Comedy in Joburg is thriving right now. From indie comedy nights, new stand-up shows by seasoned talent, to IRL festivals you cannot afford to miss, we round up the best shows to keep on your radar.
Upcoming comedy shows in Joburg
Alfred Adriaan presents Positive Strokes
Alfred Adriaan returns to Joburg’s comedy scene with Positive Strokes, a brand-new stand-up show diving into the chaos, humour and everyday realities of modern fatherhood. Known for his storytelling style and sold-out performances across South Africa and abroad, Alfred once again turns ordinary life moments into sharp, laugh-out-loud comedy that resonates with audiences of all ages.
In Positive Strokes, he reflects on parenting, marriage, family dynamics and the often hilarious contrast between different generations and approaches to raising children. Alfred finds comedy in the small frustrations and absurdities of everyday life, making audiences feel like they’re laughing through familiar conversations with friends and family.
Cost: From R150pp to R225pp, book via Webtickets
When: Running from 7 to 11 October, various times
Where: Pieter Toerien Theatre at Montecasino, Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg
Dalin Oliver is Stuck in Dubai
South African comedian Dalin Oliver hits the stage in Johannesburg with his brand-new stand-up comedy show, Stuck in Dubai.
Inspired by a four-day layover that spiralled into cancelled flights, live missiles and an unexpected race across the world to reach Australia for performances, Dalin delivers explosive laughter and adrenaline-fuelled storytelling in this unbelievable true tale. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a night of brilliant comedy and shared laughter.
Cost: R150pp to R200pp, book via Webtickets
When: Wednesday to Sunday, 14 to 18 October 2026 | Friday at 7.30pm; Saturday at 4pm and 7.30pm; Sunday at 3pm (Wednesday and Thursday shows are SOLD OUT)
Where: Pieter Toerien at Montecasino, 1 Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg
Sifiso Nene: Because of Success
Multi-award-winning comedian Sifiso Nene is back with a brand-new one-man tour – and he’s got a lot to get off his chest.
Look forward to hilarious relatable moments and not-so-relatable moments as Sifiso chronicles life in South Africa and what it looks like on the other side of success.
Cost: R250pp to R400pp, book via Webtickets
When: Saturday, 21 November 2026 from 7pm
Where: Carnival City Casino, Big Top Arena, Cnr Century Road &, Elsburg Rd, Brakpan
Andre, the Hilarious Hypnotist
A festive season favourite returns as Andre The Hilarious Hypnotist brings another round of comedy, audience participation and mind-bending entertainment to Montecasino. Known for his fast-paced, interactive performances, Andre’s long-running show has become something of a year-end tradition, blending hypnosis with laugh-out-loud moments that keep audiences coming back season after season.
Perfect for family outings, group celebrations and end-of-year office parties, the experience is driven almost entirely by audience participation, meaning no two performances are ever the same. Volunteers from the crowd become part of the show as Andre guides them through a series of hilarious hypnosis routines, unpredictable challenges and spontaneous comedic moments.
Guests should note that children under 16 may not participate in the hypnosis segments, and the Studio Theatre unfortunately does not offer disabled access due to stairs.
Cost: From R150pp to R180pp, book via Webtickets
When: Running from 4 December to 31 January 2027, various times
Where: Studio Theatre At Montecasino, Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg
Jimmy Carr
One of the biggest-selling comedy acts in the world, Jimmy Carr returns to South Africa, brought by Chambers Touring and Big Concerts.
Jimmy consistently performs stand-up to sell-out crowds across the globe, soliciting gasps and giggles in over fifty countries.
For fans of fast-paced, edgy one-liners, Jimmy Carr brings his brand-new show ‘Jimmy Carr: Laughs Funny’ to cater to that humour. Jimmy tells jokes, and jokes are like magnets. They may attract people, but they may also repel. Some people may be repelled by Jimmy’s dark brand of comedy, and so this show is not for them. But if it’s the kind of thing guests like, then this is the kind of show you cannot miss.
Cost: From R855pp to R3295pp, book via Ticketmaster
When: 13 March 2027 from 8pm
Where: Sunbet Arena at Time Square Casino, 209 Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria
Regular comedy events in Joburg
Comedy in the Park, a monthly series at The Whirlwind Theatre
Join your favourite comedians each month for The Whirlwind Theatre’s mid-month Comedy in the Park.
Each third Saturday of the month, audiences experience an uplifting and hilarious comedy show to combat the mid-month blues. Featured comedians include Dave Levinsohn as MC with Wazi M. Kunene, Richelieu Beaunoir and Mark Banks. New comedy acts will be confirmed soon
From 5pm, the pop-up restaurant opens for a delicious pre-show meal as well as drinks on sale.
