Parktown North comedian Costa Carastavrakis brings new show to Melrose Arch
Known for blending razor-sharp wit with cultural storytelling, Costa returns to the spotlight following the international success of his debut, Desperately Seeking Souvlaki. This time, he's serving up bigger laughs, deeper reflections, and the same signature charm that earned him fans at home and abroad.
Carastavrakis' path to the comedy stage wasn't conventional. He found his comedic voice in his 40s, after a career that spanned corporate work, acting, writing, and a profound personal journey through addiction and recovery. His story is raw, real, and inspiring – laid bare in his memoir I Am Costa: From Meth to Marathons. For Carastavrakis, stand-up became a lifeline and a way to transform pain into punchlines. 'With proper and thorough healing, I can now make myself laugh at some of it and make others see that true healing is possible if you do the work,' he shared.
Read more: Kabomo to treat audience to a night of comedy and music
What began as a quiet passion quickly evolved into a calling. Today, his comedy is a captivating blend of personal anecdotes and hilarious cultural insights – a heartfelt, humorous lens into life as a Greek South African. His new show leans into this strength, inviting audiences into the delightful madness of sprawling family dynamics, fierce cultural pride, and the quirks of everyday life in Joburg.
Despite his deep Greek roots, Carastavrakis' stories resonate across cultures. Whether he's recounting tales of stubborn aunties, over-the-top family dinners, or community chaos, there's a warm, familiar truth in every bit. His humour has connected with audiences in New York, Athens, Kuala Lumpur and beyond, proving that laughter is a universal language. 'People love South Africans,' he joked, 'and they love feta cheese, so my comedy's easy to digest.'
Carastavrakis writes from instinct, constantly developing new material from life's little absurdities. In a country where formal comedy circuits can be limited, he trusts his gut and lets his lived experience lead the way. His ability to find light in dark places, especially in stories of addiction and recovery, gives his comedy both heart and heft. 'Humour and tragedy live side by side. And I've learnt how to dance between the two.'
Also read: A celebration of uniquely South African comedy
When he's off-stage, Carastavrakis finds inspiration in the streets of Rosebank, where he often people-watches for material. From overheard conversations to the theatrics of everyday city life, everything becomes potential fodder for his next big laugh.
Costa's Corner Kefi promises more than just a comedy set, it's a celebration of resilience, culture, and the wonderfully chaotic ride of being human. Loud, relatable, and brimming with heart, this is Joburg comedy with a Greek twist, and your nosiest auntie is more than welcome.
Show Details:
Costa's Corner Kefi – A Greek Comedy Feast
Venue: Melrose Arch Fire and Ice Hotel, Johannesburg
Dates:
Friday, May 23 at 19:30
Saturday, May 24 at 19:30
Sunday, May 25 at 16:00
Tickets: R220 at www.quicket.co.za (Search: 'COSTA')
Age Restriction: 16+
Instagram and TikTok: @costacomedian
Ticket enquiries: samee.samoka@gmail.com
Email: costa@thisiscosta.com
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Related article: Get ready to laugh it off with the best of local comedy
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