Hannah Gadsby wins Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s 2017 Barry Award
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Hannah Gadsby wins Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s 2017 Barry Award

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Nanette is a sophisticated show, meandering through narratives of identity and gender politics without ostracising witticism and means for laughter. Humour stemmed from intellect and precision in what was an especially tight knit set. Her potential finale comes as a bittersweet end but signals a comedian at the top of her game but content to move on.

The award, named after Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s founding patron, Barry Humphries, was won on Gadsby’s third nomination.  Edging out fellow nominees Damien Power, Anne Edmond, Tom Walker, Richard Gadd and Sammy J, Gadsby’s honour was presented at the traditional late-night ceremony at The Festival Club.

Damien Power was runner-up and took out the Pinder Prize as a result – he’ll have the opportunity to take his show to Edinburgh Festival Fringe for his success. Wil Anderson won his sixth People’s Choice Award behind Critically Wil, which was tied with Denise Scott and Judith Lucy’s The Disappointments as the highest selling show.