Bishop Kelley Comet Challenge
2023 — Tulsa, OK/US
Novice Program of Oral Interpretation
Event Description:
M. Program Oral Interpretation
* 1. POI is a program of oral interpretation of thematically-linked selections chosen from two or three genres: prose,
poetry, drama (plays). At least two pieces of literature that represent at least two separate genres must be used.
The title or author of all selections must be verbally identified in either the introduction and/or transitional
phrases. The title may identify the primary source (e.g., book, anthology, journal, magazine, newspaper, approved
website, etc.) or the specific title within the primary source (e.g., a poem, a play, a short story, a journal/magazine
article, a newspaper article, etc.). If more than one author is attributed to the source, at a minimum, the primary
author should be verbally cited.
* 2. The use of a manuscript during the performance is required. Common practices include the use of a binder or
folder. Reading from a book or magazine is not permitted. The intact manuscript may be used by the contestant as
a prop, so long as it is in the contestant’s control by remaining in contact with the body at all times. The contestant
must address the script; however, introduction and transitional material may be memorized.
*3. Gestures are allowed but the interpreter is to get his effect primarily through vocal changes and changes in facial
expressions. Character voices are acceptable. Eye contact should be directed toward the audience
*4. The time limit including the introduction is ten (10) minutes.
* 5. A copy from the original published scripts must be available. This copy must have all lines highlighted if they are
to be performed.
* 6. All performances must be void of profanity, vulgarity, nudity, obscenity, and hate speech. Use of these may result
in lowered ranking or disqualification by the judges and a protest filed with the tournament director.