Friday, August 31, 2007

Trends in Voice Casting

Trends in Voice Casting
Karen Raugust talks with voice and casting directors who say that, despite fierce competition, there are opportunities for talented, fresh-voiced novices to break in.

August 29, 2007
By Karen Raugust
Printable Version

The aspiring voice actor must absorb many lessons to make it onto a show like SpongeBob. © Nickelodeon.

Celebrity casting has been among the leading trends in the animation voiceover business for over a decade, and remains so today. At the same time, however, there are more opportunities for rank-and-file voiceover actors than ever before, due to the large amount of animation being made, the diversity of styles and content, and the greater number of platforms in which to work. And, while the field remains intensely competitive, there are opportunities for new actors to break in, if they are committed, persistent, hard-working and well-trained.

"I look for the best actor for the role. I don't care if it's a celebrity or not," says Andrea Romano, an independent casting and voice director who has worked on productions including SpongeBob SquarePants, Justice League, Superman and Teen Titans.

Celebrity casting -- which impacts not only the feature film business, but also TV shows, videogames, direct-to-video productions and even some webisodic series --frustrates everyday voice actors, who believe it not only has dampened their opportunities, but also often has a detrimental effect on the productions themselves. "[Celebrity casting is about] publicity, rather than a fantastic voice," says M J Lallo, a voiceover actor, director, producer and teacher, with a studio and voiceover school in Los Angeles. "You see [the production] and you say, 'that's not an interesting voice, it's just so-and-so's voice.'"

Michael Hack, a voice and casting director whose credits include Blood+, Astro Boy, and the direct-to-video production Bratz: Camp Starshine, acknowledges that celebrity casting probably brings in viewers and dollars to feature films, but he believes the marketing value is less in television, where most viewers are kids who don't care who is doing the voice. Still, celebrities often voice television characters these days; some are naturals, while others are mostly involved for their marquee value.

"I've worked with celebrity actors who are not trained as voice actors and they're terrific," Hack says. "With others, there's a struggle, even if they're great actors, because it's such a specific skill. I might give them a note about showing more anger in a line, and they do something with their face and read it the same way."

"Celebrities will never replace the rank-and-file actors, who are so good at this," says Romano. "But some celebrities have taken to it like fish to water. They've become the rank and file." She cites Cary Elwes, Mark Hamill and Tim Curry as examples of versatile actors who can play several key roles well.

Cathy Kalmenson, partner in Kalmenson & Kalmenson Voice Casting, says celebrities bring a confidence to the roles they play. "They trust their instincts and are confident in creating characters in animated roles that are essentially authentic offshoots of themselves, really. They don't need to try to 'put on' and be someone else. They've been accepted (big time) for who they are, and are fearless in being genuine. But the majority of our day-to-day casting still includes hundreds of journeyman actors, who bring skill and freshness to selling soap, cars, beer and pet food. This is what ultimately pays the bills between the elusive big animation deals."

Michael Hack says casting directors "want to cast ethnic for ethnic."

Expanded Opportunities
These days, there are many opportunities for animation voice actors -- celebrity and specialist alike -- both in film and television, and in other media such as videogames, direct-to-video productions, Internet series, mobile phone content, and toys containing voice clips. Within each of these sectors, there are openings for a wide variety of voices. "It's a very diverse market now," Romano says. "There's action-adventure, there's silly cartoons, and everything in-between."

Videogames represent one area with a massive and growing need for voices. It's a specialized skill, involving line readings to be used in various situations rather than a continuous story arc, but it attracts both journeyman actors and celebrities. There are opportunities for those without much experience as well.

Lallo notes that there are a lot of small, lower-budget gaming companies that are willing to take a chance on new voices. They're even getting the word out in nontraditional ways, such as on Craigslist. Movie- and TV-themed games, while they occasionally feature the celebrities who appeared in the original entertainment vehicle, often use soundalike voices, providing opportunities for impressionists.

Some voice actors stay away from this segment. The time periods for voice recording can be long, up to almost a year in some cases, and there can be a lot of screaming involved, such as for a war-themed game. "It's hard on your voice," says Ginny McSwain, a freelance voice and casting director who has spent a lot of time lately in gaming. In addition, she says the same actors tend to be used again and again, so it can be hard for new voices to get their start.

Another growing opportunity is for ethnic actors, as productions increasingly are trying to incorporate realistic accents. "Almost without exception, they want to cast ethnic for ethnic," says Hack, who recently cast a production with Middle Eastern voices.

In fact, animation producers want very specific accents. For example, a voice would not be Latino, but Cuban, not American Indian, but Seminole, not from India, but from Bangalore. For immigrants, producers seek specific voices, such as an adult who's been in the United States for a certain number of years or a mixed-ethnicity child. "It makes it interesting to cast," Lallo says.


She points out, however, that this trend offers opportunities for some actors without previous experience. She cites a TV episode with multicultural themes where the producers needed a Cuban girl. The original actor didn't work out and she couldn't find a suitable replacement, so she called a Cuban restaurant in L.A. It turned out the owners had a daughter who was interested in acting and she got the part. Lallo points out that not only do ethnic accents add authenticity in line readings, but the actors are able to help make the dialogue more realistic as well.

McSwain, a 31-year veteran of the industry, notes that ethnic casting has grown dramatically over the years. "It's 1,000 percent better than it was when I started at Hanna-Barbera," she says. But she notes that the number of ethnic voiceover actors is still small. "When you need a special ethnicity, there just aren't layers of them. It's surprising how slim [the selection] is at different agencies." She notes that interactive gaming is a particularly strong market for ethnic dialects, especially in games with a global scope. "We need them."

The trend toward realism applies to age as well. Producers are looking for children to fill children's roles. And, at the same time, more kids are getting into voiceover acting. While child actors used to focus mainly on print and a little on-camera work, many are focusing on voiceovers now, developing better reading skills and keeping on top of the growing opportunities in this sector.

"Authentic is definitely the 'in' theme for today's casting, including children, ethnicity and, may I add, dialects," says Harvey Kalmenson of Kalmenson & Kalmenson. "If you need a Swede, you cast a Swede." The Kalmensons recently have cast everything from African children aged six to 14 for World Vision Relief Fund, to adults from Uzbekistan for in-flight safety announcements.

Realism also means characters are believable. "They're not cartoony," says Cathy Kalmenson. "Characters are personality-driven. They have motives, feelings, and are developed enough that the audience begins to get to know these characters, and can predict their responsiveness. This especially bonds an audience to characters in an ongoing series, such as The Simpsons or SpongeBob, as well as in feature films like Shrek."

With the growth of anime, the demand for re-dubbing work has grown. Bleach image © Tite Kubo/Shueisha, TV Tokyo, dentsu, Pierrot.

Another growth area is anime. Voicing anime is unique because the voice recording is done after the animation, as opposed to the typical situation where the voice tracks are completed first. "It's a completely different skill," explains Romano. "It requires attention to a lot of different details." The fact that the actor can see a full-fledged character and personality on-screen can sometimes be helpful, she says, but it is difficult to get used to matching your words to the existing mouth flaps, matching the existing pacing, and using the ADR (automated dialogue replacement) technology.

