Original Prose and Poetry
Out of all the speech events, Original Prose and Poetry probably allows for the most freedom and creativity. In this event, students interpret their own original compositions of approximately 7 to 10 minutes of length.
Generally speaking, the writing entertains but they can serve other purposes as well. In OPP, one will see a great variety of themes and subjects. The only trend in OPP is that there is no trend. Selections vary from slam poetry to humorous dia1ogi. to dramatic monologues to a combination of everything.
OPP is the best event for the student who loves to write. It gives a student an opportunity to express and share his creative works with others. OPP can be the most satisfying of all events to do since most competitors have a very personal connection with their performances
In OPP, themes that are original and creative tend to do the best. Ones that fall into generic categories like the typical dramatic interpretation tend not to do as well. It’s best to take an original idea or add a creative twist on cliché idea to attract the attention of the judges.
Performing an OPP involves taking a risk. OPP is extremely subjective, more so than any other event because of the great variety of subjects. The best shot at doing well in OPP involves practicing to perfection to ensure characters and situations are convincing.