What’s wrong with you people? Do you not recognise art when you see it?

Sharon Wanjohi: picks her comedy favourites

The Cat In The Hat

I cannot even begin to describe how much I love this movie. It’s its own brand of weird zany surreal comedy not quite for kids but not quite for adults either. The heartfelt message punctuated with the most insane gags and plotlines makes for a really entertaining watch. I have no doubt, a cocktail of illegal substances was involved in the making of this masterpiece.

I was genuinely gobsmasked to find out it was not received well. What’s wrong with you people? Do you not recognise art when you see it?

I think I just love any film where Mike Myers is doing an accent.

Strangers With Candy

Amy Sedaris is one of my favourite comedy actors ever, ever. I love that she brings a neurotic manic energy to every role she’s in.

This 1999 sitcom perfectly subverts and satirises the American high school experience as seen on screen in a way that will disgust but also amuse you.

In this particular role, I really think she shines. The show is just so…weird. Every time you think you know where the joke or even the plot is going, it’ll completely pull the rug out from underneath you. 10/10 would recommend.

Who doesn’t love a grown-ass woman playing an awkward teenager?

Chewing Gum

Michaela Coel is a genius and, no, I will NOT be debating that with anyone. This show captures the sexually repressed religious girl experience to a T. I felt like I was watching myself on screen, it was quite jarring actually. It's a cringe comedy done brilliantly.

Bernie Mac on Def Jam 1999

I AIN’T SCARED OF YOU MUTHAFUCKAS! Brilliant. Life-changing.

I quote this to myself whenever I’m about to do a tough gig. From the moment he stepped on that stage he was in complete control, the audience knew it, the DJ knew it and I knew it.

This was one of my first introductions to comedy and my first introduction to Bernie Mac. I remember watching this particular episode and wondering why anyone would even think about pursuing stand-up comedy. Then Bernie stepped out onto the stage, wearing jeans with his face painted on them, and I understood.

His ability to wrangle the restless unimpressed audience whilst simultaneously reaching out to them with observational material he knew they’d love left a lasting impression. RIP to a comedy GOAT.

Kick it!

Thanyia Moore

I remember the first time I ever saw Thanyia on stage. It was like a light descended from the heavens and I finally knew my place in the world. So charismatic, funny and absolutely stunning - a triple threat.

She has the ability to talk about absolutely anything and make it funny, poignant and accessible whilst maintaining the trust that the audience will follow her on her journey.

Every time I watch her I take notes.

If I had more confidence I’d ask her to marry me. Actually Thanyia, if you’re reading this – will you marry me? (pls say yes)

The XYZ Show

A Kenyan comedy show using puppets to take the piss out of politicians? Sign me up. This show was one of my introductions to Kenyan comedy and I’m so glad it was. Not only did it provide a connection for me to my heritage but it was also mad educational.

It’s good to know what’s going on in world, innit, and if it’s done through the medium of comedy, even better, babes.