"It's not only the acting, but the mechanical things you have to watch out for," stresses Hack, who has worked on many anime series. He points out that most anime actors specialize in this genre exclusively, although he has brought in actors from outside that pool on rare occasions. "It's a learning process, but it added something," he says.

In general, however, mainstream voiceover actors tend to stay away from anime, not just because of their unfamiliarity with the process, but because the union pay scale per session is lower than for other types of voice acting. On the other hand, "people who do this work a lot," Romano reports. Networks often buy 65 episodes of anime, rather than the usual 13, which could translate into a year of work on one series. While the pay per session is less, actors can still do well due to the steady flow of work.

Today's diverse animation landscape means versatility is one of the most sought-after qualities in a voice actor. "The best ones are able to do it all," says Romano. "As long as they're good actors, there's work for them." She points out that union rules allow an actor to do three voices for one fee, so actors who can play a main character, as well as a butler and a waiter, in the same production are valued. "Versatility is always a benefit."

Fierce Competition
Voice acting is intensely competitive. "It's a very tough market to break into," Hack says. "You only have four hours to record an episode. Part of your task is to do it within the right amount of time." Experienced actors, therefore, make the process run more smoothly.

Still, casting directors are open to new talent if the individual is right for the job and has a fresh voice that will help differentiate a production. "There's always room for excellence," says Romano.

For any voiceover actor, the demo is the key tool for getting work. "A good demo tape is like a good headshot," Lallo explains, noting that an actor should invest in professional help to get it right: interesting order, good writing from the characters' perspective, the right music and sound effects. "Without a professional demo, you're nowhere," says Lallo.

Casting directors advise actors to make sure they're ready before they record their demo, which can cost from $400 to $2,000, including artwork, and encourage them to participate in a workshop right before recording to make sure they're in top form.

"I caution people not to overproduce their demo," Romano counsels, pointing out that some actors use too much music and too many sound effects. One of the best demos she ever received, she says, was an actor reading Dr. Seuss's One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish, changing his voice with each page.

Romano says actors should include clips long enough (15 to 20 seconds per voice) to show they can sustain a character. Just one line is not enough. "Don't put too much in a demo, just your best, those [voices] that you can call on at any time," she says, adding that an all-inclusive demo should be under five minutes. "That's enough for your ancient man, your anchorman, your animal and baby cry." (Some directors prefer demos that are as short as two minutes.)

Cathy Kalmenson encourages actors to focus on the one thing at which they excel, a defined voiceover signature that encourages typecasting or, as she terms it, "truth casting." "Rather than be all over the place, in this competitive market, a voiceover talent must present his or her strength only. Make it clear to the casting director, for example, that 'when you think nerd, think me.' Make it easy for us to cast you."

Technology has had an effect on how demos are recorded and distributed. Agents can post MP3 files to their own sites or to sites such as voicebank.net; actors can record script readings on MP3 and e-mail or post them immediately, as well as uploading clips on sites such as voice123.com, www.voices.com and www.mktmania.com. Actors also can expand their audience through sites like MySpace and You Tube. Technology also has made recording easier, enabling actors to record from remote locations through ISDN technology, so that the director has a copy in hand immediately after the session, instead of having to wait for FedEx. Not only do these technologies help casting directors meet producers' ever-tightening deadlines, but they allow them to more easily search for talent worldwide.

Casting directors say they'll sometimes listen to unsolicited demos in their search for fresh voices, but caution that these typically come from reputable colleagues such as agents or teachers, rather than from the actors themselves. Romano notes that during the 18 years she was an independent contractor based at Warner Bros., she listened to every unsolicited demo that came in (something that in-house casting directors tend to do). But she learned that, unless the actor already had an agent or a SAG card, "they really weren't ready."

Ginny McSwain has received love not only from her best friend, but from the TV Academy as well.

Breaking In
"There's always room for people who are talented. But it's not a dabbling business," says Romano, noting that an actor might have to go to five auditions a day and that it could take two to five years -- or more -- of full-time work before a person becomes established in the field.

Voice and casting directors counsel actors to watch (and especially listen) to a lot of animation, looking for trends in the types of voices being cast and listening to how actors create their characters. Actors also should study acting, and determine what types of voices they're best at. They should develop contacts and a career path in the sector of animation they're interested in, whether anime, videogames or TV; make sure their agent sends them out on plenty of auditions for that specialty; and keep up with what the networks and producers are looking for. And, if they want to focus on voice acting for animation, they need to be in L.A.

The main thing to remember is that it all comes down to good acting. Acting classes can cost $350 to $400 per class, but are a good investment, starting with general acting classes and moving on to classes specifically geared toward voice acting. (Most voice and casting directors teach, too.) While technical issues such as mic technique and pacing can be taught during the recording, actors need to bring the talent.

"Keep working on your acting chops," Lallo says. "It's not just about the voice, it's about the character under the role. The training is so important."

"It's not just standing in the studio doing funny voices, it's acting," Hack adds. "It's not Warner Bros. Bugs Bunny voices any more. It's more realistic CG animation and more realistic voices. You need to be trained and have instincts for real acting." He points out that good acting is important not only from an audio point of view, but because it affects the visuals as well. "The acting is a guide for the animators. If you don't bring anything as an actor, the animation suffers."

"You need to know it's an art form, and you have to study and know what you're doing," agrees McSwain. "And if you really want to do it, you've got to hang in there."

Despite all the challenges, new voices can break in. "I encourage people to follow their desire if they really want to get into this business," Romano concludes. "It's maybe the most fun job on the planet."

Karen Raugust is a Minneapolis-based freelance business writer specializing in animation, publishing, licensing and art. She is the author of The Licensing Business Handbook (EPM Communications).

Trends in Voice Casting

Trends in Voice Casting
Karen Raugust talks with voice and casting directors who say that, despite fierce competition, there are opportunities for talented, fresh-voiced novices to break in.

August 29, 2007
By Karen Raugust
Printable Version

The aspiring voice actor must absorb many lessons to make it onto a show like SpongeBob. © Nickelodeon.

Celebrity casting has been among the leading trends in the animation voiceover business for over a decade, and remains so today. At the same time, however, there are more opportunities for rank-and-file voiceover actors than ever before, due to the large amount of animation being made, the diversity of styles and content, and the greater number of platforms in which to work. And, while the field remains intensely competitive, there are opportunities for new actors to break in, if they are committed, persistent, hard-working and well-trained.

"I look for the best actor for the role. I don't care if it's a celebrity or not," says Andrea Romano, an independent casting and voice director who has worked on productions including SpongeBob SquarePants, Justice League, Superman and Teen Titans.

Celebrity casting -- which impacts not only the feature film business, but also TV shows, videogames, direct-to-video productions and even some webisodic series --frustrates everyday voice actors, who believe it not only has dampened their opportunities, but also often has a detrimental effect on the productions themselves. "[Celebrity casting is about] publicity, rather than a fantastic voice," says M J Lallo, a voiceover actor, director, producer and teacher, with a studio and voiceover school in Los Angeles. "You see [the production] and you say, 'that's not an interesting voice, it's just so-and-so's voice.'"

