Cayman’s quirks, contradictions and humour are coming under the spotlight for the Cayman National Cultural Foundation’s latest theatrical comedy show, ‘Wha Happening’.
‘Wha Happening’ was born out of the legacy of ‘Rundown’, the iconic satirical revue that ran for almost 30 years under the directorship of Henry Muttoo and the late Dave Martins.
The show has evolved the format, with original sketches that reflect the ever-changing social and political landscape of Cayman. Each show season is crafted collaboratively, pulling from real-life scenarios, overheard conversations and Cayman pop culture.
Now in its third season, ‘Wha Happening’ is written, directed and produced by Matt Brown.
Brown said, “It’s like Chappelle’s Show, Key & Peele, and MAD TV had a baby at George Town hospital, and that baby grew up to become a politician who can’t stop talking. ‘Wha Happening’ is Cayman’s ultimate mirror, with reflections that are hilarious and a little bit blurry because we ran out of Windex.
“It’s all our news stories, hot topics and juicy gossip tossed into one big Cayman fish tea pot and served hot at the Harquail Theatre. If you’re ready to laugh at yourself, your neighbours and this little rock we call home, this is your show.”
Along with Brown, this year’s ensemble brings together a powerhouse of Cayman’s top comedic talent, including Michael McLaughlin, Lesley-Ann Bernard, Evana Martinez, Brent McLean, Illey Moya, Arthur McTaggart and Leroy Holness.
While Brown is the creative visionary behind the show, Cayman National Cultural Foundation’s Production Assistant Ashley Crowe said, “He leans on the creative influence of the rest of the cast. It’s a collaborative effort.”
More than a comedy show
Cassandra Shea, head of theatre and festivals at the cultural foundation, said ‘Wha Happening’ is more than a comedy show – it’s an event, a mirror and a movement.
“We’re proud to continue supporting bold Caymanian voices, and, like any good punchline, comedy often lands best in threes. This third season promises to be the comedic button we’ve all been waiting for,” she said.
Historically, Shea explained, theatre has often walked a tightrope between reflection and critique, challenging creatives to push their artistic approaches.
“As a multi-ethnic, multi-lingual and culturally rich society, Cayman presents a beautiful web of identities – and it’s vital that our art celebrates this richness through authentic representation by drawing on local voices, stories, and embracing contemporary as well as experimental approaches to performance through theatre,” she said.
“At CNCF, we’re committed to comedy that challenges – not just comforts – our community. We see our audiences not as passive observers but as co-authors of our community and the dialogue shaping us. Our productions must meet the moment: sharp, smart and inclusive. Because when comedy reflects our truth, it deepens our understanding, celebrates our resilience and invites everyone to the table.”
Performance dates
Opening weekend
- Friday, 26 Sept. – 7pm
- Saturday, 27 Sept. – 7pm VIP opening event
- Sunday, 28 Sept. – 6pm
Second weekend
- Friday, 3 Oct. – 7pm
- Saturday, 4 Oct. – 7pm
- Sunday, 5 Oct. – 6pm
Closing weekend
- Friday, 10 Oct. – 7pm
- Saturday, 11 Oct. – 7pm
- Sunday, 12 Oct. – matinee at 2:30pm and evening show at 6pm
All shows will be held at Harquail Theatre. Tickets are available online at ticketsplus.ky or in person at the CNCF offices, located upstairs behind the theatre. Visit CNCF on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes sneak peeks, cast interviews and more at @caymanculture.
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