Taboka Tshuma , Sunday News Reporter
BULAWAYO-based comedian Frank Chirisa has once again stood out from the crowd captivating audiences with his exceptional comedic talent during a stellar performance in Botswana recently.
Chirisa took the stage at Triccs’ annual birthday special, hosted by the Gaborone Comedy Club, leaving the audience in stitches with his unique brand of humour.
In an interview with Sunday Life, Chirisa revealed that his performance held special significance as he honoured the memory of his late grandfather through his comedy.
He confirmed his stage fright the first time he performed in that country but said this time around his confidence was at its peak.
“The last time I was here, I was a little scared but this time my confidence was at an all-time high. The audience loved it from start to finish, and it was an incredible feeling,” he told Sunday Life.
Frank Chirisa
“Yesterday marked my grandfather’s first death anniversary, and I made jokes about his passing, the funeral and his illness. It was a sensitive topic, but surprisingly, those were the jokes that garnered the loudest applause,” he shared.
Chirisa highlighted his ability to connect with the audience as one of his greatest strengths, attributing it to his willingness to be vulnerable and honest on stage.
“My fears about getting older, being single and not finding love are relatable, and the audience really resonates with it,” he explained.
With a new comedy special in the works, Chirisa is poised to elevate his comedic craft. He is currently building a new set for his upcoming project, promising fresh, rib-cracking jokes this year.
“Comedy revolves around addressing either our similarities or our differences and we realise that in Africa, we share similar experiences, whether it’s growing up in the kasi (township) or visiting grandparents during the holidays in the rural areas. I’ve met almost all the comedians I’ve wanted to meet, except for Doc Vikela. I’m hoping to meet him soon, although we do talk,” he noted.
