Spring Reading Practice Tips for June 14!

Submitted by GirlsWriteNow on Mon, 06/01/2009 - 10:52pm.

By Moira Taylor
GWN Talent Director

Guest Blogger

We had an reading practice session on May 21 with drama expert and mentor Gindy Bladen! Thanks for all the great pointers and advice, Gindy! Amalie Kwassman, Anna Poon, and Flor Altanirano rocked!
 
AND, even if you couldn't attend the session with nervous giggles and amidst the strong bold voices of our girls, here are some fantastic reading practice tips you can do at home or with your mentor.  (There's still time!).
 
TIP # 1: SLOW DOWN ("OK, tell me something I haven't heard before!")
 
No, really, this was the one running theme for all the girls who practiced their pieces.  Think about how the audience is going to receive your work: 
Slow down so the audience really hears the humor in your piece!
Slow down so the audience feels the impact of how creepy what you just said is!
Slow down so the audience is in the piece as much as you are!
Slow down so that you sing! 
 
TIP #2:  ENUNCIATE ("Yeah, yeah, yeah.  I know I need to say my words clearly....")
 
Yes, say them clearly, but also remember to elongate the words and phrases that need extra length.
Enunciate so the audience senses all of the terribly, terrifically, tremendous talent that you have.  (Got it?)
Enunciate so the audience gets the "ssss" of the "kiiiiiisssssssssss" you're talking about.
Enunciate so the audience is holding their breath when you tell them about the alcohol on your character's breath.
 
TIP #3:  LOOK UP  ("Look at the audience????!!!! Yikes!)
 
The people in the audience are your friends, not your foes! They WANT to be there, and they are there because they WANT to hear YOU!  Stand up straight and look 'em in the eye. Making eye contact draws them in to the piece of your world and your character whether it's spoken word, fiction or non-fiction. 
 
FINAL TIPS: 
Don't neglect those pesky practical tips before getting up there on stage.  (Remember you're all singing stars now, what do you have to be afraid of?
  • Get comfy in your body: Some people sway, and some people breathe— whatever you, do don't fidget!
  • "Go" before you "go" on stage  (Gindy says a trip to the bathroom is essential!)
  • Eat something good (quick sugar fix won't do!) before you get on stage  (Gindy says cheese and crackers!)
Can't wait to see and hear you all at our culminating event on Sunday, June 14!

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