NEARLY 100 people attended a special concert in the Uniting Church Hall in Moree earlier this month when 22 young people from Xavier Drama Moree and one brave mother graced the stage with poetry and mime.
Moree tutor Nora Carrigan said the concert was held after the shock cancellation of the Narrabri Speech and Drama Eisteddfod, traditionally held annually over three days at the end of May.
Young performers from Years 2 to 9 presented poems individually as well as in pairs, a Bible reading and mimes.
The audience of around 80 people from primary age to senior citizens heard works of Henry Kendall, Rudyard Kipling, Charles Causley, Henry Lawson, Banjo Paterson, Shel Silverstein and many more.
“As their teacher I was very proud of all 22 who spoke confidently and expressively,” Mrs Carrigan said.
“I am also very grateful to the parents’ support and the use of the Uniting Church Hall where we have our lessons in terms one and two prior to the eisteddfod.
Last year the Narrabri Eisteddfod Committee introduced a parent’s category for participation.
“One of our mothers, L Garcia, shared a poem she wrote as a teenager here in Australia when she couldn’t be with her grandfather before his death in New Zealand,” Mrs Carrigan said.
“As with the children’s presentations, it was received with great warmth.”
It’s often said poetry is the language of the soul.
“These young people, the mother and the enthusiastic audience proved over and over how true this is,” Mrs Carrigan said.
Audience member Merri Gill said the performance was exceptional.
“Everyone who performed was wonderful,” Mrs Gill said.
“Seeing the children so enthusiastic made the afternoon a delight to be there.”
Pat Madden said recitals were brought to life by Xavier Drama students.
“What hidden talent we have in Moree,” she said.
“I suggest everyone experience more local talent by supporting the performance of The Sound of Music (next month).”
Moree Arts Community Theatre will present The Sound of Music, one of the most beloved musicals of all time, at the Uniting Church Hall on Frome Street across eight nights, starting Friday, July 18.
There will also be two matinee performances on Saturday, July 19 and Saturday, July 26.
For more details and performance dates and times, go to https://www.facebook.com/moreeact.
