Comedian shows he means business at sold-out event

The sold out show of #ImeanBizniss was a hit with Newcastle comedy lovers, as Hlophe entertained the crowd.

March 4, 2019

Charmaine Mazibuko 2 minutes read

Locals had the chance to be entertained by award winning South African comedian, Skhumba Hlophe, on February 22 at the Blackrock Casino.

Hlophe is a well-known comedian, radio presenter and actor who won the DStv Mzansi Best Comedian Award in 2018.

The sold out show of #ImeanBizniss was a hit with Newcastle comedy lovers, as Hlophe entertained the crowd.

The comedian said he knew from a young age he was funny: “I can say I grew up funny. I was always telling stories and grew up making people around me laugh.”

Hlophe is also known for his TV role on the SABC 1 sitcom, Thandeka’s Diary, in which he plays the role of the overbearing mechanic father, Bheki Zulu. The reason for the name of his current show, #ImeanBizniss, is because he felt people did not take him seriously.

“So this is me saying I am here to work and I mean serious business. I am very passionate about my craft and my gift of comedy. I don’t take anything for granted. Everything I do with my gift must go with discipline and hard work. I give my all in every show. I mean business!”

The comedian had the crowds in stitches as he tackled issues of human relationships, marriage, politics and cheating. He said his humour is mostly based on his general observation about life.

“A lot of my comedy is based on real-life human stories. Everything goes with me; there’s no boundary. I talk about everything, including South African politics. We know that our current political standing is in a crazy state. I am not afraid to address any real issues.”

Skhumba added that he didn’t grow up with much.

“I grew up struggling, but I knew I had to change my situation. The hunger and passion for what I do is what kept me pushing through all the challenges.”

He concluded by saying he didn’t find it difficult to keep the audience captivated.

“I don’t think it’s hard keeping the crowd entertained. You need to grab them within the first 20 seconds of interaction. I think I am able to grab and keep the crowd’s attention on stage, because I can connect with them on a personal level. They understand that my stories are raw and real.”

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