On January 27, Oak Park and River Forest High School will hold its annual Speech Team Performance Night. The event is an opportunity for the community to watch students present a range of performances, including dramatic monologues, humorous duets, original speeches, political commentary, and simulated radio broadcasts.
“This event really started as a way to get our speeches approved for IHSA State Series competition,” said Matt Johnson, co-coach of the OPRF Speech Team. “But we realized how valuable it is for families and the broader school community to see what these students are creating. It’s become a powerful celebration.”
The team consists of more than 30 students this year. According to Johnson, the event allows families and community members to witness firsthand the work that typically happens in classrooms or at tournaments throughout Illinois.
“People often confuse speech with debate,” said Patt Cheney, co-coach of the OPRF Speech Team. “But this is really about helping students find their voice, learn to perform, and connect with others. It’s an art form, a discipline, and a team sport all rolled into one.”
Although competitions are individual events, collaboration remains central to the team experience. “The students really rally around each other,” Johnson said. “They celebrate each other’s wins, offer encouragement, and grow together as a team.”
One student highlighted this year is senior Mora Schigelone. Her original comedy piece about coming out to her late-in-life lesbian mother has received top honors at several tournaments. “She’s hilarious and heartfelt,” Johnson said. “Her work shows how personal stories can be compelling and incredibly funny.”
Speech is open to all students at Oak Park and River Forest High School; there are no cuts from the team. Students can choose which tournaments they want to attend and which events they wish to enter. Coaches provide twice-weekly support along with detailed feedback.
“There’s something deeply transformative about this activity,” Cheney said. “We’ve seen students go from being too shy to making direct eye contact to confidently presenting in front of a crowd. It’s about more than awards, it’s about becoming your best self.”
“We know not everyone can make it to a tournament,” Johnson said. “But this is your chance to see something truly special. Support these students. You’ll leave inspired.”
Oak Park and River Forest High School serves grades 9 through 12 in Oak Park and Cook County with an enrollment of 3,393 during the 2019-2020 school year (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/). In that period, grade 10 had the highest proportion of students at 26.2 percent (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/), while grade 12 accounted for 25.3 percent (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/). The student body was composed of approximately 56.9 percent white students, 18.2 percent black students, 12.6 percent Hispanic students, and 3.8 percent Asian students in that same year (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/).
The Speech Team Performance Night will take place at Oak Park and River Forest High School on Saturday, January 27 at 6:30 PM; admission is free and open to the public.
