The Pike School Stand Up For Speech Tournament 2026
2026 — Andover, MA/US
Multiple Reading
Event Description:
Multiple Reading
A group presentation from a readily accessible single play, prose, children’s literature, movie/TV script, or free verse/poetry
program, which challenges 3-8 performers (portraying one or more characters) to create a dynamic story and setting using no props or costumes. Scripts are required for all performers although movement is allowed and one chair for each performer may be used or the performers may choose to stand. Each performer should effectively utilize voice, facial expression, body, gestures and movement to create a dynamic interaction between the group members. As a unit, the performers will respond vocally and physically to each other’s verbal and non-verbal cues without eye contact or physical contact (except during the introduction). All performers are required to provide brief introductory remarks at some point, which at the least must identify the title and author of the work.
Time limit: 7 minutes with a 30-second grace period.
CORE SKILLS:
DISTINCTIVE CHARACTER(S) INTERACTION: uses body, voice, and gestures to create different, characters believably interacting with each other.
CREATION OF SETTING: the total effect should be to carry the listener away mentally to the time and place of the selection.
VOCAL VARIATION: effectively varies volume, pitch, speaking rate, tone, pauses, emphasis and mood.
PHYSICAL VARIETY: uses and varies facial expressions, gestures, and body language to enhance their performance.
CAPTIVATING PERFORMANCE: creates interest and holds your attention; and takes you on a journey with the character(s).
Judges should provide specific feedback to each member of the group as well as comment on the overall presentation of the group.