Shimmy Isaacs’ latest standup lived up to the expectations of ticket handlers who greeted the show’s attendees with: “I hope you laugh your pants off!”.
The atmosphere was light-hearted as the audience waited to view Isaacs’ stand-up comedy performance of Nou Sou!, which took place at the Teatertent at Stellenbosch University’s Wilgenhof Men’s Residence’s tennis courts on October 13 at the 2023 Toyota SU Woordfees.
Shimmy Isaacs performed the premiere of her latest show NOU SOE!, at the 2023 Toyota SU Woordfees. The show saw a full house on the evening of October 13 2023. PHOTO: Supplied/Nardus Engelbrecht.
The premiere of Nou Soe!
Isaacs performed in what she deemed “three languages: English, Afrikaans and Coloured”. Despite the jokes being primarily aimed at the coloured community, Isaacs had all of her audience members laughing just as hard at the various jokes and jabs.
Though Isaacs used various terminology that was central to her coloured audiences, she ensured that it was explained to her other audience members in a way that maintained its original humour.
Despite the comedy show having no apparent theme, Isaacs continued to keep the audience thoroughly entertained with her ability to string together a compelling narrative.
Comfortably uncomfortable
The show began with her hobbling onto the stage with the aid of a crutch. only to immediately drop it and wobble to the music before shouting: “Waar’s die wit mense, is julle wakker?” (where’s the white people, are you awake?).
Hyping up the audience to all cheer and dance, the show began with high energy.
Isaacs engaged with her audience on a very personal level, making them feel as if they were part of the jokes, instead of merely listening to them.
At one moment, she even invited an audience member to assist her open a water bottle. This engagement made them feel as though they were in her home as she handed them drinks and occasionally picked on them.
Personality of note
As Isaacs is a South African award-winning actress, writer and comedian, it is no surprise that she filled every silence and had the audience trying to catch their breath before the next joke landed.
The stage design was minimalistic with blue and purple lighting revealing a lone chair and table.
Although the stage was simplistic, Isaacs’ loud personality created colour that bounced through the crowd and off the walls of the tent.