UK-based Malawian comedian Daliso Chaponda has earned global acclaim, toured all over the world, but insists his homeland remains his favourite place to perform. His affection and connections for Malawi were all in display yesterday when The Nation called on him for a quick interview ahead of his Laugh Out Loud show at Apollo Auditorium in Blantyre this evening. Within minutes of our approach through the event’s organisers, Chaponda granted us permission to go and meet him.
He descended from his room at Amaryllis Hotel relaxed, almost devoid of any aura and pose of a global star that he is. Without a blink, he said: “This is my favourite place to perform. People are extra excited here.
There is no big comedy scene here so it is always something special. People come to see my stand up so there is an extra excitement. Everything is just more electric than when I do shows all around the world.” The Britain Has Got Talent 2017 finalist will be staging his ninth show in Malawi since he made his first performance in 2007.
[paywall]
He said since then audiences have continued to grow, aided by his global break which multiplied his fan base. Chaponda said having been in the trade for 20 years, he does not feel any pressure coming to perform in Malawi. He said the research he does prior to the shows helps him a lot to stay in tandem with trendy topics in Malawi.
One person who needs to be on the look out is his politician father Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation George Chaponda, as he has often fallen prey to his son’s jokes. He said he will not be spared in any way. Said Chaponda: “I am a comedian.
It is my job to make fun of people in power. If you are in power, I will make fun of you, He was very happy when I was making fun of Malawi Congress Party when they were in power, now it is his turn. “If you are in power, the only thing not to be made fun of is not to make mistakes.
But they have made some mistakes and I will make some jokes.” He said he plans to give people a break from all the stress spanning from economic downturns, global political upheavals and financial woes. Amaryllis Hospitality Group managing director Ramy Waheed said the audience should expect a world-class comedy experience filled with intelligent, relatable and thought-provoking humour. “He brings out a unique style that blends sharp observations, cultural storytelling and genuine laughter, making the show both entertaining and memorable,” he said.
[/paywall]
