2022 Sydney Eisteddfod Junior Classical Ballet Scholarship Winner Announced! 

14-year-old, Kadelle Smith from Hope Island QLD has been announced as this year’s winner of Sydney Eisteddfod’s Robert & Elizabeth Albert Junior Classical Ballet Scholarship.   

This year’s Junior Classical Ballet Scholarship attracted talented young ballet dancers aged 14-15 from across Australia, from Bellevue Hill to Orange and Lake Wendouree, VIC to Hope Island, QLD, Adelaide, SA and across to Stirling, WA.  

Following the Heats at The Concourse Concert Hall and a closed Semi-Final Masterclass at The Concourse Studio, 57 talented young dancers were narrowed to 8 finalists by adjudicator Christine Atkinson.  

The 8 finalists performed in the Final Event on Wednesday 13 July at The Concourse Concert Hall, Chatswood. The finalists displayed impeccable technique, dedication and exquisite performances. 

Kadelle Smith won a total prize of $7,000, consisting of a $6,000 Scholarship and $1,000 cash. Second place was awarded to Caitlyn Martin from Sanctuary Lakes VIC, winning a cash prize of $1,500, and each Finalist, excluding placegetters, received $500. 

This Scholarship has been generously sponsored by Robert Albert AO & Libby Albert to encourage young dancers who show a keen desire to pursue the art of ballet.  

Two lucky entrants, Matia Ingrey (Newcastle) & Henry Burgess (North Strathfield), received an unexpected prize from the Director of the Australian Ballet School, Lisa Pavane herself who was in the audience. Ms Pavane announced that both entrant’s ballet tuition would be covered for 2023 at the prestigious school. 

Congratulations to all other Finalists; Kayleigh Yuan (Sunnybank Hills QLD), Charlie Carberry (Manly NSW), Georgia Lorange (Tamborine Mountain QLD), and Giselle Kotlyar (Bronte NSW) for making it to the Final round out of 57 talented young ballet dancers. Each finalist showed hard work, talent, and dedication which shone through the performances in the Final. 

Visit sydneyeisteddfod.com.au to learn more.