Recently, many Kenyans have voiced concerns about the perceived decline of the comedy industry in the country. They argue that the scarcity of comic events and shows is a key factor behind this downturn. Some even suggest that this lack of comedic engagement might contribute to Kenya’s drop in the World Happiness Report rankings. However, this has been proven fallacial by the Stand Up Collective Comedy Club. The club has been seen as the last string of hope for the Kenyan laugh industry. This is based on its vibrant lineup of activity that have been ongoing for the past two years. Stand up collective has created a space where comedians meet with their fans for fun comic times.
According to sir Brian Ayan alias Lung’ash, one of the acts at the club, Stand up collective offers an open mic session for all comedian. This is beyond them having or not having huge following on social media. According to Lung’ash, comedians are encouraged to Express themselves beyond the scope of what was known as the comedy process in Kenya. “Sisi tukiwa Stand up collective, tunajiexpress vile wewe uko, it’s about you as an artist, you share with people your mind, unablend na Wasee na pia inapata chance ya kunetwork na crowd yako, hii staff sio tu Stand up, it’s about having good moments” Lung’ash noted
Furthermore, Lung’ash says the platform is a cultural versatile space. He has also noted that the target audience is not only Kenya, but also the international audience. Lung’ash has also acknowledged the sense of community in the space with creatives across the divide. These include comedians, magicians, actors, voice over artists among many others. He adds that in the space there are Different spaces serving different crowds.
” In this comedy sahii Kuna different rooms that serve different audiences with different interests, the moment you connect to a community that clicks with your mind, something happens. Hii game kwa comedy club vitu ni different,”
Moreover, Lung’ash has noted that the space is a real embodiment of Iron sharpening iron. He says being around other creatives helps stimulate each other’s creative juices. The creatives challenge you to do things beyond your comfort zone.
” The moment unawork na comedians wengine unapata ideas ya kufanya vitu zingine, before uende stage unaworkshop na wasee before uende stage tuna empower Kila msee ukihelp msee areas ako na weaknesses”, he adds
Stand up collective so far has 3 shows. Every Monday, the comedians go through workshops with their directors in preparation for the Shows during the week. Every Wednesday, they stage a show dabbed “Giggles and tickles”, among other shows on Thursday, Fridays and Saturdays. According to Lung’ash, the comedians get an incentive if they perform in any of the paid shows on Friday or Saturdays.
Aside from Standup collective, the renown Churchill Show has made a major comeback on the screens. Despite the show’s return after a 2022 hiatus, many of its once-vibrant comedians have faded from the spotlight. Some of them have resorted to skits while others disappearing entirely. This shift has raised questions about whether Kenya’s comedy industry is truly thriving or if it’s struggling to adapt to new trends.