Mulkadee is uniquely positioned as one of the country’s most outstanding school arts program across six sectors of the performing arts – dance, drama, guitar, choir, band and strings.

“We attract a thousand children each year from schools throughout the Townsville Diocese to take part,” said Mr Ernie Christie, Townsville Catholic Education’s Director of Learning and Chair of the Mulkadee Committee.

“All our western schools will participate including St Joseph’s Catholic School, Cloncurry – a total of 50 students from the North West.”

Mr Christie said Mulkadee makes the arts and the art of performance accessible.

“Many of these children, especially those who live in rural and remote towns, would not have the opportunity to access such a professional arts development program without significant expense.”

Mr Christie said it was a fascinating program to watch as it developed over the course of the week.

“We start on the Monday morning with a thousand excited students and somewhat nervous instructors and teachers,” he said.

“Five days later we see a cohesive, professional group who are ready to go on stage to present their learnings to a sold-out audience. It’s an incredible thing to watch transform throughout the week and the atmosphere is electric.”

The 2017 Mulkadee Youth Arts Festival will be held July 17-21. Tickets are available through the Townsville Entertainment Centre for the Friday night performance, including newly introduced family packages.