Comedienne to help talented youths put bread and butter on the table

In an effort to open the doors of success for up-and-coming actors and actresses, Eastern Cape comedienne Khanyisa Bunu has opened Bread and Butter Entertainment, a talent agency that will jump-start the careers of many hopefuls.

The much-loved comic shot to widespread popularity during her stint on SABC’s So You Think You’re Funny in 2009 where she entered and came sixth in the competition.

Bunu said at the time her elimination from the show was just the beginning, as many doors would soon open for her. She later went on to win other comedy competitions and was an opening act for internationally acclaimed SA comedian Trevor Noah.

The Whittlesea native said Bread and Butter Entertainment would assist aspiring actors who frequently asked her how to enter the entertainment industry.

“Bread and Butter is a company that has been running since 2010, but the acting agency was recently formed to give a platform for rising actors and actresses. Most people who approach me always ask about how to become an actor. It is the most frequently asked question. I decided to do some research and gather contacts in the industry who would assist in the process. Then the agency was formed,” said Bunu.

She said the talent agency would help facilitate TV roles, commercials and roles as extras on TV shows. She hoped her agency would help create stars who featured in the biggest movies and shows in the country.

“I know that is possible because our country, and my province especially, is filled with much undiscovered talent that needs the right opportunity. I would like to see Bread and Butter Entertainment compete with the top dogs of the industry and to be involved in big productions,” she said.

If you think you have talent, e-mail breadandbutterentertainment@gmail.com.

Bunu said she and her team would respond to each e-mail detailing casting information and casting fees.

“The first group of talent will be taken in until February 29. The second group will then be considered from August 3 to August 29. This gives us time to work with the current group and make sure effective progress is made. The aim of the agency is to provide access to information and to resources to help people with their careers. We are not limiting this to age or race or gender; everyone is welcome to register,” Bunu said.

Bunu is well-known in the Eastern Cape comedy scene having hosted Hleka Mzansi, a show to entertain Komani and Whittlesea audiences.

The show has seen the likes of Trevor Gumbie and Elton Mduduzi on the stage.

“The show started off slowly; not many people were in attendance at first. But now we have sold-out shows and the support is really overwhelming,” she said.

gugup@dispatch.co.za