The Power of Structure: Theater Meets Speaking

Recently, I had the joy of seeing the magnificent show A Beautiful Noise at The Smith Center in Las Vegas.

This is, of course, the life story of Neil Diamond. Having seen him perform live before, I knew to expect magic, and I wasn’t disappointed.

Part of the show’s brilliance is in its structure. It opens with Neil as he is now, in conversation with his therapist, looking back on his life through the lens of his songs. We are drawn into his world, from humble beginnings and self-doubt to becoming a worldwide megastar with more popularity than Elvis. Along the way, we see the highs and lows, the struggles, the joy, and the unwavering devotion to the music that gave meaning to his life and happiness to his audiences.

By the final curtain, the audience is on its feet, carried away on a wave of music and emotion.

And here’s the connection that struck me: the show’s structure is precisely the type of framework I help my clients use to craft their speeches when they share their own life experiences.

The Power of Structure: Theater Meets Speaking

The Dramatic Opening

Just as A Beautiful Noise begins with Neil in a pivotal, reflective moment, a speech needs to start with impact. The opening scene is a decisive moment, or an example of a bold decision, or any scene from our life that immediately pulls the audience in. We want your audience to think: “I want to know more.”

Act One: Laying the Foundation

In the theatre, Act One introduces the world of the play. We meet the main character, see their challenges, and understand what’s at stake. In A Beautiful Noise, we experience Neil’s early struggles, his insecurity, and the seeds of what will later define him.

In a speech, Act One serves the same purpose. You set the stage by introducing your background, the context, and the initial struggles. This is where your audience connects with your humanity. People are far more interested in your challenges and vulnerability than in a long list of achievements. That comes from your introduction.

Act Two: Rising Action and Turning Points

In the theatre, Act Two is where the story deepens. Conflicts intensify, obstacles multiply, and the protagonist must make critical decisions. For Neil, this included the relentless pursuit of success, the weight of fame, and the personal costs of living in the spotlight.

In a speech, Act Two is where you build momentum. Share the turning points—what you tried, what failed, and what finally worked. This is where lessons emerge, and your audience sees not just the what of your story, but the how of your growth. The arc of Act Two is what keeps the audience engaged and emotionally invested.

Act Three: Resolution and Reflection

Great plays and musicals resolve with meaning. In A Beautiful Noise, Neil reflects on the life lived and the legacy left. The audience leaves entertained and touched with insight.

Similarly, in a speech, Act Three is where you tie your journey to the message your audience needs most. What does your story mean for them? What action, mindset, or belief will you leave behind? Jan Fonda said, “I am now in the third act of my life. The third act makes sense of the first two.”

Why Structure Matters

Every life story, whether lived on a global stage or in the boardroom, has drama, lessons, and meaning. The key is not just in having the experiences, it’s in structuring them so your audience experiences the journey with you.

Just as A Beautiful Noise sent us out of the theater on a high, a well-crafted speech should send your audience home with your words lingering in their minds and hearts.

If you’d like to structure your story with the same impact as Broadway, let’s talk.

Just like a Broadway show, every presentation has the potential to be unforgettable. The difference lies in how you structure and deliver it. When your audience laughs, nods, or leans in, you know you’ve pulled them into your story. When they leave, quoting your words, you’ve achieved lasting impact.

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