ON FRIDAY, some of South Africa’s funniest Muslim stand-up comedians come together to bring you a side-splittingly comedy adventure, Make Salaam and Laugh. Judging from the title, the audience is sure to be left in stitches.
The show features comedy and TV veteran Afzal Khan; columnist and observational comedian Masood Boomgaard and comedian Simmi Areff who rose to prominence as the opening act for Riaad Moosa.
The comedy trio will look at the funny side of being Muslim in South Africa while also delving into everyday issues and talking points such as the economy, crime, elections, sports, married life and everything in between.
Tonight caught up with stand-up comedian and actor Khan to learn more about the production and how the concept came about.
“Simmi and Masood put the show together. They held a very successful show like this one at Coastlands on the Ridge and because it was a full house, the people really enjoyed it and we decided to get it out for the greater community and have it in a bigger venue.
“Masood and I have been working together on a number of projects. He wanted me to be in his movie but at the time I was working on 31 Million Reasons so I was busy. But I did comedy with him on a number of occasions. And Simmi is doing well.”
Khan has recently been seen in shows like Indian Comedy Kings and now he will feature in Make Salaam and Laugh. I ask him if this is a sign that he’s going to focus on more stand-up in the near future, to which he says: “Yeah, definitely. I think I’m going down that road. And I’m working on new shows. It’s difficult getting work in this industry in terms of TV and film. And I’m missing the stage and you need to make work for yourself in this industry. I worked in theatre before, like on Jimbo. I’m yearning to get back on to stage and perhaps some new shows will come along.”
On his projects throughout the year, Khan says he’s been working on some comedy stuff and has auditioned for a few gigs.
“I’ve done a few auditions for DStv and auditions for Homeland which is an American series that is currently shooting in Cape Town, so I’m looking forward to perhaps getting a role there. And then I’m hoping to take Who’s Your Mamoo on the road.”
As we chat about comedy, Khan mentions the tragic passing of US comedian and actor Robin Williams. Hee says he was a huge fan of Williams: “He was Mr Comedy and it was something he was born with. I was in tears when I found out he had passed away.”
Steering the conversation back to Make Salaam and Laugh, the comedian says it’s clean comedy and suitable for the entire family.
“It entails stuff that interests the young at heart and the old. And lots of laughter all the way for all groups.”
• Catch Make Salaam and Laugh on Friday at the NMJ Hall, Morningside, Durban, at 8pm. Tickets at Computicket.