South Street opens to all abilities

ENTRIES have now opened for this year’s eleven disciplines and thirteen competitions of the Royal South Street Eisteddfod.

The eisteddfod is set to run from June to November with over $80,000 in prize money up on offer.

Although there’s a range of talent on offer, students from the Ballarat Specialist School are especially excited for the Arts for All competition that’s inclusive of performers living with or identify as a person with a disability.

Chair of Royal South Street Society Peter Zala said he was thrilled to open entries for 2021 and to introduce the Arts for All competition, now in its third year.

“It’s gotten bigger and better each year, and this year we’re anticipating further growth in entries and those particularly from outside of Ballarat,” he said.

“The Arts for All encompasses music, both in vocal, instrumental, groups and solos, choirs, speech and drama and dance… it’s one of the best initiatives we have undertaken in recent years.

“It is a lot of fun and we pull in good audiences for the Arts for All and these youngsters, they have no fear they get up and perform and are fantastic.”

Set to be held at Ballarat Special School’s Farm campus Monday, 13 to Wednesday, 15 September, and adjudicated by established musician Dr Jonathon Welch AM, the Arts for All competition is not one to miss.

“I’m delighted and honoured to be the adjudicator for the Arts for All competition presented by the Royal South Street Society this year,” Welsh said.

“As an advocate through my work for many years enabling people experiencing disadvantage and isolation in our communities to access music and arts opportunities.

“This will be a wonderful new platform to showcase their amazing talents and celebrate their artistic achievements”.

Previous and current competitor of the Arts for All South Street competition, Ballarat Specialist School student Jasmine Warke-Taylor said the eisteddfod is less about winning and more to do with having fun.

“I’m really stoked that it’s back on because it really helps people with disabilities know what they can do and how fun it is,” she said.

“It’s about working on your singing or music or dancing and making it the best it can be for you, I am looking forward to feeling proud and showing how much my confidence has grown.”

Ballarat Specialist School VET music teacher Amy Jefferies added, “The arts help students with things beyond just creative expression such as communication, problem solving, discipline and teamwork and having a goal like Arts for All to work towards is a wonderful thing.”

Entries for the Arts for All competition, as well as Royal South Street’s 12 other disciplines are now open.