ACTOR/NARRATOR
In a recent article from SOVAS, the dilemma of self-directing for the voice actor was discussed. The takeaway nugget is not self-direction but in the preparation or rehearsal process that the voice actor must focus on. “It’s where the detective work, research and testing of hypotheses take place – leading the actor to clues that reveal truths.” Build the framework and the answers will appear. Another must read is how the actor deals with rejection. Too often we take it personally when it’s not about us at all. It’s in the selection process. You gave a great audition but your voice is not a good fit for the project. It’s all part of the process. Embrace it and move on to the next audition opportunity.
It’s where the detective work, research and testing of hypotheses take place – leading the actor to clues that reveal truths.
In an earlier news article, I referred you to the Narrator’s Roadmap as a must stop for voice over actors. Another is Edge Studio.com. In fact, I would highly recommend making this your first stop on your voice over journey. Not sure where to begin? Their team of coaches and instructors will guide you through the process starting with an Investigate Voice Over class. There you will get an educational “overview of the voice over industry, read for a coach and receive live feedback.” From there you will receive personalized training with the goal of producing a professional demo. Yay! Now it’s time to market, market, market. Edge Studio will guide you through how to promote yourself before putting up your shingle for business. Of course, there are side trips along the way as you continue to explore the world of voice over. And Edge Studio is there for you every step of the way. Take Action!
Grow yourself into something new.
The Washington Post enlightens listeners as to the importance of “…unity between voice and story.” A good narrator will tell the story as the author wrote it. Keeping the story real and in the moment is a collaborative endeavor between narrator and author. Check out the reviews and comments by Katherine Powers on what makes for an enhanced listening experience.
A voice actor can make or break the listening experience.
Backstage.com has a very informative article in their online magazine on how to become an audiobook narrator. They cover the skills you need, finding a job and the income you can expect. The article finishes up with some great examples of audibook narrators that have grounded themselves in the basics and through their study and practice have honed their skills into profitable art. This quote from the backstage.com magazine, describes the audiobook narrators path just enough to give you a fairly good idea of the effort and rewards you might expect.
Audiobook narration is a fun, flexible line of work that uses actors’ creativity and storytelling skills to engage, entertain, and inform an audience
Scott Brick, Hilary Huber & Patrick Fraley are well known and respected in the voiceover world. And for good reason! In this video, they share their expertise on what makes a performance authentic, avoiding some of the pitfalls inherent in audiobook recording and telling the story as the author wrote it. Their advice is not only educational but inspirational for aspiring narrators at all levels.
As the narrator, “Try to make sure that you’re bringing something to the story.” Scott Brick, winner of numerous Earphone and Audie a Awards. Five time winner of SOVAS Award.
"Your primary goal is to fulfill the author’s intent.” Hilary Huber, Earphone Award winner, Voice Arts Award winner and Audie Award finalist
Be sure to take a listen to their work for more inspiration!
Performance Tips Here On YouTubeKaren Commins an accomplished audiobook narrator and curator extraordinaire continues to share her expertise and knowledge on Narrators’ Roadmap.com. This is a must stop for those narrators who are new to the business as well as the more seasoned professional.
You’ve no doubt heard the phrase “consider the source”. That advice is especially true when starting or improving your career as an audiobook narrator. Karen Commins, karencommins.com
With the Narrator's Roadmap Karen covers all aspects of the profession including performance, time management, business practices as well as informative articles to get you started.
Narrator's Roadmap HereChris Mckittrick of Daily Actor interviews audiobook narrator Gary Bennet. Gary Bennet an engineer and entrepreneur, shares his audio narrator story. From why and how he got started to where he's at today and everything in between.
In this interview Gary details how he got his start in the business, honed his craft, his preparation methods and recording equipment, and, in addition, shares his advice on how one could get started as an audiobook narrator. Chris Mckittrick, Daily Actor
Narration coach Scott Brick works with Holly Palance, covering the three types of third person narration and more. So, sit in on a one-on-one training audiobook session provided by ACX University.
Deborah's voice for the museum tour of The Kiplinger Collection at HSW
A promotional video for On Stage America narrated by Deborah Stromberg
Copyright © 2021 Deborah Stromberg