Whereas theatre performances allow audiences to observe a fully realized “world” of the play through technical elements such as scenery, set pieces (furniture), hand properties (props), costumes, makeup, lighting, and sound; interscholastic Speech contests involve performers giving more audience-focused performance with minimal set pieces (chairs, and for Play Acting, a table), and wearing (neutral) clothing. We are often asked for the nuance of what constitutes costuming and props, since rules for Speech categories prohibit these items.
When is it a Costume? #
In interpretive categories, if contestants wear clothing implied for a particular character or described in the script, that is a costume. In group categories, merely dressing alike does not constitute a costume, unless the script calls for it (such as characters who are twins). In speech categories, if a student is wearing the attire called for by a particular occasion or topic, that is a costume. However, in Informative/Demonstration Speaking, students should wear attire appropriate to what is being demonstrated.
Props? #
A prop is an actual object called for in a script, or a replica/facsimile that can be carried by the performer. While props are expressly forbidden in acting categories (where the theatrical tactic of pantomime is used instead), as of 2025-26, the creative usage of the manuscript/binder in reading categories may be used to imaginatively as a prop to suggest an object without being the object itself.
Body parts are just that — parts of the body, and NOT props. If the script calls for pointing to an elbow, that is perfectly fine. This includes tears/crying as a natural, emotional response within a performance. We should not have to say this, but it has been asked or critiqued by adjudicators in the past!
Usage of the Floor #
The rules are silent with regard to touching the floor or lying on the floor. It is a choice performers may make. Although students may not be disqualified for touching the floor, judges can take movement into consideration in the overall evaluation of a student’s performance. This might be a critique of being visible to the audience, or excessive movement that distracts from the narrative.
