Siv Ngesi - Race Card

8 Oct 2012

Two years ago, when I first started writing for BizCommunity, I had the opportunity to see Siv Ngesi live; this was back when not many people knew who he was and I had no idea how to write a review. But now, two years later, he has his very own show playing for two weeks at the Baxter Theatre and I'm a little bit better at writing reviews. (Well I hope so.)

The Golden Arrow Theatre was packed with a diverse range of people, which was perfect for what Siv had in store for us. Siv is Mr Dark and lovely himself - the Ace of Race - and warns the audience that the theatre is "racially active" and it will be stereotypical (this theme of honesty runs through his entire show).

A Racist's Guide To The People Of South Africa

His stand-up comedy is based on the book A Racist's Guide To The People Of South Africa, written by Simon Kilpatrick. It looks at the different races in South Africa in an honest and humourous way. Although some may take what Siv says as being racist, I personally feel that he does it in good taste and that, at the end of the day, what he is saying about each race is completely and utterly true - which makes it all the more entertaining.

He takes some time to get into his groove, but once he is there he has the audience hanging on his every word, as well as on his every dance move. Not only a man of comedy, it appears that he is a man of rhythm too. He has such an energy about him that enthralls the audience and brings you to the heart of the issue within our country, which he understands and addresses in a way that we can all relate to.

Whatever your colour, you aren't safe

Whether you are white, black, coloured, Afrikaans, Indian or Muslim, you aren't safe when Siv lets loose. He dishes it out to each race equally with such seamless swop-overs that the audience seems to be confused as to what race he actually is.

Two years ago I saw this man at the beginning of his career and I look forward to seeing him again further down the line. You should go and get a taste of what he offers and find new perspective on this diverse country that we live in.

Race Card (PG13) is showing at the Baxter Theatre, Cape Town from 1 to 13 October before moving to Port Elizabeth, East London, Joburg, and Durban. Tickets are available from Computicket.