Comedy is Stewart’s game
Western Extension resident and stand-up comedian Tony Stewart travels the world, but his heart lies in Benoni because this is where his family lives.
BCT: What makes Benoni special to you?
TS: I was born in Scotland and moved to Benoni 20 years ago.
The reason Benoni is special, is because it’s a central hub to the airport and several relevant places.
The town is also growing.
Benonians care about each other and make a difference in each other’s lives, which isn’t something that’s often seen.
BCT: Why did you choose to become a stand-up comedian?
TS: When I was 11 years old, I watched a show where a man entertained through music and jokes.
Then the man showed the audience what they looked like, from his point of view and they were stunned.
I decided then I wanted to get into showbiz and I have been ever since.
BCT: Tell us about your evolving career?
TS: At a young age, I started performing in circus acts at the Pinders 1 Royal Circus, in Scotland.
Three years later, I began performing stand-up comedy in Sunderland (Northern England).
I participated in several comedy acts including one called ‘Working Man’s Club’, where miners and several other workers visited to drink beer and listen to a few jokes.
I then moved into performing at theatres and then ultimately television shows such as ‘Jokers Wild’, ‘The Comedians’, ‘A Funny Country’, ‘Wheel Tappers’ and ‘Shunters’, amongst others.
One of my shows that I did – which is still spoken about today – is the ‘Biltong and Potroast’ show.
BCT: Apart from the different experiences you’ve enjoyed through stand-up comedy, is there anything else that’s memorable about it?
TS: Through stand-up comedy, I was privileged enough to meet Madiba and not only did I shake his hand, but we spoke.
From my years of experience, I prefer South African audiences.
BCT: What hobbies do you have other than comedy?
TS: I love comedy; it’s what I watch and do – it’s all about comedy.
BCT: What are your future plans?
TS: My main plan is to just live. I want to be alive and enjoy life. I want to get to such an old age that when I walk around, I end up being in people’s way and I have to tell them to go around me.
Also read: Ensure your child leads a balanced life
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