Long-standing eisteddfod society secretary Margaret Rogers said the level of entries is generally on par with last year, although down slightly in some areas.

The cost of entering each item into the eisteddfod has played a part, she said, explaining that many people just don't have the money to enter too many sections.

Overall things have come together well.

"We've got a really good crew of co-ordinators," said Margaret.

"It's all fallen into place."

Vocal is up first, running from April 22 to 26, with only a night session on Anzac Day.

Piano goes from April 27 to 19 before the instrumental/electric gets underway on April 30.

This wraps up on Saturday May 3, leading into the speech and drama session, which runs May 4 to 9.

The biggest section at the eisteddfod each year is dance, which starts on May 11.

Margaret, who is one of three co-ordinators of the dance section, said group weekend, which sees groups travelling from Newcastle and Sydney to compete with locals, would be held over two days, May 24 and 25.

The final section is school choirs on May 27 and 28.

The grand concerts, which will feature performances by selected competitors, will be held on Saturday May 31 at 2pm and 7.30pm.

To celebrate the upcoming eisteddfod, here is a slideshow of dance photos from last year's event, taken by Scott Calvin and Carl Muxlow.