Trojan Way Tournament March

2026 — NSDA Campus, IA/US

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Oral Interpretation

Event Description:

Rules from the National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA) for Humorous Interpretation (HI)

Using a play, short story, or other published work, students perform a selection of one or more portions of a piece up to 10 minutes in length. Humorous Interpretation (HI) is designed to test a student’s comedic skills through script analysis, delivery, timing, and character development. Competitors may portray one or multiple characters. No props or costumes may be used. Performances can also include an introduction written by the student to contextualize the performance and state the title and author.

Rules from the National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA) for Dramatic Interpretation (DI)

Dramatic Interpretation (DI) is a 10-minute event (with a 30-second grace period) that challenges students to bring a published piece of serious literature to life using only their voice, facial expressions, and physicality without the use of props, costumes, or sets. While the name suggests high drama, DI is not about melodrama or excessive emotion. Instead, it calls for authentic portrayals of emotionally compelling narratives that connect deeply with the audience.

Rules from the National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA) for Middle School Duo Interpretation:

Duo Interpretation (DUO) is a 10-minute event (with a 30-second grace period) that showcases two performers bringing a published script to life. The performance can be dramatic, comedic, or a blend of both. What sets Duo apart is its off-stage focus requirement: partners must perform without making direct eye contact or physical contact with each other, challenging them to build chemistry and connection entirely through performance.