Thematic interpretation

A Thematic Interpretation is an Interpretive Speech where the competitor must tie together at least three different selections of literature around a common theme. The speaker is allowed to use a single black binder as a prop. This was NCFCA’s wildcard event for the 2006-2007 competition year. It was also brought back as a semi-permanent event in the 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 seasons.

Goal
The goal of Open Interpretation is to bring the pieces of literature to life through the use of accents, blocking, characterization, etc. in a way that entertains or captivates the audience. This event is also designed to build skills of creativity and innovation through the use of the binder.

Rules
There are no longer published rules for this event from the NCFCA, but the general rules for the event can be found on the Christian Communicators of the SouthEast (CCofSE) website.

The competitor’s presentation must be taken from at least three piece of literature from different genres. This can include, but is not limited to: Plays, poems, novels, short stories, children’s literature, song lyrics, great speeches, biographies, the Bible, or essays. Media transcripts, however, are not allowed, so the piece may not be a transcribed script from a live or recorded performance or a pirated script. Original writing is not allowed.

The competitor may add words for the introduction and transitions. Changes of pronoun and verb tenses (I.E. changing “him” to “her” or “it”) are allowed. The competitor should limit the wording changes as much as possible, and may not change the author’s intent by the adding or removing of words. The speech may be humorous, dramatic, or any combination of the two. Gratuitous vulgarity is forbidden.

Near the beginning of the speech, the competitor must cite the author and source of his story. Failure to do so means the competitor will incur a 1-rank penalty. The overall theme that ties the story together should be clearly stated throughout the speech.

The majority of the action should take place center stage, and movement should be more subtle than exaggerated. Competitors should keep an off-stage focus, rather than making eye contact with the judges. No costumes (clothing related to the speech) may be worn, and no visual aids of any sort other than the binder may be used. Only feet may touch the floor.

The binder must be a black, 5 1/2 X 8 1/2 3-ring binder. This binder should be used creatively to enhance the speech. While the speaker is saying their own words, the binder should be closed. When the speaker is giving the rest of the presentation, the binder should be open. This helps the audience differentiate between the speaker’s and author’s words. The binder cannot have the script of the speech inside, but must include a title page with the competitor’s name, address, phone number, and his coach/parent’s name. There must also be another page with the titles, authors, and copyright dates of each piece of literature that is being used for the speech.

Primary Judging Areas
Thematic Interpretation is judged on the skill of interpretation, the ability to successfully weave a common theme through the stories, and often if the pieces have moral or redeeming qualities.