The politics of banter

The public appearance was set up to promote the new comedy tour Mass Hysteria, which will be running at the Teatro at Monte Casino from 6 to 9 August. The comedy giants had lunch while giving members of the public the opportunity to mingle and take ‘selfies’ with their favourite comedians.

Public Attacker, John Vlismas, said their meeting with the public was very important as it was good to be among the people while they air their grievances, adding, “I think transparency is a very important part of being in government. And also approachability is a must, because no one would have gone up to Lindiwe Mazibuko while she was eating.”

Comedian and Minister of Culture, Ndumiso Lindi, said that the gathering was a great event for the public to take selfies and interact, adding, “The more followers you have the better, especially when we have ministers like Fikile Mbalula who has been taking selfies and pouting.”

General manager of marketing communications for lead sponsor, Nandos, Lindani Mnyandu said, “I think having all these comedians come out brings an interaction point and our restaurant is an awesome environment for that. With the great food and art on the walls, it gives the comedians a great environment to interact with ordinary South Africans.

“The show is great in that it picks up on all the ministerial issues in South Africa, and Nandos has always been known for getting involved with those issues that affect ordinary South Africans and politics, and through our association with Mass Hysteria it gives a new platform to showcase the talent of these comedians.”