A “Badman” in London

Emdad Rahman

YouTube comedy hit Humza Arshad will be performing at two London universities as part of a nation-wide university comedy tour.

Humza became the UK’s most popular British Pakistani comedian after receiving millions of views for his ‘Diary of a Badman’ series on YouTube. The video diary chronicles the life of a self-styled ‘Badman with seriously good looks’ as he attempts to impress girls, survive marriage offers via Skype and escape the wrath of his rolling pin-wielding mum.

“Hopefully, the tour will show that British Pakistanis are about more than just kebab shops and taxis. Although, let’s face it… we do it best!” said Humza.

Azme Alishan, a Pakistani campaign that aims to shift perceptions about the country and its culture, is organising the tour. A tour spokesman said the campaign wanted to bring Humza to a wider audience.

“Humza’s uses his Pakistani heritage to bring something special to his comedy,” the spokesman said. “The Azme Alishan campaign in the UK is really excited to be part of the Badman phenomenon.”

Despite his massive appeal amongst young people of all backgrounds, the tour will be the first time Humza takes his act nationwide. Humza will be performing at Queen Mary, University of London on 4 December and Kingston University in south London on 10 December. 

The tour will feature Humza treating fans to unseen footage from his YouTube series as well as live versions of Humza favourites such as the comedy track “Jam that Hype” and the Badman VS Mum rap battle. Humza will also be joined on stage by the rest of the Badman crew, including singers JP (aka Dexter) and Kalum as well as Yogi and Asif.

Following opening night on 24 November in Bradford, the tour will go on to Glasgow, Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool, Staffordshire, London and Cardiff.  Full details and tickets are available on www.badmantour2011.co.uk