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Oliver Samuels is a towering figure in Jamaican theatre, a true pioneer whose comedic brilliance has lit up stages for over five decades. Revered as the ‘King of Jamaican Comedy’, Samuels is celebrated for his masterful storytelling and magnetic stage presence, which have made him a household name locally and within the diaspora. His legendary performances blend sharp wit with cultural authenticity, creating an enduring legacy that resonates across generations. Beyond laughter, Samuels infuses his work with insightful social commentary, reflecting the heart and soul of Jamaica. As he prepares to return to the stage with his latest production, Lucky Money, Samuels continues to set the standard for Caribbean theatre, captivating audiences with his timeless charm and unmistakable talent.
Humour has been a powerful tool for bringing people together throughout your career. Can you share a memorable moment when your comedy unexpectedly united an audience or created a special connection?
One memorable moment that comes to mind was when a friend of mine, who had left for England many years prior (60 years ago), came to see my show in England at Fairfield Hall in Croydon. He sent me a message letting me know he was in the audience, and after the show, I called him out. When he stood up, the entire audience went wild. I went into the audience to hug and greet him, and it was such an emotional moment after all those years apart. It was incredible to see how our shared history could create such a special connection with the audience.
Looking back, is there a particular performance or experience that shifted your perspective or solidified that you should be in theatre?
One afternoon, Louise Bennett-Coverley pulled me aside after a show and asked, “Little boy, where you come from?” I told her I was from St Mary, and she shared how kind the people there had been to her during her research for her book and work with the Social Development Commission (SDC). She went on to praise my performance, saying I came from a wonderful place and had excellent talent. That moment was a turning point for me – it reinforced my belief that I was on the right path and solidified my decision to pursue theatre seriously.
Your contributions to Jamaican entertainment and comedy have left an indelible mark. How does it feel to be recognised as a Red Stripe Living Legend for this very reason?
It was quite shocking at first, but I accepted the title and my plaque with grace and humility. Being recognised by Red Stripe is a tremendous honour, and it shows that my contributions to the craft are being acknowledged. It’s a reminder that there are people – both in society and corporate entities – who value what I’ve done, and that’s something I take great pride in.
In your view, what are some ways Jamaica can better celebrate its creatives?
Both government and corporate entities must come together to support the creative industry. It’s crucial to help emerging creatives understand that their craft can be a sustainable business. When I started, my focus was solely on entertaining people, without recognising the business potential. We need more cultural centres where artists of all kinds can showcase their work and earn a living. By doing so, we can help future generations view the creative industry as a legitimate and rewarding career path.
What’s next for the King of Comedy, Oliver Samuels?
I’m happy to be back on stage in Jamaica with my brand-new play, Lucky Money. I’ll be performing alongside talented Jamaican actors Karen Harriott and Tesfa Edwards. There’s nothing like performing at home; Jamaicans have the best laughs in the world. Lucky Money premieres on January 1, 2025, and runs until February 16 at the Little Theatre
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