Bamford wins 'Aussie Perrier'

American stand-up Maria Bamford has won the Barry Award at the Melbourne Comedy Festival.

The accolade, named in honour of Dame Edna Everage creator Barry Humphries, is the Australian equivalent of the Perrier, and is worth AU$3,000 (£1,250)

Melbourne's Age newspaper said that 33-year-old Bamford proved "that not all Americans lack irony and a strong sense of humour".

In her personal show, she recreates characters from her past, such as her kooky father and and an office colleague.

She took it to the Edinburgh Fringe for a week last year, but it attracted little critical attention.

British acts Daniel Kitson, Lee Mack and Ridiculusmus had been nominated for the Barry, alongside local acts The Kransky Sisters, Scotty & Son and Angry Eddie.

Last year's winner was Canadian Mike Wilmot.

Published: 16 Apr 2004