2023 Blacksnake NIETOC
2023 — Pocatello, ID/US
Program Oral Interpretation
Event Description:
Program Oral Interpretation - 10 minutes with a 30-second
“grace period.” No time signals provided.
1. Purpose: POI is a program of oral interpretation of
thematically-linked selections chosen from two or three
genres: prose, poetry, drama (plays). At least two pieces of
literature that represent at least two separate genres must be
used. Unlike the other interpretation events, Program Oral
Interpretation may use multiple sources for the program. The
title or author of all selections must be verbally identified in
either the introduction and/or transitional phrases.
2. Contest: The use of a manuscript during the performance is
required. Common practices include the use of a binder or
folder. Reading from a book or magazine is not permitted.
The intact manuscript may be used by the contestant as a
prop, so long as it is in the contestant’s control by remaining
in contact with the body at all times. No costumes or props
other than the manuscript are permitted. Pictures, graphics,
and/or illustrations are considered a visual aid, even if
included in the original manuscript, and may not be
displayed. The contestant must address the script; however,
introduction and transitional material may be memorized.
3. Length: The time limit is 10 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 choose to time are
to use accurate (stopwatch function) timing devices. No
minimum time is mandated.