The stage is set for the 2023 Bundaberg Eisteddfod where more than 1300 young performers will gather to showcase their talent between 17 and 27 July.
Not only is it the biggest youth art event in the region but this year's competition is the biggest yet, with performances across categories including vocal, choral, instrumental and speech and drama.
Curtains open on Monday 17 July with six days of solo and small group sections at CQUniversity and Shalom College followed by three days of school choirs and instrumental ensembles from Monday 24 July at the Moncrieff Entertainment Centre.
The competition will culminate in standout performers taking their final bows at a public gala event at the Moncrieff on Thursday 27 July.
Bundaberg Eisteddfod secretary Natalie Sweetapple said the event was not only a huge celebration of the arts but also an opportunity for young performers to gain valuable experience and feedback from judges.
“The event provides a platform for young artists to develop their skills and grow their confidence, as well as connect with like-minded individuals in the community,” she said.
“We have students who are competing in all four categories – they play an instrument, sing, do speech and drama and are members of their school bands and choirs.
“So this event really gives these students the opportunity to showcase all of their hard work and talent across all skill sets.”
Natalie said the competition gave students the opportunity not only to share their hard work with an audience and their peers but also to gain valuable feedback from professionals in their fields.
“For some of these students, the Eisteddfod is their only performance opportunity, so it gives them the chance to showcase all of their hours of time and dedication to their craft,” she said.
The Bundaberg Eisteddfod committee has worked many voluntary hours to ensure a smooth and efficient program, with some members knowing firsthand how important a competition like this is to nurture local talent.
“A fun fact is that our president Jessica Savage, myself and our treasurer Megan Hoban are all previous competitors of the Bundaberg Eisteddfod and have gone on to have careers in performance and now music teaching,” Natalie said.
“[We] now make up the executive committee which is a lovely full circle moment!”
For more information on the Bundaberg Eisteddfod, click here.
Bundaberg Eisteddfod Gala 2023
When: 27 July 2023, 7 pm to 8.30 pm
Where: Moncrieff Entertainment Centre
Cost: Adults $25, students $15, family (2A & 2C) $70
