Karabo Ntanzi
Northern Cape Theater was filled with mourners in memory of comedian, Thekiso “Quarter Leg” Maarman.
The Theatre foyer confirmed that indeed Quarter Leg lived to make people laugh. Mourners had an opportunity to write messages of condolence on a flip chat or leave a message on the deceased’s mobile phone. An outdated model dial-type telephone and a radio were placed next to his picture. When I asked about the symbolism of the objects, Thabo Motlhabi, jokingly said, “You can use the phone to interview him, then I’ll listen on the radio”, one of the funniest jokes that I’ve heard.
The Jackson Shuping Stage in the Theatre resembled a typical day with four seasons. Artists ranging from DJ’s, Actors, Arts Administrators including Charles Maema, CEO of the Northern Cape Arts Council and Community Activist, Pansy Obusitse delivered speeches filled with mixed emotions. The mood was unpredictable, one moment it was somber, filled with emotions, the next moment it was laughter as they cracked their jokes or remembered the late comedian. Singers rendered heartfelt music from hymns and the deceased all-time favorite, “Redemption Song” by Bob Marley.
Quarter Leg was born in Virginia in the Free State, then his mother relocated to Bloemfontein for work purposes; later on, the family followed suit. Before following his passion, the comedian worked at various places, including as Cash-in-Transit Security guard at Fidelity SBV.
After he struggled with drug addiction, he requested to be transferred to Kimberley, a move that resulted in life-changing incidents.
During a social outing in Upington, Maarman was involved in a squabble and ended up getting shot on the leg, which required amputation. That’s where he adopted the name “Quarter Leg”. He continued working for Fidelity, performing administrative duties until he saw a music festival advert, the organizer was looking for artists, including comedians. He responded to the call and has since followed his passion, where he met the love of his life, Gloria Thekisho.
Speakers attested that the pair were inseparable. “Even when there was no audience, his wife always followed him wherever he was performing, including a gig where he performed in front of four people plus his wife at the same venue where the memorial service was held,” they said.
Artists also took this opportunity to voice their dissatisfaction with the lack of support from the community. The message was clear: “Give us our flowers whilst we are still alive. The gallery is full today because it is a memorial service. How many times did Quarter Leg perform on this very same stage to an empty gallery?” asked one artist.
Quarter Leg was praised for his warm personality and sharing spirit, collaborating and identifying talent by working with other comedians, encouraging them to hang in there until their craft is acknowledged in the Province. Maarman would share his last cent with the less fortunate. At some stage, he worked with Omphile Raadt from Masibambisane Pty Ltd., collecting and distributing sanitary towels and toiletries.
He suffered from diabetes for more than 23 years, which led to his second foot being amputated.
The 41-year-old was buried on 19 July 2025 in Bloemfontein and is survived by his mother, siblings, wife, and children.
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