The Performance Category

The Performance Category: The Script Each member should brainstorm the major elements of your project and major characters involved. Brainstorm ways in which these characters might interact. **This applies to individual performances as well! It is possible to take on the role of several people if you want!

The Script Use your outline to determine what “scene” makes sense to start with. Progress from there. When writing your script, you should reference historical evidence found in research. Use real dialogue or quotes! Play a radio address from a president. Read actual words if your person was an author.

The Script: The Heart of the Matter Thesis Statement: Your script should center on your thesis statement, supporting statements, and conclusion.

Be careful! Like all History Day projects, the performance category should NOT be simply a report on a person’s life. This is not a speech you are giving but a performance. Think about how to dramatically portray the major ideas of your topic.

Elements of a Good Performance Set: Take time to think about set design. It doesn’t need to be elaborate. Think of key elements within your topic and play on those. Telephones, old-fashioned radios, a table and chair, a desk, a lamp, a bulletin board, a trunk full of artifacts you will pull out all make for a manageable set.

Elements of a Good Performance Costuming: Use the most authentic costuming possible. Look at old photographs or movies to get ideas about style—from top to bottom. A boxer hat, white knee socks with shorts, a white buttoned-down shirt and suspenders makes a great 1920s costume for a boy.

Elements of a Good Performance Blocking Take time determining where you and your actors will stand and how/when you move. All actions in your performance should be intentional. These actions will determine the design of your set.

Elements of a Good Performance Practice!!!!!!!!!!! Your script should be memorized. Practice voice projection so your audience can hear you. Americans have a tendency to let their words trail at the end, so be careful! Practice with the full set and your costume!

General Rules Time limit: 10 minutes You will be given an additional 5 minutes to set up and 5 minutes to remove your set. No prior narration will be allowed. Your time begins after you announce your name and the title of your performance.

General Rules Media Devices: You are allowed to use slides, tape recorders, computers, and other media. You must run all equipment or create any special lighting on your own. Script: You will NOT turn in your script to the judges. Costume: You may have one made for you but the design must be your idea.