The renowned Grahamstown Eisteddfod has had to downscale its activities and halve its entrants for 1999 due to a drastic funding shortage. This is distressing news as entries have increased from 600 in 1976 to over 4 000 in 1998

However, while sponsors are scarce, the undaunted event organisers have teamed up with Rhodes University’s drama department to give the Eisteddfod a `new look’ by introducing theatre and performance workshops, sponsored by the Grahamstown Soroptimists.

Over 2 000 young people have enrolled to take part in the 1999 event which takes place from May 25 to 28. Sappi has provided a donation of R10 000. Categories this year include art and craft as well as speech and drama in English, Afrikaans and Xhosa.

Organisers are already approaching possible funders for a massive relaunch of the Eisteddfod in 2000. The Roodepoort Eisteddfod has not been so lucky. It has been cancelled this year because of a lack of funds.