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.
Duo Interpretation is a partnered interpretation event in which two performers present a cutting from a published literary work. The piece is typically comedic or dramatic and includes multiple characters, with each performer portraying several roles throughout the performance. Unlike original events, Duo focuses on interpretation, collaboration, and storytelling rather than authorship.
A defining feature of Duo Interpretation is the use of offstage focus. Performers generally avoid direct eye contact with one another, instead directing their focus outward or to specific points in space. This convention allows performers to suggest interaction between characters while maintaining clear staging and avoiding direct physical interaction. Consistent focus is essential for clarity and credibility.
Strong Duo performances depend heavily on partnership and coordination. Both performers must work together to establish pacing, tone, and energy. Character entrances, exits, and transitions should feel clean and intentional, with each partner remaining actively engaged even when not speaking. Judges look for balance, meaning both performers contribute equally to the success of the piece.
Movement in Duo Interpretation is typically more dynamic than in solo interpretation events, but it should always be purposeful. Blocking, levels, and spatial relationships help establish setting, character relationships, and shifts in scene without the use of props or costumes. Excessive or random movement, however, can distract from the narrative and weaken the performance.
Clear character differentiation is also critical. Because performers often play multiple roles, changes in voice, posture, and focus should be distinct and consistent. Strong Duo teams make these choices collaboratively so that characters remain clear and the story is easy to follow.
Overall, Duo Interpretation rewards performers who demonstrate strong communication, discipline, and trust in one another. When done well, Duo becomes a cohesive and engaging performance that highlights teamwork, character work, and effective interpretation of literature.