FLASHBACK: ‘The Night of a Thousand Laughs’ by Opa Williams

Did you know that before popular comedy shows like AY Live and Basketmouth’s Lord of the Ribs took over Nigeria, a groundbreaking show, ‘Nite of a Thousand Laughs’, paved the way?

The Nite of a Thousand Laughs, which debuted in early 1995 by Opa Williams, not only transformed the comedy scene in Nigeria but also served as a launching pad for some of the country’s most beloved comedy talents.

In this article, PREMIUM TIMES takes a nostalgic journey to revisit the beginnings of this iconic comedy show, the luminaries it produced and the lasting memories it has left behind over the years.

Accidental beginnings

Before the ‘Night of a Thousand Laughs’, comedy in Nigeria was mainly limited to small-scale performances, local theater productions and the occasional slapstick comedy in Nollywood films.

There was no dedicated platform that showcased comedy talent on a large scale.

Recognizing this gap, Williams, a filmmaker known for Deadly Affair (1995), Onome (1996) and Deadly Affair II (1997), created a show that would bring together top comedians from across Nigeria, giving them a stage to perform for an audience wider.

The idea for Williams’ comedy business came about by accident.

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According to Barclays Ayakoroma, executive secretary of the National Institute of Cultural Orientation, Williams was at the Lagos Orthopedic Hospital to shoot a scene.

Compilation of the night of a thousand laughs

There he met a Nollywood actor who was recovering from a car accident. To cheer him up, the cast and crew started telling jokes, making everyone in the room laugh. Even the doctor joined in, leading Williams to realize the healing power of laughter.

Reflecting on this, Williams realized the healing power of laughter and thought about using it to help others, especially the sick and prisoners. He knew this idea needed funding to be sustainable, so he created “Nite of a Thousand Laughs,” a public performance with part of the proceeds going to charity.

The first edition was held on October 1, 1995. Although it was an artistic success, it did not generate income. Williams tried again in 1996 with his partners, but faced another financial loss, causing his partners to lose interest. Despite many setbacks, Williams remained determined and continued to seek sponsors.

Before the show, comedians were seen as simple jesters and clowns, used occasionally at events and paid very little. Soon, Nigerians enthusiastically attend the “Night of a Thousand Laughs” every year.

Williams turned comedy into a legitimate business. He made people understand that they had to pay to laugh and showed comedians that they could be professionals, wearing designer suits and performing in high-profile venues for substantial fees. She effectively created the comedy industry and established a foundation to support it.

The show was meticulously planned and organized, with Mr. Williams personally selecting the comedians and designing the format of the show. He also worked closely with the production team to ensure the show ran smoothly and the audience had a memorable experience.

The jokes were original and the audience laughed a thousand times. Consequently, the show produced superstar comedians who got their first break on the Nite Of A Thousand Laughs stage and went on to host their shows.

Opa Williams

”I remember the first show at the National Theater in October 1995. It could have been more successful. Even the second one was terrible, and two of my friends who I was convinced to invest in backed out. The inaugural show took place in 1995 at the National Theatre;

It was an instant hit, drawing a huge crowd and receiving rave reviews. The show was popular with comedy fans and attracted a diverse audience, including people from all walks of life and up to the age of. The success of the show was a testament to her broad appeal and her ability to bring people together through laughter,’ Williams said of her debut show.

This combination of humor and entertainment turned out to be a winning formula.

The show also popularized “Who Let the Dogs Out,” the Grammy Award-winning hit song by Bahamian group Baha Men.

The song’s chorus features the distinctive “Who! WHO! WHO! WHO! WHO! WHO! WHO!” becomes an anthem for the show.

Appearance of comedy stars.

Over the years, ‘Nite of a Thousand Laughs’ became Nigeria’s leading comedy show and served as a launching pad for numerous comedians who have since become household names. Among these are:

basketball mouth

Bright Okpocha, popularly known as Basketmouth, is another star who owes his breakthrough to ‘The Night of a Thousand Laughs’. Known for his speed and humorous take on everyday life, Basketmouth’s success on the show catapulted him to fame. Today he is one of the most successful comedians in Africa, with numerous awards and international performances.

A young Basketmouth performing at Nite of a Thousand Laughs in 2016

I’m going to dye

Francis Agoda, known by his stage name I Go Dye, also gained prominence for his performances in ‘Nite of a Thousand Laughs’. His satirical style, which often addressed social and political issues, resonated with audiences and established him as one of Nigeria’s leading comedic voices.

I Go Dye performing at Nite of a Thousand Laughs in 1996

bovi

His appearances on the show significantly boosted his rise in the comedy world. Bovi, an arts graduate from Delta State University, with his witty storytelling and relatable humor, Bovi quickly became a favorite among fans.

Bovi’s journey in comedy began humbly as a personal assistant to Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD). He once built a successful career as a comedian, actor and producer.

YEAH

Ayo Makun, known as AY, is another product of ‘Nite of a Thousand Laughs’. His charismatic stage presence and humorous interpretation of contemporary themes endeared him to the public. AY has built its brand of comedy, including the famous ‘AY Live’ shows, continuing the legacy of promoting comedy in Nigeria.

Decline, legacy

Despite its immense success and contribution to the comedy industry, ‘Nite of a Thousand Laughs’ faced challenges.

In December 2021, Williams announced that he would be leaving the comedy show, adding that the pan-Nigerian show would have its final editions on December 26 in Benin and January 1 in Port Harcourt, 2011.

Announcing the end of an era, Williams wrote: “These shows became clones of Nite of A Thousand Laughs. It was a ‘see one, see all show’. “The consequence is that the public paid a high price for this, as they were unknowingly defrauded. As a pioneer, the arrowhead of the comedy revolution in Nigeria, I decided that I would not be a part of ripping off the audience. So, Nite of A Thousand Laughs steps aside to preserve its dignity.”

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The rise of numerous comedy shows and the proliferation of social media have created more platforms for comedians to showcase their talents. This increased competition and changes in audience preferences have led to a decline in the show’s prominence. Additionally, the program has faced financial challenges and struggles to attract the same sponsorship and support it once had.

Furthermore, the production landscape has evolved significantly. Comedy shows are now more frequent and varied, ranging from stand-up specials to sketches to online content. While this diversity has enriched the comedy scene, it has also made it difficult for ‘Nite of a Thousand Laughs’ to maintain its once undisputed position.

However, the legacy remains intact. The impact of the show on the Nigerian entertainment industry is undeniable. He brought stand-up comedy to the forefront and provided a platform for numerous talents who have achieved great success.

The show proved that stand-up comedy in Nigeria can be a lucrative and respected profession, paving the way for future generations.

When we remember the journey of ‘The Night of a Thousand Laughs’, it becomes clear that its influence extends beyond simple laughter. He played a crucial role in shaping the Nigerian comedy industry, nurturing talents and bringing joy to countless Nigerians. The format and success of the show has inspired many other comedy platforms in Nigeria and Africa.

While the original ‘Nite of a Thousand Laughs’ may no longer have the same influence as it once did, its spirit lives on. Many comedians who started on their stage continue to thrive, making audiences around the world laugh.

Furthermore, the show’s pioneering efforts have laid a solid foundation for the comedy industry, ensuring that humor remains an integral and appreciated part of Nigerian culture.