Michael Hack, a voice and casting director whose credits include Blood+, Astro Boy, and the direct-to-video production Bratz: Camp Starshine, acknowledges that celebrity casting probably brings in viewers and dollars to feature films, but he believes the marketing value is less in television, where most viewers are kids who don't care who is doing the voice. Still, celebrities often voice television characters these days; some are naturals, while others are mostly involved for their marquee value.

"I've worked with celebrity actors who are not trained as voice actors and they're terrific," Hack says. "With others, there's a struggle, even if they're great actors, because it's such a specific skill. I might give them a note about showing more anger in a line, and they do something with their face and read it the same way."

"Celebrities will never replace the rank-and-file actors, who are so good at this," says Romano. "But some celebrities have taken to it like fish to water. They've become the rank and file." She cites Cary Elwes, Mark Hamill and Tim Curry as examples of versatile actors who can play several key roles well.

Cathy Kalmenson, partner in Kalmenson & Kalmenson Voice Casting, says celebrities bring a confidence to the roles they play. "They trust their instincts and are confident in creating characters in animated roles that are essentially authentic offshoots of themselves, really. They don't need to try to 'put on' and be someone else. They've been accepted (big time) for who they are, and are fearless in being genuine. But the majority of our day-to-day casting still includes hundreds of journeyman actors, who bring skill and freshness to selling soap, cars, beer and pet food. This is what ultimately pays the bills between the elusive big animation deals."

Michael Hack says casting directors "want to cast ethnic for ethnic."

Expanded Opportunities
These days, there are many opportunities for animation voice actors -- celebrity and specialist alike -- both in film and television, and in other media such as videogames, direct-to-video productions, Internet series, mobile phone content, and toys containing voice clips. Within each of these sectors, there are openings for a wide variety of voices. "It's a very diverse market now," Romano says. "There's action-adventure, there's silly cartoons, and everything in-between."

Videogames represent one area with a massive and growing need for voices. It's a specialized skill, involving line readings to be used in various situations rather than a continuous story arc, but it attracts both journeyman actors and celebrities. There are opportunities for those without much experience as well.

Lallo notes that there are a lot of small, lower-budget gaming companies that are willing to take a chance on new voices. They're even getting the word out in nontraditional ways, such as on Craigslist. Movie- and TV-themed games, while they occasionally feature the celebrities who appeared in the original entertainment vehicle, often use soundalike voices, providing opportunities for impressionists.

Some voice actors stay away from this segment. The time periods for voice recording can be long, up to almost a year in some cases, and there can be a lot of screaming involved, such as for a war-themed game. "It's hard on your voice," says Ginny McSwain, a freelance voice and casting director who has spent a lot of time lately in gaming. In addition, she says the same actors tend to be used again and again, so it can be hard for new voices to get their start.

Another growing opportunity is for ethnic actors, as productions increasingly are trying to incorporate realistic accents. "Almost without exception, they want to cast ethnic for ethnic," says Hack, who recently cast a production with Middle Eastern voices.

In fact, animation producers want very specific accents. For example, a voice would not be Latino, but Cuban, not American Indian, but Seminole, not from India, but from Bangalore. For immigrants, producers seek specific voices, such as an adult who's been in the United States for a certain number of years or a mixed-ethnicity child. "It makes it interesting to cast," Lallo says.


She points out, however, that this trend offers opportunities for some actors without previous experience. She cites a TV episode with multicultural themes where the producers needed a Cuban girl. The original actor didn't work out and she couldn't find a suitable replacement, so she called a Cuban restaurant in L.A. It turned out the owners had a daughter who was interested in acting and she got the part. Lallo points out that not only do ethnic accents add authenticity in line readings, but the actors are able to help make the dialogue more realistic as well.

McSwain, a 31-year veteran of the industry, notes that ethnic casting has grown dramatically over the years. "It's 1,000 percent better than it was when I started at Hanna-Barbera," she says. But she notes that the number of ethnic voiceover actors is still small. "When you need a special ethnicity, there just aren't layers of them. It's surprising how slim [the selection] is at different agencies." She notes that interactive gaming is a particularly strong market for ethnic dialects, especially in games with a global scope. "We need them."

The trend toward realism applies to age as well. Producers are looking for children to fill children's roles. And, at the same time, more kids are getting into voiceover acting. While child actors used to focus mainly on print and a little on-camera work, many are focusing on voiceovers now, developing better reading skills and keeping on top of the growing opportunities in this sector.

"Authentic is definitely the 'in' theme for today's casting, including children, ethnicity and, may I add, dialects," says Harvey Kalmenson of Kalmenson & Kalmenson. "If you need a Swede, you cast a Swede." The Kalmensons recently have cast everything from African children aged six to 14 for World Vision Relief Fund, to adults from Uzbekistan for in-flight safety announcements.

Realism also means characters are believable. "They're not cartoony," says Cathy Kalmenson. "Characters are personality-driven. They have motives, feelings, and are developed enough that the audience begins to get to know these characters, and can predict their responsiveness. This especially bonds an audience to characters in an ongoing series, such as The Simpsons or SpongeBob, as well as in feature films like Shrek."

With the growth of anime, the demand for re-dubbing work has grown. Bleach image © Tite Kubo/Shueisha, TV Tokyo, dentsu, Pierrot.

Another growth area is anime. Voicing anime is unique because the voice recording is done after the animation, as opposed to the typical situation where the voice tracks are completed first. "It's a completely different skill," explains Romano. "It requires attention to a lot of different details." The fact that the actor can see a full-fledged character and personality on-screen can sometimes be helpful, she says, but it is difficult to get used to matching your words to the existing mouth flaps, matching the existing pacing, and using the ADR (automated dialogue replacement) technology.

"It's not only the acting, but the mechanical things you have to watch out for," stresses Hack, who has worked on many anime series. He points out that most anime actors specialize in this genre exclusively, although he has brought in actors from outside that pool on rare occasions. "It's a learning process, but it added something," he says.

In general, however, mainstream voiceover actors tend to stay away from anime, not just because of their unfamiliarity with the process, but because the union pay scale per session is lower than for other types of voice acting. On the other hand, "people who do this work a lot," Romano reports. Networks often buy 65 episodes of anime, rather than the usual 13, which could translate into a year of work on one series. While the pay per session is less, actors can still do well due to the steady flow of work.

Today's diverse animation landscape means versatility is one of the most sought-after qualities in a voice actor. "The best ones are able to do it all," says Romano. "As long as they're good actors, there's work for them." She points out that union rules allow an actor to do three voices for one fee, so actors who can play a main character, as well as a butler and a waiter, in the same production are valued. "Versatility is always a benefit."

Fierce Competition
Voice acting is intensely competitive. "It's a very tough market to break into," Hack says. "You only have four hours to record an episode. Part of your task is to do it within the right amount of time." Experienced actors, therefore, make the process run more smoothly.

