Prose interpretation


Prose interpretation is a non-memorized competition event in which competitors choose a published piece of work that is a dramatic or humorous solo that is done in 1st person.

Format

The performer chooses a selection from a published, printed work of prose, makes a cutting, places the cutting in a small, black binder, analyzes/interprets/practices, and then goes to competition. At a tournament, the performer competes in three to four rounds, then break to rounds with an increasingly smaller competitor pool.
Rules:
•All selections must be from published, printed works of prose
•Cutting must tell a story and have a clear progression of events
•Must be within time
•An introduction is required and given after a minute or so of the
piece has been delivered, at a natural break-point
•Interpretation is most of what you will be ranked by, so know the plot, the characters, the theme, EVERYTHING
•All gestures, stances, facials, vocals/intonations need to support that character, help
tell a story, and be clear
•Diction is important
•Allowed to change stance and voice for different characters
•Although not a rule, use of anything other than a 5” by 8" black binder usually results in loss of points
•Binder needs to be an extension of you, if it looks awkward you will lose points
•Although most Prose performers memorize, you need to give the appearance of reading, so look down at strategic, planned spots
•Page turns can add or subtract points pending on if they work with you or against you
•Cannot use Prose cutting in your Duo, HI, or DI
•Eye contact is vital, address your audience and do not be afraid to look at them—it can be an intense tool