In partnership with Savanna Premium Cider and One-eyed Jack, the Savanna Newcomer Comedy Showcase returns as part of the 13th Annual Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards on Sunday, 8 February 2026 at The Maslow Hotel, Sandton. 

The event brings together comedy fans, media and industry decision-makers for a night dedicated to fresh perspectives, fearless voices and undeniable talent. 

Now firmly a cornerstone of the awards calendar, the Savanna Newcomer Comedy Showcase is a high-profile platform built to uncover the next wave of South African comedic talent and to do it loudly, boldly and unapologetically. 

This is where fresh talent gets exactly five minutes to prove they belong. 
No filler. No fluff. Just tightly packed punchlines and fearless first impressions as 20 rising comedians take the stage back-to-back in a rapid-fire comedy gauntlet. 

It’s fast. 
It’s unpredictable. 
And it’s where future stars are born. 

From those 20 brave souls, the top five performers will be voted through as official Savanna Newcomer Award nominees, earning serious bragging rights and a fast track to the big leagues. Then, on 2 May, one of them will walk away with the ultimate prize when the winner is crowned on awards night at The Lyric Theatre.  

Think of it as comedy’s version of speed dating except everyone’s funny, the laughs are louder, and one person leaves with a trophy. The evening will be hosted by 2025 Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedian of the Year, Celeste Ntuli,bringing her trademark presence and comedic authority to the stage. The showcase opens with a set from 2025 Savanna Newcomer Award winner Khanyisile Ngwenya, setting the tone for a night of standout performances. 

Where New Talent Meets Big Opportunity. 

The stakes are high. The top five performers from the showcase will earn a coveted nomination for the Savanna Newcomer Award, placing them firmly on the radar of the comedy industry and positioning them for the main Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards ceremony on 2 May 2026 at The Lyric Theatre. 

Beyond the stage, the Savanna Newcomer initiative extends its impact through a dedicated Comedy Workshop taking place on Monday, 9 February at Artistry in Sandton, giving newcomer comedians the opportunity to engage closely with established performers and industry professionals. Designed to sharpen skills, share insights and demystify the business of comedy, the workshop plays a vital role in nurturing long-term careers. 

Meet the 2026 Savanna Newcomer comedians from around the country hitting the stage: 

• #PrinceK 
• Akhil Maharaj 
• Di Frost  
• John Jay 
• Kevin Lindsay 
• Kingsbuda  
• Liam Whitcher  
• Mat Maluks 
• Modipane Alister 
• Mzwa Seme 
• Tristan Perry 
• Nathan Kalala 
• Nishen 
• Rae du Plooy 
• Rowen Clegg 
• Sacre Kayemba 
• Sjika Da Thirdborn  
• SQ Mangcu 
• Uncool.Tea  
• Yerik Jomei 

The event kicks off with pre-drinks at 16h00, setting the stage for an unforgettable comedy experience. The show itself begins promptly at 17h00, ensuring a tightly packed two-hour window of non-stop laughter, concluding at 19h00. Attendees are invited to stick around after the show for drinks and mingling. 

Tickets for the Savanna Newcomer Comedy Showcase are priced at R150 and can be purchased through Quicket. As a special treat, all attendees will receive a complimentary Savanna Premium Cider on arrival. However, tickets are limited so get yours ASAP to avoid disappointment. 

ENDS 

www.comicschoice.com  

#SNCS2026 

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