Elementary Living Literature

The Living Literature competition provides an opportunity for students to present an interpretation of a scene from a work of literature. Students should choose a scene and characters from any form of literature, including but not limited to, a novel, short story, poem, or play. Students recreate the scene through costumes, scenery, and props. Essentially, students become “wax museum figures” depicting the scene. A club may have only one entry.

Elementary Betas are eligible to compete in Elementary competitions only. They may not compete with Junior Betas in Junior competitions at the state and national level.

Competition Guidelines

• A description of the scene, title of the piece of literature, author, and school name must be incorporated within the dimensions of the scene.
• Scene cannot be based on a song or song lyrics.
• Electricity/outlet and internet will not be provided.
• The dimension of a scene may not exceed 12 feet wide by 12 feet deep by 12 feet high.
• Set up will not be monitored. A designated window of time, of no more than one hour, will be allowed for set up. Adults may assist with set up and disassembling the set. Assembling of the props/scenery outside of the square can take place prior to set up.
• Competitors must be prepared for judging at the designated time.
• Sound effects or music are not permitted in the scene.
• Movement is not permitted with props or scenery. However, the flickering of battery powered lights/candles is allowed.
• SAFETY - No use or portrayal of ANY weapons.
• SAFETY - All participants in the scene must have their feet on the floor.
• SAFETY - The scene should be entirely free standing, not leaning on walls.
• SAFETY - Wood or metal may not be used in the construction of the scene. However, metal or wooden bases, no taller than 36 inches, can be used to transport and/or support the scene. Props (table, chairs, bed frame/headboard, etc.) made of wood or metal may be used as intended. Photo/Video Studio Backdrop Background Stands and Pop-up Portable Canopy tents are NOT permitted.
• SAFETY - Balloons, hay, fog machines, live animals or fire/open flame are not permitted in the scene.
• Entrants must clean their assigned scene area and remove all props immediately after the viewing.

Educational Connections

• Visual and Performing Arts Standards
• Creativity and Innovation
• Communication and Collaboration
• Information and Media Literacy
• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

How to Enter

• Visit www.betaclub.org/events/conventions and follow directions.

• Register students and then select competitions to enter.

National Eligibility

All Plaques Awarded at State Convention

Judging Criteria

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