The Gasy Stand Uppers, a collective of young and talented Malagasy comedians, are revolutionizing the country's stand-up comedy scene. Founded in April 2021 by Raytra Belawick, Aina Maharavo, and Mamy Ralijaona, the group aims to promote stand-up comedy in Madagascar. With nearly 22 members, they work with other comedians outside the collective, such as Zina Rabeadoro and the Mad Comedy Club. Their goal is to bring a new form of humor to the Malagasy audience and give a platform to the young generation.
Stand-up comedy, a genre that originated in France in the late 19th century, has gained popularity worldwide. However, in Madagascar, it is still a relatively new concept. The Gasy Stand Uppers are working to change that by organizing and participating in numerous comedy shows around the capital, Antananarivo. Events like Men in Blagues, Soka'fehy, and Slumou'rap have become regular occurrences, showcasing the talents of Malagasy comedians.
The collective's members have unique personalities and styles, ranging from Raytra Belawick's dark humor to Aina Maharavo's humorous take on everyday life. Orima Sarobidy excels in improvisation, while Sissi is known for her straightforward and direct humor. The group's diversity is a strength, allowing them to cater to different tastes and preferences.
For the members of Gasy Stand Uppers, comedy is not just a form of entertainment but also a way to cope with life's challenges. Aina Maharavo, for example, uses humor to deal with depression. "In my texts, I talk about myself, what annoys me, and what surrounds me... I take care of myself," she explains. The group's comedians write and test their material regularly, often drawing inspiration from podcasts and everyday experiences.
The Gasy Stand Uppers have ambitious plans for the future. They are collaborating with the Lycée français de Tananarive to organize stand-up comedy shows in French. Additionally, they are preparing for the second edition of the Jôkôsy comedy festival, scheduled for November. The collective's members are determined to make a career out of comedy and are working hard to achieve their goals.
The Malagasy audience has traditionally been accustomed to a different type of humor, characterized by imitation and physical comedy. However, the Gasy Stand Uppers are introducing a new style of comedy that focuses on clever writing and storytelling. While it may take time for the audience to adjust, the collective is confident that their unique brand of humor will resonate with the Malagasy people.
As the Gasy Stand Uppers continue to grow and evolve, they are likely to have a significant impact on Madagascar's entertainment scene. With their innovative approach to comedy and their dedication to their craft, they are paving the way for a new generation of Malagasy comedians. The future of stand-up comedy in Madagascar looks bright, thanks to the Gasy Stand Uppers.
Key points
- The Gasy Stand Uppers are a collective of young Malagasy comedians promoting stand-up comedy in Madagascar.
- The group was founded in April 2021 by Raytra Belawick, Aina Maharavo, and Mamy Ralijaona.
- The collective aims to give a platform to the young generation and introduce a new form of humor to the Malagasy audience.
