Celebrating 30 years of the Billy T Award this is your chance to be part of one of the most prestigious comedy honours in Aotearoa, and your chance to see the next wave of contenders before they hit the big time.
Hosted by Joel Vinsen, your 2026 Billy T Award winner, this showcase features the freshest, funniest up-and-coming comedians from across the motu.
They’ll be performing their best material in the hopes of becoming a 2027 Billy T Award nominee, and you’ll be there to witness it!
Expect bold ideas, big laughs, and that electric mix of nerves and brilliance. These are the comics you’ll be bragging about seeing early.
Proceeds from this event will support the New Zealand Comedy Trust, producers of the NZ International Comedy Festival, and continue their work supporting the development of the local comedy industry.
Proudly part of the Auckland Council whānau
Local tip
He tīwhiri mō te rohe
Make a night of it in the Aotea Arts Quarter. Aotea Square, Auckland Town Hall, Q Theatre and plenty of nearby dining options are all within a short walk of The Civic.
Getting there
Te huarahi ki reira
The Civic is on the corner of Queen and Wellesley Streets in the city centre. Te Waihorotiu Station is right nearby, making the train an easy option, while frequent bus services stop along Queen and Wellesley Streets. If driving, The Civic Car Park beneath Aotea Square is the closest parking option. For more transport information, check out our Getting Around page.