Still, casting directors are open to new talent if the individual is right for the job and has a fresh voice that will help differentiate a production. "There's always room for excellence," says Romano.

For any voiceover actor, the demo is the key tool for getting work. "A good demo tape is like a good headshot," Lallo explains, noting that an actor should invest in professional help to get it right: interesting order, good writing from the characters' perspective, the right music and sound effects. "Without a professional demo, you're nowhere," says Lallo.

Casting directors advise actors to make sure they're ready before they record their demo, which can cost from $400 to $2,000, including artwork, and encourage them to participate in a workshop right before recording to make sure they're in top form.

"I caution people not to overproduce their demo," Romano counsels, pointing out that some actors use too much music and too many sound effects. One of the best demos she ever received, she says, was an actor reading Dr. Seuss's One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish, changing his voice with each page.

Romano says actors should include clips long enough (15 to 20 seconds per voice) to show they can sustain a character. Just one line is not enough. "Don't put too much in a demo, just your best, those [voices] that you can call on at any time," she says, adding that an all-inclusive demo should be under five minutes. "That's enough for your ancient man, your anchorman, your animal and baby cry." (Some directors prefer demos that are as short as two minutes.)

Cathy Kalmenson encourages actors to focus on the one thing at which they excel, a defined voiceover signature that encourages typecasting or, as she terms it, "truth casting." "Rather than be all over the place, in this competitive market, a voiceover talent must present his or her strength only. Make it clear to the casting director, for example, that 'when you think nerd, think me.' Make it easy for us to cast you."

Technology has had an effect on how demos are recorded and distributed. Agents can post MP3 files to their own sites or to sites such as voicebank.net; actors can record script readings on MP3 and e-mail or post them immediately, as well as uploading clips on sites such as voice123.com, www.voices.com and www.mktmania.com. Actors also can expand their audience through sites like MySpace and You Tube. Technology also has made recording easier, enabling actors to record from remote locations through ISDN technology, so that the director has a copy in hand immediately after the session, instead of having to wait for FedEx. Not only do these technologies help casting directors meet producers' ever-tightening deadlines, but they allow them to more easily search for talent worldwide.

Casting directors say they'll sometimes listen to unsolicited demos in their search for fresh voices, but caution that these typically come from reputable colleagues such as agents or teachers, rather than from the actors themselves. Romano notes that during the 18 years she was an independent contractor based at Warner Bros., she listened to every unsolicited demo that came in (something that in-house casting directors tend to do). But she learned that, unless the actor already had an agent or a SAG card, "they really weren't ready."

Ginny McSwain has received love not only from her best friend, but from the TV Academy as well.

Breaking In
"There's always room for people who are talented. But it's not a dabbling business," says Romano, noting that an actor might have to go to five auditions a day and that it could take two to five years -- or more -- of full-time work before a person becomes established in the field.

Voice and casting directors counsel actors to watch (and especially listen) to a lot of animation, looking for trends in the types of voices being cast and listening to how actors create their characters. Actors also should study acting, and determine what types of voices they're best at. They should develop contacts and a career path in the sector of animation they're interested in, whether anime, videogames or TV; make sure their agent sends them out on plenty of auditions for that specialty; and keep up with what the networks and producers are looking for. And, if they want to focus on voice acting for animation, they need to be in L.A.

The main thing to remember is that it all comes down to good acting. Acting classes can cost $350 to $400 per class, but are a good investment, starting with general acting classes and moving on to classes specifically geared toward voice acting. (Most voice and casting directors teach, too.) While technical issues such as mic technique and pacing can be taught during the recording, actors need to bring the talent.

"Keep working on your acting chops," Lallo says. "It's not just about the voice, it's about the character under the role. The training is so important."

"It's not just standing in the studio doing funny voices, it's acting," Hack adds. "It's not Warner Bros. Bugs Bunny voices any more. It's more realistic CG animation and more realistic voices. You need to be trained and have instincts for real acting." He points out that good acting is important not only from an audio point of view, but because it affects the visuals as well. "The acting is a guide for the animators. If you don't bring anything as an actor, the animation suffers."

"You need to know it's an art form, and you have to study and know what you're doing," agrees McSwain. "And if you really want to do it, you've got to hang in there."

Despite all the challenges, new voices can break in. "I encourage people to follow their desire if they really want to get into this business," Romano concludes. "It's maybe the most fun job on the planet."

Karen Raugust is a Minneapolis-based freelance business writer specializing in animation, publishing, licensing and art. She is the author of The Licensing Business Handbook (EPM Communications).

Monday, August 27, 2007

VOICEWORX!

VOICEWORX!
Basic Voice Acting Workshop!
 
Hi There!
 
Only 2 weeks to go to our next Voiceworx! Seminar.. Its happening on September 8, 2007. The good news is, we have 7 more slots left (4 in the morning and 3 in the afternoon, REGULAR Classes) for you to take part in the most intensive and result oriented voiceacting workshop ever. It has never been this exciting! This is your chance to take hold of your career in Voiceacting or maybe just improve how people understand you by the way you talk. Remember the voice always makes the best impression!
 
To register, simply drop by at the studio at the 3rd floor Left Wing Lightblue Bldg. 1745 Dian St. Palanan Makati City. For directions on how to get there you can check our online map here.
 
Creativoices Studios
If the link doesn't work, copy this to your browser:
http://creativoices.net/blog/?page_id=8
 
Or call 729-7274 or text 0919-5731714 for directions.
 
Business Unusual

CreatiVoices is working with ARIVA! Events Management for the first HR Philippines Convention 2007, this event features HR Managers and personnel talking about the newest trend and development in finding the right people for that dream job. To be held on August 29, 2007 at the CSB Hotel International Conference Center, Dela Salle College of Saint Benilde. For more information about this you can log on to: www.ariva.com.ph The website greeting is our very own Brian Ligsay (who also did pinoycards.co.uk - with Ayeen Pineda, voty.org, voicetemplates.com and others). The Ariva team was definitely surprised with the swift, professional and accurate production of this commercial which took no more than 5 hours to accomplish! The 30s commercial is still being aired over 99.5 HIT FM, 91.5 ENERGY FM and shown over UNTV 37 (UHF). Word is out - please watch our friends from ARIVA! tomorrow over University TV Skycable 21, between 6-9am, they will be interviewed by Daniel Razon of "Good Morning Kuya" LIVE! Goodluck to you guys!

Other upcoming events sponsored by CreatiVoices is the GO-NEGOSYO series of events, and recently CreatiVoices has been spotted over FUDGE Magazine August Edition (Bamboo Cover), where the dynamic duo talks about dubbing and voice performance, trends and developments. Something that will definitely help you learn more about the world of Voice Overs. The magazine also features legendary dubber - Junie Gamboa and old time dubbing director - Mely Tagasa, known by many as "Ms. Tapia" of Iskul Bukul.

Finally Brian and Choy will be hosting the PMA - GMM, this Wednesday. The Philippine Marketing Association is the largest, oldest  and the most credible business organization in the Philippines. It boasts more than 2000 members and has been around  for more than 50 years in the country. Ofcourse, CreatiVoices is proud to be a corporate member of this association.
 
