Charlotte Raketich is a senior at Jackson High School, a 4-year member of the speech and debate team in Dramatic Interpretation, a 3x State Qualifier, and the Director of Interpretation for Speech Resources.
Dramatic Interpretation (DI) is where acting and public speaking intersect. Unlike debate events that prioritize argumentation, DI challenges performers to bring a pre-published piece of literature to life through characterization, emotional depth, and intentional delivery. Success in Dramatic Interpretation isn’t about being loud or overly theatrical—it’s about making deliberate choices that allow the audience to understand and feel the story you are telling.
Strong DI performances begin with clear and consistent character choices. This includes understanding who your character is, what they want, and what is at stake in the piece. Every shift in voice, posture, or facial expression should serve a purpose. Even when portraying multiple characters, each one should feel distinct and grounded rather than exaggerated. Judges look for performers who fully commit to their roles while maintaining clarity.
Vocal control is one of the most powerful tools in Dramatic Interpretation. Changes in pitch, pace, volume, and tone help convey emotion and distinguish characters. Silence can be just as effective as speech; intentional pauses allow moments to breathe and give important lines the weight they deserve. Rather than rushing through emotional moments, allow your voice to reflect the internal state of the character.
DI relies heavily on physical storytelling. Small, controlled movements often have a greater impact than large gestures. Purposeful blocking, posture shifts, and eye focus help establish setting and relationships without distracting from the text. Judges tend to favor performers who use their bodies intentionally and avoid unnecessary or repetitive motion.
In Dramatic Interpretation, the script is your foundation. Effective performers trust the text and resist the urge to overact. Emotional moments should feel earned through the story rather than forced through excessive gestures or volume. Understanding the pacing and structure of your piece allows you to highlight key moments while maintaining cohesion.
DI is refined through repetition and critique. Recording rehearsals or performing in front of coaches and teammates can reveal habits you may not notice on your own. Constructive feedback helps sharpen transitions, clarify character shifts, and strengthen emotional authenticity. The strongest performers are those willing to revise and adapt.
Dramatic Interpretation is about connection between the performer, the character, and the audience. When acting choices are intentional and grounded in the text, performances become compelling and memorable. By focusing on character commitment, vocal and physical control, and thoughtful storytelling, competitors can elevate their DI performances from good to impactful.