Anne Kansiime is not just back, she’s blazing. The pint-sized powerhouse of laughter is turning up the heat with the much-anticipated debut of The Comedy Grill, a spicy new stand-up show set to serve its first helping of hilarity this season.
At a buzzing press conference that felt more like a pre-party than a presser, the undisputed queen of African comedy left no doubt that Uganda’s comedy scene is about to be flambéed into the stratosphere as she shared what fans can expect when the inaugural edition of The Comedy Grill lights up the stage.
And no, this isn’t your regular night of recycled punchlines, this is comedic cuisine à la Kansiime, flame-grilled with satire, sprinkled with sass, and served only to audiences aged 18 and above. Yes, leave the little humans at home, confirmed Ehmah Napoleone, one of the show writers and also a long time friend to our Writer Emuk Benjamen alias Benjie.
Behind the hilarity is a powerhouse writing team with names like Dr. Hillary Okello and Ehmah Napoleon sharpening their quills to ensure every punchline lands like a well-seasoned slap from your favorite auntie — painful but hilarious.
Kansiime said, “This show is cooked to perfection,” Kansiime declared with her signature cheeky grin. “We’ve put the audience at the center of everything—like a well-marbled steak at a barbecue. With writers like Dr. Hillary Okello, Ehmah Napoleone, and a secret sauce of comic brilliance, we’re bringing the full feast of laughter.”
And like we said before and to put more emphasis, it’s not all gravy. Kansiime candidly warned that The Comedy Grill isn’t your average buffet of soft chuckles, it’s a well-seasoned roast. “Expect some hard feelings but always with respect,” she quipped. “And please, no under-18s, we don’t want to send anyone home traumatized.”
In a bold move that sets the tone for what could be Uganda’s comedy event of the year, the show promises an English menu with sprinkles of Luganda spice, ensuring everyone gets their fill of laughter, whether they’re locals or just visiting the comedy kitchen.
Backing Kansiime all the way is Aly Allibhai, CEO of Talent Africa Group, whose enthusiasm sizzled just as hot. “This is a celebration of Anne’s incredible talent,” he said. “We’re cooking up an unforgettable night of belly laughs and pure entertainment.”
With the anticipation hotter than a rolex stand at midnight and tickets even more hotter than a grill at full flame, early birds can catch the worm and a good deal at Shs80,000 until May 6. Standard tickets are going for Shs100,000, while high-rollers can snag Gold and Platinum tables at Shs3M and Shs5M respectively, perfect for bosses who laugh in executive tones! Tickets are flying off the virtual shelf via 16598# on MTN and the Talent Africa website.
If Kansiime has her way and let’s be honest, she usually does, The Comedy Grill won’t just be a one-night wonder. Plans are already in place to make it an annual tradition, turning up the heat every year with new flavors of fun. And wait, Benjie has something for you, ‘be warned: once it sells out, not even a “Kansiime please!” DM will save you.’
Uganda, prepare your ribs, they’re about to get tickled until they’re well-done. The show is powered by Talent Africa Group, Capital FM and Safe Boda. Until then, May 9 is calling, Comedy is calling, the grill is set, see you at Sheraton!
