Corporate entertainer, keynote speaker and culture-focused comedic facilitator.
Leadership teams, corporate staff, conference delegates and organisations seeking fresh, humour-driven approaches to communication, culture and inclusion.
Conrad Koch is a double International EMMY–nominated South African ventriloquist, globally recognised for combining world-class comedy with deep cultural intelligence. Holding a master’s degree in corporate anthropology, he brings a uniquely researched, human-centered perspective to humour, transformation and workplace culture. His theatrical training began at the College of Magic in Cape Town, evolving into a career that blends satire, storytelling and advanced puppetry to create memorable learning experiences for audiences worldwide.
His award-winning shows have earned praise from international critics, including the CBC in Canada, which described his work as “absolutely delightful and technically brilliant”. He has performed at major global festivals such as Just For Laughs in Montreal and the Montreux Comedy Festival in Switzerland, consistently receiving 5-star reviews. Conrad’s most famous character, the political analyst puppet Chester Missing, became a staple on South African television and a unique voice in national political commentary. Chester has interviewed senior leaders, won a landmark court case, authored a book and was named one of New African Magazine’s Most Influential Africans.
Conrad’s talent for using humour to diffuse tension and create psychological safety has made him a sought-after facilitator for organisations navigating change, diversity, culture and leadership alignment.
Conrad Koch is a double International EMMY nominated South African ventriloquist, with a master’s degree in corporate anthropology, who uses humor to inspire conversations in organizations.
The CBC in Canada said “my face hurt from laughing so hard”, describing Conrad’s work as “absolutely delightful and technically brilliant”, “Koch throws away more laugh lines than many shows have in the first place”.
OUTinPerth described his show as an “utter delight”, “a cutting satire of modern society” and that “there was not a dry eye left in the house, young or old alike.”
Starting out at the College of Magic in Cape Town, Conrad Koch combines hilarious comedy with world-class puppetry, and has won numerous awards, including Entertainer of the Year award, a Standard Bank Ovation Award from the National Arts Festival and more
A frequent guest at international festivals, including the prestigious Just For Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal and the Montreux Comedy Festival in Switzerland, Conrad Koch theatre shows receive frequent 5 star reviews.
Conrad Koch most famous character, the puppet political analyst, Mr. Chester Missing, has been a highlight on South African TV for years both on the hit show Late Night News with Loyiso Gola and on his own hugely popular weekly satirical news show, Almost News with Chester Missing, on etv and eNCA.
The use of a puppet to get political players to let down their guards was lauded as completely unique. In fact Chester Missing has been asked by the likes of City Press, Natal Witness, Reuters, the BBC, the Mail and Guardian, etc, to comment on political affairs.
The first puppet in history to win a court case (after going to court with a famous South African racist), Chester has even written a book, was named one of New African Magazine’s Most Influential Africans,
Conrad Koch, was the first recipient of the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation’s Anti-Racism Award. Chester Missing is used by corporations as a puppet facilitator to deal with difficult dynamics, to build rapport and uplift and educate teams, particularly on issues relating to culture.
He even functions as a team mascot, who happens to have a master’s degree in corporate culture. The combination of world-class humour with the ability to think deeply about societal and organizational issues make Conrad’s various keynotes powerful conversation starters.
He has had 20 year of experience implementing culture change programs for the likes of FNB, Goldfields, Sun International, SAA, etc., and in this online world has embraced the tech to create highly engaging, multiple camera, visually and intellectually incredible virtual experiences.
Conrad Koch ‘comedy-only’ show has audiences in stitches by talking to himself through a variety of extremely eccentric characters.
Self-ridicule has never been this fun. Including Chester Missing, satirical political analyst, Hilton, an ostrich made from two feather dusters and a slipper, and DJ Hoodie, a puppet made from a hoodie who actually DJs, and a neurotic mosquito, called Mosquito.
The show is highly interactive – audience members hilariously become the puppets.
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Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.
Virtual speaking appearances can indeed offer cost savings compared to in-person events. Virtual speaking rates are often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates due to factors such as reduced travel expenses and logistics. This makes virtual events a cost-effective alternative for organizations looking to book speakers within a budget.
Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.
The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.
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