Durban comedian Arno “Ahno it’s Arno” Els (pictured below) will be leaving our sunny shores for the Mother City, Cape Town.
Having featured on Durban’s comedy circuit since 2010, he has also performed in Joburg and Cape Town, at various theatres, and at a number of festivals.
In an interview with Tonight, Els explained the reason behind his move. “I’ve decided I need a change of scenery and new challenges. I’ve never lived in Cape Town, so I thought it would be the perfect place to rattle my cage a bit… or escape the cage completely. I’m going down there to pursue my career in the specialty coffee industry, but I’m also very excited to spend a lot more time on stage.”
With five years stand-up experience under his belt, a few moments stand out for him.
“The people I’ve met and the comedians I’ve had the pleasure and privilege to hang out with. Every time I think about the people who are closest to my heart, I find it hard to think of a scenario where our paths crossed without the aid of stand-up comedy.
“Also, being in Durban where guys are working really hard and doing a lot of behind-the-scenes meeting and hustling to make big things happen over the next year. Comedy taught me respect, resilience and appreciation,” he says.
And his ultimate comedy dream?
“My dream is to have the people of planet earth demand I tour to their countries,” he laughs. “I’d like to get into acting and one day own a comedy club that doubles as a coffee roastery/café by day.”
While Els won’t hit the stage immediately after touching down in Cape Town, he’s expected to crop up on the scene there soon.
“I’m planning on keeping my head down for about three months, but knowing myself, I’ll barely manage staying off stage for three weeks. I’ve been doing a lot of writing and I’m determined to stay focused and make all the laughter every time I get on stage.
“I’m not really looking to go up to Joburg until the end of winter. I was up in Joburg last year and I thought I was going to lose some digits to the cold,” he joked. “I’m active online, so one can always find out there when the whim hits me to take my comedy on the road.”
But for now, he won’t leave Durban without a proper goodbye. You can catch Els’s farewell show, Ahno He Didn’t… on May 6 at Seabrooke’s Theatre.
• Show is 7pm for 8pm, tickets are R80. Book online via www.the031.com or for cash bookings call Dylan on 072 1227 561.