The Other Side
 
CreatiVoices did an unprecedented feat with the graduation of our June 23 batch, last August 18. Held at RedBox, Greenbelt 3 Makati City. The guys were singing, performing and it was the re-launching of the Society of Young Voice Artist of the Philippines  You can learn more about the group and see their wacky and graduation pictures by visiting the site at www.syvap.multiply.com

Happy birthday to one our beloved instructors - Danny Mandia, who celebrated a lovely birthday bash, last Friday at his beloved home in Sikatuna, QC. It was attended by close friends, voice actors and directors, artists and producers from the TV scene. Again, congratulations and Happy Birthday, Tito Dan!

Finally, watch out for the VOICEWORX! Commercial on HERO TV Channel 44 (on Sky and Home cable). Thanks to JP, Carlo, and Sir Ruel for making this happen. If you're a HEROTV club member, be sure to register because discounts and surprises awaits you! With that we're definitely sure, this batch will be filled with registrants in no time at all! So hurry up before slots run out!

Voiceover Tip of the Week
 
Keep it Cotton! Whenever performing behind the microphone in a "dead environment" (studio booth), make sure you keep away from noisy clothing, as this might ruin a great take. Voice actors always move and needs to react to act. Therefore wearing noisy fabric, such as nylon or wool, might affect the quality of the recording. Also, refrain from using dangling accessories and too much "BLING". They always produce unwanted noise that you don't want interfering with your performance. Remember microphones in these places, can pick up even the tiniest bubbles in your saliva, so check your outfit first - keep it clean and simple, and we don't suggest you perform naked either!

Most of all keep your outfit smart and comfortable, true you are getting paid by the way you speak and not by the way you dress. But producers are always on the lookout for healthy outputs and great appearance!

Stay tuned for more Updates on the voiceover world with CyberVoice!
 
 
May the Voice be with you,
 
VoiceWorx! Team
www.creativoices.com
brian@creativoices.com
VOSES
Voice Over Solutions Expert and Services

VOICEWORX!

VOICEWORX!
Basic Voice Acting Workshop!
 
Hi There!
 
Only 2 weeks to go to our next Voiceworx! Seminar.. Its happening on September 8, 2007. The good news is, we have 7 more slots left (4 in the morning and 3 in the afternoon, REGULAR Classes) for you to take part in the most intensive and result oriented voiceacting workshop ever. It has never been this exciting! This is your chance to take hold of your career in Voiceacting or maybe just improve how people understand you by the way you talk. Remember the voice always makes the best impression!
 
To register, simply drop by at the studio at the 3rd floor Left Wing Lightblue Bldg. 1745 Dian St. Palanan Makati City. For directions on how to get there you can check our online map here.
 
Creativoices Studios
If the link doesn't work, copy this to your browser:
http://creativoices.net/blog/?page_id=8
 
Or call 729-7274 or text 0919-5731714 for directions.
 
Business Unusual

CreatiVoices is working with ARIVA! Events Management for the first HR Philippines Convention 2007, this event features HR Managers and personnel talking about the newest trend and development in finding the right people for that dream job. To be held on August 29, 2007 at the CSB Hotel International Conference Center, Dela Salle College of Saint Benilde. For more information about this you can log on to: www.ariva.com.ph The website greeting is our very own Brian Ligsay (who also did pinoycards.co.uk - with Ayeen Pineda, voty.org, voicetemplates.com and others). The Ariva team was definitely surprised with the swift, professional and accurate production of this commercial which took no more than 5 hours to accomplish! The 30s commercial is still being aired over 99.5 HIT FM, 91.5 ENERGY FM and shown over UNTV 37 (UHF). Word is out - please watch our friends from ARIVA! tomorrow over University TV Skycable 21, between 6-9am, they will be interviewed by Daniel Razon of "Good Morning Kuya" LIVE! Goodluck to you guys!

Other upcoming events sponsored by CreatiVoices is the GO-NEGOSYO series of events, and recently CreatiVoices has been spotted over FUDGE Magazine August Edition (Bamboo Cover), where the dynamic duo talks about dubbing and voice performance, trends and developments. Something that will definitely help you learn more about the world of Voice Overs. The magazine also features legendary dubber - Junie Gamboa and old time dubbing director - Mely Tagasa, known by many as "Ms. Tapia" of Iskul Bukul.

Finally Brian and Choy will be hosting the PMA - GMM, this Wednesday. The Philippine Marketing Association is the largest, oldest  and the most credible business organization in the Philippines. It boasts more than 2000 members and has been around  for more than 50 years in the country. Ofcourse, CreatiVoices is proud to be a corporate member of this association.
 
The Other Side
 
CreatiVoices did an unprecedented feat with the graduation of our June 23 batch, last August 18. Held at RedBox, Greenbelt 3 Makati City. The guys were singing, performing and it was the re-launching of the Society of Young Voice Artist of the Philippines  You can learn more about the group and see their wacky and graduation pictures by visiting the site at www.syvap.multiply.com

Happy birthday to one our beloved instructors - Danny Mandia, who celebrated a lovely birthday bash, last Friday at his beloved home in Sikatuna, QC. It was attended by close friends, voice actors and directors, artists and producers from the TV scene. Again, congratulations and Happy Birthday, Tito Dan!

Finally, watch out for the VOICEWORX! Commercial on HERO TV Channel 44 (on Sky and Home cable). Thanks to JP, Carlo, and Sir Ruel for making this happen. If you're a HEROTV club member, be sure to register because discounts and surprises awaits you! With that we're definitely sure, this batch will be filled with registrants in no time at all! So hurry up before slots run out!

Voiceover Tip of the Week
 
Keep it Cotton! Whenever performing behind the microphone in a "dead environment" (studio booth), make sure you keep away from noisy clothing, as this might ruin a great take. Voice actors always move and needs to react to act. Therefore wearing noisy fabric, such as nylon or wool, might affect the quality of the recording. Also, refrain from using dangling accessories and too much "BLING". They always produce unwanted noise that you don't want interfering with your performance. Remember microphones in these places, can pick up even the tiniest bubbles in your saliva, so check your outfit first - keep it clean and simple, and we don't suggest you perform naked either!

Most of all keep your outfit smart and comfortable, true you are getting paid by the way you speak and not by the way you dress. But producers are always on the lookout for healthy outputs and great appearance!

Stay tuned for more Updates on the voiceover world with CyberVoice!
 
