Welcome, Launceston, to your second annual award ceremony. Hosted by me, Ellis Anderson.
Another year has passed, and although it was filled with events many of us desperately wish to try and erase from our minds, it wasn’t completely without those deserving of both our recognition, and our gratitude. People who, despite the hardships this city has to offer on an almost daily basis, consistently prove that not everything has to be doom and gloom. People who are a testament to strength of character, dignity and honor.
Unfortunately for you all, I don’t have a witty co-host to join me up here throughout the course of this ordeal, so for the next couple of hours, you’re just going to have to put up with me, and me alone. If all else fails, you can always turn your attention to my legs. It's a shame there isn't an award for them. [Gestures towards the split in her dress.] See? Carefully planned attire at its best.
Failing all else, however, I think there’s enough champagne floating around to make me tolerable, so get it down your throats and prepare yourself for what is set to be a truly fantastic evening that I feel incredibly privileged to be playing such a part in. It has to be said though, as I prepared for this event, I realized I should have definitely had someone host it with me… Or, at the very least, some interesting guest presenters to take some of the heat—if only so I didn’t have to learn how to pronounce so many apparently un-pronounceable names on my own. But, as it would seem, I actively enjoy setting myself up for failure, so let us begin what could quickly turn in to a great tragedy if I don’t stop talking. Besides, the sooner this thing is over, the sooner we can get to enjoying that after party.