Co-coordinator for the dance section of the Taree and District Eisteddfod (and also the eisteddfod society’s secretary) Margaret Rogers is describing the dance group weekend held from May 11 to 13 at the Manning Entertainment Centre.

“I don’t think I’ve seen better performances on the Sydney stage than what was on the weekend. It was so amazing.”

Seven of the eight sessions were a sellout.

“People were saying how well run group weekend was. There were very few incidences and very few mobile phones in the theatre.”

In total, 2634 pairs of feet crossed the stage and Margaret said the dancers were full of energy to the end.

Competitors came from between Newcastle and Coffs Harbour.

The Andrea Rowsell Academy of Dance from Taree was the last competitor on Sunday. The dance school went on to win the $1000 Clare Squires Memorial Home Is Where The Heart Is Award. The money is to be given to the costume committee for the purchase of head pieces that will be used for many years.

The eisteddfod showcased some unfamiliar sections for the adjudicator, who had never seen a Bollywood section or Allcomers section before.

The Allcomers section saw a special needs group from Breakthru perform and receive a highly commended.

“They were thrilled. They each received a ribbon and the people in the audience were so supportive.

“I was crying, the adjudicator was crying, just about everyone was crying.”

The group also received a standing ovation. “They were just so good. Nervous, but also wonderful.”

Overall, Margaret said the weekend was a resounding success. “It was wonderful and the standard keeps getting higher and higher.”

The eisteddfod’s novice and group dance sections have now completed.

District and open dance sections will run from May 19 to 27.