Started in 1997 and inspired by comedy legend Billy T James, this award celebrates the growth of fresh talent in the New Zealand comedy industry. Each year it is awarded to an outstanding emerging performer with a commitment to their comedy career.
Eligible comedians are NZ citizens or residents who have had between one and three solo shows in the Festival. With applications for the award opening in October each year, this award is a journey which takes place over several months leading up to the Festival in May.
Up to five nominees are selected on their proven comedic ability, talent, current form and potential. The nominees go on to perform a set during the Billy T Jams showcase in February, then their one-hour solo shows in the Festival, where they are judged by a panel of industry experts. The Billy T Award winner is then announced at Last Laughs, our Festival finale show.
Many of New Zealand’s most celebrated comedians have received the Billy T Award.
Past Winners of the Billy T Award:
For the full list including nominees, visit the Comedy Festival website, and see below for the full list of winners.
Year | Winner | |
2023 | Abby Howells | |
2021 | Brynley Stent | |
2019 | Kura Forrester | |
2018 | Melanie Bracewell | |
2017 | Angella Dravid | |
2016 | David Correos | |
2015 | Hamish Parkinson | |
2014 | Guy Montgomery | |
2013 | Rose Matafeo | |
2012 | Guy Williams | |
2011 | Nick Gibb | |
2010 | Rhys Mathewson | |
2009 | Chris Brain | |
2008 | Steve Wrigley | |
2007 | Mrs Peacock (Jarrod Baker and Dave Smith) | |
2006 | Cori Gonzalez-Macuer | |
2005 | Sam Wills | |
2004 | Ben Hurley | |
2003 | Justine Smith | |
2002 | Dai Henwood | |
2001 | Jan Maree | |
2000 | Mike Loder Paul Ego |
|
1999 | Philip Patston The Humourbeasts (Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi) |
|
1998 | Brendhan Lovegrove Radar (Andrew Lumsden) Sugar and Spice (Jonathan Brugh and Jason Hoyte) |
|
1997 | Cal Wilson Ewen Gilmour |
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