Prose interpretation
Prose interpretation (also known as prose reading) 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 (sentences and paragraphs), makes a cutting (coherent story with a clear introduction, rising action, climax, falling action, and dénouement), 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 (in each round giving an introduction to the piece), then break to rounds with an increasingly smaller competitor pool.
Rules:
•All selections must be from published, printed works of prose (fiction: novels, short stories, works of prose fiction do NOT include monologues; non-fiction: articles, journals, essays, biographies )
•Cutting must tell a story and have a clear progression of events
•Must be within time (viable times in most areas are 8 minutes and 30 seconds to 10 minutes and 30 seconds)
•An introduction is required (names author, title, gives any necessary information, and sets the tone) 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 (and needs to be unique to that particular 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 (and it is recommended), 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 (be mindful of their placement and how you turn)
•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