Schalk Bezuidenhout presents his first and (hopefully) only show, post-divorce.
Schalk is a renowned South African comedian, actor and TV personality. He's come a long way since starting stand-up in 2011, and his fun, energetic stand-up style is a style crafted to appeal to the masses.
It's been a minute – and Schalk is keen to check in with his audiences. Actually. . . He NEEDS to check in with them. It's cheaper than therapy, after all.
WE check in with SCHALK as he tours Australia, with 'Hey Hey Divorcé'.
Tell us a little bit about your show.
Well, it's in the title really. I talk about my wife leaving me and my divorce, but it's really not as depressing as it sounds! At the end of the day I am still very aware that people are coming to see a comedy show, and that is what I am giving them.
It’s your first show post-divorce. . . Which isn’t the happiest of topics! What has it been like to put a show together in the new space you’re in?
Talking about a trauma like this has been so therapeutic. I definitely think that touring this show this year will allow me to close this chapter in my life once and for all.
Would you say it’s made it easier or more difficult to come up with material as a result?
It was my first time writing an entire show around a certain theme, but in a way it was nice because you don't have to worry what to talk about. The show dictates it. And one thing that a divorce does NOT do is leave you with a lack of material!
How would you describe your comedy style to a Schalk newcomer?
Fun, energetic and positive! I know a divorce show does not sound like it will be the most positive, but you'll be surprised!
And how are you hoping audiences respond to the material?
A lot of people say it's my best show they've seen, certainly the best writing I've done. And I would tend to agree. It's also the most honest and vulnerable I've been on stage, which people have really connected to. People appreciate being let in like that. And I do feel that at the end of the show our bond as comedian and audience is stronger, because we really go to a certain place together.
Schalk Bezuidenhout Tour Dates
7-19 April – The Greek (Melbourne International Comedy Festival)
23-24 April – Princess Theatre (Brisbane Comedy Festival)
27 April – Tanks Art Centre (Cairns)
28 April – Townsville RSL
2 May – Regal Theatre (Perth Comedy Festival)
3 May – AANT Centre (Darwin)
7 May – The Comedy Store (Sydney Comedy Festival)
8 May – Factory Theatre (Sydney Comedy Festival)
9 May – Concourse Theatre (Sydney Comedy Festival)
10 May – Bondi Pavilion (Sydney Comedy Festival)
