Click Here to see what the National Office for NHD suggests.

Writing a Script

This is the most challenging part of the performance category.  One good suggestion is to make sure your script contains conflict, progression, and status changes.  Here are some basic steps to follow.
1. Brainstorm ideas that excite you enough to commit to them for months.
2. Create an outline that brings together your ideas.  This should be like a road map of where you are going.
3. Eliminate the weak spots.  Look for parts in the story that don't help to move it forward, are slow, uninteresting, or uninspired.
4. Set the scene for your performance.
5. Figure out the style in which you want to write your script.
6. Write the plot.  Describe the scenes and the actions taking place.
7. Add dialogue-- take your time with this section.  The dialog at NHD is how most of the information is presented.  Take your time with this.  Each character should have a "voice" that is different from the others.
8. Edit.
9. Show your script to someone else and ask for critical feedback.  
10. Make changes.
11. Find or create costumes that enhance your performance.
12. Perform for someone else whom you respect and ask for critical feedback.
13. Make changes.

Writing Tips

Advice on Directing 
Advice on Playwriting 

Acting Tips

Advice on Stage Acting

What makes a Performance Good?

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Confidence in your performance is the most important thing to remember when performing for NHDNH.  Walk in confident and walk out confident.

Stage Performance

  • Face the audience at all times.  This is called turning out.  Sometimes it's hard because of how you have "blocked" your scene.
  • Let the script move you.  Relax in your movements.  Movement should come naturally.  If it's forced your audience will know.  Consider having your characters only moving if reacting to food, sleep, an offender, or a lover.
  • Project.  People in the back row should be able to hear you... even if you are supposed to be whispering.
  • Commit to your character.  To do this, take time to get to know him/her.  Read the script and look at what your character says about himself/herself, look at what others say.  Who is your character?

Being Judged

1. Walk on stage with confidence and a smile.
2. Show support for other NHD participants.
3. Set up props quickly.
4. Confidently move to your starting spots, come to a full stop, take a deep breath, then begin your introduction.  You should say something like, "My name is _____ and this is a performance on your topic."
5. Perform.
6. Freeze at the end of your performance for just a moment.  Then, look at your audience and smile.  Say "Thank you" to the judges and quickly strike your set.
7.  Be confident as you answer questions from judges and accept feedback.
8.  Be sure to smile as you leave!