THE 62nd annual Ararat Eisteddfod didn’t run in 2017 but that hasn’t slowed it down – this year will feature almost 200 more entries than 2016.
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Running from Friday, September 21 to Sunday, September 30 at the Ararat Town Hall, the Eisteddfod will host 400 music and dance competitors from across the state who will compete in a variety of genres.
The event didn’t run in 2017 due to the Town Hall redevelopment, but Ararat Eisteddfod honorary secretary Chris Harris said the event was as popular as ever.
In fact, the committee even had to add an extra day to the 2018 program to facilitate the total 1317 entries.
“We were always confident that we could maintain the momentum of the Eisteddfod, even with a 12-month hiatus. Dance in general has a resurgence with (television programs like) ‘So You Think You Can Dance’,” she said.
The town itself is also a draw.
“We have a reputation as the ‘friendly’ eisteddfod – people love coming back year after year and the town and community have (a reputation for) friendliness,” Ms Harris said.
The event will feature new improvisation sections, which Ms Harris said have proven popular with performers.
These sections are designed to develop a student’s ability to think quickly with choreography and performance, and to develop confidence.
“The item is adjudicated on appropriateness of steps, the flow of the routine, musicality and use of performance skills,” she said.
The new lyrical sections in the older age groups have also attracted multiple entries, and the introduction of Jazz and Modern Championships mean the eisteddfod will now host a full complement of championships.
Another highlight will be Troupe Day on the Septemer 28, with 76 troupes from 10 different dance schools performing.
“Troupe Day provides spectacular entertainment for everyone, and the committee invites the Ararat public to witness these wonderful performances and encourage our starts of tomorrow,” Ms Harris said.
The event will feature three sessions a day – a morning, afternoon and evening session – and programs will be available from the Town Hall.
Tickets are available at the Town Hall for $10 per session, with no bookings required.
Children under 12 can attend for free.