Children's Literature Reading
This event requires the use of a manuscript. The student should present material designed to read to children so that it may be understood and appreciated by a young child or children. (Note: This does not mean the literature must fall under nursery level only). The selection must be from a single published fictional or non-fictional story, play, a single poem or a program of poetry. Material from more than one source is not allowed, with the exception of programs of poetry. The author’s words as published in the literature may not be altered for this presentation with the exception that cutting is permitted. Speakers may not take lines belonging to one character and apply them to a different character in the performance. The presentation should include an introduction that cites the name(s) of the piece(s) and the author(s). No costumes or props may be used in the presentation.
Note: Reading events are inherently different from memorized interpretation events. Students in reading events are required to hold a manuscript, which they should reference (as if they are reading) from time to time during the presentation. While students create characters by differentiating how they use their voices, stances and gestures in both genres, in reading events students should not move more than a step or two from the center of the performance space. In memorized interpretation events, students may move freely around the space.
Time: 10 minute maximum, including introduction (30 second grace); no minimum
