Comedian Kurt Schoonraad takes to the stage in Cape Town with his latest one-man show, Funny Side Up, which will run from 12 to 17 May 2025 at the Baxter Theatre.
Bringing his signature wit, warmth, and uniquely South African humour, Funny Side Up sees Kurt tackling the absurdities of modern life, from navigating daily chaos to finding silver linings in an ever-changing world. With sharp insights and relatable stories, this show is a hilarious reminder that sometimes, the best way to cope is to simply laugh it off!
“Funny Side Up as a title is just a metaphor for never losing your sense of humour,” says Kurt. “The last few years since COVID have been challenging, particularly for artists. But no matter what, laughter remains a powerful tool to get through life’s ups and downs.”
With a career spanning decades, including making the front page of The New York Times, Kurt has cemented his place as a powerhouse in the comedy world. Having shared the stage with comedic legends such as John Cleese, Russell Peters, and Pauly Shore, he continues to connect with audiences both locally and internationally through his earthy humour and dynamic stage presence.

Full-circle moment
Returning to the Baxter Theatre feels like a full-circle moment for Kurt. “I had my first one-man show, Punchlines, on this very stage 22 years ago,” he reflects. “It’s played a huge role in shaping the stand-up comedy genre we know today, and I’ve been lucky to be part of that.”
In Funny Side Up, Kurt dives into themes and topics that everyone discusses around a braai or over a cocktail—shopping, pop culture, cosmetic surgery, Formula 1, and more. “Cape Town audiences have seen a lot of top-class comedy over the years – you’ve got to bring your A-game!” he says.
What: Kurt Schoonraad – Funny Side Up
Where and when: Baxter from 12 to 17 May 2025
Tickets: Webtickets
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