Gqeberha comedian ready to tickle funny bones in hometown

Bringing laughter and good music to Gqeberha, Mbulelo Msongelwa of Stand Up Mbu, will be sharing interesting takes on issues that affect people, while educating them in a funny yet informative manner.

Msongelwa, also known as “Mbu,” has embarked on a journey of the Eastern Cape, bringing stand-up comedy to those looking to have their funny bones tickled.

The comedian, who has been in the industry for more than 13 years, kicked off his comedy journey in Komani in December at Queens Casino and Hotel.

Gqeberha fans can now catch him at The One Room Music & Comedy Club in Central on March 31.

Msongelwa said his aim was to provide people with an opportunity to leave their troubles at the door and just laugh about life and circumstances.

“The love for my hometown, Gqeberha, and the greater Eastern Cape inspires me every day to contribute to, and be part of the growth of the creative space, especially comedy.

“As my name is Mbu and the craft is stand-up comedy, I came up with Stand Up Mbu,” he said.

“I see comedy evolving and diversifying. Stand Up People, which is the show and the movement that we put together, brings other art forms onto the platform.

“We work with musicians and poets to ensure it is an experience that will leave people with a sense of value to what they have seen.”

Msongelwa partnered with DJ Samantha Jennings and young comedian Siphelele Qoqoshe to grow the Stand Up People brand.

The show that promises to be another night of hilarious comedy will bring you a mix of experienced and new comedians.

Msongelwa, Sqhazolo, Qoqoshe, Mira Hewana, Phakamisa Fayindlala, Seth Mbongisa and Dee Lukes form part of the line-up, while Miss Jay (Jennings) and Ms Lu will provide the jams.

There will also be a touch of spoken word by Thandeka “Nkqo” Vabaza.

Jennings, who will also be curating music and setting the tone of the show, said as a 37year-old black woman, DJ-ing was not enough.

“I believe there is still so much of what we do that we need more of.

“Especially in the Eastern Cape, where most of the events taking place are still very mainstream and sort of follow the same type of model.”

Jennings, also known as Miss Jay, said she wanted not only to make people dance, but she also wanted to grow as a creative entrepreneur and fulfil her dream of seeing more of the underground and less celebrated forms of entertainment come to the fore.

“The Stand Up People movement is an ongoing movement and the idea is to expand further into the greater Eastern Cape space, including rural areas,” Msongelwa said.

“Most in the line-up are individuals I’ve worked with before and I felt they deserved more stage time.”

Tickets cost R150 through Webtickets.