A GROUP of rising young stars from Xavier Drama in Moree participated in the annual Narrabri Arts Eisteddfod at the Crossing Theatre during Term 2, when more than 400 entrants from across the district and interstate performed over three days.
The eisteddfod encompassed woodwind, brass and piano, and vocal sections included singing, poetry and literature readings.
Children as young as five performed group speeches, monologues, duologues, mimes and drama, public speaking, own composition, sight readings and Bible readings.
Dancers performed various styles, from classical and contemporary to tap and jazz.
Moree tutor Nora Carrigan said the eisteddfod was a “transforming event” for Xavier Drama, a group of 16 Years 1 to 8 students from across the plains.
“Without a doubt, it was a transforming event, especially for seven of the 16 students as it was their first time at something like this,” Mrs Carrigan said.
“As their teacher, I was so proud of each of them as I watched them throw their whole heart and soul into their performances,” she said.
The Moree students performed in four categories – poetry, literature, mime and sight reading.
“The support of all the parents is such a big factor, and these children are very fortunate in this regard,” Mrs Carrigan said.
“It’s interesting that after they ‘break the ice’ the first year, they know what they want to enter the following year.
“The first term of the year can be very busy, helping kids find ‘age-appropriate’ material. It can be challenging but very worthwhile,” she said.
Mrs Carrigan said the eisteddfod’s shining light was adjudicator Anita Elderidge, a speech, drama and communications teacher from the Gold Coast.
Ms Elderidge adjudicated and offered words of encouragement alongside fellow adjudicators Kate Ridge and Nicolas Buff, Newcastle Army Band musical director.
“Anita was so encouraging and engaging in her comments at the end of various sections. As well, each child received an individual certificate with comments, and Xavier drama students came away with a host of first, second, third and highly-commended awards ” Mrs Carrigan said.
“The dedicated committee deserve full credit for conducting such a well-organised event in which children came away feeling more confident in their ability to present publicly.”
Ms Elderidge, an Australian Speech Communication Association board member and examiner, has adjudicated eisteddfods and festivals Australia-wide.
“The talent was equal to anything else I have seen, and the next generation is in wonderful hands,” Ms Elderidge said.
Proud grandparent Pattie Wood travelled to Narrabri to watch grandchildren Grace, Riley and Matilda perform.
“Learning the art of speech and drama through Nora has been such a beautiful experience for my three grandchildren,” Mrs Wood said.
“I have watched them grow in self-confidence and, under Nora’s tuition, they have developed the ability to deliver to an audience in a public setting.
“The Narrabri Eisteddfod was the pinnacle of all their hard work, and was so heart-warming to watch.
“It was a well-organised event with a warm, encouraging environment. The greatest testimony was, the children were beaming at the end of their performances and all can’t wait to participate again next year,” Mrs Wood smiled.
However, the best endorsements no doubt come from the children.
The following are comments from Xavier Drama participants:
“It is nice to get up on stage in front of a big audience. It was fun to listen to the high school kids’ long poems,” – Mabel (Year 1).
“It was fun and I liked to do it (use my voice) at the eisteddfod,” – Sunjai (Year 2).
“It was heaps of fun and I can’t wait until next year,” – Matilda (Year 3).
“It was interesting seeing other people perform – a great day,” – Lachlan (Year 4).
“I was nervous to start with but as soon as I got on the stage, I loved it!” – Riley (Year 4).
“It was doing it, saying the poems in front of all the people,” – Nishant (Year 4).
“As my first year going to the eisteddfod, I loved how everyone recited their poems differently. I enjoyed reciting a poem with my friend and I can’t wait to go again next year,” – Pippa (Year 4).
“It was enjoyable, fun and an amazing experience,” – Ned (Year 4).
“The eisteddfod pushes you out of your comfort zone and everyone is so kind and encouraging to you, especially the adjudicators,” – Issy (Year 5).
“Sometimes, it’s a bit hard to learn the poems and it’s a challenge – but it’s really fun,” – Evie (Year 4).
“I love the eisteddfod because if you have stage fright they really help you out,” – Corey (Year 4).
“It was a great experience. I loved going up to say a poem with my friend and listening to the other humorous poems,” – Violet (Year 6).
“I have been performing in the Narrabri Eisteddfod since before I started school. It has been a wonderful experience that I have enjoyed over the years,” – Aggie (Year 6).
“The Narrabri Eisteddfod was a really fun experience and the understanding audience was perfect for a first-timer,” – Grace (Year 6).
“I love going to the eisteddfods that come up every year. I enjoy performing for the adjudicator and the audience and watching last year’s competitors,” – Holly (Year 7).
“Well, I enjoyed performing in the auditorium,” – Kareb (Year 8).
“It was fun,” – Josie (Year 8).
Words: Bill Poulos
Images: Supplied
