The Piece Selection PROCESS for Dummies

[airpezman]

I have some good questions about selecting material. It seems to me that many competitors use material that has been done at least "once" in the USA. This is perfectly ok, because there is no need to be 100% original. This is basically unlikely, since there are thousands of competitors across the nation in hs and college. However, how do competitors choose a piece?

EXAMPLE: Why did the boy choose "Pinnochio"? What do you think went through his mind to lead him to this choice? What about "Feiffers People" in duo? Did the kids begin reading randomly and came across material?
This entire piece selection process is such a MAZE. Any tips on how the most successful people at nationals "choose" their piece would be appreciated. Are these pieces given to them by their coaches, at camps?


ANY TIPS OR ADVICE ON STEPS ON CHOOSING STRONG NATIONAL MATERIAL.... this could be helpful to many. And not just the generic advice, "go through a catalog of plays and see what peaks your interest". I want more specifics, details on how precisely you chose your piece.

[Nocturne]

Reading alot of variety of works really helps. This summer, I'm trying to read as much as possible, and hopefully find something unique and powerful.

My coach says most of the time scripts get over-used is due to the fact that most of those over-used scripts fit the 10 minute time frame, so they pick it because it's a quick, easy read.