District Individual Events Contest
Saturday, February 28, 2026
Location: Johnston High School
State Individual Events Contest
Saturday, March 14, 2026
Location: Thomas Jefferson High School Council Bluffs
All-State Individual Events Contest
Monday, March 30, 2026
University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls
Acting
A student acts out a monologue from a play, serious or humorous. Only a single chair may be used.
Length: up to 8 minutes memorized.
Solo Musical Theatre
A student performs a musical theatre selection with the use of one chair.
Length: up to 5 minutes memorized.
Storytelling
A student tells a children’s story with facial and body expression while sitting on a stool.
Length: up to 5 minutes memorized.
Public Address
A student selects a speech originally delivered by another, communicating the intent of the author.
Length: up to 8 minutes memorized with notes not to exceed 50 words on a notecard.
After Dinner Speaking
A student writes and delivers a humorous speech intended for a particular audience.
Length: up to 5 minutes memorized with notes not to exceed 50 words on a notecard.
Expository Address
A student writes and delivers an informative speech on a topic of interest.
Length: up to 6 minutes memorized with notes not to exceed 50 words on a notecard.
Original Oratory
A student writes and delivers a persuasive speech on a topic of interest.
Length: up to 8 minutes memorized or with a manuscript.
Review
A student writes and delivers a critical analysis of a book, movie, video game, or any other media.
Length: up to 8 minutes memorized or with a manuscript.
Literary Program
A combination of prose and poetry is presented on a theme. Facial and vocal expression are key.
Length: up to 8 minutes with script.
Poetry/Prose
A student interprets works of either poetry or prose. Interpretation and expression are essential.
Length: up to 6 minutes with script.
Improvisational Acting
A student draws characters and a situation and acts out a scene with limited preparation.
Length: up to 5 minutes imagination needed.
Radio News
A student prepares a news program with given news copy in 30 minutes. A speaker system is used with the audience located in another room.
Length: between 4-5 minutes with script.
Spontaneous Speaking
A student draws a contemporary issue topic to speak about with 3 minutes of preparation. Research is important in this category.
Length: up to 5 minutes with notes written during the prep time.