The World Keeps Happening
Ballard – one of three Australians on this year’s Best Comedy Show shortlist – was nominated for Best Newcomer in 2015 and proved it wasn’t beginner’s luck with another barnstorming, issue-driven follow-up. The 26-year-old stand-up tackled big social and political issues, but dipped in and out of the weightier stuff with Justin Bieber gags and breezy observations on predictive texting. It was smart but accessible, and packed with punchlines.