Handing the towel over: Lana Walters and 2025 winner Hoani Hotene
For the last episode of the season, 2024 Billy T winner Lana Walters is joined by the 2025 winner Hoani Hotene. They discuss his victory, the themes of his show, and what he plans to do next - plus Lana's papal-themed handover of the title, and what it's like being a mother in comedy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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38:59
Sketch, standup or improv? - with Brynley Stent, Donna Brookbanks and Eli Matthewson
For the final episode of the season, Brynley Stent, Donna Brookbanks and Eli Matthewson are on the podcast to discuss their varied careers as comedians - including their team with the improv group, Snort, writing sketches for Jono and Ben and Funny Girls, and their careers as solo comedians. From memories of favourite sketches, the pros and cons of standup and social media, and a bit of Christchurch mall culture and New York education, this one has got it all. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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58:24
PowerPoints, kitchen auditions and reality TV with Jack Ansett, James Mustapic and Ray O'Leary
This week, Jack Ansett, James Mustapic and Ray O'Leary are stepping out of the group chat and into the studio to talk about their experiences as Billy T nominees, bad experiences performing in front of family members, the pros and cons PowerPoints - and if Jack and Ray would ever follow James onto Celebrity Treasure Island. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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47:29
Women in comedy and working with Oscar nominees with Alice May Connolly, Johanna Cosgrove and Liv McKenzie
This week, Alice May Connolly, Johanna Cosgrove and Liv McKenzie are sitting down for a chat about the changing face of comedy and if it's improving for women, as well as discussing their on screen roles, working with big name actors, and their worst gigs. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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44:41
Inside Wellington comedy and the joys of twinning with Booth the Clown, Jak Darling and Lesa MacLeod-Whiting
This week, it's the Wellington half of the 2025 Billy T Award nominees - clowning duo Booth the Clown & Jak Darling, and stand-up Lesa MacLeod-Whiting. They discuss the scene in Wellington, how they got into comedy, how they all met, and dig into the usual stories of strange gigs and advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Billy T Award is one of the most prestigious honours a New Zealand comedian can win. Named after the legendary comedian Billy T James, this award celebrates the best emerging performer at each year’s Comedy Festival. Since 1997, the prize has been won by comedians that have gone on to become household names – including Taika Waititi, Jemaine Clement, Rose Matafeo and Dai Henwood On this season of Billy T' Billy, the New Zealand Herald is spotlighting this year’s nominees – Abby Howells, Gabby Anderson, Jack Ansett, Janaye Henry and Maria Williams - in conversation with previous Billy T and Fred Dagg award winner, as well as celebrating 30 years of the New Zealand International Comedy Festival.
New Zealand