• In Singapore, the term “谐星” refers to a performer who appears in a comedy act, which can be a parody or comic sketch. Comedy acts in Singapore usually comprise two to five performers, whose aim is to entertain the audience. Singapore’s earliest comedians were the Comedic Duo of Wang Sha and Ye Feng in the 1960s. Other notable comedians include Hua Liang, Zhao Jin, Jack Neo and Gurmit Singh.

Feeling nostalgic for the wonderful performances of the Comedic Duo Wang Sha and Ye Feng who were a hit in the 1960s and 1970s? Mediacorp will be airing the “Wang Sha Ye Feng Special” on Labour Day next Friday. This special edition of their past comedy crosstalks aims to provide some comic relief for those working or studying at home. (Lianhe Wanbao, 24/4/2020)

笑星 (Malaysia, Thailand, Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau), 笑匠 (Malaysia)

• The term “谐剧” has a different meaning in China, where it is usually performed by one person. This genre originated in Sichuan in 1939, founded by Wang Yongsuo, whose first work was
  “卖膏药”.
• Famous comedians and comedy acts in Singapore include:

1. Wang Sha and Ye Feng, a pair of iconic comedians from the 1960s to the 1990s. They were the first local comedians to achieve international fame. In 1967, they started making comedy records that became hits, effectively creating a new model of comedy records. Their works reflected shifts in Singapore’s language policies.
2. Hua Liang and Zhao Jin: Best known as “Big Mouth” and “Big Nose”, they were Singapore’s acclaimed comedy duo in the 1980s. They were skilled at using crosstalk to reflect the lives of common folk in a humorous light.
3. Liang Jia Ban: Comedy troupe founded by Jack Neo in 1991. Between 1990 and 2008, Jack Neo created “Comedy Nite” (《搞笑行动》), the longest-running television programme in Singapore history. He is best known for his cross-dressing roles, Liang Po Po, Liang Xi Mei and Karen Neo – female characters who reflect everyday life in Singapore.
4. Gurmit Singh: This renowned local funnyman is best known for playing contractor Phua Chu Kang in the sitcom “Phua Chu Kang Pte Ltd”.