While some students are utterly terrified of speaking in front of a huge audience, the Moorpark College forensics team has had public speaking etched into their minds and it has become a huge part of their lives.

The students on the forensics team have been chosen to showcase their work and their talents in this year’s annual “Night Before Nationals.” The event will be held in the Performing Arts building on Tuesday, March 29 at 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Wednesday, March 30 at 7:30 p.m.

“Night Before Nationals” has been Moorpark College’s best kept secret for about 15 years, said Rolland Petrello, department chair of communication studies and director of forensics.

“Those who have a passing knowledge of forensics think of it as debate,” said Petrello. “They have no idea of the variety of events our students do; from debate to acting to memorized speeches on a wide variety of topics or even speeches that are made up on the spot.”

Donna Lamb, 27-year-old Moorpark College communications major, feels that the purpose of the event is for the team to show the school what they have been working on and the speeches they will be taking to nationals to represent Moorpark College.

“It’s a great opportunity to see some great people perform,” said Lamb, “You never know, you might get the speech and debate bug or just come and support your fellow students. We work really hard to make Moorpark students and our community proud.”

Like most of the students involved, Steven Suarez, 20-year-old communications major at Moorpark College, specializes in oral interpretation. Suarez said he is anticipating a successful night for both the students speaking and the audience turnout.

“I expect most of our talented performers to give their best speeches and a big crowd of people at the event,” said Suarez.

According to Petrello, the expected turnout in the audience is on average between 280 to 340 for each show.

Vladimir Kremenetski, 19-year-old Moorpark College physics major, specializes in extemporaneous speeches, or speeches with limited preparation based on research and original analysis. Kremenetski is another forensics team member practicing in anticipation for the event.

“My preparation includes lots of collaboration with coaches as well as practicing by myself and with others,” said Kremenetski.

Petrello encourages other students to come and watch the performances as they provide great examples of speeches that are helpful for those taking classes such as public speaking. Petrello also feels that students should attend the event to support their fellow students and Moorpark College’s legacy.

“Not only is this a great event for entertainment value, it’s an excellent way for the campus community to show their support for the students that will be representing our school at the national championships,” said Petrello. “These students represent an incredible legacy”.

Having won 10 national titles, Moorpark College has been in the top three for 12 of the last 15 years, and has never finished lower than 6th over the stretch, according to Petrello.

“Each year, the event opens people’s eyes to the immense talent we have on this team,” said Petrello.

Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.MoorparkCollege.edu/PAC or pre-sale tickets are available for $8 and $10 for tickets at the door.