Big 8 Forensics Conference Tournament

2021 — Online, WI/US

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Play Acting

Event Description:

Purpose of the Category

To develop skill in ensemble dramatic presentation of a scene or cutting from a play.

Definition of the Category

Play Acting is a group presentation of a memorized scene or cutting from a play without costume, makeup, lights, or properties other than an available table (or desk as a substitute) and chairs, if required. Emphasis is on character development and movement, with physical actions – other than stage movement – pantomimed.

Rules

1. Play Acting is a memorized ensemble presentation by 2-5 students. Material must be from a published source. Published material is considered any material publically or commercially available in print, online, audio, or video form. Original material is not allowed. Adaptations, if any, should be minimal, and may be made for the following purposes only: (1) to establish continuity; (2) for gender changes including things such as pronoun changes; or (3) to avoid potentially offensive language. Lines attributed to one character in the literary script may not be attributed to another character during the performance. The coach must bring a photocopy of the students’ original source of materials to provide to the Tournament Practices and Procedures Committee, should the validity be questioned.

2. An introduction, which includes titles, authors, tone and theme is required, and along with any necessary transitions, is to be presented without the use of notes. The introduction must be the original work of the speaker. The presentation may begin with a read portion of the selected material prior to the presenters’ personal introduction.

3. It is permissible for contestants to play more than one character or for groups to present dramatic material consisting of a series of vignettes.

4. Costumes and props are not allowed, however, available tables and chairs may be used.

5. Vocal music, if used, should be incidental and not overwhelm the presentation. 6. Maximum time limit: 10 minutes, with an allowable 15-second grace period. There is no minimum time requirement. Any entry exceeding the grace period may not be ranked first in the round. If all entries in a round exceed the grace period, no first rank shall be given in that round.

Criteria for Evaluation

1. The extent to which the introduction prepared the audience for the scene being presented.

2. The extent to which the interpretation established and projected the motivations, emotions, and interrelationships of the characters though the use of voice. Individual judges may lower the rank due to use of profanity or vulgarity.

3. The extent to which the interpretation established and projected the motivations, emotions, and interrelationships of the characters through bodily movement.

4. The extent to which the interpretation had consistency among such factors as blocking, tempo, and climax.

5. The extent to which the performance constituted a well-paced and unified segment of dramatic action.