 
May the Voice be with you,
 
VoiceWorx! Team
www.creativoices.com
brian@creativoices.com
VOSES
Voice Over Solutions Expert and Services

Saturday, August 25, 2007

VOICE ACTING SELF HELP

Rating:★★★★★
Category:Computers & Electronics
Product Type: Computers
Manufacturer:  POCHOLO
The Sound Company Ltd - Voiceovers - http://www.sound.co.uk/www/vover.htm
Information for aspiring voice actors and working voice artists. Includes tips and tricks, article by Geoff Oliver, recommended book list, and links to related resources.
How Do I Break Into Cartoon Voice Work? - http://povonline.com/cols/COL101.htm
By Mark Evanier. [POV Online] An informative overview of the business of voice acting: its history, how it works and how to get in.
Connie Terwilliger - VO Info - http://www.voiceover-talent.com/VOinfo.htm
Professional voice artist offering voiceover information resources, recommended booklist and links, demo critiquing services and answers to frequently asked questions.
Voice Acting 101 - http://www.awn.com/mag/issue2.1/articles/bevilacqua2.1.html
By Joe Bevilacqua. [Animation World Magazine] Highly informative article on breaking into voice acting. Includes photos and interview quotes from Joe Alaskey, Bob Bergen, Greg Burson, Corey Burton, Nancy Cartwright, June Foray, Lee Richard Harris, David Kaye, Stephanie Morganstern, Daws Butler, and Phil Proctor.
Cartoon Voice History, Parts 2-3 - http://povonline.com/cols/COL268.htm
By Mark Evanier. [POV Online] Explains Screen Actors Guild contracts for voice actors and the terminologies used: sessions, incidentals, one-voicers, and multi-voicers.
Voice-acting 101 - http://www.voiceacting.com/vo101/
By James R. Alburger. Features voice-acting instruction in expression, script reading and exercises from "The Art of Voice-Acting Workshop".
Ian Alexander - Hints, Tips & Tricks - http://www.ianalexander.com/hints.html
Theories, ideas, and practical workarounds from a voice-over specialist. "They come with no guarantee they will apply to your situation, but you may find them helpful."
Getting That First Voice-over Role - http://www.awn.com/mag/issue4.06/4.06pages/kenyon/voicesurvey.php3
Compiled by Heather Kenyon. [Animation World Magazine] What casting and voice-over directors look for, and how they choose who they choose - the "do's" and "don'ts" to help you set yourself aside from the pack and capture that coveted first gig.
Webmonkey: Animation Tutorial - http://webmonkey.wired.com/webmonkey/98/33/index0a.html
By Anna McMillan. [hotwired.lycos.com] How to effectively use sound in animation.
An Interview With Kris Zimmerman On Voice Directing & Timing - http://www.awn.com/mag/issue4.06/4.06pages/schiffzimmerman/schiffzimmerman.php3
By Laura Schiff. [Animation World Magazine] Interview on how to approach nailing down the best performance time after time.
How To Choose A Voice Acting Workshop - http://www.awn.com/mag/issue5.01/5.01pages/schiffvo.php3
[Animation World Magazine] Laura Schiff reports good, solid advice from the experts regarding what to look for in a voice acting workshop.
10 Steps to Voice Over Success - http://www.awn.com/mag/issue5.10/5.10pages/sethsuccess.php3
By Joshua Seth. [Animation World Magazine] The voice of Tai in "Digimon: The Movie" offers expert advice for aspiring voice over artists.
Acting In Brief - http://members.tripod.com/%7eNorthrup/index.html
By Dr. Charles Northrup. Online acting lessons for the beginner to advanced actor.
Best Kept Secrets For Voiceovers - http://www.digitalgamedeveloper.com/Htm/Tutorials/VoiceoverSecrets/Voice_over-secrets1.htm
What every producer, casting director, director and actor should know about finding the best talent; costs, myths, and realities. Written by Lani Minella, a well-known and respected voice-over artist and director.
9 Basic Steps for Vocal Success - http://www.corffvoice.com/booklet.html
Sample lesson from Bob Corff's "Speakers Voice Method".
Having A Voice In The Industry - http://www.awn.com/mag/issue5.01/5.01pages/singervoice.php3
[Animation World Magazine] Gregory Singer offers advice to aspiring voice actors on how to get into the industry.
Jamie Thomason: Casting and Directing Disney Television - http://www.awn.com/mag/issue4.06/4.06pages/kenyon/thomasonvoice.php3
By Heather Kenyon. [Animation World Magazine] Insight into the business of voice directing, casting as well as advice for aspiring voice actors.
Voice Study - http://members.tripod.com/~Northrup/voice.html
Dr.Charles Northrup offers vocal exercises to develop your resonance and pronunciation in preparation for auditions.
Competing Voices - http://www.bizjournals.com/seattle/stories/1998/05/18/focus1.html
By Adam Worcester. [Puget Sound Business Journal] It's almost impossible to survive in the crowded voice-over market by doing strictly local gigs.
Starting Your Voiceover Career - http://www.toonvoices.com/starterflash.html
Advice, recommended instructional books and seminars from professional voice actor Howard Hoffman.
Getting Started In Voiceovers - http://www.voiceovers.com/yourvocareer.html
By Bill Murray. [voiceovers.com] Expert advice from a professional.
Cyber Nation: Acting and Actors - http://www.cyber-nation.com/victory/quotations/subjects/quotes_actingandactors.html
Selected quotations on the art and business of acting from actors past and present.
Game StudioSound: Voice Acting 101 - http://www.planethalflife.com/studiosound/voice.html
Advice on equipment and techniques for home studio recording.
Voiceover Casting Site Goes Live - http://www.awn.com/headlines/index.phtml?newsitem_no=3598
[Animation World Network] A new site has been designed to connect voiceover talent with casting directors, agents, animation studios and advertising firms via the Internet.
Digital Voices - http://declic.com/voices/tips.htm
Tips on developing a professional website to promote your voice work and how to reply to e-mail inquiries.
The Long & Winding Road to Voiceover Success - http://www.rmk.com.au/html/faq.html
Article by RMK Voice Productions "designed to help you to both understand the many obstacles and either overcome them or decide on a different career".
Ms. Communications - http://www.geocities.com/Hollywood/Boulevard/9575/
P. Catherine Shanks' "voice tips and articles on vocal technique for speakers and singers". Currently featured: breathing techniques.
How to Make a Voice Demo Tape - http://www.talentpoole.com/demotape.html
[TalentPoole.com] A voiceover talent agency offers 10 tips for making a demo.
Saban, SAG Struggle Over Digimon Dub Dispute - http://www.awn.com/headlines/index.phtml?newsitem_no=2485
From Animation World News.
Johnny George Voiceovers Q&A - http://www.johnnygeorge.com/vo1.html
Definition of "voiceover", tips and advice.

