Race is often an issue discussed quietly at home.

However, Canadian comic Sugar Sammy takes this issue a step further and leaves audiences erupting with laughter, taking everyday scenarios of society's stereotypical attitudes and presenting them with amusing analyses.

In his show, on until March 4, he mixes examples of multicultural stereotypes associated with race and ethnic groups.

Described as "one of the hottest comedians on the international circuit", he has enjoyed great success, having been voted No 1 stand-up comedian in 2004, 2005 and 2006 by readers of The Montreal Mirror. He has received rave reviews across North America and Europe, and is in Durban after a successful three weeks hosting the main stage of the Cape Town International Comedy Festival.

His show also features one of SA's most promising comedy acts, Loyiso Gola, who helps break the ice before the main act.

Sammy gets the crowd laughing with his takes on issues like his Indian heritage, arranged marriages and tensions between racial groups.

His routine is hilarious at times, but not above average. However, his take on the Kama Sutra proves particularly funny with the older audience. One unlucky audience member became the butt of many a joke when he revealed he was a gynaecologist. The Kama Sutra jokes were then directed at him.

Although some were offended by over-use of the F word, the show gets people of different race groups and religions to take a more humorous look at life.

COPYRIGHT 2009 Independent News & Media PLC.