Crossroads Middle School Invitational
2020 — Online, TX/US
Poetry
Event Description:
a) Material chosen for use in Poetry Interpretation shall meet the following restrictions:
b) One to six poems may be used.
c) If performing a single selection, the source shall be published, printed material; internet material shall be published concurrently in hard copy.
d) If multiple selections are used, one selection may be unpublished.
e) Selections from plays or screenplays, movies, and monologues shall not be used.
f) Song lyrics published only as music may be used, but for transition purposes only.
g) No contestant shall use the same poet in more than one category in the contest.
h) Selections shall be read in the English translation; however, incidental use of foreign language words and phrases in any selection may be used as in the original.
i) The introduction and/or transitions shall include all titles and poets read and should connect the literature to the goal of the category. If the program is woven, it shall be stated in the introduction, and the different poems should be distinguishable through interpretation. If song lyrics are used as transitions, it shall be stated in the introduction.
INTRODUCTIONS, An introduction is required in both categories. The introduction and/or transitions during the performance shall include the name of the poet(s) and the selection(s) to be performed and should prepare the audience to listen to
j) the selection(s). The introduction should reflect spontaneity, though it should be prepared ahead of time.
MANUSCRIPTS OR COPIES. The contestant should perform the selections reading from manuscripts or copies of the
k) selections that are in a binder. Students shall not read from books or magazines or perform without a manuscript or copy of the selection. Manuscripts or copies of the selections performed should be available during the contest for the contest directors.
STYLE AND DELIVERY
l) Contestants should not use costumes or props. Responsive use of the body (i.e., spontaneous changes in posture, gesture and place-to-place movement) is permissible.
However, this active use of the body should:
m) be appropriate to the demands of the selection;
n) be a natural outgrowth from the literature to be performed, and
o) be limited in scope.
Only incidental singing in the introduction, transitions, commentary and/or selection may be included. The judge’s opinion regarding style and delivery is final. Coaches are encouraged to prepare contestants for the fact that perceptions of style and delivery will vary from judge to judge.