Cost: From R180pp; from R120pp (pensioners). Book via Quicket
When: Every Thirs Saturday of the month, from 5pm
Where: The Whirlwind Theatre, Delta Park, Intersection of Rd No. 3 &, Rd No 5, Victory Park, Randburg
The Assembly Improv Show
Part of an international network with roots in Toronto and chapters in Mexico and South Africa, The Assembly Improv has become one of Johannesburg’s leading spaces for long-form improvisational theatre and performance training. They host regular shows on Saturday evenings in Randburg.
The artist-run company is dedicated to developing both skilled improvisers and compelling live performances. Focused on long-form improv, performances are built entirely from audience suggestions, transforming ordinary topics and unexpected ideas into scenes that can be hilarious, dramatic, insightful or completely absurd.
Beyond performances, The Assembly also offers free improv and clowning classes designed for people from all backgrounds and experience levels. The courses are widely recognised for helping participants develop communication skills, confidence, creativity, teamwork and public speaking abilities, while encouraging people to stay present, adaptable and open in both performance and everyday life.
Cost: From R100pp. Book via Quicket
When: Every Saturday, from 6:30pm to 8pm
Where: JATA – Johannesburg Academy for Theatre Arts, 47 Main St, Linden, Randburg
Bioscope Sundays
End your weekend with the best comedy in Joburg at Bioscope Sundays. Hosted by the vibrant Shanray van Wyk and Tsitsi Chiumya, this regular Sunday night comedy event delivers two hours of top-tier stand-up, kicking off at 6:30 pm. Awarded Best Comedy Show at the 2024 Savanna Comic’s Choice Awards, Bioscope Sundays has become a must-attend event for comedy lovers. Each show features a stellar lineup of South Africa’s best comics, along with surprise spots from other talented performers, ensuring every Sunday is unique.
Cost:Various, see upcoming lineup here
When: Every Sunday, from 6:30pm
Where: The Bioscope, 44 Stanley Ave, Braamfontein Werf, Johannesburg
Samoka Comedy Events
Samoka is a premium comedy experience at top venues in Johannesburg and Pretoria. Expect a stellar lineup of emerging and established comedy talent at iconic spots like Kings Kraal, DaVinci Hotel, and Protea Hotel Fire & Ice Menlyn.
Upcoming performances include comedy heavyweights like Marc Lottering, Ndumiso Lindi, Sami Hall, Trevor Gumbi, and more. With regular events featuring both fresh faces and seasoned stars, these comedy nights promise a mix of sharp wit, unforgettable punchlines, and non-stop laughs.
Cost: Various rates, see the full lineup here
When: Various
Where: Johannesburg and Pretoria
Annual comedy festivals in Joburg
Laugh Africa Comedy Festival 2026
Get ready, Joburg—The Laugh Africa Comedy Festival is back and bigger than ever! From 2–4 May 2025, the Sandton Convention Centre transforms into a laughter epicentre as Savanna and Showmax bring together comedy’s finest.
This three-day comedy extravaganza features top acts from across Africa and beyond, including Uganda’s Salvado Ombokolo and Kenya’s Eric Lu Savali—two titans of the African comedy scene. Expect bold punchlines, cultural wit, and a feast of comedic styles, from roasts to international headliners. It’s a celebration of unity through laughter—where borders blur and belly-laughs reign.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Sandton Convention Centre, 161 Maude St, Sandown, Sandton
In Comedy, We Trust
Some of South Africa’s sharpest comedic talents come together for one unforgettable night of laughter, honesty and unfiltered social commentary at In Comedy, We Trust. The 2026 lineup featured David Kau, Celeste Ntuli, Chris Forrest, Pelepele and Mashabela, all joining for a high-energy evening led by five distinct comedic voices known for their fearless humour and crowd-commanding stage presence.
Set against the backdrop of an increasingly unpredictable world, the show leans into comedy as both escape and reflection, tackling everyday realities, social tensions and life’s absurdities with wit and sharp insight. Audiences can expect a mix of observational comedy, personal storytelling and laugh-out-loud takes on contemporary South African culture.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City Casino, Corner Of Northern Parkway &, Data Cres, Ormonde, Johannesburg South
Crack Up SA 6.0
Crack Up SA 6.0 is bringing yet another instalment of unfiltered comedy chaos at an unconventional venue, this time, set against Lizamore Art Gallery in Rosebank. This concept comedy show in Joburg is all about sharp, it’s fearless, and proudly South African humour.
Comedy fans can look forward to a mix of fresh new voices, fan-favourite comics, and talent who are ready to push every boundary. From the wild side of everyday Mzansi life to the beautiful madness of our modern hustle, no topic is off-limits — and everything’s funny.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Lizamore Art Gallery on Keyes, 29 Keyes Avenue, Rosebank, Johannesburg
See more live events in Joburg
