Local comedian Cedric Simelane is cementing his influence on the Eswatini comedy scene following the successful hosting of Last Friday Gags at Molly’s in Mbabane.
The event featured a high-calibre line-up including award-winning comedians Mdura and Dr Shakes.
Reflecting on his motivation for launching the series, Simelane pointed to his formative years performing at Emfuleni Lifestyle.
He noted that those weekly shows were instrumental in his development, forcing him to write new material daily and refine his stage presence.
Last Friday Gags was created to revive that disciplined spirit and provide a dedicated stage for local talent.
“It is not just a show. It is a safe space for upcoming comedians to find their voice and build confidence, while established acts continue to sharpen their craft,” Simelane explained.
The journey has not been without its hurdles.
Simelane admitted that building a brand from the ground up involved significant behind-the-scenes challenges, particularly regarding logistics.
However, strategic partnerships with Tribe Studios, MojaTickets, Molly’s House of Grills, Sibebe Resort and Mdura proved vital in bringing the vision to life.
He noted that the team remains open to further sponsorships to help scale the concept.
The audience’s response has already exceeded initial expectations. Simelane described the crowd as energetic and fully engaged with the atmosphere.
Some attendees even embraced the evening’s theme by dressing in school uniforms.
This level of commitment from the public suggests a growing appetite for curated stand-up events in the capital.
The growth of the brand has been organic but steady. “We started with modest numbers, but our consistency has turned sceptics into regulars,” Simelane said.
He attributes much of this success to the show’s atmosphere, which appeals to a broad demographic.
“What’s special is that we’ve cultivated a clean comedy environment. We’re seeing families bring their children and extended relatives because they know that humour is inclusive.
“Our Last Friday Gags family is growing through word-of-mouth, which is the best compliment we could get,” he added.
The transition from performer to curator appears to be a natural progression for Simelane.
Moving forward, he intends to focus on his role as a facilitator, dedicated to building a sustainable platform for local talent through the Last Friday Gags with Cedric & Friends brand.
By bridging the gap between newcomers and veterans, Simelane is ensuring that the local comedy circuit remains vibrant and professional.
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