Finding Their Voice: OPRF Students to Take the Stage at Annual Speech Performance Night

Mark your calendars: On January 27, Oak Park and River Forest High School will host its annual Speech Team Performance Night, offering the community a rare opportunity to witness the power, passion, and preparation behind this transformative extracurricular.

While most of the team’s work unfolds in classrooms and competitive tournaments across Illinois, Speech Night is the one time each year families, friends, and community members can experience these compelling student performances live on stage.

“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.”

More than 30 students are involved in this year’s performance, representing a wide range of events, from dramatic monologues and humorous duets to original speeches, political commentary, and even simulated radio broadcasts. Each category challenges students to think critically, write clearly, and speak with confidence, skills that prepare them not only for competition but for life.

“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.”

And a team it is. Although students compete individually, the spirit of collaboration and support is central to their success. “The students really rally around each other,” Johnson said. “They celebrate each other's wins, offer encouragement, and grow together as a team.”

Among this year’s standouts is senior Mora Schigelone, whose original comedy piece about coming out to her late-in-life lesbian mother has earned her top honors at multiple tournaments. “She’s hilarious and heartfelt,” Johnson said. “Her work shows how personal stories can be compelling and incredibly funny.”

Speech is an inclusive, no-cut team that welcomes all students. Participants can choose how many tournaments to attend and what events to enter, with coaches offering twice-weekly guidance and extensive feedback. Many team members go on to use these skills in college, careers, and beyond, including OPRF alums such as actor Thomas Lennon and the voice of “Homer Simpson,” Dan Castellaneta.

“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.”

Event Details:
Date: Tuesday, January 27

Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Oak Park and River Forest High School
Free and open to the public