Comedienne Kansiime Anne the Entertainer chats to us about her career and the Pan African Comic of the Year Award nomination at this year’s Savanna Comics’ Choice Awards. By Kwanele Mathebula
As a child, I wanted to be a shopkeeper. I knew that I would grow up and get any job I could, make money and be a good mother and wife. Fortunately while in school, I loved performing; I always found a way to be part of the productions we had. Whether it was singing or dancing, I wanted to be a part of anything that would allow me to perform.
Comedy found me. When I was studying towards a degree in social sciences at Makerere University, I got an opportunity to join a comedy group called #funfactoryug. There, I was able to couple my storytelling techniques and my mother’s never-ending stories to make people laugh. I realised then that I enjoyed making people laugh, and decided to pursue comedy.
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My journey as a comedian has been rough, but worth it. Having been in the industry for 12 years, I believe that the challenges I have faced as a female comedian are similar to those of women in other professions. We are all trying to build our careers despite the obstacles because we know that we’re paving the way for those who are coming after us.
My career highlight has to be meeting Queen of the United Kingdom. During my first time on a plane and outside Africa, I travelled to England where I got to meet her. My other highlights have to be the numerous award nominations and wins.
I found out about the Pan African Comic of the Year Award nomination via email. I was so happy and excited to hear the news. This nomination gave me the opportunity to sit at a table with men and show young women that being a comedienne is possible. I want to show them that their dreams are valid, no matter how small or big.
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I can’t wait for the Savanna Comics’ Choice Awards! I’m looking forward to being in a room full of amazingly talented African comedians.
The rest of the year will be dedicated to my 2018 American tour. I’ve just returned from the first leg where I performed in Boston, Atlanta and Washington DC. I’m going back in October to complete it.
