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Michael K

Shadreck Mufandaedza Arts Correspondent
He is one of the humorous faces of local comedy and has made a name as a stage and television actor.

Michael K, whose real name is Michael Kudakwashe, is well-known beyond Zimbabwean borders for his acting expertise and saluted locally for his comedy prowess.

As the common saying goes, ‘laughter is the best medicine’ and Michael K has cured many with his jokes that draw tears of laughter and leave people asking for some more.

The well-known comedian who is based in Harare started acting in the early 2000.

“I was spotted by Edgar Langeveldt one of the first comedians in Zimbabwe at Book Cafe at a time I had a role in ‘Waiters’ production.

“He told me that l was a good comedian and advised me to come to Book Cafe every Thursdays for rehearsals”, he said.

Michael worked with Edgar at the Book Cafe for some time before starting his own project.

“It was regular laugh every Thursday night at the old Book Cafe”, Michael said jokingly.

He formed “The Guest” a series that featured at the Book Cafe that saw him rising to prominence together with Victor Mavedzenge, Shepherd Gonera and Vusi Masuku.

In his drama career, Michael K, performed in such works as Athol Fugard’s “The Island” and “Sizwe Banzi is Dead” at HIFA among others.

He also featured in numerous Zimbabwean productions including, “Waiters”, “Getto Fallers”, “Studio 263”, “Avenues” and a love story “831” which was produced by Jasen Mphepo.

Michael said that he was inspired by the late Walter Muparutsa whom he addressed as his mentor.

“I was inspired by the late veteran actor Muparutsa. He always encouraged me to take acting and comedy seriously”, he said.

In 2011 Michael was considered as “The Funniest Man” in Zimbabwe

Michael was in Germany early this month together with Kudzai Sevenzo, Tichaona Matore and Collonius Mapondera presenting Water Games being sponsored by the Germany government and the cultural groups in Germany.

Michael said comedians and actors face financial funding challenges.

“Lack of funding contributes to poor plays in our industry. If you have a play, you are bound to change your main theme to suit that of the sponsor especially the NGOs”, he said.

He said he wants to continue with his career as a standup comedian, actor and advertiser.

“To my fellow comedians, l am encouraging them to keep on doing what they are doing and to bear in mind that laughter is the best medicine and we all need it.”