A NEW online competition is encouraging country kids to Speak Up.
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The competition aims to give rural children a chance to showcase unique drama and speaking talents through an online platform whilst unable to participate in drama and public speaking lessons or competitions due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Organiser Lucy Kirk said the event was called Speak Up.
"Due to the cancellation of many eisteddfods and public speaking competitions across the region I felt that an online version was feasible," Ms Kirk said.
Due to the cancellation of many eisteddfods and public speaking competitions across the region I felt that an online version was feasible...
- Lucy Kirk
"More often than not, rural kids miss out on the opportunities that cities have to offer in the Arts industry because of a lack of funding, resources and facilities, not to mention geographical isolation," Ms Kirk said.
"This competition plays a vital role in showcasing the breadth of talent among rural kids and allowing them the opportunity to discover and enhance these talents.
"Speak Up aims to give rural children a chance to involve themselves in the arts industry whilst also promoting the valuable work of rural charities and organisations.
"This year, Speak Up also looks to support the Country Women's Association whose valuable work improving conditions for country women and children should be supported and not go unnoticed in these times
"The CWA has given me personally, many opportunities, including their annual public speaking competition which was the highlight of my year during school and a scholarship when I first went away to school. It is this reason I felt the CWA was a fitting choice to promote and give something back to," Ms Kirk said.
The event is open to children across the central west between the ages of 5 and 19 who can register for four separate events including poetry recital, humorous monologue, dramatic monologue and original speech.
"I have confirmed the president of the Speech and Drama Association, Robyn Christmas, will be adjudicating the event, which will take place over zoom on the 1st and 2nd of August this year.
Cash prizes will be awarded to successful entrants in each age category.
To find out how you can participate visit www.speakupcw.org.