Dance competition kicks eisteddfod season off in style

THE Mount Gambier Eisteddfod Dance division has kicked off the 2026 program with seven days of competition featuring high quality performers, making life tough for Melbourne adjudicator Karen Freeman.

“It has been a privilege to spend the past seven days adjudicating at the Mount Gambier Eisteddfod Dance Division,” Karen said. “Throughout the week I have had the pleasure of witnessing the talent, dedication, and passion of dancers from the local community and across South Australia and Victoria.

“From the moment I arrived, I was warmly welcomed by the hard-working committee, the many volunteers, and the wonderful ladies from the local Lioness Club. Your kindness, generosity and tireless efforts behind the scenes have created an event that performers and audiences can truly be proud of.”

The Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre provided the perfect setting to celebrate dance in all its forms.

Major winners were Holly Allison for the Sir Robert Helpmann Trophy, Molly Dickinson for the Junior Zelda Parker Memorial Scholarship, Tess Lewis for the Senior Zelda Parker Scholarship, Isala Carpenter for the Junior Tap Championship, Gabriel Strachan for the Senior Tap Championship, Mia Spong for the Barbara Less Memorial Scholarship, Zoe Hendy for the Junior Jazz and Neo/Contemporary Championship, Emma Smith for the Senior Jazz and Neo/Contemporary Championship, and Emma Smith for the Open Neo/Lyrical and Contemporary/Creative Scholarship.

“It was inspiring to watch dancers of all ages perform with enthusiasm, courage, and commitment, while being beautifully supported by their teachers, families, and fellow competitors,” Karen said. “The respect and encouragement shown both on and off stage created a wonderful atmosphere throughout the week.

“The continued success of this eisteddfod is a reflection of the dedication of many people, including the generous support of local businesses and families whose sponsorship ensures dancers are recognised and rewarded for their hard work and achievements.

“To every dancer that stepped onto the stage, congratulations. Whether you received an award or simply challenged yourself to perform your very best, you should be proud of what you have accomplished. I encourage you to treasure the memories you have made, embrace the feedback you have received, and continue to strive for excellence with humility, resilience and joy.

“Thank you for making me feel so welcome. It has been a pleasure to be part of your eisteddfod, and I wish you all every success and happiness in your future dancing journeys,”

The Mount Gambier Eisteddfod draws competitors from Adelaide and regional Victoria as well as Limestone Coast local performers.

It benefits the local community and gives audiences a chance to watch young people make their mark on stage, while feedback from the adjudicator gives competitors the opportunity to learn and improve their dancing skills.

The Eisteddfod runs with the assistance of many volunteers and sponsors.

Backstage Incorporated, producers of the Eisteddfod, would like to give a special thanks to the ladies from The Lions Club of Blue Lake City Lioness, the Lakes Rotary Club of Mount Gambier and the City of Mount Gambier.