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
Soweto Comedy Festival
The 18th annual Soweto Comedy Festival is themed “The Heavy Hitters” and marks a historic return to the iconic Soweto Theatre in Jabulani.
Having hosted legendary acts such as Trevor Noah, Kagiso Lediga, Roni Modimola, Eugene Khoza, Trevor Gumbi and Kedibone Mulaudzi over the years, this 2026 edition brings two unforgettable nights featuring diverse comedic performances from highly renowned headliners.
On Friday, expect sets from Dillan Oliphant, Jay Boogie, Modipane A-Lister and Zicco Sithole. On Saturday, expect sets from Jason Goliath, Nicholas Goliath, PelePele Mchunu and Kedibone Mulaudzi.
Cost: R200pp; R350pp for VIP. Book via Webtickets
When: Friday, 31 July at 7.30pm | Saturday, 1 August at 7.30pm
Where: Gibson Kente Theatre at Soweto Theatre, cnr Bolani Link and Bolani Rd, 2601 Bolani Rd, Jabulani, Soweto
Loyiso Gola Live At Funny Galore Comedy Club
Two-time International Emmy Award nominee, comedy veteran and master of satire is gracing the Funny Galore Comedy Club stage with a few special guests for an evening of hilarity to start August off on a high note.
Cost: R100pp, book via Webtickets
When: Saturday, 1 August from 7pm
Where: Simas Funny Galore Comedy Club, 111 Lotsani Ln, Emmarentia
Anton Taylor & Khanyisa JamJam present Comedians of National Unity
Anton Taylor & Khanyisa JamJam introduce their stand-up show “Comedians of National Unity”, an experience that is bound to give you more joy than the Government of National Unity (GNU) has.
Expect big jokes, wild stories, and the kind of laughter that will really unite this beautiful country.
Cost: From R220pp, book via Quicket
When: Saturday, 1 August from 8pm to 10pm
Where: The Capital, On the Park, 101 Katherine str, Sandton
Mbali Gudazi presents Black Don’t Crack
Following a breakout run in 2025, Mbali Gudazi steps into the spotlight with her debut one-woman comedy special, Black Don’t Crack.
The rising comedian has quickly become one of the country’s names to watch after being nominated for Best Breakthrough Act at the Comics Choice Comedy Awards, winning the Jive Funny Championships in Cape Town, and earning a place in the 25th Cape Town Funny Festival.
She also closed out the year performing at the 21st edition of Blacks Only at SunBet Arena alongside some of South Africa’s biggest comedy heavyweights.
In Black Don’t Crack, Mbali leans into the everyday realities of looking far younger than her age, unpacking everything from shopping for shoes in the kids’ section to discovering she apparently doesn’t give “aunt energy”.
Cost: From R120pp. Book via Quicket
When: Friday, 7 August from 7pm. Show starts at 8pm
Where: Young Rebel Recording Studio – Ferndale On Republic Shopping Mall – Randburg (Above Food Lovers Market)
Marc Lottering Ankle Marc
Famous for his award-winning stand-up comedy shows as well as for his critically acclaimed original musicals, Marc Lottering is currently on a national tour for his brand new stand-up comedy show, Ankle Marc.
Marc has received several prestigious awards along the way and has recently been inducted into the SA Comics Choice Hall of Fame. Also, his latest musical, Colleen The Musical, has been nominated for 4 Cape Town Theatre Awards this year.
Comedy lovers are invited to hear all that’s been happening in this charismatic comedian’s world of late, including the story as to why it is that he hobbled into 2026 with a fractured ankle and a moonboot.
Ankle Marc is not suitable for children.
Cost: From R220pp. Book via Quicket
When: Friday, 7 August from 8pm to 10pm.
Where: The Capital, On the Park, 101 Katherine str, Sandton
Tollie Parton
This straight-talking diva who’s never afraid to ruffle some feathers is getting vulnerable, especially when it comes to love.
