With COVID-19 restrictions in place businesses in the performing arts have needed to be flexible and creative in designing performance opportunities for their students.
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Erin Bubb, of Acting Up Drama Academy, said even with restrictions being eased, live performances and competitions are still not able to go ahead. So she has decided to stage an eisteddfod online this weekend.
Among those eager to take part is Georgia Weeks, of West Wollongong, who is delivering a poem. She said it was fantastic to be able to perform in front of an audience again. And competing is something she has missed during COVID-19.
Mrs Bubb said the Wollongong Eisteddfod was a highlight for her students each year. But has been cancelled for only the second time.
She said the annual eisteddfod was a place where many students experience their first on-stage performance and life-long memories are created.
"But for only the second time in it's history the City of Wollongong Eisteddfod has been cancelled," she said.
"So to ensure our students still have performance opportunities, this Sunday we are hosting a Live Online Eisteddfod".
Mrs Bubb said it will be different to other online eisteddfods where students submit a recorded video of their performance.
"This Sunday over 70 students from multiple drama studios will connect over Zoom to give live performances," she said.
"Students will enter via a specific link and wait their turn to perform, just like a usual eisteddfod. They then will be able to watch and appreciate the other performances in the section.
"Students will receive immediate verbal feedback, a detailed examination report and a participation certificate.
"Prizes will also be awarded for first, second, third, most promising and encouragement in each section".
The adjudicator is Kristie Thorne, of Bathurst, who has run online eisteddfods in other regional areas and has seen the success of the initiative.
"Our students and families are excited to still have the opportunity to work towards a goal and showcase their hard work. It is also a great way for students to connect with their peers that they have missed seeing whilst in isolation," Mrs Bubb said.
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Greg Ellis
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
