Winners Have the Last Laugh!

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Winners Have the Last Laugh!

Hamish Parkinson and Dai Henwood have capped off an incredible 2015 NZ International Comedy Festival in cahoots with Old Mout Ciderby picking up the country’s most prestigious comedy awards; the Billy T Award and The FRED Award at last night’s Last Laughs hosted by Nick Rado.

Judging was incredibly tough as all five nominees had presented brilliant and creative shows however it was Hamish Parkinson who got to don the iconic Yellow Towel, joining the fine line up of the top of New Zealand’s comedy crop.

Hamish Parkinson also received the hallowed Yellow Towel, a $4000 cash grant from the New Zealand Comedy Trust, a spot on TV3’s 7 Days, a poster design by Steve Grant Design, Huffer clothing voucher and a campaign on The Rock FM.

The five nominees for the 2015 Billy T Award were; Tim Batt, Eli Matthewson, Hamish Parkinson, Nic Sampson and Matt Stellingwerf. Selected on their proven comedic ability; talent; dedication; current form and potential, the nominees were judged on all aspects of their 2015 NZ International Comedy Festival solo show.

Created in 1997 by the New Zealand Comedy Trust, The Billy T Award is in honour of one of NZ’s greatest comedians, the late Billy T James. The award not only recognises outstanding potential but helps foster and encourage New Zealand comedic talent.

The FRED Award was won by none other than Dai Henwood, who received the renowned golden gumboot and a $7,500 prize package including; a cash grant of $2500 from the New Zealand Comedy Trust, a Soar printing voucher, and advertising campaigns with More FM and The Dominion Post.

Named in honour of ex-pat comedy icon John Clarke’s legendary Kiwi character Fred Dagg, The FRED Award was introduced in 2006's and recognises the Festival's Best Show by a New Zealand comedian.

Other 2015 nominees for The FRED Award were Jamie Bowen and Urzila Carlson - who have both enjoyed accolade from critics and audiences alike, and showcased the diversity of this year’s Comedy Festival.

Other winners from last night’s award ceremony include:

Best International Show – Nish Kumar

Best Newcomer (Auckland) – Chris Parker

Best Newcomer (Wellington) – Abby Howells (Glocknid Dwarf Warrior)

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