Bartlesville Invitational
2025 — Bartlesville, OK/US
5A Poetry
Event Description:
D. Poetry
*1. This event is limited to students in grades 11 and 12.
2. Each contestant is to give an introduction to his program. The purpose of the introduction is: (a) to arouse and
stimulate the interest of the audience in what is to follow; (b) to reflect adequate understanding by the reader of the
author and his works, particularly in the selection read; (c) to make the audience feel that the reader appreciates an
opportunity to read to them, and that the interpreter has a real, lively, and enthusiastic interest in the selection.
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. Material used in the performance must be all published poetry. A copy from the original published script must be
available. This copy must have all lines highlighted if they are to be performed. A typed copy of the introduction
and all transitions must also be available. Each separate transition must be numbered with the correct corresponding
number placed in the script at the appropriate location. Penalty for failure
5. The reader may edit or cut his material as he sees fit. For this contest, the competitor may use one poem or a
collection of poems by the same author or a collection of poems thematically related.
*6. The book or manuscript must be in the hands of the reader.
7. The time limit including the introduction is eight (8) minutes.
*8. 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.
*9. Significant movement (ie, walking, pacing) is not allowed.
*10. In the event of protests regarding material, consult 7C on SPE7.