Comedian Owen 'Blakka' Ellis strikes one of many female poses, as he delivers his farewell performance at the Blue Beat martini bar in Montego Bay last Thursday. - Photo by Noel Thompson

WESTERN BUREAU:

Owen 'Blakka' Ellis completed his local farewell performances at Blue Beat in Montego Bay last Thursday but is being requested to do more shows.

With a previous show at Backyaad in St Andrew last Wednesday, Ellis has admitted it is a struggle giving up what he likes and does best.

"These two shows were actually scheduled to be my final, but now I'm being asked to do another show in Toronto and one in London," he told The Gleaner.

The dates have not yet been scheduled, but the London leg is expected to be held around late May.

Ellis said come what may, he would definitely be giving up comedy by year end. But why is he really throwing in the towel?

Losing the fun in comedy

"I am losing the fun in comedy. Too often I find that what is expected of me is buffoonery or literally things that insult my intelligence. When I find I have to struggle doing a show to avoid being too subtle I think I should step aside," he explained.

Ellis continued: "I am no longer enjoying it, but more importantly, I want to do other things such as writing, producing and directing and stepping aside should give me the time to do so."

Ellis admitted he had benefited tremendously from comedy - giving him the opportunity to tour the world and make good money and friends.

"I would never deny that comedy has done a great deal for me, but it has equally made my life difficult, as people expect a laugh-a-minute from me every time. I want to be more provocative, but I find that comedy sometimes obscures us."