Mark Banks Banksrupts Montecasino

A legendary comedian takes to Montecasino and lets his fans know how Banksrupt South Africa really is.

English-born, Mark Banks, who has more than 25 years of experience in the comedy industry, has officially taken over Pieter Toerien’s Studio Theatre to present a hilarious show reflective of the state of the nation, titled Banksrupt.

The stand-up comedy show will run until 29 May and you don’t want to miss this accurate depiction of some of the things that have become known as ‘characteristically South African’.

Running 82 minutes long, or ’85 minutes with applause’ as according to Banks, the production sees the actor playing a number of typically South African characters and spoofs a number of popular local advertisements; tweaking them to reveal the true intentions of the companies and accurate responses from the general public.

The funny-man takes on touchy subjects relevant to the current state of the country including race, economy, politics and everything in-between.

Trying to rationalise where South Africa’s allocated funds go, Banks represents on a chart that the bulk of the funds are sent to off-shore accounts and to certain prevalent local personalities and politicians.

“Riah Phiyega is not really a person at all is it,” Banks jokes, “No, Riah Phiyega is a condition. It’s the advanced state of having a Gupta.”

Keeping the crowd in stitches during the entire duration of the show, it can only be described as a success and an indication that theatre-goers don’t take South African issues too seriously.

“South Africans are laughing now more than ever and that shows that where we are today is in a good place,” Banks concluded.

Banks’ high-energy performance kept the audience on the edge of their seats as he delivered a standing ovation-worthy performance.

Neither South Africa nor the audience is safe in Banksrupt.

Details: www.tsogosun.com/montecasino