The Rise of Brother/Sister Teams in Duet Speech Events

One of the interesting developments in recent years in the area of Speech competition is that of brothers and sisters being partners in duet events. As a seasonal Speech judge I have seen that become more and more evident. I have talked to some participants and found some interesting answers as to why this has taken effect.

Two of the areas where this phenomenon has occurred, are Humorous Duet Acting (HDA) and Dramatic Duet Acting (DDA).

To begin with I would like to direct you to a brother/sister team (Clayton/Clayton) that won the NCFCA 2010 National Championship in a Humorous Duet in a piece titled "Cheaper By the Dozen." You can view it here. You will be entertained. Obviously they are very talented and many family acts will in no way approach their success but the fact remains it (family participation) is a rising effect in education, why?

The impact of Home Schooling:

It is difficult to calculate the exact number of home-schooled children and participating families in home-schooling but one consistent estimate is that there are about 1.2 million home-schooled children. In the area of Speech they are allowed to participate in the school district where they reside and also have their own opportunity. The natural thing to do where possible is work with a sibling simply because there may not be the social opportunity.

Social acceptance of siblings working together:

It is no longer terrible for a brother and sister to be friends. Sometimes they even run in the same crowd. And, sometimes they both are interested in Speech. If they are serious about their opportunity to win they may find a sibling is talented and take the road that gives them the best opportunity to win.

Convenience of practice:

Today with gas being high and being out riskier it is more acceptable and comfortable to practice at home. The brother and sister can practice anytime they feel like it and for as long as they want.

Comfort level:

Make no mistake about it Speech participation requires being "open" and expressing yourself; you must lay your ego on the shelf. Brothers and sisters have been doing that for years and often find it easier to work with one another on that level.

Parental Dictate:

Especially in early high school years the parents of girls in particular are hesitant to let their daughter go over to a boy's house to practice or even have him over. Obviously that is not common but if a youngster wants to be in Speech bad enough and the only way to get the freedom is to work with a brother or sister they will take the opportunity.

Despite what we are often taught the family is not dead. Brothers and sisters working together, at least in the area of Speech competition participation is increasing.

I personally see it as a good thing-it promotes family involvement.

References:

Personal Experience

Home School Oasis Website, Chris Cardoff, "TheSeduction of Homeschooling Families"-(Used for homeschooling numbers)

You Tube Website, "Cheaper By The Dozen" NCFCA 2010 National championship Duo Interp"