Dave Levinsohn is one of South Africa’s most established and original comedians, known for his distinctive offbeat humour, quick wit and exceptional improvisational skills. A professional comedian since 1997, Dave has built a career spanning stand-up comedy, television, writing, producing and corporate entertainment.
Particularly renowned for his ability to work spontaneously with an audience, Dave is regarded as one of South Africa’s leading exponents of improvisational comedy. His performances combine observational humour, audience interaction and unpredictable, on-the-spot comedy, meaning that no two Dave Levinsohn performances are quite the same.
Dave began developing his craft as a host and performer at Johannesburg’s legendary Coffee Lounge comedy nights in the late 1990s, an important platform for emerging South African comedians. He went on to become a regular performer on the national comedy circuit and has appeared at major events including the Vodacom International Comedy Festival and Smirnoff International Comedy Festival.
His comedy has also taken him internationally. Dave performed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and has shared stages with international comedians, including Irish-Australian comedian Jimeoin.
Television audiences may recognise Dave as a co-presenter on the first series of SABC3’s travel programme Going Nowhere Slowly, as well as from his memorable television advertising work. He was also involved as both a writer and performer on Tonight with Trevor Noah.
Among his comedy accolades, Dave won the Red Bull Comedy Jam in 2004 and received the Nando’s Most Original Approach to Comedy Award at Grahamstown in 2008.
Beyond performing, Dave has played an active role in developing South Africa’s comedy scene, producing comedy nights and creating platforms for emerging performers.
With decades of live performance experience, Dave is also a highly experienced corporate MC and comedian. His ability to read a room, respond spontaneously and tailor his humour to the audience makes him particularly well suited to conferences, gala dinners, awards ceremonies, golf days, launches and corporate functions.
Career Highlights
- Professional comedian since 1997
- Recognised for improvisational and audience-driven comedy
- Winner of the Red Bull Comedy Jam – 2004
- Recipient of the Nando’s Most Original Approach to Comedy Award – 2008
- Performer at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival
- Regular performer at major South African comedy festivals
- Co-presenter of SABC3’s Going Nowhere Slowly
- Writer and performer on Tonight with Trevor Noah
- Experienced corporate MC, comedian, writer and producer
- Producer of comedy events and supporter of emerging South African comedy talent
