Laird Lewis Invitational
2023 — Charlotte, NC/US
Dramatic Interpretation
Event Description:
Dramatic Interpretation is NOT an acting contest. No props or costumes will be allowed. This event stresses the value of the presentation of the written word and the contestant’s ability to interpret the author's meaning. Does the contestant appear to have a thorough understanding of the work he or she is presenting? Character development is a key component in the evaluation of a performance. Does the contestant differentiate between characters and capture the essence of the relationship and interplay between them? As well, has the contestant chosen an appropriate selection for the time allotted? Does the selection form a coherent presentation, one that gives the judge and audience an adequate understanding of the total work?
Contestants will present a cutting from published plays, screenplays, fictional or non-fictional work that is
dramatic in nature. Unless otherwise stipulated by tournament officials, rules for source material and
adaptations will be those contained in the National Speech and Debate Association’s Unified High School
Manual.
Manuscripts are not allowed. Time Limit: 10 minutes, inclusive of introduction and transitions, with a
30-second grace period for going over time. The cutting should not have been used by the contestant prior to the 2022-2023 school year.
* Any contestant whose material is challenged and who cannot produce an appropriate bibliographic reference and a manuscript is subject to disqualification