Duet Acting

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Duet Acting (often shortened to "Duet" or abberviated as "DA" in tournament schedules and results) is an event in competitive high school forensics. Similar to Duo Interpretation, Duet Acting varies in two major respects: first, Duet is not an official National Forensic League event although some state organizations, such as the Ohio High School Speech League and the Texas Forensic Association, practice the event. Secondly, unlike Duo, in which the actors are not permitted turn towards each other, touch each other, or even move their feet from the floor, Duet incorporates an element of acting.

Duet Acting involves two people, two chairs, and (in some jurisdictions) a table; the furniture is supplied in each room of competition. Time limits vary, but generally each acting pair performs an eight- to twelve-minute scene, typically using only two characters. Occasionally the performers change roles, in the manner of Dramatic or Humorous Interpretation. The pieces may be either serious or funny, and the extensive use of movement is permitted (i.e., interaction between both characters, as well as with the table and chairs). Duet Acting has been removed from the Cleveland district.