Written by Peter R.
Introduction
On Monday 11th April Wedge Issue Pizza played host to the regular meeting of Bloomsbury Speakers. It proved to be a very enjoyable evening with a superb standard of speaking throughout.
Roles
Toastmaster Henry compered the evening, taking the floor with a relaxed and confident style. He introduced us to Peter F, the Timekeeper, who made sure the entire meeting ran smoothly in line with the schedule. Henry also introduced Peter R, the Grammarian, who offered the word ‘illuminating’ as the Word of the Day.
Prepared speeches
After opening remarks, the first speaker was Abraham. Abraham delivered an assured and fluent Icebreaker speech entitled ‘Because decisions do matter!’. Abraham recounted his childhood, his formative experiences and his experience of working as an engineer in China.
The second speaker of the night was Fabiano, who delivered a No. 2 speech entitled ‘Starting Up? My 3 Tips to Help You Succeed’. Fabiano made effective use of a visual display on his laptop to offer advice on making a career in business.
The third speaker was Margarita, who gave a No. 6 speech with the title ‘The Top of My Not-To-Do List’. Margarita recounted how she had found much more happiness in turning off all forms of technology while on holiday, and advised the audience to do the same.
The final prepared speech was delivered by Helen, who performed an advanced storytelling speech with the title ‘Desdemona’. Helen narrated the real-life tale of one of Shakespeare’s most famous characters in vivid detail. Sadly, the ending to this alternative story was similarly tragic!
After the break, we heard from the four evaluators who had been preparing feedback for the prepared speeches – Clare, Robert, Sheldon and Nathaniel.
The Topics Master for the evening was Egor, who asked participants a range of questions on music and songs.
Topics Evaluator Tracey provided constructive feedback for each of the participants in the table topics, and then Peter R reported back on the use of language throughout the evening.
Finally, Ga Lok Chung, the visiting General Evaluator, summarised the evening’s speaking and offered feedback for those who had not yet been evaluated.
Awards
Best Speaker: Helen
Best Evaluator: Nathaniel
Best Table Topics: Charlotte
Next meeting
Our next meeting will be Monday 25th April at the Clerk and Well (though the venue may be subject to change). Please get in touch at info@bloomsburyspeakers.org.uk if you have any questions!
