Thabang ER proves that laughter is the best medicine
Thabang won the Fame Award for Best Limpopo Comedian 2016.
POLOKWANE – Award-winning comedian, Thabang Eugene Ramasenya is fast becoming a household brand.
The Moletjie-born talent from Ga-Ramakgaphola, who is well-known as Thabang ER by his fans, presents his comedy through Sepedi and English, appealing to audiences across the ethnic spectrum.
Read more: A queen in the comedy kingdom
He started his on-stage career late 2012, focusing on politics, sport, pop-culture and South African cultures among other topics which he brings to light through his on-stage anecdotes.
Read more: New school comedic genius
Thabang won the Fame Award for Best Limpopo Comedian 2016.
BONUS had an exclusive interview with him.
Tell us more about yourself.
Born and bred in Limpopo, I am a comedian, master of ceremonies, composer, entrepreneur, IT system analyst and an all-round good guy.
How did you become a comedian?
It was in 2012, after I watched Mashabela perform in vernacular at the State Theatre. Growing up I thought stand-up comedy could only be performed in English and he showed me it could be otherwise. I met with brothers of Comedy Society in Pretoria who assisted me with the ins and outs of the industry, the rest is history.
What do you love most about your job?
I get to touch and change people’s lives for the better through laughter. The higher I go the more I inspire most black children from the dusty streets of Moletjie Ga-Ramakgaphola and many other parts of South Africa and I help them believe their dreams are possible.
Which comedian did you look up to while growing up?
I looked up to a few comedians such as Augustine Shotholo and Ashifashabba while growing up. Lately I look up to David Kau and Mashabela Galane and I continue to learn a lot from them.
Are you in a relationship?
Yes I am.
Do you have any children?
Not yet, I am working on it though.
What is your favourite music?
Tša Manyalo.
What book are you currently reading?
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho.
What is your favourite car?
The new VW Tiguan R.
Favourite perfume?
Oud Wood by Tom Ford.
What is your understanding of a hunk?
Thabang ER, hahaha.
Do you have a favourite movie?
The Hangover.
Favourite holiday destination?
My home town, Ga Moletjie Ga-Ramakgaphola, when others go on holidays abroad.
Your favourite sport?
It’s soccer, obviously.
What’s your take on women who wear makeup?
Women wear makeup for different reasons. For some it helps to build confidence, while some feel ugly and unacceptable without makeup. But if you know you are not good with colouring and drawing, please ask someone to assist you. I have seen ladies with eyebrows looking like windscreen wipers tša Venture taxi.
Your take on people who use drugs?
Drugs have many disadvantages but the bottom line is that they are bad for you. They are illegal, they waste money and you will age faster. I have never taken drugs and will not advise anyone to. If you do, stop.
Besides being a comedian, what else do you do?
I studied computer systems engineering and currently work as a software developer and system analyst.
Where do you get your material from?
From my own background. Growing up in Moletjie Ga-Ramakgaphola, there is so much to talk about. I also read newspapers and get in touch with current affairs.
