2014 Welly Winners Announced
Humorous Arts Trust awards 2014’s best comics in Wellington
An old Wellington tradition re-emerged last night when The Humorous Arts Trust presented the Welly Comedy Awards,
showcasing the best and brightest of comedic talent in the capital, with winners receiving a trophy made of a wellington
gumboot.
The Welly’s were presented about a decade ago, but fell out of fashion when a large majority of comics migrated to
Auckland for film work. Some of the past recipients have gone on to become household names such as Ben Hurley, Steve
Wrigley and Cori-Gonzales Mecuer.
However, with the resurgence of Stand-up comedy shows and a flurry of incredible new performers over the last few years,
there is now enough talent to warrant an annual award ceremony. HAT Spokesperson Hilaire Carmody says "The standard of
comedic shows in Wellington is increasing and it’s appropriate to finally have an awards night to recognise the talent,
skills, and hard work of local comedians”.
The new generation of the Capital City’s best jokesters are:
Most Improved Comedian: Patch Lambert
Best MC: James Jobe
Best Show: The Medicine
Best Show Concept: Tag Team Comedy
Best Off-Stager / Industry Friend: Hilaire Carmody
Best Newcomer: Daniel John Smith
Best Comedian: Ricky Threlfo
ends