By Bamuturaki Musinguzi
Published October 5, 2018
The fourth edition of the bi-annual Africa Laughs show is expected to bring mirth and laughter to Kampala Serena Hotel on October 8, 2018. What is billed as a star-studded show shall feature local and international comedians like Uganda’s Daniel Omara, Prince Emma, Ronnie Mcvex, Agnes Akite, Madrat and Chiko and Kenya’s Prof Hamo and Mc Jessy, Rwanda’s Arthur Nkusi, Congo-Kinshasa’s Eddie Kadi, Zimbabwe’s Alfred Kainga, Nigeria’s Basket Mouth and United Kingdom’s Kevin J.
RELATED:Ghost Intervenes as Kenyan Thespians Fight
ArtMatters.Info’s Bamuturaki Musinguzi speaks to Patrick Idringi aka Salvador, the stand-up comedian behind the Africa Laughs show.
What should the comedy fans expect at this year’s edition?
It’s going to be an amazing show because this lineup is epic. I have performed with all these guys for the past years and all I can tell fans out there is come and experience one of the best comedy shows ever in Uganda.
RELATED:Leading Kenyan Musicians Launch Urban Sound Single
Why has the Africa Laughs Show been off-and-on?
I decided to do it after every two years because I interchange it with Man From Ombokolo my one Man show. So like this year is Africa Laughs, next year will be Man from Ombokolo Salvado at 10 when I celebrate 10 years in comedy.
Why do you find comedy exciting?
I find it exciting because despite the hard times, people still make time to laugh, there is nothing as beautiful as a thank you from someone after a performance.
RELATED:Cruelty, Forgiveness and Magic Blend in Annual Theatre Extravaganza
How would you describe the type of comedy that you perform?
My comedy is observational, I like discussing topics that people are not comfortable talking about but in a different but funny perspective.
Do Ugandans appreciate comedy by turning up for shows?
I believe the do, Ugandans have really supported the industry for it to reach this level, the fact that we have a comedy show almost every day of the week at different venues which sell out says a lot about how appreciative people are and I thank them very much for the love.
RELATED:African Poetry Celebrated with Exhibition and Reading
Which is the biggest challenge facing the comedy industry in Uganda?
We still lack professionalism in the industry but that’s something we are working on and I believe it won’t be long before we achieve it.
What would you have been if you were not into comedy?
I would be doing my first profession as an engineer so I think I’d still be okay.
What influenced you into comedy?
I was influenced by my love for making people around me happy, I’ve always been a funny person but didn’t know it was a money making profession.
Who are the people that have influenced you the most in your comedy career?
I’ve had a couple of people that I watch and look up to but one of my biggest influencers has been BasketMouth from Nigeria, he has been an inspiration and from the support of my family the journey has been flawless.
RELATED:That Dishwashing Liquid or Pesticide Could Make You Infertile!
What challenges have encountered in your work?
Sometimes people don’t see the value and impact of our work, they think you just walk on stage and talk, and that also determines how they value you in terms of money.
What is your greatest professional achievement to-date?
Being nominated for the Savannah Pan African Comic of the Year Awards in South Africa for two years in a row. These awards voted for by fellow comedians across Africa, so that means they appreciate my work.
How do you unwind after a day’s work?
I like hanging out with my friends drinking whiskey while we discuss issues that won’t build the nation. Laughter!
RELATED:Why Charging African Customers for the Use of the Lavatory is Wrong
