The South African comedy scene shone brighter than ever as luminaries from the industry gathered to commemorate the 11th Annual Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards.
- The 11th Annual Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards brought together talent, laughter, and national pride.
- From Tyla to Dricus du Plessis, Mpho ‘Popps’ opening set paid homage to the country’s achievements on both local and global stages, setting a patriotic tone for the night.
- Amidst laughter and applause, the awards honored comedians across twelve categories, spanning stand-up comedy, comedic writing, and content creation.
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The festivities commenced with Mojak Lehoko, the show’s esteemed writer, setting the stage for an evening brimming with humour and camaraderie under the theme, ‘Don’t You Just Love South Africa!’ Mpho ‘Popps’ Modikoane, the charismatic host, kicked off the proceedings with boundless energy, celebrating South Africa’s recent triumphs while infusing his trademark comedy into the mix. Each Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards recipient was handed the sought-after Waldo trophy, a testament to their exceptional contributions to the comedy landscape.
The 2024 winners were announced as follows:
- Breakthrough Act of the Year Award: Vafa Naraghi
- Savanna Newcomer Award: Callum Hitchcock
- Joe Mafela Award: Sifiso Nene
- Funny is Funny Award: King Price for Generating Gees
- Best Comedic Show/Festival Award: Bioscope Sundays
- Hall of Fame Award: Marc Lottering
- Best Comedic Writer Award: Kagiso Lediga
- upLiFTing Comedic Content Award: Costa Carastavrakis
- Sauce of the Year Award, Presented by Mrs. Ball’s: Vafa Naraghi
- Best Solo Show Award: Sifiso Nene for Baby Mama Drama
- Headliner of the Year Award: Robby Collins
- Comedian of the Year Award: Mpho ‘Popps’ Modikoane
The evening was punctuated with uproarious performances, including a Gen Z-inspired dance skit by Khanyisa Bunu and the 250 Machine crew, a riotous sketch by Robby Collins and Dalin Oliver, and a standout stand-up set by the queen of Zulu comedy, Celeste Ntuli.
A poignant moment arose with the presentation of the Joe Mafela Award to Sifiso Nene, celebrating linguistic diversity and cultural richness. The Funny is Funny Award, clinched by King Price for Generating Gees, underscored the symbiotic relationship between humour and advertising, while David Kau marked the 20th Anniversary of ‘Blacks Only’ with heartfelt nostalgia.
Robby Collins’s recognition as Headliner of the Year affirmed his consistent brilliance on stage, while Mpho ‘Popps’ Modikoane’s crowning as Comedian of the Year epitomized his enduring impact on the industry. A touching tribute unfolded as Alfred Adriaan honored Marc Lottering with the Hall of Fame Award, acknowledging his invaluable contributions to South African comedy over the decades.
Beyond the accolades, the awards ceremony highlighted the industry’s camaraderie and mutual respect, with industry votes determining the majority of winners – an affirmation of the tight-knit community of South African comedians. With cash prizes of R10’000 each, the Awards celebrated excellence while fostering unity within the comedy community.
The Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards stand as a testament to the enduring brilliance of South African comedy and the boundless creativity of its practitioners. For those who missed the main event or wish to relive the highlights, Comedy Central (DStv Channel 122) will air an Awards Special on 18 May 2024.
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