In Cambridge Bay, residents recently enjoyed the debut of the Mahaha Comedy Festival, providing a source of amusement and entertainment. The festival, spanning two days, featured local and Canadian comedians showcasing their talent through comedy shows, workshops, and mentoring sessions.
David Ohokannoak, a comedian and one of the festival organizers, highlighted the uniqueness of bringing a comedy festival to Cambridge Bay, a location not typically reached by such events. Reflecting on the festival’s inception, he mentioned that a previous show in Inuvik inspired the idea of hosting a show in Cambridge Bay.
The festival, meticulously planned over two months, allowed community members to witness performances by Canadian comedians who journeyed north for the event. Ohokannoak expressed his delight in introducing new comedic talent to the community, believing it could reignite people’s passion for comedy.
The burgeoning comedy scene in Cambridge Bay was acknowledged by comedian Eric Kitigon, who emphasized the growing interest in stand-up comedy within the community. He noted the participation of both young and older individuals in comedy-related activities, leading to the inclusion of an all-ages show alongside the main 19-and-up comedy performance.
Additionally, the festival provided valuable workshop and mentoring opportunities for local comedians to enhance their skills and stage presence. Kitigon emphasized the importance of such platforms in helping comedians refine their acts and gain performance experience.
Ohokannoak underscored the healing power of comedy, especially for the Inuit community, viewing it as a form of coping mechanism during challenging times. He expressed gratitude for the community’s enduring spirit, love for family, culture, and land, evident in the joy reflected on everyone’s faces during the festival.