Fun Factory
Tuwangye explains that year’s production has involved working with different partners who can expertly handle specific aspects of the show
Studies have shown that laughter can be a source of nourishment during stressful times, a viewpoint also endorsed by comedian Richard Tuwangye of Fun Factory. He believes that due to the demanding and hectic work environment that often prevents Ugandan workers from participating in social activities, it is essential to incorporate positive emotions and laughter into their lives.DM bodytext: “People need comic relief,” Tuwangye says as Fun Factory’s main intent for staging their latest episode of 5 Star Madness next week on Tuesday October 8 at Kampala Serena Hotel. The show is perfect for those who cannot make it to their weekly Comedicine shows at the National Theatre.
Tuwangye explains that this year’s production has involved working with different partners who can expertly handle specific aspects of the show, from lighting to stage sets, enabling them to exceed the expectations of their audience.
“We have put our brains together with very young and genius minds and now we can have a stage that allows us to do so much more. Different sketches require different props and light settings, and this time around we can have set changes under four seconds and we hope to do better in the coming episodes,” he says.
Furthermore, talented musician Kenneth Mugabi and saxophonist Happy Kyazze, along with other acts, are scheduled to open the show.
“During our weekly shows, we have people who always showcase and they will blend perfectly well with the show. We have a drummer who plays with a DJ to set the mood, we always want to use the stage to show the audience things they will not find anywhere and it is also important to share the platform with other creatives,” he says.
Tuwangye says the show will help shine a light on some Ugandan brands and products through their partnership with the Uganda Manufacturers Association .
“The show coincides with Uganda’s biggest trade fair, so we intend to do some product placement in our sketches. Ugandan comedy is now at the level where we can add mileage to products and brands. And these are things that will forever be remembered and recognised,” he explains.
Tuwangye also highlights the challenges within the industry, particularly the constraints posed by the capacity of arenas. This limitation hampers their ability to explore more expansive and creative event concepts, ultimately impacting the overall innovation within the industry.
“What our minds can create vis-a-vis what the performance spaces we have today can accommodate, it is sad. Imagine minds such as Simon Base Kalema, Dickson Zizinga, Kwezi Kaganda, and I, the things we have already created but the spaces available cannot accommodate. We need public-private partnerships to have such places,” he explains.
Heeding South Africa’s example, Tuwangye believes that Uganda can also have seasons dedicated to comedy if there is development of such facilities.
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