Find out if the fearless drag queen we all know and love has really had her heart softened, or if it’s all too good to be true. With a script by Wynand Kotze and Anne Hirsch, and music by Loki Rothman.
Cost: R200pp to R250pp, book via Webtickets
When: Saturday, 8 August at 1pm and 7pm
Where: Mardi Gras II – Carnival City, Cnr Century Road &, Elsburg Rd, Boksburg
Celeste & Da Big Dudes
Celeste & Da Big Dudes comedy special is back for another uproarious year following consecutive years of sold-out shows, roaring laughter and unforgettable punchlines.
Every year, Celeste rounds up her funniest friends from across the comedy scene to bring you a night of pure hilarity. This year’s lineup features a fresh mix of rising stars, stand-up legends and surprise guests who know exactly how to split sides and steal hearts including Kagiso KG Mogadi, Dillan Oliphant, Summary Mdu Ntuli, Tumi Stopnonsons, Sandile Makhanya and Q Dube with music by Kamo Kaofela.
Expect new jokes, wild stories, sharp wit and the kind of energy you only get when comedians come together for the love of the mic.
Cost: R250pp to R450pp, book via Webtickets
When: Saturday, 8 August from 8pm
Where: Emperors Palace, 64 Jones Rd, Kempton Park
Nicholas Goliath presents Influenced
Nicholas Goliath of the hilarious Goliath brothers presents his new stand-up show Influenced for three performances in September.
A family man and part-owner of the award-winning entertainment brand Goliath and Goliath, Nicholas has managed to make more than a name for himself as a solo act. His new show is set to chronicle today’s internet influencer culture from the millennial perspective.
Cost: R200pp, book via Webtickets
When: Friday, 4 September at 7pm. Saturday, 5 September at 7pm. Sunday, 6 September at 4pm
Where: Simas Funny Galore Comedy Club, 111 Lotsani Ln, Emmarentia, Johannesburg
Bafunny Bafunny
Bafunny Bafunny is Trevor Noah, stepping in as Lead Curator and Captain of the SA National Team of Comedy. He is joined by Vice Captain Eugene Khoza and Coach Ntosh Madlingozi, forming a leadership trio that blends experience, cultural insight and performance credibility. The tour officially kicks off in Pretoria at SunBet Arena on 5 September 2026, before heading to GrandWest in Cape Town on 26 September 2026.
What sets this comedy project apart is its extended build-up. Running from May through to September, the festival unfolds as a season rather than a single event. Expect press conference-style announcements, “call-ups”, behind-the-scenes content and moments that mirror the structure of major sporting campaigns.
South Africa’s Festival of Comedy intends to meet audiences where they are, across live spaces, digital platforms and social moments, rather than limiting the experience to the stage.
Cost: From R465pp, book via Quicket
When: Friday, 4 September and Saturday, 5 September 2026, from 6pm to 11pm
Where: SunBet Arena, 209 Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria
Stuart Taylor: Laughable
Theatre on the Square proudly presents Laughable, a show about a man who was taught that laughter is the answer – even when it isn’t supposed to be – starring the funny, warm, honest and inimitable Stuart Taylor.
For one week only, the comedian brings his most personal and most hilarious show yet, to Joburg. Laughable is about marriage, fatherhood, a middle-aged body staging a quiet rebellion, and the uncomfortable truth that laughter might genuinely be the only response to it.
Part stand-up and part confession, Laughable is not to be missed.
Cost: R180pp to R220pp, book via Webtickets
When: Tuesday to Saturday, 22 to 26 September. Tuesday to Friday at 7.30pm & Saturday at 5pm and 8pm
Where: Theatre On The Square, Shop L121, Sandton City, 5th St, Sandown, Sandton
Roti Queen
Roti Queen is a one-woman theatrical performance written and performed by Shika Budhoo and directed by Dhaveshan Govender.
Blending comedy, drama, movement, and storytelling, the production follows Amrita, a Durban wife and mother preparing roti live on stage while reflecting on marriage, identity, sacrifice, and self-discovery.
