1. How would you describe yourself?

A free spirit who loves a good laugh.

2. What keeps Tumi Morake at the top of her game?

Faith that this is a calling and I have a reputation to live up to. I stay true to my brand.

3. Do you believe we now live in era that is convincing to encourage kids to see comedy as a potential career path like acting and drama for example?

Absolutely. It is an arts discipline that requires you to be professional, to fine tune the craft and treat it like a business. You can easily become a millionaire doing comedy. It is about your focus and sweat.

4. How would you describe comedy’s place within the South African creative industries or arts and culture domain. Does comedy receive notable respect and support from government/corporate?

There are awards sponsored in part by our government that recognize comedians. It was also with the help of government that I took my show to Edinburgh in 2013.

5. What impelled Tumi to take up comedy?

I have always loved comedy. As a drama student it was the one space I occupied with confidence, it came easily to me. Laughter is a coping mechanism for me, and sharing that makes me feel like I am contributing to people’s emotional well being.

6. We have seen you involved in many acting roles on our small screens. Can you tell us more about that experience?

Acting will always be my first love. I also get involved in quite a number of commercial shoots. I did however get into television as a writer and managed to steal some screen time in the process. The reality though is that I make more money doing comedy so it doesn’t make financial sense to invest too much of my time doing TV work.

7. Who has been the most influential person in your career?

Three guys: my husband Mpho Osei-Tutu, David Kau and my Yoda, John Vlismas. Encouragement, support and exposure.

8. What are you most proud of about your profession thus far?

Being recognized as a formidable force among the guys.

9. What makes a comedian become successful?

Focus, originality and mass appeal.

10. Are there any other projects that you see yourself venturing into beyond standup comedy and acting perhaps?

I run a production company with my husband and we hope to shoot our first movie soon. We already have a sitcom deal. I plan on being more hands on with the schools we own.

11. Who is your all-time favourite comedian?

Richard Pryor. His gift of laughing at his own pain still inspires me.

12. How can we encourage comedy in our Townships?

Starting comedy clubs in the townships so people have easier access to local talent. It will also mean more stage time for aspiring comics.

AUTHOR: KASIBIZ MAHALA