to Johannesburg on October 4 at the Theatre of Marcellus at 2pm and 7pm. Tickets can be purchased from Ticketpro. Avatar will also be staged at the Joseph Stone Theatre in Cape Town on October 11 at 2pm and 7pm. Tickets will be available at Webtickets. For more information, call Kamal Maharaj on 082 929 9609. THE POST
IOL News
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Get ready to feel the groove: Kirk Whalum brings soulful jazz performance to Mzansi
Kirk Whalum to perform live in South Africa in May. Image: Supplied Get ready for a soulful encounter like no other as American Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Kirk Whalum is set to perform live in South Africa on May 16 at the Theatre of Marcellus, Emperors Palace. Audiences can expect an evening with Whalum that promises to be a musical experience that transcends borders and touches hearts. With a career spanning nearly four decades, the legend has established himself as a master of his craft, blending contemporary jazz, gospel, and R&B to create a unique sound that resonates with audiences worldwide. His distinguished career includes collaborations with music legends like Luther Vandross, Whitney Houston, Barbra Streisand, and Quincy Jones, as well as Grammy-winning performances and over 25 albums under his own name. The artist's music is characterised by his warm tone, emotive phrasing, and genre-bending brilliance, which has captivated fans across the globe. Many may recall his iconic solo on the late Whitney Houston's iconic 'I Will Always Love You', a moment that forever changed the landscape of modern ballads. When asked about what South African audiences can expect at his show, Whalum shared that he is super excited to be performing some songs from his latest album "Epic Cool", which was released in 2024. This live performance promises to be an intimate and spiritual experience, with Whalum's soulful sound wrapping around gospel hymns and soaring through chart-topping pop anthems. The seasoned musician has a special connection with South Africa, having first visited the country in 1994 with Whitney Houston. Pointing to a Basotho blanket in the background, he shared a story about that visit, 'The first time I was there was back in 1994, I was playing with my boss Whitney Houston and she was excited, we were excited, Nelson Mandela was excited.' He added that his expectation of coming to South Africa in 2025 has a lot to do with the way he first arrived. When asked about local artists who inspire him, Whalum mentioned gospel and jazz artists Jonathan Butler and Jonathan Rubain, saying that Africa has taken over the music industry. 'I don't know if you've noticed,' he noted. He also expressed his eagerness to experience more South African artists and explore possible collaborations during his visit. As for what Whalum is most looking forward to about performing in South Africa, he said: 'It's going to seem very shallow and I apologise ahead of time, I'm looking forward to the food. I'll start the morning out with boba tea and Rooibos."
