Dr. Hillary Okello delivers perfect set at Uganda Must Laugh show

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For someone who was struggling to get recognition and performing in dingy and squalid open mic shows, Dr Hillary Okello’s Uganda Must Laugh show proved that the conveyor belt of stand-up comedy has landed us a gem.

The sold-out show at Theatre Labonita on Friday proved that Dr Okello is one of comedy’s good finds in recent years. His forte? Getting laughs from topics other comedians shun. Jokes about religion and the ruling government are not standard fodder of a comedy routine, but Dr Hillary Okello revelled in crossing the line to wide applause.

A cross section of people laughing at Dr Hillary Okello's jokes during the Uganda Must Laugh show at Theatre Labonita. (Photo by Ignatius Kamya)

From the moment he walked onto the stage, dressed in all-white, you told many in attendance took him to the heart. He is likeable in a cheeky and naughty way. 

He has a quick brain, too. During the set, the audience often interjected, throwing comments on his material during the show.  In response, he wittily weaved the audience’s observations into his own rhythm, creating punchlines.

For a comedian who thrives on self-deprecating comedy, Dr Okello’s father, who was in attendance, wasn’t spared. He shifted uneasily in his seat as the son turned him into fodder, but in a polite way. He cheered on.

For a qualified clinician, Okello knows chemistry and all its disturbing terminologies, like redox reactions, titration and endothermic reactions.   However, how did an STD end up being detected in a test tube during one of their chemistry laboratory sessions in school? This was the joke that had the crowd cracking. 

Revellers laughing their hearts out at Dr Hillary Okello's jokes. (Photo by Ignatius Kamya)

Ahead of the show, Okello promised an evening filled with pure laughter, clever storytelling and unexpected surprises. He delivered with signature Ugandan humour that resonates so deeply with the realities of those in attendance.

The performance stood for its personal and reflective themes, diving deeper into everyday Ugandan life while maintaining a humorous edge that is both honest and entertaining.  It was a shared experience.

Next stop? Okello is excited about taking Ugandan comedy beyond borders, with performances in Botswana and South Africa lined up.