In 2020, Bathurst Eisteddfod organisers were faced with the gargantuan task of running the event under strict COVID-safe protocols, with larger ensembles having to pre-record competition pieces.
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But later this year, the annual event is poised for a return to normal, promising three weeks worth of performances from the finest singers, dancers, ensembles, bands and dramatic performers in the region.
Bathurst Eisteddfod Society publicity coordinator Gwyneth Kelly said the event will be "bigger and better than ever" after a tough 2020.
"Last year was really hard with all the extra rules, but we're looking forward to having all performers back on stage," Ms Kelly said.
"Community choir, big band and ensemble sections are among the eisteddfod's popular attractions, so it's exciting to invite these groups back to perform live."
This year's eisteddfod will include a host of new sections for piano, strings, vocal, recorder, drums, woodwind, brass and guitar performers.
In addition, popular sections such as 'own composition', 2BS' 'hot singer hot song', B-Rock bands and open entertainment will also return, as will school groups.
Ms Kelly said the eisteddfod plays a vital role each year in bringing the next generation of local talent to a public stage.
"A good example is Ainsley Melham: he grew up performing at this eisteddfod and has since gone on to star on Broadway, so it proves the sort of talent this event has the potential to unearth," she said.
"The event sees a broad spectrum of the Bathurst community participate, not just as performers, but as adjudicators, volunteers and sponsors.
The 76th annual Bathurst Eisteddfod is tentatively scheduled from August 21 to September 10, with music [August 21-27], speech and drama [August 25 to September 1] and dance [August 28 to September 10] to roughly mark each week.
Entries for dance, music, speech and drama will be open at www.stardom.com.au until June 7.
To view the syllabus, or for sponsorship and volunteer information, visit www.bathursteisteddfod.org or the Facebook page.
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Sam Bolt
"I'm not in the business of telling people what to do. I'm much more in the business of describing things, situations and stuff like that and leaving them out there, and you can make up your minds about them." -Nick Cave
"I'm not in the business of telling people what to do. I'm much more in the business of describing things, situations and stuff like that and leaving them out there, and you can make up your minds about them." -Nick Cave
