Durban is about to laugh out loud literally as comedian Simphiwe Shembe gears up to headline the Comedy Picnic at the Durban Botanical Gardens on August 23.
According to Simphiwe, the event promises more than just punchlines. “It's a full-on celebration of joy, culture and community under the open sky. It’s the people. The laughter. The need for joy, especially in these times. Durban needs its own comedy tradition. So why not start with a picnic?” he says.
With a line-up of 16 comedians, live music and DJs, Simphiwe says curating the event was like “planning a wedding for funny people”. Expect a buffet of comedy styles, from clean to spicy, featuring rising stars and seasoned pros. As both host and headliner, Simphiwe promises to keep the energy high.
“It’s like being the pastor and the praise poet at the same time — you guide and you entertain,” he says with a laugh. For fans wondering what to expect from his set, Simphiwe teases: “It’s raw. It’s real. It’s proudly Zulu, proudly South African, and slightly disrespectful to people who take themselves too seriously.”
And it’s not just about the comedy. The Botanical Gardens were chosen for their beauty and vibe. “Nature has no filter, just like good comedy,” he says. “We’re bringing the old African tradition of storytelling back to the lawn.”
Festivalgoers are encouraged to bring picnic gear, dress comfortably and colourfully, and bring “that loud cousin who laughs before the punchline”. There may even be some surprise moments along the way. “Comedy Picnic is not just a show — it’s an experience,” he adds.
Beyond the laughter, Simphiwe sees this as part of a bigger mission: to grow the local comedy scene and use humour as a tool for healing. “There’s a book in the works, and a campaign about laughter as wellness.”
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