The dance program of the Forbes Eisteddfod started last Saturday with more than 850 entries received from all over the region to compete until Sunday at the Forbes High School. Many local dancers from Kristen’s Dance Studio and Stepping Out Dance Factory are taking part under the watchful eye of Amanda Clerke, the adjudicator from Sydney.
The program started with youngest competitors and will end with the group sections on Sunday, which is always a highlight. The day will be split into a morning and afternoon session. The dance sections commenced with soloists starting with 5 years and under participants and will go through to opens competing in classical, jazz, demi-character, song and dance, modern expressive, tap, contemporary and national character, as well as duo/trio groups.
Forbes dancers have been performing very well. When The Forbes Phoenix attended the program on Tuesday, Lauren Neilsen had won the modern expressive category for 12 years and under. Lilly Gharib came third in the same category. Entry to the sessions is $3 for adults and $2 for pensioners and children (5 – 12 years). Sessions start at 9am.
The music, speech and drama sections of the 23rd Eisteddfod were held at the Forbes Town Hall from 18th to 23rd June. Selected winners from both programs will be invited to perform at the Grand Concert to be held at the Forbes Town Hall on Saturday 23rd July commencing at 7pm. Tickets and table groups are now on sale and can be purchased by contacting the committee at forbes.eisteddfod@hotmail.com.
The Forbes Eisteddfod would not be possible without the assistance of their major sponsors, namely Forbes Shire Council, Northparkes Mines, McDonalds and the Forbes Services Memorial Club, plus numerous local business and individual sponsors.