Zimbabwe’s longest-running urban culture festival, Shoko Festival, has announced its star-studded lineup for this year’s Shoko Comedy Night, with top stand-up comedian Nigel Maritinyu, popularly known as Nigel Tha Slick Pastor, set to headline the event on September 24, at Harare Gardens.
The announcement, made Wednesday in Harare, confirms that the comedy night- one of the festival’s most anticipated fixtures will return for its 16th edition under this year’s theme, Unmuted, which celebrates artistic creativity and free expression.
Nigel Tha Slick Pastor, who has built a reputation both locally and internationally with sold-out shows, will take the stage in what will be his first live performance in Harare this year. The show comes hot on the heels of his comedy tour in the United Kingdom, making it a highly anticipated homecoming for the comedian.
“I am so excited to be this year’s headliner at Shoko, such a big festival and prestigious stage. This will also be my first time performing live in Harare this year so all my fans can look forward to a very special experience and memorable night,” Nigel said in a statement. “There is absolutely no reason to miss out on this, I urge everyone to come through and have a good time.”
Joining the headliner is rising comedy star Glad Syre Chipenzi, known as Chipenzi, who has been steadily cementing his place on the local comedy circuit. Neville Farai Nyoni, who performs as Neville Bird, will also bring his distinctive blend of acoustic guitar and humour to the stage.
The evening will be hosted by actress and comedian Sharon Chideu, known as Magi, who features on Bustop TV and recently appeared on Magamba TV’s satirical weekly show The Week, which tackles politics and climate change.
Festival Co-ordinator Natasha Sipanera said the lineup reflects the festival’s commitment to elevating both established and emerging talent.
“This year’s line-up for the Shoko Comedy Night is a testament to Shoko Festival’s commitment to celebrating local stars and providing a platform to unheralded talent, in tandem with this year’s theme, Unmuted,” Sipanera said.
- Chamisa under fire over US$120K donation
- Mavhunga puts DeMbare into Chibuku quarterfinals
- Pension funds bet on Cabora Bassa oilfields
- Councils defy govt fire tender directive
Keep Reading
Shoko Festival, now in its 16th year, is a project of Magamba Network, Africa’s trailblazing creative and digital media organisation. It remains Zimbabwe’s premier platform for alternative youth culture and free expression.
