Overview:

Students competing in this event are performing a piece of humorous literature often a scene or collection of scenes containing a variety of characters. Students are encouraged to explore socially relevant and emotionally powerful content and many pieces have mature themes. They will have rehearsed for weeks or months to deliver a performance with characters who each have a unique voice and physicality. They often "pop" from character to character to play the roles indicated in their text. Their performance will contain an introduction that properly cites the source of their content.  As a judge, you will rank them from first to last.

• Selection: Is the selection appropriate for the speaker? Does it show interest, intelligibility, and literary value?

• Introduction: Are the title and the author clearly stated?  Is interest in the selection created? Is the mood set? Is the information relevant to and sufficient for the scene?

• Insight and Understanding: Does the speaker appear to have insight into the mood and meaning of the selection?  Is each idea clearly expressed? Does the speaker display an understanding of the author's theme, point of view, and intent?

• Characterizations: Does the speaker clearly distinguish each of the characters in the selection? Are the character(s) and their attitudes clear and vivid? Are the body responses and attitudes appropriate?

• Voice and Diction: Is pronunciation acceptable? Is enunciation distinct without being pedantic? Are pitch, rate, and volume appropriate? Is the speaker's voice responsive and pleasant? Is the use of vocal variety appropriate and sufficient?

• Bodily Action: Is the speaker poised? Do gestures and expressions contribute to the interpretation of the material? Does the speaker avoid distracting and unmotivated movement?

• General Effectiveness: Does the speaker clearly communicate the selection? Does the speaker maintain the listener's interest? Is the performance consistent?  Is the total effect pleasing?