Thursday, August 24, 2023

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Eisteddfod Honours For Gifted Dancer And Vocalist Sophie

Leading the way for Mercy College at this year’s 75th annual Mackay Eisteddfod was gifted 15-year-old dancer and vocalist Sophie Reilly.

The talented prospect was one of hundreds of performing arts students in the region that participated in the milestone event – relishing an opportunity to hone their skills and perform in front of an appreciative audience.      

Students showed their wares in the Dance, Music, Speech and Drama categories which highlighted the incredible creative talent at this year’s event.

Keen judges predict a bright future for the accomplished Reilly, who received the Mackay Discount Drug Store $200 Bursary for the Most Promising Performer 18 Years & Under in the Eisteddfod’s Vocal Section.

Sophie capped a memorable Eisteddfod by also winning the 14 Years Girls Vocal Solo as well as the 13-and 14-Years Song and Dance Solo categories.

It has been a year to savour for the dedicated Reilly, who does vocal training with the experienced Rhonda Bates.

A student of the Roby Rogers School of Dancing since the age of three, Sophie was the winner of Miss GTB Entertainment at this year’s Get the Beat Competition in Mackay.

Sophie also attended the Brisbane Performing Arts Challenge in June this year and was a finalist in the Musical Theatre Scholarships.

She is also a member of the Mackay Musical Comedy Players and was an Ensemble Cast Member in their productions of Shrek and Chicago this year.

At the annual Queensland Asia-Pacific Grand Internationals National Cheer and Dance Competition held recently in Brisbane, Sophie was part of the Mercy/St Patrick’s College team that were crowned National champions in the Junior Lyrical category and also brought home the Highest Points Scoring for a School trophy.

By Chris Karas

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