Lindy Johnson is a South African comedian known for her sharp observations, infectious energy and relatable humour. From winning the Savanna Show Us Your Apples competition to appearing on Showmax and Trevor Noah’s Nationwild, she has carved out her own space in the local comedy scene.
Lindy brings humour and honesty to every stage. Whether she’s unpacking something deeply familiar or turning an uncomfortable truth into a punchline, she has a way of making the room laugh and see things a little differently. We had the pleasure of asking her a few questions about Bafunny Bafunny and the SA Comedy Festival, served by Savanna.
1. You’re part of the National Team of Comedy as part of the Savanna Serves South Africa Festival of Comedy. What does being part of a lineup curated by Trevor Noah and Savanna mean to you?
It has affirmed me immensely. There’s a lot of uncertainty when you’re an entertainer in an unstable economy. Being chosen for such a massive stage and production has made my perseverance worth it.
2. You’re performing in front of thousands of people. What’s your pre-show ritual before you step onto the pitch… or rather, stage?
I have the same ritual before every single show, freak out, pull myself together and then end with a stern talking-to in the mirror just to remind myself of how lucky I am to earn a living from a job that’s this fun.
3. Trevor Noah and Savanna have brought together comedians with very different voices and styles. What do you think makes South African comedy so diverse?
Through all our cultures, languages and racial differences, South Africans always have complaining to bring us together. Stand-up comedy is a very powerful tool that brings a spotlight on everyone’s unique perspective on situations we’ve all been in. It might seem so different or foreign, but the punchline hits the same.
4. If South African everyday life is the material, what’s currently giving you the most to work with?
The economy right now is killing all of us? A can of Pringles is R90, and I nearly had to declare bankruptcy after buying sunscreen.
5. When people look back on this moment in South African comedy years from now, what do you hope they remember?
I hope they remember how much I made the crowd laugh, and if they forgot, I guarantee I will be there to remind them because I will not stop talking about this amazing opportunity for the rest of my life!
From finding humour in the everyday to being part of a festival that brought some of South Africa’s funniest voices together, Lindy Johnson continues to show just how powerful a good punchline can be.
