18th May 2004
Ben Hurley scoops the coveted Oddfellows Billy T Award
Last night in the Bruce Mason Centre, in Auckland’s North Shore, Ben Hurley was awarded the illustrious Oddfellows Billy
T Award for most promising up and coming New Zealand comedian and the $7,000.00 prize that goes with it. In a jam-packed
show hosted by former Billy T winner, Radar, there were performances from this years nominees Cohen Holloway, Ezequiel
Balmori, Jamie Bowen, Penny Ashton and of course Ben Hurley. Originally from Taranaki,
Ben has been on the comedy scene in NZ for four years and showed gratitude in his acceptance speech to the people who
have helped him get this far. He also apologised to his parents for wasting their money on his university education. The
Billy T’s are an initiative of the New Zealand Comedy Trust; with the aim of ensuring continued growth of live comedy in
New Zealand.
Judged by five industry professionals, the award is given to the comedian showing outstanding potential. Previous Billy
T Winners include Ewen Gilmour, Justine Smith, The Humourbeasts, Dai Henwood and Brendhan Lovegrove. Ben Hurley will be
performing his show "Political and Stuff" at Wellington's BATS Theatre from Tuesday 18 - Saturday 22 May, 6:30pm.
ENDS