Humorous Interpretation
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.
Foundational Resources:
How to Judge HI
Information for adjudicators
Showcase: Humorous Interpretation
Information from the National Speech & Debate Association
Top Tips from a Pro
Helpful perspective of an experienced coach
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.
Example Performance
National Speech & Debate Association
2016 National Champion
Example Performance
National Speech and Debate Association
Final Round, 2011
Example Performance
National Speech and Debate Association
Final Round, 2011