The Albury Wodonga Eisteddfod begins on Monday and continues even beyond its expected run, with an extra day needed on Sunday August 7 to cater for the number of dancers. Overall the event has recorded a 10 per cent increase in entries.

Performers will come to Albury Entertainment Centre from around the Border and well beyond – some entries have even arrived from Queensland.

Music begins the program on Monday under the guidance of experienced adjudicator Kevin Cameron.

Two encouragement awards of $500 will be presented this year in strings and brass and woodwind.

The speech and drama sections, which start August 2, have been well supported in the 12 and 14 years categories.

Speech and drama co-ordinator Jan Skinner encouraged people to come and support the budding thespians.

Ms Skinner said the competition helped develop the children’s confidence and communication skills.

“There may be the odd one that’s a little daunted on their first appearance but after that their confidence builds,” she said. “It’s more excitement and getting up on stage, they seem to have fun and enjoy it.”

Melbourne judge Catherine Macleish will oversee the eisteddfod’s dramatic component.

School debating from years 5 to 9 will take place over four days while the Highland dance competition is scheduled for August 6.

Dance, which begins on Friday, will occupy 10 of the competition’s 14 days as an estimated 1400 performers take part.

Eisteddfod session, day and season tickets will be available at the door while seniors can attend for free on the schedule’s two Thursdays.

The eisteddfod committee has been pleased with its preparations, but the work is not yet over – in fact anyone with a ute and able to transport some choir stalls to the venue on Tuesday is urged to get in touch.