More than 70 singers from ages five years to 70-plus are preparing to take to the stage in the vocal section of the 54th annual Taree and District Eisteddfod.

The eisteddfod returns to Manning Entertainment Centre this week after being cancelled because of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

First up is the vocal section which has attracted entrants from as far as Coffs Harbour and Sydney and is being conducted from Wednesday, April 14 through to Saturday, April 17.

Members of the public are welcome at all sessions of the eisteddfod but those attending Saturday night, April 17 are in for a real treat, according to vocal coordinator Deirdre Sutherland, when singers are competing for the 16 year, 20 years and open age championships.

Tickets are available at the door and COVID safe precautions are in place. Deirdre says she has a great team of volunteers helping out.

The adjudicator for the vocal section is D'Arne Sleeman from Brisbane, a very experienced singer, actor and adjudicator.

The dance section follows from April 26 to May 5, with the spectacular group dancing weekend on starting on Friday evening, April 30 and concluding on Sunday afternoon, May 2. District and open dance sections will be held from May 3 to 5.

The piano section is set down for May 21 to 23, followed by the instrumental section, May 24 to 29.

The eisteddfod society has introduced a new syllabus for this year's event to celebrate diversity and ability in our community through inclusion in music performance.

"Starburst" is designed to encourage participation in the performing arts by members of the community who require additional assistance, help or technology.

To be held between Wednesday, May 26 and Saturday, May 29 in conjunction with the Instrumental Section, performers are celebrated for their participation and performance both as individuals and groups in vocal and instrumental sections.

The mission is to include performers in the community of all abilities and to encourage participation in the performing arts to build self-esteem, confidence and health.

The eisteddfod's Grand Finale will be held at the Manning Entertainment Centre, Saturday 5th June at 2pm

Featuring selected winning performances and announcing major prize winners.

The eisteddfod concludes with the grand concert at the MEC on Saturday, June 12.

Bookings:  themec.com  or the MEC box office phone (02) 6592 5466 from May 2021.