London show proved my comedy has evolved — Asiri

Comedian, author and content creator, Damilare Oluwasegun, popularly known as Asiri, has described his recent comedy show in London, United Kingdom, titled Eureka, as a defining moment in his career.

According to the comedian, seeing the audience’s reactions and their reluctance to leave after the show gave him a sense of fulfilment, particularly because it was his first time headlining his own show in the city.

He told Sunday Scoop, “The Eureka moment was seeing the smiles on people’s faces and the fact that they were even reluctant to leave after the event. I have been to London several times to be a part of many events, but headlining mine is indeed a Eureka moment.”

Speaking on the differences between performing for audiences in Nigeria and the United Kingdom, Asiri said comedians had to understand the peculiarities of the Diaspora audience and tailor their approach accordingly.

He said, “The difference is not that much. One just has to factor in the peculiarities of the UK as well as the realities of Nigerians living in the Diaspora. I reenacted one of my old jokes from 12 years ago, and I was shocked at the response.

“It was a really old set of mine. It had gathered dust in my archives, but the response proved that it was a timeless joke.”

Asiri also explained that the central message of Eureka was about rhythm and the importance of finding something positive, even in difficult situations.

“It was the message of rhythm and seeing the good in all situations. No matter the degree of what you are going through, if you align your perspectives, you will find clues,” he said.

Comparing Eureka with his previous shows, Open Secret and I Don’t Need Your Opinion, the comedian said the London production allowed him to experiment with a more playful form of storytelling.

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He added, “Eureka was different because it was a new terrain. I worked with an all-white production crew alongside some of Nigeria’s finest professionals.

“The storytelling of Eureka was more playful compared to my other shows. I employed a lot of “cruise”, and it wasn’t tailored or themed like my other events.”

Reflecting on the success of the show, Asiri described it as evidence of his growth as a creative, noting that he had long desired to see his different creative abilities work together.

“The success of the show is proof of evolution. I had always longed for a time where the writing part of me, the speaking part of me and the comical part of me would find rhythm and resonate together.

“Seeing this happen gladdens my heart. It is not easy to be a master multi-potentialite,” he said.

Asiri also acknowledged that performing in London required a different approach because of the nature of the market.

“London is a different market and the method is different. I am glad God helped us to make it happen,” he said.

The comedian, who noted that he had also performed in the United States, said Eureka should not yet be regarded as a tour, adding that he was still considering what direction to take the show.

He further revealed that his regular Thursday show in Lagos would continue, while a conference was also in the works.