HUNDREDS of talented performers will step under bright stage lights over the next month as part of the 2019 Mount Gambier Eisteddfod season.
Yesterday marked the start of the five-week performing arts extravaganza with dance, calisthenics, choral and vocal, speech and drama and debating divisions all going ahead this year.
While the 2019 installment will not feature a music division due to the eisteddfod committee being unable to secure a suitable director, committee secretary Maxine Chalinor remained upbeat about its future.
“Not all hope is lost as interest has been shown to fill the position next year,” she said.
“Two suitable candidates have stepped forward so the committee will now help train them up as leaders.”
Ms Chalinor said there was exceptional potential for the dance division – which hit the stage yesterday – to become a feature of the event.
“We are down two sessions from last year due to an Adelaide contingent unable to make the event,” she said.
“Our dance section clashes with Warrnambool’s eisteddfod event so it is the competitors’ decision as to whether they attend.”
Ms Chalinor encouraged South East schools to continue their participation following a slight decline in entries.
“Two of the local schools have pulled out and if they were competing we would actually have the largest section we have ever had,” she said.
“There is opportunity to grow and for interest to build.”
Numbers are booming across a number of divisions, with the most entries seen for over a decade in speech and drama.
Picture: MOLLY TAYLOR
HUNDREDS of talented performers will step under bright stage lights over the next month as part of the 2019 Mount Gambier Eisteddfod season.
Yesterday marked the start of the five-week performing arts [/caption]
“We have an extra day of competition and are up by 90 items,” Ms Chalinor said.
“I think speech and drama is one of the more beneficial sections for the students as it helps them with everyday life skills.
“I think kids are wanting to give things more of a go and have branched out in what they are doing this year.”
Ms Chalinor said there was opportunities for schools to incorporate speech and drama activities into the school curriculum.
“They do not have to do to do anything special and could become a part of classwork,” she said.
“The section is completely based around the English and literacy curriculum so it is almost extra school work.
“They are able to boost their confidence, think quicker on their feet and it helps them present themselves to the community where they have to be upfront.”
The yearly event is a standout on the region’s annual performing arts calendar, according to Ms Chalinor.
“It is a rewarding experience for everyone involved and showcases local talent to the community,” she said.
“Students receive that extra confidence when performing and create connections with people they may only ever see at the event.
“Every now and then you do have some breakdowns and nerves get in the way but you get that with everything.”
The 38th Mount Gambier Eisteddfod timetable is available on the Mount Gambier City Council and Backstage Incorporated websites.
