Singers, dancers, orchestras, bands and solo artists will hit the stage from Saturday onwards for the 59th Latrobe Valley Eisteddfod.
Saturday’s free entry opening night will see audiences wowed by a selection of performers.
Vocal solo and group sections continue on Sunday and Monday and will conclude on Tuesday, 26 August with performances by primary school choirs from noon and secondary school choirs from 6pm.
“We’re hoping all the performers will have a good time and enjoy it,” Latrobe Valley Eisteddfod president Marie Moulton said.
“That’s what the eisteddfod is all about – having fun, doing your best, it’s not about winning.”
While there had been an overwhelming response to dance categories, Ms Moulton said the number of country music entrants had been disappointing.
“Sadly we probably won’t have country music next year because there wasn’t enough,” she said.
“We’ve had to go an extra day with dancing because there’s so many entrants, normally we finish on the Friday, but we’re going until the Saturday.”
Marianne Rigby-Black has been chosen as the adjudicator for the vocal and speech sections.
“Marianne has degrees in both drama and music with specialties in voice and choral conducting and is passionate about the performing arts,” Ms Moulton said.
Speech and drama will begin on Wednesday, 27 August and will continue until the morning of Thursday, 28 August.
Performers will present items including solo recitations and readings, prepared speeches, mimes and story telling.
“A highlight of these sections will be on Thursday, 29 August commencing at 1pm with primary school students presenting sketches and group speaking,” Ms Moulton said.
While the eisteddfod is raring to go, Ms Moulton said it was in dire need of volunteers.
“We need helpers, lots of helpers and if anyone wants to know what the job entails they should come to the eisteddfod while it’s on,” Ms Moulton said.
Community members are welcome to attend the performances across all sections.
Tickets for each session are priced at $5 for adults, $3 for senior or concession card holders and children under 12 years are free.
For more information or to register to volunteer, phone 5174 2335 or visit www.lve.org.au
