Hawaayu

By Caroline Nyanga

Pulse: Who is Eric Omondi?

Eric Omondi: A stand up comedian who recently cleared his communications degree at Daystar University and will graduate next year in June.

P: Is it easy to do comedy?

EO: It can be very difficult especially if you do not posses the necessary skills. And, just like music you cannot force it because in the long run it can backfire on your face.

P: Do you consider yourself funny?

EO: Yes! I must be if I’m capable of making my mother laugh. She is not easily tickled. And there are many fans who find me funny.

Eric Omondi

P: Do you believe Kenyans are supporting your new comedy show, Hawayu on KTN?

EO: Kenyans have faith in me and are watching the show in numbers.

P: Why did you incorporate a Tuk-Tuk in your stage set up?

EO: Because I represent the ordinary Kenyan — Wanjiku. This was the best way to relate with people instead of going for expensive whips.

P: Whose slogan was Hawayu?

EO: Churchill and I used the word before and he has no problem with me using it for my show!

P: Are you confident that you will sustain it for a whole series without running out of ideas?

EO: Of course! I believe in myself and know what I am doing.

P: Are you getting good feedback?

EO: Definitely yes! From Galileos to Alliance Francaise people always turn out in large numbers every Monday for the shoot.

P: Who is your target audience?

EO: It is a family show and has everything to amuse every member of the family.

P: What would say to critics who feel that you are not giving the show your all?

EO: Everyone is entitled to his/her opinion and it’s hard to please everyone. I believe my show is a success and time will tell. I love criticism both positive and negative because it simply means that viewers are watching.

P: What is your take on critics who feel that you are still a ‘sideshow’ in stand-up comedy?

EO: Whether their comments are sarcastic or real it doesn’t really matter because I am doing what I love most.

P: How is your relationship with Churchill

EO: Well, Churchill gave me the platform but what I do is totally different. I’m an all-round comedian whose art includes mimicry, slapstick and stand up comedy, which he does not do. We are still friends and he is happy with my achievements.

P: What other comments have you heard concerning your quick rise to fame?

EO: On several occasions I have heard a section of people comment that the show was released too soon. However, one thing they must understand is that we all start from somewhere. Churchill took 16 years to be recognised and accepted. For me I believe this is God given talent and that is the reason I will prosper.

I’m indebted to him but there comes a time when a man has to move on. He also encouraged me to go it alone.

P: Tell us about your best and worst moments in comedy?

EO: The best was when I imitated runner Jelimo while on Churchill Live and got a rousing applause.

The worst was in Malindi when I performed infront of an audience who never watched and didn’t get the punch lines.

P: How did you start out?

EO: I was an active participant in drama festivals while in Kisumu Boys High School in 1999. I won an award for the Best Actor Kisumu District.

P: Any last word?

EO: My business in life is to keep ahead of myself. Keep watching!