Accompanied by a Bollywood-inspired soundscape, the work explores womanhood, culture and personal agency within a contemporary South African-Indian context.
Cost: R100pp, book via Webtickets
When: Thursday to Sunday, 25 to 27 September. Thursday and Friday at 7.30pm, Saturday at 3.30pm & 7.30pm. Sunday at 3.30pm
Where: Kippies, The Market Theatre, 138 Lilian Ngoyi St, Newtown, Johannesburg
Comedy Meets Gospel: A Decade of Laughter
Women in Comedy presents A Decade of Laughter, a celebration of Nonto R’s 10-year journey in comedy. Audiences can look forward to an evening of laughter, music and inspiration, featuring some of the standout names who have been part of her journey along the way.
Blending comedy with live performance, A Decade Of Laughter offers a vibrant and memorable entertainment experience.
Hosted by Nonto R, the show features Tol Ass Mo, Churchboy, Justice Kubheka, Khanyisa Bunu, Alphi Mkhwanazi, Dumi Mkokstad, Xolly Mncwango and Jumbo.
Cost: R200pp to R650pp, book via Webtickets
When: Saturday, 26 September 2026 at 6.30pm
Where: Big Top Arena – Carnival City, Cnr Century Road &, Elsburg Rd, Brakpan
Conrad Koch and Chester Missing in Chester’s Got Talent
The stakes are high as internationally acclaimed South African ventriloquist Conrad Koch wants his puppets to compete to be the very best, but that pariah, Chester Missing, never does what he is told.
As Chester spits the unfiltered truth, guests can expect appearances from Gunter the German mosquito, Hilton the dramatic ostrich, DJ Hoodie the puppet who actually DJs, Mr Dixon the high school teacher, and a surprise guest star, all fighting it out to be crowned the most talented.
The best part is that you, the audience, get to judge as each puppet makes Conrad’s problems worse.
Cost: R150pp to R220pp, book via Webtickets
When: Running from Wednesday to Sunday, 30 September to 4 October 2026 | Wednesday to Friday at 7.30pm; Saturday at 4pm & 7.30pm; Sunday at 3pm
Where: Pieter Toerien at Montecasino, 1 Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg
Vafa Naraghi: Becoming South African
Vafa Naraghi’s Becoming South African traces his journey from growing up as a Persian boy in Mahikeng at the tail end of apartheid to becoming a multilingual performer who has lived and worked across South Africa.
Through sharp wit and heartfelt storytelling, Vafa unpacks the absurdities, contradiction, and quiet beauty of a democracy still finding itself – inviting audiences to laugh, reflect and reimagine what it truly means to be South African.
Cost: R130pp to R600pp, book via Webtickets
When: Friday and Saturday, 2 and 3 October. From 7.30pm both evenings; doors open at 6.30pm
Where: The Lyric Theatre, Gold Reef City Casino, Corner Of Northern Parkway & Data Cres, Ormonde, Johannesburg South
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
You Must Be Kidding Me??
RADA proudly presents “You Must Be Kidding Me??”, a two-night comedy spectacular this October.
Following a series of sold-out shows, and last years success at the Teatro, this year’s event features another stellar lineup ‘bringing you the funny’, including SA comedy legends Alan Committie, Bongani Dube, Dave Levinsohn, Mark Banks, Ndumiso Lindi, Kurt Schoonraad and Celeste Ntuli.
While the show promises an evening of laughter and entertainment, the heart of this event lies in its mission. Proceeds from “You Must Be Kidding Me??” will go towards the RADA MiPad Project, an initiative that provides sustainable, reusable sanitary wear to young girls who can’t afford these monthly necessities.
The ultimate aim is to empower, educate, restore dignity and boost self-esteem by providing them with a small item that makes a big difference.
Cost: R250pp, book via Webtickets
When: Friday and Saturday, 9 and 10 October 2026. From 7.30pm both evenings
Where: Teatro at Montecasino, Teatro Road, 1 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
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
