TALENTED: Catholic College Bendigo student Sarah Piper dances for Thomas School of Dance at the 88th Eisteddfod Launch. Picture: JODIE DONNELLAN
MORE than 3000 performers are expected to take part in the Bendigo Competitions 88th Eisteddfod, which kicks off in May.
Performers from Bendigo and across the state will take part in a range of musical, theatrical and dance competitions over eight weeks.
Competition categories include piano, stringed instruments, vocal, classical ballet, choir, brass solos and a bands contest.
There will be sections for primary and secondary school students and a special music competition for students studying VCE.
Eisteddfod music director David Castles said the competition gave people the chance to showcase their talents in front of an audience.
Mr Castles said the event was also a way to kick start careers, with a number of contestants taking up jobs as professional performers.
He said entries for some contests at the eisteddfod were still open and people who wished to enter should visit the website.
A morning, afternoon and evening performance session will be held each weekend during the eight weeks the competition runs.
All performances are being held at the Strathdale Community Centre and tickets can be purchased at the door before each session.
For more information about the event visit www.bendigocomps.org.au