The Pike School Stand Up For Speech Tournament 2026
2026 — Andover, MA/US
Team Improv
Event Description:
Team Improv:This is virtual one or two-person event. After pulling two character slips and two location/object slips the student/team will consult and plan to create a skit utilizing the four prompts. Judges will provide audible, verbal time signals while the student/team prepares and then switch to visual time signals once the skit begins. This event challenges the student/team (each portraying one character) to create a dynamic skit utilizing appropriate vocal expression, gesture, and interaction between partners. As a unit, the two performers will vocally and physically respond to each other’s verbal and non-verbal cues so that the environment is created in the minds of the audience. Performers maynotuse notes, props or costumes. Both students should participate in the presentation and create a well-organized and balanced skit with a beginning, middle and end. It may be either humorous or serious in nature.
Time limit:7 minutes with a 30 second grace period, including prep time, to be divided at the students' discretion.
Judges must provide verbal and visual time signals.
Students who speak beyond the time limit plus the grace period may not be ranked 1st.
Here are the five core skills that a judge would consider when evaluating this event at a tournament.
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).