I had the pleasure of attending the first performance of Alan Committie’s latest stand up comedy show, Apocalaughs Now!, at Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre in the last week of October. It was so good being back in a theatre, appreciating South African talent, and sharing an in-person experience with others. Beyond the change of routine and scenary, the show was great! So, I thought I’d share my thougths on why Apocalaughs Now! is a must-see.
Note: This post is not sponsored in any way. The tickets were paid for by me and all views are my own.
1. It’s Relevant
As I’m sure you’ve already gathered, Apocalaughs Now! is a play on the name Apocalypse Now – the 1979 classic film. Committee cleverly likens the past two years to an apocolypse, with relatable experiences pertaining to what we, as South Africans, have gone through. Largely centred around what many of us have experienced, Committee finds humour in the COVID-19 lockdown, making light of ridiculous regulations, popular Netflix series we’ve all binge-watched, and social media trends (like the Jersusalema Challenge) that bound us together in isolation.
It’s not all about the pandemic, though. He references current affairs such as load shedding and what is taking place in the country and world at the moment.
We have all experienced these things, but seeing Alan Committie’s unique and humourous perspective makes it all a little more bearable.
2. Each Show is Different
While most of the content in the show is scripted, Alan Committie is known as a comedian who plays off his audience. Audience participation is common where those in front-row seats are often called upon to engage with the comedian. As each person has a unique background, Committee uses his improv skills to work this into each performance. He also has a remarkable way of making the audience feel like they’re in on an inside joke, which is a fun experience to have. Not only that, but he keeps his material up to date, adapting his performance to keep up with current news as the weeks go on.
3. To Support the Arts
The live-performance and entertainment industry has been one of the most severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. We are only at the beginning of our recovery with a forth wave looming in South Africa. Any support that live performers, shows, and venues receive has a huge impact on those who have had limited to no source of income for so long. The staff at Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre take special care in ensuring all protocols are followed, and make sure all guests feel (and are) safe. If nothing from what you’ve already read convinces you, let supporting the arts be the one thing that changes your mind.
Final Thoughts
I thoroughly enjoyed Alan Committee’s Apocalaughs Now!. It is only on stage for a limited time, so don’t miss out.
Show Details:
- Dates: 27 October – 14 November 2021
- Performances: Wed – Fri @ 8pm, Sat @ 5pm & 8pm, Sun @ 3pm
- Tickets cost R220 at Theatre Box Office & Computicket
