NATIONAL EISTEDDFOD CALL FOR AWARD ENTRIES

The National Eisteddfod Academy is calling for entries for the annual NEA Awards 2009.

The National Eisteddfod Academy Awards provides a platform where the best young performers in music, dance and drama can compete and showcase their talents. This event culminates in an Awards Ceremony on May 16 when the winners will be announced.

The NEA initially launched this prestigious project in 2004 for youth performers in the various regions of the National Eisteddfod and Di Konokono Festival. Since 2006 this competition is also open for top achievers in all other existing eisteddfods and festivals.

Closing date for entries for this year’s awards is February 14, 2009.

Scholarships and Awards include cash prizes totalling more than R20,000 will be awarded to top achievers in the following categories: Best Performer Classical Music (R5,000), Best Performer Contemporary Music (R5,000), Best Performer Speech and Drama (R5,000) and Best Performer Dance (R5,000)

In the first and second rounds, all events will be adjudicated from March 2 to 21 at venues in the Johannesburg region as determined by the NEA. A limited number of participants will be invited daily during each session to participate in the Quarter Final on the same day at 19h00.

In the third round, the best performers in the various categories as identified during the Quarter Final rounds will be invited to the semi-final events to be presented on March 23 to 25. The NEA will then select 10 to 20 finalists based on results of the semi-final events to participate in the final event to be presented on May 16.

At least two adjudicators will adjudicate an item during the first rounds while a panel of at least four adjudicators will adjudicate the final event. The decision of the adjudicators is final.

Adjudicators will expect from each participant an outstanding and true performance that displays originality (“spark”). The expected level of skills, knowledge and understanding relevant to the performance is exceptionally high (being “cute” is not enough!). The final events will be presented at the University of Johannesburg Arts Centre.

The NEA is open to recipients of Diploma Awards during National Eisteddfod Academy activities in 2008 (excluding areas of unprepared and improvised work, e.g. prepared and unprepared reading and unprepared mime). Recipients of diplomas or similar awards (90% and higher) in other eisteddfods and festivals during 2008 are invited to enter for the NEA Awards in the categories for which they have received diplomas or similar awards (excluding all areas of unprepared, improvisational or creative work).

Download the necessary entry form from the NEA website (www.eisteddfod.co.za)

Complete the entry from, attach proof of payment and fax to 011 787 3534 before February 14 2009 or mail to PO Box 1288, Randburg, 2125 (Proof of payment may be submitted until March 1, provided the entry has been submitted before the closing date). Late entries will be accepted until February 21 subject to a double entry fee.

Entry fee: R140 recipients of NEA diploma awards (R280 participants in other festivals and events)

Participants in other festivals need to submit certified copies of the relevant diploma, the adjudicator’s report and relevant entry fee (R280) with each entry. The organisers of other Eisteddfods and Festivals may also nominate their top achievers for participation in the NEA Awards.

For more information and entry forms contact the office of the National Eisteddfod Academy on 011 886 6005 or e-mail: info@eisteddfod.co.za or visit www.eisteddfod.co.za