Shakespeare Competition 101
Tips from Miss Wilson
Guidelines
You will memorize, interpret, and perform a monologue and, if required, a sonnet.
You should identify your selection before you begin your presentation.
You may perform your pieces in the order you prefer.
You cannot wear costumes or use props of any kind, including chairs, jewelry, items of
clothing, and hair/hair clips.
You should select clothing that allows you to move freely.
Prompting, if necessary, is allowed.
You cannot act for pay on television, the stage, or in film during the 09-10 school year.
Judging Criteria
UNDERSTANDING (by the student) A thorough
understanding of the text, including language,
character, and plot.
COMMUNICATION (to the audience) An effective
delivery of the interpretation so that the
audience understands and believes what is said
and felt.
EXPRESSION (artistic skill) An unaffected, artistic
range that includes the effective use of body and
voice, and demonstrates an individual point-ofview.
Realize what will be popular
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Romeo and Juliet
Twelfth Night
Macbeth
Hamlet
Midsummer
The Sonnet Matters!
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Tie breaker
Knowledge of text
Memorization a plus
Should be well rehearsed
Indication, Props, English Accents
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No, no, no!
Indication is too much.
Physicality should be natural and appropriate
Props and costumes not allowed
English accents strongly discouraged
Affected voice appropriate
Knowledge of Text
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The key to winning
Understanding of piece
Understanding of character
Understanding of situation we are seeing
What has happened just prior to scene
What will happen after=the stakes
Character Development
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What does this person want
What are they willing to do to get it
Backstory
Walk
Talk
Mannerisms
Where to go for help
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English Faculty
Drama Faculty
Online resources:
http://www.englishspeakingunion.org/programs_shakespeare_co
mpetition.htm
• www.sonnets.org
• Suggested Monologues and Rules Handouts
on Miss Wilson’s Resource Center Page
In Conclusion
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Choose gender appropriate pieces
Consider lesser known works
Choose something you connect with
Memorization should begin NOW
Knowledge of the text is KEY
If you choose a classic, make it your own
Be careful and considerate in your preparation
Obey rules of the competition to avoid
disqulaification