DSDL 1 Online
2021 — NSDA Campus, NC/US
Oral Interpretation
Event Description:
A. Purpose
The speaker shall prepare two programs of manuscript-based literature substantially different in content, author, and/or original source. Each program shall consist of a single piece, a cutting, or a series of short pieces united by author or theme. One program shall be published prose; the other, published poetry. If questioned, the genre of the selection must be specified in the original manuscript or must be verifiable by a simple Internet search. If using a series of pieces, all titles and authors must be cited. The performer has the burden to be clear at all times which piece is being used. In the prepared script, the pieces should be clearly delineated via highlighting or font style and spacing to enable review in case of a protest. Each program must contain an introduction for purposes of explication, setting, or selection transitions. Lines attributed to one character in the published source must not be attributed to another character in the performance. The literature chosen may include any form of prose or poetry, fiction or non-fiction. Drama, including theatrical monologues, is prohibited. Speeches written to be delivered in real-life are prohibited.
B. Length
The time limit is ten minutes with a 30-second “grace period.” If there are multiple judges in the round, all must agree that the student has gone beyond the grace period. Should a student go beyond the grace period, the student may not be ranked 1st. There is no other prescribed penalty for going over the grace period. The ranking is up to each individual judge’s discretion. Judges who chose to time are to use accurate (stopwatch function) timing devices. No minimum time is mandated
C. Material
Oral Interpretation of Literature follows the Publication Guidelines in By-Law 21.
D. Performance
No properties except a manuscript or binder may be used. Using “properties” means manipulating articles of clothing or objects to enhance the performance. Speakers using properties and/or wearing costumes will be disqualified. Speakers should keep eye contact between audience and manuscript in reasonable balance. Speakers who fail to maintain the illusion of reading from the manuscript must not be ranked first. Speakers should keep gesture and bodily movement to a minimum.. The selection should be delivered from center stage. Movement and gestures, if used, should be appropriate for the selection. Speakers should not walk during performances. They should emphasize vocal variety and facial expression to enhance the literary interpretation. While singing is permitted, it should not be excessive or dominate the performance. Judges’ ranks may reflect if singing has dominated the performance. Only the performers’ feet may touch the ground. Speakers may use a persona, and they may use character voices, but they are not necessary.
E. Re-Use
A student may not use a cutting from a work of literature the student used in any previous contest year. A student entered in two events may not use the same selection of literature in both events.