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Mbulelo Mpofu, [email protected]

Comedian Frank Chirisa is on a mission to fill the Bulawayo Theatre over two consecutive days, August 24-25, a feat never achieved in the comedy circuit. 

This ambitious endeavour under the “Funny Stories That Heal” banner might seem like a pipe dream, but for Chirisa, it is achievable.

The Bulawayo Theatre has a capacity of over 300, a number that only a few have managed to reach. However, Chirisa believes that the support from fellow comedians, family, friends and fans will give him the firepower he needs to succeed.

He expressed gratitude for the encouragement he has received, saying, “So far, I’ve been getting encouragement and support from other stand-up comedians. They understand that I’m doing this for the betterment of the game.”

With ticket sales exceeding projections, Chirisa is optimistic about reaching his goal. 

“I’m happy, really. Even tickets are moving well above projection. I’m just praying for strength and endurance,” he said.

The comedian has faced challenges in the comedy circles and sees this as a chance to stage a serious comeback after a brief hiatus to deal with personal issues. He has assembled a talented line-up of supporting acts, featuring a mix of Harare and Bulawayo artists. 

“For confirmed opening acts, we have Sisa, D’juni, Sincominkosi, Khwezi and Mbongeni for Day 1 while Day 2 will have Tanya, Tino, Brandon and Ckhanyiso Dat Guy,” he said.

Chirisa’s team, including Affluent Media, has been instrumental in organising the event. 

In preparation, Chirisa has been performing extensively, including a recent appearance on Zimpapers Television Network (ZTN), where he became the “first comedian to go on national television without bathing”.

Gweru-based musician BaShupi has also expressed his support for Chirisa, promising to buy five tickets to the shows.

To promote the event, Chirisa plans to perform at least 100 times in the next two weeks, taking his comedy to buses, churches, restaurants and clubs. Additionally, Chirisa has been shooting a documentary and plans to have a television programme. — @MbuleloMpofu