South Africa’s beloved “First Lady of Comedy,” Tumi Morake, is set to make a triumphant return to home soil, headlining the JiVE Cape Town Funny Festival, powered by KLM. Based in Atlanta, USA, Morake will perform exclusively at the Baxter Theatre from 17 to 29 June 2025, as part of the festival’s 26th edition.
A trailblazer in the comedy scene, Morake shattered glass ceilings as the first African woman with a comedy set featured on Netflix’s Just For Laughs festival in 2018 (streamed globally in 2019). Her award-winning career includes accolades like the Savanna Comics Choice Award and recognition as a Free State Icon (2011). She has captivated audiences globally, from Ghana to Wimbledon and across the USA.
Now residing in Atlanta with her family, the comedian and actress (known for roles in films like Seriously Single and the soap opera The Queen) expresses her excitement about returning to the Funny Festival stage:
“I always feel like a rock star when I perform at the JiVE Cape Town Funny Festival and I am thrilled to be back this year,” says Morake. “This is the biggest, most diverse audience you will ever find in South Africa!”
Eddy Cassar, founder of the JiVE Cape Town Funny Festival (sponsored by JiVE cool drinks since 2010), welcomes Morake back:
“Tumi Morake’s bold, sassy humour has been a stalwart of our Funny Festival since 2009 and she’s the epitome of what we stand for: lekker local comedy with fire,” Cassar states. “We cannot wait to have her back on stage!” He emphasizes the festival’s commitment to showcasing premier local talent and celebrating freedom of expression.
The 26th JiVE Cape Town Funny Festival runs from 2 to 29 June 2025, at the Baxter Theatre.
Dates: 17 – 29 June, 2025
Venue: Baxter Theatre, Cape Town
Tickets: R250 each, with generous discounts on group bookings via Webtickets
For more information on the JIVE Cape Towb Funny Festival visit www.funnyfestival.co.za
