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Bongani Ndlovu Showbiz Correspondent
COMEDIAN Carl Joshua Ncube who is on a quest to break the Guinness book of records’ “Most stand up comedy performances in seven days” is getting more than he bargained for as his talent is reaching out to new markets who have offered to sponsor his future shows.

The talented comedian who kicked off his quest in South Africa last week said his appearance on SABC 3’s popular breakfast show – Expresso had seen many doors of opportunity open for him.

“Word has gone out that I want to break the record. Ever since I embarked on this quest, doors have been opening for me with bookings overseas,” said Ncube.

“When I was in South Africa, I got sponsorship deals with certain companies who offered to provide my accommodation wherever I’m performing. This is entirely because of my appearance on SABC 3’s breakfast show last week.”

Yesterday, Ncube who is being accompanied by his doting wife Nelsy and a film crew that is documenting his quest completed the 26th leg of his 35-show quest in Bulawayo. Ncube is on a mission to break the Guinness world record by surpassing Australian comedian – Mark Murphy’s record. Murphy made history in 2007 when he staged 30 gigs at 30 venues in seven days all over Australia.

In Bulawayo, Ncube performed at BAC Leisure Centre, Pub Lagondola, Cresta Churchill, Nesbitt Castle and Rainbow Hotel yesterday where he was joined by fellow comedians Clive Chigubhu, Ntando Van Moyo and Babongile Sikhonjwa. The attendance at most shows was encouraging.

Ncube said he had to add another show in Bulawayo after the one at Pakare Paye in Norton failed to take off last week.

“Initially I wanted to beat the record in five days and the way I’d planned my shows, it was going to be possible. However, this couldn’t happen as there’ve been delays here and there.

“Also, the cancellation of the show in Norton because of poor marketing made it difficult for me to beat the record in five days. I had to replace the Norton show with the one I staged at BAC,” said Ncube.

Though the makeup show had a handful of people, this did not dampen the comedian’s spirit as he performed as if the room had hundreds of people.

“This is the most gruelling and tiring thing that I’ve ever done. Things are going according to plan as I want to surpass the record so much that it’ll be difficult for anyone to beat it,” he said.

Today, Ncube concludes his quest in Victoria Falls with performances at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, Africa Cafe, Shearwater Cafe, Lookout Cafe and Cresta Spray View.