FOR over one hundred and thirty years Ballarat has been a unique city, but that is about to change.
The first Ballarat Ballet Eisteddfod will take place in June this year at FedUni’s Founders Theater and artists of all ages are invited to compete in classical, neo-classical, lyrical, demi-character, contemporary and jazz dance genres.
Sallee Caldwell is Treasurer of BBE, a non-profit organization that was started by a group of local friends.
“There’s such a big dance community in Ballarat, but it’s unusual that we’ve only ever had one eisteddfod, so we decided to start a new one,” she said.
“We all have children who dance, but all in different dance schools around Ballarat.
“Our vision of the eisteddfod is that it be fair and equitable, professional, but above all enjoyable. We want people to feel welcome, included and inspired, whether they win or not.
Two hundred dancers from across the city are expected to compete, ranging in age from seven and under to 16 and over.
Tara McHenry, 17, can’t wait to take the stage at the eisteddfod in the jazz, contemporary, lyrical and neo sections.
“I really love dancing and it’s been a long time since we’ve been able to go to competitions due to COVID, so I’m really looking forward to it,” she said.
“I have missed competing with other dance schools and am relishing the chance to make new friendships with girls from outside Ballarat.”
The Ballarat Ballet Eisteddfod will take place from Saturday 25th to Tuesday 28th June. To cover their venue, operating and arbitration costs, BBE was supported by a Community Impact Grant from the City of Ballarat.
Registrations are now open via the myStage registration platform on bit.ly/3tR8TQy.
