Today's Edition
RAIED SHUQUM (ABU DHABI)
Comedy enthusiasts in the UAE are in for a treat as American comedian Matt Rife brings his ProbleMATTic World Tour to the Etihad Arena on Yas Island on October 27, marking Rife's debut performance in the Middle East.
The tour has seen phenomenal success, with all dates selling out within 48 hours, promising an unforgettable night of humour and entertainment.
His aptly named tour showcases his unique comedic style, blending observational humour with personal anecdotes and social commentary. Known for his quick thinking and improvisational skills, Rife is sure to keep the audience on their toes with spontaneous moments of hilarity. His ability to incorporate audience reactions into his routine adds an element of unpredictability, making each performance unique.
Rife has shared his excitement about performing in Abu Dhabi. In a recent interview with What's On, he expressed his enthusiasm, saying: "I'm really looking forward to seeing how things go. The climate here has changed a lot, and when my friend Andrew Schulz came to perform, he told me how incredible the show was. I'm excited to see how my shows are in non-English speaking countries."
He also mentioned his anticipation for the unique experience of performing in the UAE, highlighting the cultural exchange aspect of his tour, "As a comedian, the expectation mounts on one to always be funny, especially given my spontaneous crowd work prowess. But being on stage is super fulfilling, and I love it, especially when that joke lands."
In a move to create an immersive and distraction-free environment, the event will be a phone-free experience. Attendees will be required to secure their phones and smart devices in individual pouches upon entering the venue. Rife's team has emphasised the importance of respecting the traditions and culture of the UAE.
Rife, from Columbus, Ohio, has quickly risen to fame with his sharp wit, clever wordplay, and engaging stage presence. Known for his ability to connect with audiences through relatable humour and spontaneous interactions, Rife has become a favourite among comedy fans worldwide.
His journey into comedy began at the young age of 14 when he participated in a high school talent show, which sparked his passion for making people laugh. In his early career, Rife performed at local talent shows and open mic events. His big break came when he joined the cast of MTV's "Wild 'N Out" in its eighth season in 2016. His improvisational skills and quick wit made him a standout performer on the show.
Rife self-produced several comedy specials, including "Only Fans," "Matthew Steven Rife," and "Walking Red Flag." His unique blend of observational humour and crowd work has earned him a dedicated following. His viral clips on TikTok have amassed millions of views, further boosting his popularity.
In addition to his stand-up career, Rife has appeared in various television shows and films. He had guest roles on "Brooklyn Nine-Nine," "Fresh Off the Boat," and the B-movie slasher film "Black Pumpkin." He also participated in the reality competition show "Bring the Funny" in 2019.
Rife's recent success includes signing with Creative Artists Agency in December 2022 and releasing his Netflix special "Natural Selection" in November 2023.
Beyond comedy, Rife has a passion for boxing and is known for his dedication to training. He has also been involved in paranormal investigations, featured on the YouTube channel "Overnight."
