Select literature that has a challenge for your group; is a theme or author combination with clear transitions and is worthy of being practiced and performed. English textbooks are an excellent source of quality literature.
When cutting literature and arranging material, there does not have to be an equal number of words or lines for each reader. Cut and arrange the material by image and /or idea units. Be careful not to fragment images/ideas or confuse listeners with character parts. Remember to provide the listeners with opportunities to imagine action being described or ideas developed through the reading.
In addition to eye contact, other types of movements are suggested rather than literally portrayed. Movement for inanimate objects, animals or extreme emotional vocalizations should be carefully planned and motivated b the literature and should be more imaginative, more stylistic and more suggestive than play acting. Remember NO CONTACT is permitted.
Movement should enhance the impact of the literature and/or explain the relationship, feelings, ideas, changes, moods, locales, or action expressed.
Facial expressiveness, subtle suggestion of emotion and limited movement leave more for the mind to conjure, thus fulfilling the intended purpose of interpretation.
While reading off of the manuscript remember to look up to establish eye contact with the audience.