NZ comedy’s next round of greats recognised by Billy T award

October 27, 2011

New Zealand comedy’s next generation of greats recognised, as the 2012 Billy T Award nominees are announced.

This year marked the 20th anniversary of Billy T James’ passing and we were reminded of the significance of the contribution that he made to this country’s ability to laugh at itself.

It’s with this in mind that we look to the next generation of Kiwi comedians who are forging their own comedy voice on their way to greatness.

Inspired by and named after legendary New Zealand comedian – Billy T James, the Billy T Award is an initiative of the New Zealand Comedy Trust, recognising outstanding potential in up-and-coming comedians with the aim of ensuring the continued growth of live comedy in New Zealand.

Established in 1997 the Billy T Award has been a much coveted honour and launching pad into a career in comedy. Previous winners are Ewen Gilmour; Cal Wilson; Brendhan Lovegrove; Te Radar; Sugar & Spice; Philip Patston; Jermaine Clement & Taika Waititi aka Humourbeasts; Paul Ego; Mike Loder; Jan Maree; Dai Henwood; Justine Smith; Ben Hurley; Sam Wills aka The Boy With Tape On His Face; Cori Gonzalez-Macuer; Dave Smith & Jarrod Baker aka mrs. peacock; Steve Wrigley; Chris Brain; Rhys Mathewson and last year’s winner was Nick Gibb from Palmerston North.

Last night a highly contested set of auditions at took place at The Classic, resulting in five comedians securing their place as nominees for the 2012 Billy T Award.

The 2012 nominees won the judges over with a 5-minute pitch of their show concept for 2012 and a blistering 7-minute set at a showcase at The Classic. They will be judged on all aspects of their 2012 Festival show, including marketing, promotion and production as well as performance. Final judging will take place at the annual Last Laughs ceremony, as part of the 2012 NZ International Comedy Festival. The winner will take home the prestigious Yellow Towel and a $2500 cash grant from the New Zealand Comedy Trust.

The five nominees for the 2012 Billy T Award are:

- Tom Furniss
- Tevita Manukia
- Rose Matafeo
- TJ McDonald
- Guy Williams

Final winner announced at Last Laughs on Sunday 20 May 2012.

ENDS

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