Dramatic Interpretation

Overview:

Students competing in this event are performing a piece of dramatic 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.

How to Judge Dramatic Interp

Information from Austin McWilliams

Example Performance

National Specch & Debate Association

2015 Final Round

Example Performance

National Specch & Debate Association

2016 National Champion

Questions to Consider

As you rank students from first to last, consider all elements of their performances. Using the questions to the left can assist you in writing helpful ballot comments and accurately ranking a very competitive room of performances.

Time Signals

Many speakers will ask for you to give them a time signal countdown as their 10 minutes elapses. Many ask for "5 down" or "3 down" and "a fist at grace." The best technique is to set your phone timer to count down from 10. Time begins when they speak the first word. You hold up fingers for the time remaining. (as pictured in the video) and make a fist at zero. At 0 minutes remaining the speaker has 30 seconds to finish. It is wise to consult with the tournament or check your ballot about rules regarding time.

Helpful Tools:

Online Timer

Grab this helpful tool to keep track of time.