On Saturday, the Old Brewers Courtyard changed into a haven of laughter as the Savanna Namibia Comedy Festival made its debut.
The event, a celebration of local comedy talent and international humour, delivered a night of pure entertainment.
The organisers announced the names of the top four comedians nominated for the awards: Cara the Great, Dangete, Courage and Funny Jones.
The awards ceremony is scheduled for 7 December.
Mich Gaoseb, the founder of the festival, said the event kicked off with a workshop for the top 14 Namibian comedians, perfecting their skills and preparing for the spotlight.
The subsequent Dad Jokes Tournament had audiences rolling with laughter as contestants battled it out with their corniest puns.
“The evening’s highlight was the Savanna So You Think You’re, a comedian-comedy showdown. Local comedic gems shared the stage with international stars, Triccs (Botswana), MoeLatif (South Africa), Maforty (Zimbabwe) and Johnny Pula (Botswana). The competition format ignited the stage with unpredictable humour and lively performances, showcasing the diverse tapestry of comedic talent,” he said.
He added that the festival and awards will be bigger and better in the local comedy scene, creating an unforgettable day and evening of laughter, entertainment and community spirit.
“I urge everyone to vote for their favourite comedians – lines are open. Help us all to celebrate the work of the comedians and everyone in the arts industry,” he said.
“Other festival attractions included a mesmerising Comedic Magic Show, where illusion and humour intertwined to create a truly magical experience. A screening of a captivating Namibian film offered a glimpse into the country’s burgeoning film industry,” he added.
To complement the laughter and magic, the festival featured a music bash and a variety of food stalls serving delicious Namibian cuisine. The combination of comedy, music, and food created an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
The Savanna Namibia Comedy Festival is an annual event dedicated to celebrating local comedians, promoting the arts and bringing the community together to enjoy laughter and camaraderie.
With a passion for showcasing Namibian talent, the festival creates a platform for both established and emerging performers to shine while entertaining audiences with diverse comedic styles.