Photos from the City of Tamworth 2019 Eisteddfod dance competitor

For the last couple of days the best solos, duos, trios and groups from all over have competed for the number-one spots and even better prizes at the 72^nd annual event.

Many of the competitors went on the eisteddfod circuit, dance co-ordinator Jane Burt said.

"The adjudicator this year is PJ Clarke - he's a very positive person and he looks for enthusiasm and enjoyment," Ms Burt said.

"He's very big on the kids having a really good time on stage and showing that to the audience.

"He still looks at technique and the movements to the music, but he's about getting up there and doing the best you can."

Championships were held on Monday and competitors had to perform in a number of routines to be eligible to enter.

Up for grabs were a number of scholarships to win money and go to workshops with well-known dance teachers, like Tanya Pearson's studio in Sydney.

More than 1000 kids will have come from across the state to compete in choral speech, dance, music, speech and drama categories by the time the event wraps up later this month.

There's even a mature performers' competition, where adults can take part as well.

Television had played a big role in the popularity of dance and the boost in numbers at the eisteddfod, Ms Burt said.

"The fact that creative arts has started to be shown rather than hidden away, kids have become very interested in being on stage and part of performances," she said.

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"We're actually quite a small eisteddfod compared to Sydney and Newcastle, but we are building each year.

"It becomes a very social thing: they know each other from all the other eisteddfods and make friendships, they help other kids.

"There's not really any animosity among everyone; they get in and help each other out, especially if there's a recording or costume malfunction."

The Tamworth eisteddfod dance program ran from June 6 to 10.

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