TED talk Rehearsal Techniques

TED-style talks are an artistic endeavor.

In sessions 7 through 10 of the coaching package, we bring the production together with rehearsals. It’s a four-step process where we repeat and refine until  stellar choices are made in script, voice, graphics, movement, and time.

1) Table Read  The first rehearsal is a table read. The speaker and TED-style coach walk through the speech draft and slides via webcam. We’re reviewing the structure, composition, flow, and timing of your TED-style talk. The process of sculpting away the unnecessary parts and polishing your talk has begun.

2) Timing  The second rehearsal is about timing. The speaker is still seated while rehearsing the TED-style talk using bullet point notes and slide sharing on the webcam. The coaching feedback is focused on editing for time, impact, and vocal pacing, such as breaking up sentences for better rhythm. The speaker begins with notes and learns the overall talk in sections.

3) Dry Run  Performance and purposeful movement are center stage as the TED-style talk is coming together. Speaker receives guidance on vocal and physical aspects of performance based on a process originating in dance and drama: purposeful movement. Each movement in body language and gesture is deliberate and taken only to enhance the Big Idea and talk. Educators utilize purposeful movement to increase comprehension and retention. 

Visual storytelling / slides are finalized at this point.

4) Dress Rehearsal  The last rehearsal polishes the performance. The speaker repeats the full TED-style talk again and again as the coach provides feedback with finishing touches on vocal and physical aspects of the TED-style talk. Unexpected movements can ruin the live video production during the event.

NEXT STEP:  Shine bright at your TED-style event!

For TEDx speaker coaching clients Nuvi Mehta and Pepe Romero, we re-envisioned Mehta’s solo talk by adding a second musical influence. Through spoken word and musical cues, the audience realized they knew more about classical music than expected.

Watch the speaker video. Is it a TEDx success?