Brisbane Eisteddfod closes after more than a century
Brisbane Eisteddfod has announced that they will formally close down their operations.
With accolades dating over a century, the organisation will no longer provide opportunities for young artists to be recognised for their talents – from Speech and Drama, to Dance competitions.
The not-for-profit organisation released a statement today via its website and Facebook page explaining that the decision “is attributable to societal changes, wider offerings outside the traditional eisteddfod model and future uncertainty” over which controlling
would be difficult. “A discouraged level of internal commitment and energy, and a lack of external understanding and appreciation of dedication, along with a demonstrated lack of interest by the eisteddfod and arts community” was to blame for its unfortunate closure, say the Executive Management Committee.
The organisation struggled to gain support in the face of these issues, even with a rebranding that they anticipated would bring in new volunteers and members. Furthermore, “numerous calls for support over social media and the press in recent years has also denied us results,” they continue to state.
In the face of a rapidly changing industry, they lamented they would need “an executive to be bold enough to
come on board and take the eisteddfod to a different level, especially as commercial events have now come to
dominate the scene.”
Followers and participants have expressed their sadness over the decision, declaring in the posts comments section that it’s a “very sad day for the dance and arts community”. Others have shared their stories over the outstanding talent that has been showcased by the organisation and the support its offered to teachers, performers and families for many years.
Since 1892, the Brisbane Eisteddfod prided itself on providing a supportive and professional environment for performing artists to compete. The organisation has been managed and developed by a committee of volunteers.
“We have always ensured that the competitions were first and foremost in our minds as that’s the staple of our constitution,” they say.
For all past and current participants of the eisteddfod, including their event partners, sponsors, donors, and of
course, the performers, it is a sad final message from a beloved Brisbane institution.
Photos sourced via Brisbane Eisteddfod Facebook page.
