Learning disability and a "cold reading"

College Majors Theater/Drama Majors
1

My child has advanced in a high school acting competition for which the next round requires competitors to do a “cold reading” with only ten minutes preparation. She has a language based learning difference for which (among other accommodations) she receives extended time for reading. Should she disclose this to the competition director and ask for extra time?

2

How does your daughter feel about this? Does she want extra time? The cold read shouldn’t be super long or difficult and it does not have to be memorized. They will be holding the script in hand so she can and will be expected to refer to it during the reading. Hope this helps.

3

I would check the website and written materials of the competition to see if this is addressed in them. If not, or if your questions aren’t answered, call the competition anonymously and ask the question. Don’t wait until your D is there for the cold reading. Get a copy of her IEP and send it in to them if they ask for proof.

4

@bisouu, unfortunately the cold reading will be a monologue from Shakespeare so it is likely to pose a challenge

5

My D has a physical disability due to a mechanical problem with her eyes. She cannot “cold read” like most people as her eyes literally bounce around a page. (Hence the reason she has developed a wicked amazing memory). We always have her ask for additional time for a “cold read” due to this. If you privately explain the learning disability and ask for more time- most people (I have found anyway) will be more than accommodating.

6

I agree with @stagedoormama. She should disclose her learning disability beforehand, remind them it’s covered by ADA, and ask for accommodations. They should give it to her. (In most cases, they legally have to give it to her.) You don’t need to provide copies of her IEP or 504 though; that’s private. It’s possible they have a formal process–they should! - in which case at that point you could provide them documentation.

But overall, in college, I think you should definitely disclose a disability such as one that impacts cold readings. IF the college reacts negatively, that is a great sign that the place is not for you.