Market Theatre reloads for comedy showdown as Joburg's finest battle for the crown

The Market Theatre, in partnership with EyeUnderM Productions and powered by the City of Johannesburg's Arts Alive, will host CROWNED: The Comedy Shutdown – Reloaded on Saturday, 29 August, after the event's original 7 August date was postponed (*). 

Doors open at 18h30 at the John Kani Theatre, where some of South Africa's most established comedic voices will go head-to-head with the country's sharpest rising talent in a knockout battle for R20 000 and the title of overall champion.

The reloaded line-up features Mfazomhlophe, Jacques Pienaar, Snatcho, Dr Matthews, Nqobile Mahlangu, Sandile the Giraffe, Masibonge Mndende, Keketso Hutamo, KingSbuda, Neo, Timani X, Emilio Tobias, Aiden Ho and Nkukza Phiri, who will compete in knockout-style rounds for a place in the Top Four, as chosen by the judging panel. The finalists will then battle for the grand prize, with the audience helping to decide the winner via a live clapometer.

The evening, produced by EyeUnderM Productions (Mzansi Comedy Nights) and Nomad Concepts, forms part of the Market Theatre's 50th Anniversary Programme, with the City of Johannesburg and the Market Theatre serving as presenting partners. Alongside the comedy, the night will include the Doek Challenge, a tribute to women held during Women's Month, inviting audience members to arrive in their most stylish doeks for a chance to be crowned best of the night, with prizes contributed by event partners.

Comedians Celeste Ntuli and Siphelele “Pele Pele” Mchunu will co-host proceedings. Ntuli is one of South Africa's most celebrated stand-up comedians and television personalities, while Mchunu, a Soweto-born comedian, actor and Jozi FM breakfast host, won the Savanna Audience Choice Comedy Award in 2019.

Judging duties fall to David Kau, a veteran stand-up comedian credited with helping build platforms that launched a generation of South African comedic talent, and Trevor Gumbi, known for socially conscious humour with credits including Blacks Only, Comedy Central Live and Oppikoppi. YFM's DJ FIF_LAAA will provide the soundtrack for the night.

** Tickets already purchased remain valid for the new date.*