Ararat sets eisteddfod template
Ararat performing arts leaders are confident a week-long dance competition in the rural city will be a solid template for a main event later this year.
More than 220 young performers from across Victoria competed in an Ararat Eisteddfod mini competition at the city’s performing arts centre last week.
The eisteddfod committee planned an itinerary for the newly established competition after the cancellation of the main event last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The event showcases performance skills in sections such as jazz, tap, contemporary and classical ballet.
Committee secretary Chris Harris said the event was ‘highly successful’ and a much needed return to dance competitions for performers.
“I went home on a high the first night after seeing all the smiles on the performers’ faces. The first day was just as great as the last day,” she said.
“Everyone was over the moon because they waited so long to get back on stage. To have an event where they can get back on stage is great.”
Following COVID-SAFE protocols, the performing arts centre could host 75 percent of its capacity.
Mrs Harris said she hoped they could increase to full capacity for the September event.
“Everyone kept asking us if we were going to run our September eisteddfod, and we hope to,” she said.
“Restricting the numbers due to COVID gave us a chance to test our procedures to take on increased numbers if we can in September.
“We’ll just have to see what happens between now and then.”
– Dylan De Jong