What Does an Acting Thespy Entry Involve?
Students wishing to showcase their acting skills in Thespy adjudications can do so in four (4) categories:
- Monologue
- Contrasting Monologues
- Two-Person Scene
- Ensemble Acting
Monologue & Contrasting Monologues
In an individual acting performance, the Thespian must prepare either one (1) monologue or two (2) contrasting monologues from a published theatrical work(s) that do not exceed three (3) minutes in combined length.
Contrasting monologues should showcase different aspects of the performer’s range, perspective, or emotional depth – not just differences in time period or style. This could include shifts in tone (comedy vs. drama), energy level, emotional journey, or character’s point of view. The goal is to demonstrate versatility and thoughtful storytelling rather than meeting a checklist of categories.
The combining of multiple characters’ lines to create a monologue is not allowed. Monologues should be composed of only one character’s lines.
Scenic Elements
One (1) chair may be safely used during the performance of a Monologue or Contrasting Monologues. No other scenic elements, furniture, or props are allowed.
Superior Rated Example
Two-Person Scene & Ensemble Acting
In a Two-Person Scene or Ensemble Acting performance, the Thespians must prepare a non-musical scene from a published theatrical work (play or musical) that does not exceed five (5) minutes in length.
Number of Performers
- Two-Person Scene: Two (2) performers.
- Ensemble Acting: Three (3) to sixteen (16) performers.
In each case, every participant must be actively involved in the scene chosen for performance.
Scenic Elements
The following furniture may be safely used in acting adjudications:
- Two-Person Scene: Two (2) chairs.
- Ensemble Acting: Up to six (6) chairs and one (1) table.
No other scenic elements, furniture, or props are allowed.
Superior Rated Example
Acceptable Material
Acceptable performance material should be from a published work written for the theatre. Entrants must confirm eligibility of their performance selection by using the search tool on the Approved Material webpage. The title of the play or musical for which the monologue or scene was written must appear on the approved materials list in order to be presented in adjudication. No other approval methods are allowed.
Performances of original work, poetry, fiction, screenplays, television, concerts, or any other medium are not permitted.
Skills Measured
The skills measured by the adjudicators during the presentation are:
Characterization – Emotional and physical believability, clear objectives, and connection with real or implied scene partners.
Voice – Projection, articulation, pitch, tone, tempo, and inflection that reflect the character’s emotions and subtext.
- Movement & Staging – Purposeful gestures, facial expressions, and blocking that communicate character and story.
Execution – Commitment, focus, and integration of voice, body, and emotion to create a cohesive, believable performance.
- (Contrasting Monologues only) Character Contrast & Transitions – Clear distinction between characters in voice, physicality, and intention, with seamless transitions that highlight range and believability.
