Expressively Speaking

Steve Whiteford, a professional speech coach, is the author and host of this program designed to improve one's speaking capabilities by focusing on exercises and "performance." The tape opens with a "daily warm-up" section, that viewed out of context, appears to be some form of primal scream therapy. Later on, these same exercises are shown together with the rationale behind doing them. Breathing technique, relaxation of the facial muscles, using pitch to one's advantage, and more are treated over the course of this long program. The problem with the program is a basic mismatch--Whiteford's speaking is overproduced, with hands that seem to have an autonomous life of their own, and an impressive disc jockey style voice, while the video production values are fair, at best. Shadows on the wall, onscreen focusing, camcorder adjustment, and occasional echoing in the sound don't lend the sense of professionalism that Whiteford is obviously trying to project. As a speaker myself, I'm aware of the "performance" aspects of giving a talk. Yet, there's a difference between sounding like "me" and sounding like "not me." If I were to adopt Whiteford's techniques I would sound like an amateur salesman--which is precisely what the members of Whiteford's class end up sounding like. Surprisingly, the highlight of the tape is a monologue that Whiteford performs from Henry V. It is exceptionally well done, and leads me to believe that he may have missed his true calling. While this program may have some value for those who plan to take up speaking as a profession, I doubt that it would help the garden variety speaker like myself. Not recommended. Note: Public performance rights may be available on request. (Available from: Expressively Speaking, 2455 Silverlake Blvd., Apt. D, Los Angeles, CA 90039.)