Mdura hunts new comedy talent

AWARD-winning comedian Mduduzi Dlamini ‘Mdura’ Dlamini is looking for the kingdom’s next best stand-up comedians.

Mdura is on a nationwide quest to discover fresh comedy talent. He is widely recognised as one of the top stand-up comedians, celebrated for his humour about daily life, relationships, religion and cultural stereotypes. Over the past 11 years, he has built a reputation for sharp storytelling and relatable performances on local stages.

The new competition, he explained, is inspired by his journey into comedy.

“I started through a competition called the Lol Comedy Competition and many comedians like Sbu Ngwenya, Smallz and Dr Shakes also emerged from such platforms,” he said.

The experience sharpened his writing and stage skills and eventually allowed him to produce his comedy shows.

Through these productions, Mdura helped uncover acts such as Cedric Simelane, who now runs his comedy platform. Drawing from that experience, he created Eswatini Next Top Comedian, a structured programme designed to develop aspiring comics.

The initiative will tour the country’s four regions with open auditions to find raw talent.

“In each region, we are looking for four comedians, making a total of 16 who will enter workshops on performance and comedy writing,” he explained. Those selected will undergo intensive training before elimination rounds narrow the group to eight finalists.

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They will compete in a grand finale to determine first, second and third-place winners.

Beyond stage performance, they will also receive training in public relations, media and advanced writing skills to strengthen their professional prospects. “Through these skills, they will gain access to the industry and meet well-established comedians,” Mdura added, emphasising long-term growth over short-term fame.

Industry experts will judge contestants throughout the competition. Mdura said the initiative responds to a shortage of comedians in the local entertainment scene. “I want to give back because I am a product of a competition myself. Even though I did not win, the skills I gained helped me succeed,” he reflected.

CEDRIC SIMELANE:

“I love this initiative by Mdura in giving back to the industry, as it will uplift other comedians who wish to see their craft recognised on big stages. With mentoring included, many comedians will benefit from this platform. This is an opportunity that shows how a person can earn a living through their craft.”

BONGISWA MASONDO:

“Training upcoming comedians helps the industry to grow, especially as we are short in numbers. I think platforms like these are important. I am also a product of a competition, which helped me develop my skills.”

DR SHAKES:

“I think this platform is very helpful, particularly when you know what you want and are ready to give it your best shot. I participated in a comedy competition and did not win. However, the skills I gained allowed me to take advantage of opportunities that have placed me where I am today.”