Moroccan-born Dutch stand-up comedian and actor Najib Amhali is preparing for his first show in Morocco, expected Thursday and Friday in Tangier. The comedian, who has been on stage for over thirty years in Europe, can't hide his excitement for his first performances in his home country, he told Dutch newspaper ANP.
Amhali has been planning for these shows «five, six years ago» and it's finally happening. «I don't know the theaters here as well as in the Netherlands. That makes it extra exciting», he told the same source.
«It is very special. I have a huge bond with the country», said the Moroccan-born comedian, who plans to do more shows in Morocco.
Amhali's shows will be in Dutch targeting the Moroccan-Dutch community holidaying at this time of the year in Morocco, especially in Tangier.
«Now during the holiday period there are a lot of Dutch Moroccans, that's actually what I'm focusing on», he said.
The show speaks to his audience as it touches upon «what there is to experience there and how we experience things as Moroccan Dutch», he said. «But it will also involve a lot of improvisation».
Born in Nador, Amhali has carved out a successful career as a stand-up comedian and actor in the Netherlands. His acting credits include roles in films like «Jezus is een Palestijn» and the TV series «Najib en Julia».
Beyond his acting career, Amhali is also a skilled drummer who often incorporates music into his comedy performances.
In 2006, Amhali hosted a special show dedicated to the Dutch national football team during the FIFA World Cup, raising funds for charity.