VOICE ACTING SELF HELP

Rating:★★★★★
Category:Computers & Electronics
Product Type: Computers
Manufacturer:  POCHOLO
The Sound Company Ltd - Voiceovers - http://www.sound.co.uk/www/vover.htm
Information for aspiring voice actors and working voice artists. Includes tips and tricks, article by Geoff Oliver, recommended book list, and links to related resources.
How Do I Break Into Cartoon Voice Work? - http://povonline.com/cols/COL101.htm
By Mark Evanier. [POV Online] An informative overview of the business of voice acting: its history, how it works and how to get in.
Connie Terwilliger - VO Info - http://www.voiceover-talent.com/VOinfo.htm
Professional voice artist offering voiceover information resources, recommended booklist and links, demo critiquing services and answers to frequently asked questions.
Voice Acting 101 - http://www.awn.com/mag/issue2.1/articles/bevilacqua2.1.html
By Joe Bevilacqua. [Animation World Magazine] Highly informative article on breaking into voice acting. Includes photos and interview quotes from Joe Alaskey, Bob Bergen, Greg Burson, Corey Burton, Nancy Cartwright, June Foray, Lee Richard Harris, David Kaye, Stephanie Morganstern, Daws Butler, and Phil Proctor.
Cartoon Voice History, Parts 2-3 - http://povonline.com/cols/COL268.htm
By Mark Evanier. [POV Online] Explains Screen Actors Guild contracts for voice actors and the terminologies used: sessions, incidentals, one-voicers, and multi-voicers.
Voice-acting 101 - http://www.voiceacting.com/vo101/
By James R. Alburger. Features voice-acting instruction in expression, script reading and exercises from "The Art of Voice-Acting Workshop".
Ian Alexander - Hints, Tips & Tricks - http://www.ianalexander.com/hints.html
Theories, ideas, and practical workarounds from a voice-over specialist. "They come with no guarantee they will apply to your situation, but you may find them helpful."
Getting That First Voice-over Role - http://www.awn.com/mag/issue4.06/4.06pages/kenyon/voicesurvey.php3
Compiled by Heather Kenyon. [Animation World Magazine] What casting and voice-over directors look for, and how they choose who they choose - the "do's" and "don'ts" to help you set yourself aside from the pack and capture that coveted first gig.
Webmonkey: Animation Tutorial - http://webmonkey.wired.com/webmonkey/98/33/index0a.html
By Anna McMillan. [hotwired.lycos.com] How to effectively use sound in animation.
An Interview With Kris Zimmerman On Voice Directing & Timing - http://www.awn.com/mag/issue4.06/4.06pages/schiffzimmerman/schiffzimmerman.php3
By Laura Schiff. [Animation World Magazine] Interview on how to approach nailing down the best performance time after time.
How To Choose A Voice Acting Workshop - http://www.awn.com/mag/issue5.01/5.01pages/schiffvo.php3
[Animation World Magazine] Laura Schiff reports good, solid advice from the experts regarding what to look for in a voice acting workshop.
10 Steps to Voice Over Success - http://www.awn.com/mag/issue5.10/5.10pages/sethsuccess.php3
By Joshua Seth. [Animation World Magazine] The voice of Tai in "Digimon: The Movie" offers expert advice for aspiring voice over artists.
Acting In Brief - http://members.tripod.com/%7eNorthrup/index.html
By Dr. Charles Northrup. Online acting lessons for the beginner to advanced actor.
Best Kept Secrets For Voiceovers - http://www.digitalgamedeveloper.com/Htm/Tutorials/VoiceoverSecrets/Voice_over-secrets1.htm
What every producer, casting director, director and actor should know about finding the best talent; costs, myths, and realities. Written by Lani Minella, a well-known and respected voice-over artist and director.
9 Basic Steps for Vocal Success - http://www.corffvoice.com/booklet.html
Sample lesson from Bob Corff's "Speakers Voice Method".
Having A Voice In The Industry - http://www.awn.com/mag/issue5.01/5.01pages/singervoice.php3
[Animation World Magazine] Gregory Singer offers advice to aspiring voice actors on how to get into the industry.
Jamie Thomason: Casting and Directing Disney Television - http://www.awn.com/mag/issue4.06/4.06pages/kenyon/thomasonvoice.php3
By Heather Kenyon. [Animation World Magazine] Insight into the business of voice directing, casting as well as advice for aspiring voice actors.
Voice Study - http://members.tripod.com/~Northrup/voice.html
Dr.Charles Northrup offers vocal exercises to develop your resonance and pronunciation in preparation for auditions.
Competing Voices - http://www.bizjournals.com/seattle/stories/1998/05/18/focus1.html
By Adam Worcester. [Puget Sound Business Journal] It's almost impossible to survive in the crowded voice-over market by doing strictly local gigs.
Starting Your Voiceover Career - http://www.toonvoices.com/starterflash.html
Advice, recommended instructional books and seminars from professional voice actor Howard Hoffman.
Getting Started In Voiceovers - http://www.voiceovers.com/yourvocareer.html
By Bill Murray. [voiceovers.com] Expert advice from a professional.
Cyber Nation: Acting and Actors - http://www.cyber-nation.com/victory/quotations/subjects/quotes_actingandactors.html
Selected quotations on the art and business of acting from actors past and present.
Game StudioSound: Voice Acting 101 - http://www.planethalflife.com/studiosound/voice.html
Advice on equipment and techniques for home studio recording.
Voiceover Casting Site Goes Live - http://www.awn.com/headlines/index.phtml?newsitem_no=3598
[Animation World Network] A new site has been designed to connect voiceover talent with casting directors, agents, animation studios and advertising firms via the Internet.
Digital Voices - http://declic.com/voices/tips.htm
Tips on developing a professional website to promote your voice work and how to reply to e-mail inquiries.
The Long & Winding Road to Voiceover Success - http://www.rmk.com.au/html/faq.html
Article by RMK Voice Productions "designed to help you to both understand the many obstacles and either overcome them or decide on a different career".
Ms. Communications - http://www.geocities.com/Hollywood/Boulevard/9575/
P. Catherine Shanks' "voice tips and articles on vocal technique for speakers and singers". Currently featured: breathing techniques.
How to Make a Voice Demo Tape - http://www.talentpoole.com/demotape.html
[TalentPoole.com] A voiceover talent agency offers 10 tips for making a demo.
Saban, SAG Struggle Over Digimon Dub Dispute - http://www.awn.com/headlines/index.phtml?newsitem_no=2485
From Animation World News.
Johnny George Voiceovers Q&A - http://www.johnnygeorge.com/vo1.html
Definition of "voiceover", tips and advice.

Thursday, August 23, 2007

VOICEWORX! Recording




VOICEWORX! Recording




ALEXX AGCAOILI on VOICEWORX




ALEXX AGCAOILI on VOICEWORX




Podcast Interview with Jhet Torcelino-van Ruyven




Jhet Torcelino-van Ruyven is an inspirational example of a person who does whatever it takes to achieve success and well being in life. Jhet came from humble beginnings. She was born in a tiny rural village in the Philippines. There was no electricity in her village and the only mode of transportation was by foot. Jhet is the second eldest in a family of twelve children. Her family faced serious poverty throughout her childhood. In fact, from a very young age and throughout high school, Jhet helped her parents feed her brothers and sisters by spending any spare time she had vending in the villages surrounding her home. Despite growing up in an environment laden with challenge and adversity, Jhet always believed in her own potential.
author


Shortly after high school graduation, Jhet was blessed by the kindness of a priest. This man touched her life. He helped Jhet enroll in an exclusive school for girls. In exchange for her tuition, food and accommodation, she had to work hard cleaning offices, doing laundry and washing dishes by hand. At the age of eighteen she finished a Medical Secretarial course and was able to secure a good job in a hospital. Jhet’s consistent hard work and dedication to excellence turned heads and Jhet found herself consistently promoted.

