It has been two years since Arthur Creative artists have had the opportunity to perform in front of a live audience, so the announcement of the return of the All Abilities Arts Eisteddfod South Street showcase was met with much excitement and a flurry of creativity!
Arthur Creative offers a range of arts-based workshops for emerging and established artists with disabilities, and Melba Support Services encourage the participation of people supported looking to build a career in the arts – or who simply want to explore their creative talents.
Performing arts, film, photography, screen printing and product development all make up part of the core program and people supported are encouraged to join in local events and festivals.
On Monday 29th August, Arthur Performance, including the four different drama and music workshops, Monday Cabaret, Matchbox, Misfits and Boxhead performed at the All Abilities Arts Eisteddfod South Street showcase.
The Eisteddfod competitions are an iconic and much-loved Ballarat tradition, which have been around for more than 125 years.
In a fun-filled day, 15 artists performed all-original works of dance, drama, singing, poetry, and collaborations at the Ballarat Special School (BSS).
Arthur Performance artists practised hard over the year to present their best work at the Eisteddfod, which they did.
The acts were sectioned into categories, beginning with group songs and vocal solos. This was followed by group dances and finished with dramatic pieces and mixed discipline acts.
The event was judged by Jonathan Welsh, of Choir of Hard Knocks fame, and Melba's people supported did us proud!
Solo artists Adrian, Andrew, Sarah and duet, Annie and Drew received awards and Monday Cabaret received special awards for outstanding collaborative movement performances, along with Matchbox for their dance titled Seasons.
There had been lots of hard work, practice, and discipline by the artists to present their best.
A big congratulations to everyone involved - it was a fantastic and rewarding day!