Doha has seen its share of acts, both big and small, come through town; but it’s always nice, in a country that is 70 per cent expat, to get a little taste of home. That’s why event organiser Golden Relations has plans to bring in entertainment acts from all over the world, specially selected for expats from that particular country.

Although the company won’t reveal the full schedule yet, first up is the Philippines. Comedian K Brosas, supported by Kim Idol, hits town on July 1, with actress, comedian and singer Rufa Mae Quinto playing Doha on July 15. ‘We can’t still announce the next artists and for which communities, but soon we will. It is going to be a regular thing,’ says the man behind it all, Bilal Taha.

Taha expects nearly 6,000 people to attend the shows, because demand is so high. ‘We want to bring artists and celebrities to specific communities, in this case the Filipino community, to offer them A-class names and entertainment,’ he says.

The comapny has started with the Filipino community because it’s one of the largest and most active in the country. ‘When we announced the events, the Filipino community were so surprised, they couldn’t believe it. We have received many calls and emails, asking if it is true,’ says Taha, predicting that response may be just as large for other expat groups. ‘It’s the first time these artists have been to Qatar too. We have chosen entertainers with their own shows on Filipino TV channels, and they are daily entertainers and celebrities known by everybody.’

But for some of the acts, it’s not their first time in the GCC. ‘This is my first time in Qatar, but not in the Middle East. I’ve been in Dubai many times, also to Bahrain,’ says Kim Idol, who got his start as a comedian when he was discovered while on vacation in Puerto Galera. ‘I think I was born to do this. Actually I also write for other comedians (the likes of Pooh, Pokwang, K Brosas and Vice Ganda), and I provide them with comedy scripts,’ he says. He’ll be paired with K Brosas for the opening show, due to take place on July 1.

Kim Idol says his act runs like a funny monologue, a narrative from a chatty friend. ‘I make fun of myself! I tell funny stories of my daily experiences,’ he says. ‘They say that the hardest thing to do is to make others laugh. Making them cry is easier. Just tell a sad story and presto, they sympathise with you. Being a comedian is different, especially during comedy shows. You walk in a room in front of strangers, not knowing what each is going through – and the great challenge there is making everybody laugh!’

That’s something K Brosas can relate to. ‘It’s impossible to please everybody,’ she says. ‘There are a few times that people don’t get my comedy act. So it’s a good thing that I can sing as well!’

Originally a singer, K Brosas transitioned into a mix of song and comedy. ‘I started as a singer in lounges, sing-along bars, and used to sing abroad. But I guess my “being funny” came out naturally, so I became a singer and comedienne,’ she says. ‘My act is a mix of everything – singing and stand-up comedy. For me the most important thing is to interact with the audience.’

That’s what she says she loves the most about performing. ‘It’s the instant reaction from my audience – there is no take two – and the fulfilment of making people laugh instantly,’ she says. She also loves the by-the-seat-of-her-pants aspect of her show. ‘Sometimes I write my ideas down, but most of the time it just come out when I’m on stage, just being spontaneous.’

And because they perform in a mixture of English and Tagalog, Taha says even if you’re not Filipino, you can enjoy the event. While the shows will be targeted for regional celebrities, the goal will be to bring in performers that anyone, no matter where they are from, will want to see. ‘This is only the start. In future we will bring artists for other different communities,’ says Taha. ‘We think every community feels comfortable and happy if somebody from their own country comes here to Qatar.’
Comedienne K Brosas, supported by Kim Idol, performs July 1, with actress, comedienne and singer Rufa Mae Quinto on July 15 at the Dafna Ballroom at the Sheraton Doha Resort & Convention Hotel. Tickets are QR70 in advance, available at the Sheraton F&B office, Creative Advertising Office, Columbiano Coffee branches, Puerto Gallera Restaurant, Beats & Bytes Production, Metro Manila Salon and the Filipino Community Centre, or QR80 at the door. Call 4427 9060 for more information