Core Skill in Focus: Public Speaking
What is Public Speaking?
Public speaking can feel intimidating—even for grown-ups! At its core, it’s the act of standing in front of a group and saying something out loud in a way that the group can understand. That might sound simple, but it draws on a mix of complex skills: clarity, presence, eye contact, vocal control, and body language.
And like most things, it gets easier with practice. While it may never feel easy for everyone, the ability to communicate effectively and confidently in front of others is obtainable by all. With enough exposure, we can all learn not only how to speak up—but how to be heard.
How do we use it in theatre?
Theatre is a public act. Whether delivering a monologue, improvising a scene, or narrating a story to the audience, actors must learn to speak with clarity, intention, and presence. Public speaking is embedded in the very structure of performance—it’s how characters connect with one another and how performers connect with the crowd.
From the earliest table reads to the final curtain call, theatre demands that artists think about how their voice and body communicate meaning. How do you project to the back row? How do you modulate tone and pace to build suspense or land a joke? How do you hold the silence between words so the audience leans in? These are public speaking choices, refined through rehearsal and reflection.
And it’s not just the performers. Directors use public speaking to communicate vision, lead rehearsals, and guide ensembles through storytelling arcs. Stage managers speak with authority and precision to keep productions running smoothly. Every voice in the theatre matters—and learning to use that voice well is part of the art.
Why is it important in life?
Public speaking isn’t just about microphones and spotlights. It’s about being able to connect, express, and lead—skills that show up in classrooms, job interviews, boardrooms, and beyond.
Kids who practice public speaking develop an essential toolkit: making eye contact, using their voice to convey emotion, choosing words to fit their audience. These micro-skills empower them to advocate for themselves, to explain ideas clearly, and to share who they are. And in a world where communication is currency, that’s a powerful thing to give a child.
How can I bring this skill home?
Tots/Pre-K
Play “Announcer Voice”! Let your child pretend to announce dinner like a TV host or sports commentator. “Tonight we have… SPAGHETTI! And on the side greeeeeen beans!” Bonus points for flair.
Elementary School
Try a one-minute family talent show. Give everyone a prompt like “Tell us about your favorite animal!” or “Teach us how to do something.” Set the timer for 60 seconds and let the silliness unfold. Applause required.
Middle and High School
Establish a new family routine where everyone takes turns preparing and delivering a short toast at dinner—something simple like “Here’s to a great week!” For older or more confident kids, encourage speeches that are longer, more sincere, or more creative. This activity builds confidence in speaking sincerely with eyes on them. Getting everyone involved shows that you value this skill and practice. Plus, adults can benefit from this exposure, too!
No matter the age or activity, the goal is the same: help kids feel like YES—they can do it. That moment of pride, of “I just did that,” is what we’re after. Because when kids know their voice matters, they begin to use it.
