Hundreds of Bundaberg Region children have braved the stage to deliver powerful monologues and stories as part of the Speech and Drama Eisteddfod.
The Bundaberg Eisteddfod is split into multiple sections including speech, drama and music across several weeks.
Children from around the region judged on their performances by accomplished adjudicators.
“It’s a wonderful event, driven by volunteers for the region's children,” co-coordinator of the Speech and Drama Eisteddfod Tammy Medcalf said.
The annual event is an opportunity for students to further enhance their skills in their chosen field.
Tammy said this year's participation was enormous.
“There are around about 700 children competing in the speech and drama section this year,” she said.
“The category we’ve just had today is a novice section, so they’re all children that haven’t won an award previously.
“Some of them are new to drama. It just gives them experience to step on the stage and give it a go.”
Tammy said the benefits of participating reached far beyond the eisteddfod alone, with children gaining skills to help them throughout life.
“It’s endless, it’s not just for acting careers or performance,” she said.
“It also develops their skills in their schooling.
“So much of our schooling life now is based on oral presentation so this just gives them courage and develops speaking skills for the future.”
The Eisteddfod will culminate in a gala concert tonight (Friday, 10 May) from 7pm at the Bundaberg Playhouse Theatre, Steffensen St.
