Email – chrisgearing333@gmail.com – chain me up

i will vote on pretty much anything as long as you justify it in the context of the round.

I default to reasonability on procedurals and theory.

Non-CX events: I’ll vote on whatever, cool with speed, you do you.

rileydwing@gmail.com

Debate:

I am a firm believer that this is your debate not mine. As a result I view the round how the debaters ask me to.

The few things I request is professionalism, fairness, and politeness. This stops being an educational experience when you sacrifice any of those 3 things for a win. I ask that all debaters be polite and do not partake in any sort of shady behavior.

I am more than ok with spreading if I have the case in front of me.

Lastly write my ballot for me, tell me why you won. I can make connections mentally, but I vote off the flow so vocalize everything.

Speech:

Speech is equal parts argumentation as it is presentation, I believe that both are imperative to a high ranking. I will always prefer average speaking and great analysis to average analysis and fantastic speaking. If you have both expect a high ranking.

IEs - I look for honest storytelling, connection to the character, a clear and compelling journey, a fully connected voice and body while adhering to the parameters of any particular event, and honoring the intent of the playwright/author.

Oratory - In addition to the above, I look for building a compelling argument, and finding methods to make me consider the topic in ways I had not before.

Extemp - It is vital that students are talking TO the audience/judges, not AT them. Extemp is a conversation, and students should combine facts and figures with a truthful connection to their audience; they should engage and invite the audience to learn something new. Segues should happen naturally, both with regards to building your case, and also with regards to your physicality. Let the changes dictate movement, not vice versa.

More Information About Me - I am an Assistant Professor in Theatre & Musical Theatre at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, a freelance director, and the former Director of Artistic Programming at Ford's Theatre in Washington DC.