Understanding communication (of which individual events is a part) requires a triangle among theory-practice-criticism, and any missing component dramatically hinders understanding and ability. Students compete in, and judges judge, forensics to better enhance communication understanding and abilities. The process of oral interpretation requires a performer to make a choice concerning how he/she wishes to approach the literature. The three dominant perspectives of oral interpretation are the Objectivist/Author's Intent, Subjectivist, and Constructionist/Poststructural. Public address events should adhere to traditional organizational and evidentiary requirements detailed in contemporary public speaking textbooks. Impromptu speaking, extemporaneous speaking, after-dinner speaking, informative speaking, persuasive speaking, and rhetorical criticism/communication analysis should strive to meet certain conditions. (RS)