Sarah Lindgard from Eden Marine High. Photo: Supplied
The Crossing Youth Stage at the annual Cobargo Folk Festival has an impressive back-catalogue.
Almost 700 young acts have entertained festival-goers and in 2018 the Youth Stage turns thirteen.
Young people interested in performing and adding to the tradition are invited to apply online before December 10 to secure a place.
“Because of the history and fun we’ve had over the years, applications are filling fast, there is a limited number of sets available,” The Crossing’s Annette Turner says.
“The Folk Festival really believes in providing a designated space for young performers, and we’ve really seen it become a highlight in amongst the star-studded festival program.”
The Youth Stage builds on the day to day work of The Crossing Land Education Trust at Bermagui.
The Trust is based in a magnificent Spotted Gum forest on the edge of the Bermagui River.
Established in 1999 and lead by Dean and Annette Turner, The Crossing is a unique not-for-profit educational camp where teens for near and far learn about Landcare, sustainable design, habitat, and wildlife research in a hands-on, practical way.
Greater self-awareness, confidence, initiative – and a good time is the spin-off for those who take part.
“We take that notion of having a go in a supportive environment to The Youth Stage and give young people experience performing in front of live audiences,” Annette says.
Most performers are local but a few young people from further afield like Canberra and Wollongong have heard about the opportunity and in recent years have been making the most of the festival experience.
Rhys Davies and Dizzi Stern in 2014. Photo: Supplied
Names on The Crossing Youth Stage honour role include Cooma’s Vendulka, Brogo’s Daniel Champagne, Bega’s Rhys Davies, and Merimbula’s Kim Churchill, who have all gone on to bigger stages and bigger audiences around Australia and around the world.
“There is always such a broad range of music,” Annette says.
“All music is welcome with opportunities for young people to perform a single song or an entire set – you can even come and juggle.
“And what I really love is that some will go away and really hone their skills between festivals and return with new material, different line-ups, and more confidence,” Annette smiles.
The Stage also provides an important hub and hang out for young festival goers, with an atmosphere of respect and inclusion for all.
Spin-offs from the Youth Stage have included a Songwriters Camp held at The Crossing during the school year that gives young people an opportunity to develop their talent and craft under the guidance of professional musicians and performers.
The 2018 Cobargo Folk Festival runs March 2 to 4, the program so far includes Eric Bogle, Neil Murray, The Northern Folk, and David Ross McDonald. Those interested in performing at The Crossing Youth Stage need to register online before December 10.
*The Crossing Land Education Trust are Community Group Members of About Regional.
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