News

Melba’s Arthur Creative performers left a lasting impression at this year’s Royal South Street Society Ballarat Eisteddfod (RSSS), earning six awards across a range of categories and highlighting the depth of talent within the group. 

The event is Australia’s oldest and longest-running eisteddfod, with a proud history stretching back to 1891. Over the years, it has welcomed more than one million performers, including some of Australia and New Zealand’s most celebrated names, such as Dame Nellie Melba, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Alfred Deakin and Anthony Callea.  

Arthur Creative featured in the All Abilities Performing Arts category, which offers vocal, dance, instrumental and speech, and drama sections. Not only that, Joel was MC for the entire four-day event at The Farm in Ballarat. 

In recognition of Arthur’s performances, the group has been invited for the first time to perform at the End of Performance Showcase at Her Majesty’s Theatre on 26 October. 

Arthur’s “originality, energy, and impact” were recognised with the following awards:  

• RSSS Service to the Community Perpetual Shield: Akasha and Amy (from Ballarat Specialist School), for their contribution to the All Abilities Committee 

• Best Drama Queen: General Tim Tam + Team Medical Mission 

• Encouragement Award: Misfits (Angel Wings) 

• Encouragement Award: Jack and Jenna 

• Original Take: Boxhead (Play) 

• Adjudicator’s Award: Misfits (Peace Train) 

Arthur Creative Senior Studio Coordinator Gabrielle Hingston said the awards were a great reward for “these talented performers and facilitators, who have worked very hard all year rehearsing a fantastic lineup of original songs, complete with their own choreography, movement and dramatic flair”.  

“The Eisteddfod is a great professional opportunity for our performers to show off their talents and stage energy to the broader community,” she said. “Their dedication truly paid off.”  

Drew, a member of Boxhead, said he was “speechless” when he heard about the award, while Jenna said the fact her parents, sister and nephew were in the audience made the award even sweeter. 

“It was the first time they were there,” she said. “Everybody did a good job – especially Joel as MC – and a big thank you to Akasha, Gabby and Damien for the set up.” 

In response, Akasha, one of Arthur’s facilitators, said RSSS allowed the performers to express themselves without judgement or criticism. “It’s just an energetic and supportive audience,” she said, “It was fun, heartwarming and sent a ripple effect throughout our community.” 

Congratulations to all our award winners, facilitators and supporters who made this remarkable success possible. 

For tickets to the showcase at Her Majesty’s Theatre on 26 October, go to Her Majesty’s Theatre website.