Competition Outstanding In TV2 Billy T Awards

It is with great pleasure that the New Zealand Comedy Trust announce the winner of the TV2 Billy T Award for 2002.

Last night, the Civic¹s Wintergarden played host to the final judging of the TV2 Billy¹s. Hosted by Paul Ego, the audience found five charming performances from five outstanding nominees.

The winner of the TV2 Billy T Award for 2002 is Dai Henwood, aka P Funk Chainsaw who¹s show ³The Story of Funk² sold out at Auckland¹s SiLO this festival. He receives $7000 cash to spend on furthering his career, either in New Zealand or internationally.

Dai is said to be remarkably happy, but was today unavailable for comment and is currently sleeping off his excitement somewhere in the Piha Hills.

The TV2 Billy T Award recognises a New Zealand comedian with outstanding potential. Nominees are chosen on their proven comedic ability, talent, dedication and potential. The winner is judged on all aspects of their festival show and last night¹s performance.

Caterina De Nave, Chairperson of the New Zealand Comedy Trust said the decision gets harder every year, ³Separating excellence is never easy but the diversity of work this year was tremendous, the range of comedy styles was something our industry should be hugely proud of².

With highly successful shows by all nominees, the New Zealand Comedy Trust can now only look forward to 2003. Dai, along with fellow nominees, Benjamin Crellin, Rhys Darby, Tarun Mohanbhai, and Gary, all had sell-out seasons, (and for those who missed out, a return season from Gary opens at the Classic this week).

Now in their fifth year, the Billy¹s are a benchmark for talented comedians. Previous winners have been: Cal Wilson, Ewen Gilmour, Radar, Brendhan Lovegrove and in 2001 Jan Maree.

"The standard in the TV2 Billy T Awards proved to be exceptionally high, reflecting the wealth of up-and-coming comedic talent in this country. The event was highly entertaining and will again give New Zealand viewers an hour of hilarious comedy." Julia Bayliss, Manager TV2 Programmes

TV2 will screen the Billy¹s on the 21st of May at 9.30pm.

ENDS

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