As a country comedy ranks among our favourite methods of self expression. Whether it's in the moments of triumph or defeat, laughter is a constant backtrack for Zimbabwean life. This has been particularly evident in recent years, with the rise of Zimbabwe's comedy scene and its blooming into an art form that not only shines but tells the stories that define us.
This is an effort that Tinaye Wayne has lended his voice to for years. A NAMA nominee with performances on platforms such as Shoko Festival and HIFA, the comedian has become a known commodity across the country. He has starred in Magamba Network's Gazaland, written and produced The Bachelors, while delivering viral skits that have not only been hilarious but thought provoking. This has been a dream fulfilled for Tinaye.
"I've always loved comedy. I knew early on that this is the path I wanted to take, because everywhere I would go I would make people laugh, and I would light up the room," he shared.
"Comedy chose me from a young age. So I'm definitely living my childhood dream."
Now the comedian has arrived at a point of shamelessness (not in the crude sense), and left with Nothing To Hide he is taking on Reps Theatre, Zimbabwe and the world. Tinaye Wayne is bringing his debut special to Harare's iconic theatre on the 6th of June, and if we're taking him at his word, it's going to be memorable.
"Nothing To Hide is me being as vulnerable as a comedian can be. I've realised that the easiest way of doing comedy is just to tell your truth. Of course in a way fuelled by humour. Comedy comes from the truth and I have nothing to hide at this point in my life," shared Tinaye.
"This is a show you don't want to hear about, but you want to brag that you were there when history was being made and Tinaye was at his funniest."
Reps Theatre is only the beginning, Tinaye is set to take his Nothing To Hide tour to Masvingo, Gweru, Bulawayo, Mutare, South Africa and overseas, with no limits on how far he plans to reach.
From the quaint settings of small restaurants around Harare's CBD, to the city's most prestigious festivals, this is Tinaye's most ambitious moment. As to why now feels like the right time for it, his answer is simply, "Ndirikuremerwa nechokwadi" which says a lot for a comedian. Overwhelmed by the truth and daring while vulnerable, Tinaye is calling on Zimbabwe to join on a journey of laughter, and it's certainly one we can't wait to witness.
Tickets for the show are now on sale via his website.