The speech team, one of Benilde-St. Margaret’s most popular activities, held auditions this week for new and returning members looking for self-expression and a chance to improve public speaking skills. The team’s head coach, Mrs. Maura Brew, five senior captains, and many coaches from inside and outside of the BSM community provide a variety of areas for students to excel in terms of public speaking. Based on their auditions, new members divide into 13 different categories, ranging in style from interpretative acting to current events. The team follows a no-cut policy, giving all prospective members a chance, regardless of initial skill. “We’re looking for a basic talent in some form of expression; after that, we like to see energy, commitment, openness to new ideas, the spark of a risk-taker blended with the enthusiasm of a performer,” said Mrs. Brew. Auditions took place after school from November 7-9.