Eisteddfod needs to find balance
IS THE Guernsey Eisteddfod going to get a significant shake up? Having successfully marked its centenary this year, the latest AGM saw talk of potential changes in the air.
The longevity and continued success and status of the Eisteddfod is not in doubt. Numbers entering remain high. Songs from the Shows is the most notable of the classes, one where the Eisteddfod Society is able to charge for admission and still see the Beau Sejour theatre packed.
Continuing to be well supported by the schools, and with the island’s commitment to music and theatre and the arts more broadly as strong as ever, the Eisteddfod has a sweet spot in island life – it presents an opportunity to bring many areas of the arts together in a spirit of friendly competition that is founded on participation. The feeling is always that most people take part to be part of it – winning might be a bonus.
Organisers are now talking of change, though one would expect that this would be gentle and subtle, rather than a revolution.
An independent research exercise said the event needed updating, rebranding, possibly rescheduling, and more people to improve it. The society’s take on that advice will be interesting.
One thing it must preserve is its status as a ‘community celebration’ of Guernsey talent, and a chance for us to enjoy the arts and feel proud of what we can achieve.