In 1984, Jhet left the Philippines for the first time to work in Yemen Arab Republic. It was in Yemen that she met an interesting Dutch man who would later become her husband. In addition to this happy occurrence, Jhet had other amazing experiences in Yemen. While volunteering for the Sisters of Charity, Jhet had the privilege of meeting Mother Theresa. Shortly thereafter, Jhet began the next chapter of her incredible life. In 1987, the newly married Jhet and her husband immigrated to Canada.

Barely 2 months after the young couple’s arrival in Canada, Jhet was expecting her first daughter. It was then that she decided to start a home-based business. Four years later, raising two toddlers, she decided to go to work full-out. Once again, Jhet would prove her strong-willed determination and effective goal-setting strategies. Through her amazing sales, Jhet remarkably earned every all-expenses-paid incentive trip offered by her company – including jaunts to San Francisco, Toronto, Arizona and the Caribbean.

In 1994 Jhet demonstrated her entrepreneurial spirit again and started her own Business Centre. Three years later, she expanded this and opened Digi-Print Graphics Plus – a successful digital printing and graphic design company located in South Surrey, British Columbia. Despite many hardships, Jhet continued to persevere and the business continued to flourish. In 1996 Jhet Torcelino-van Ruyven was nominated in Surrey, B.C., as Business Woman of the Year – a proud moment indeed!

In the year 2003, Jhet faced a serious personal tragedy that prompted her to take stock of her life. This traumatic event forced Jhet to re-examine her journey from poverty to abundance. Jhet decided she needed to show true gratitude for her good fortune and decided she would take her good fortune and pay it forward. Since then, Jhet has been putting plans in place that will help her accomplish her newly defined life mission – to inspire people to reach their full potential. Through books and workshops, she is doing her best to pass on a message of courage, hope and determination. Jhet Torcelino-van Ruyven is a wonderful example of the power of the human spirit. Spend a moment in her presence, and be inspired by her remarkable story.

Podcast Interview with Jhet Torcelino-van Ruyven




Jhet Torcelino-van Ruyven is an inspirational example of a person who does whatever it takes to achieve success and well being in life. Jhet came from humble beginnings. She was born in a tiny rural village in the Philippines. There was no electricity in her village and the only mode of transportation was by foot. Jhet is the second eldest in a family of twelve children. Her family faced serious poverty throughout her childhood. In fact, from a very young age and throughout high school, Jhet helped her parents feed her brothers and sisters by spending any spare time she had vending in the villages surrounding her home. Despite growing up in an environment laden with challenge and adversity, Jhet always believed in her own potential.
author


Shortly after high school graduation, Jhet was blessed by the kindness of a priest. This man touched her life. He helped Jhet enroll in an exclusive school for girls. In exchange for her tuition, food and accommodation, she had to work hard cleaning offices, doing laundry and washing dishes by hand. At the age of eighteen she finished a Medical Secretarial course and was able to secure a good job in a hospital. Jhet’s consistent hard work and dedication to excellence turned heads and Jhet found herself consistently promoted.

In 1984, Jhet left the Philippines for the first time to work in Yemen Arab Republic. It was in Yemen that she met an interesting Dutch man who would later become her husband. In addition to this happy occurrence, Jhet had other amazing experiences in Yemen. While volunteering for the Sisters of Charity, Jhet had the privilege of meeting Mother Theresa. Shortly thereafter, Jhet began the next chapter of her incredible life. In 1987, the newly married Jhet and her husband immigrated to Canada.

Barely 2 months after the young couple’s arrival in Canada, Jhet was expecting her first daughter. It was then that she decided to start a home-based business. Four years later, raising two toddlers, she decided to go to work full-out. Once again, Jhet would prove her strong-willed determination and effective goal-setting strategies. Through her amazing sales, Jhet remarkably earned every all-expenses-paid incentive trip offered by her company – including jaunts to San Francisco, Toronto, Arizona and the Caribbean.

In 1994 Jhet demonstrated her entrepreneurial spirit again and started her own Business Centre. Three years later, she expanded this and opened Digi-Print Graphics Plus – a successful digital printing and graphic design company located in South Surrey, British Columbia. Despite many hardships, Jhet continued to persevere and the business continued to flourish. In 1996 Jhet Torcelino-van Ruyven was nominated in Surrey, B.C., as Business Woman of the Year – a proud moment indeed!

In the year 2003, Jhet faced a serious personal tragedy that prompted her to take stock of her life. This traumatic event forced Jhet to re-examine her journey from poverty to abundance. Jhet decided she needed to show true gratitude for her good fortune and decided she would take her good fortune and pay it forward. Since then, Jhet has been putting plans in place that will help her accomplish her newly defined life mission – to inspire people to reach their full potential. Through books and workshops, she is doing her best to pass on a message of courage, hope and determination. Jhet Torcelino-van Ruyven is a wonderful example of the power of the human spirit. Spend a moment in her presence, and be inspired by her remarkable story.

Sunday, August 19, 2007

DragonBall Z Voice Actors (FUNimation)




This is a short clip of the extra that is on Dragon Ball Z Budokai 3. You'll see and hear a lot of familar voices from the show. From Yahoo

DragonBall Z Voice Actors (FUNimation)




This is a short clip of the extra that is on Dragon Ball Z Budokai 3. You'll see and hear a lot of familar voices from the show. From Yahoo

Saturday, August 18, 2007

RAGNABEAT

RAGNABEAT
Ragnarok: The Animation to �rok Philippine TV

      
Ramon C. Macutay

ABS-CBN and Level-Up! Games recently inked the deal for a strategic multi-media partnership for the much awaited Philippine release of �Ragnarok: The Animation.� The multi-media partnership includes TV rights, merchandise licensing, cable airing and video distribution. Ragnarok: The Animation will hit the small screen in October over ABS-CBN 2.

Centered on the tale of neophyte adventurers Yuufa and Roan, Ragnarok: The Animation details their epic journey around the world of Midgard while fighting the evil denizens that have infested the world after a series of unfortunate disasters took place. Along the way, they are helped by companions and friends to help defeat the evil that's been causing the chaos.

Yuufa is the Acolyte with the golden heart, because she will heal anyone without even asking for a single zenny! She often acts like a princess whenever she would ask Roan for something (which happens a lot of times). Although she won't readily admit to having any feelings for Roan, she will do anything for him. She's a good support Acolyte and an indispensable member of their party.  Her memory of the death of her brother, Keough, torments her to this day. Yuufa travels with her childhood friend, Roan.

Roan is Yuufa's self-proclaimed protector. He has a huge crush on Yuufa, but he can't admit it until he has proven his worth. He's a clumsy lad and blunders a lot, but he's very brave and possesses great potential. Even with the occasional goofs, people should watch out for him because his Magnum Break packs a mean punch!

During their travels, Roan and Yuufa team up with newfound friends, Takius, the lovely yet mysterious Mage; Maaya, the cute and lovable Merchant (and her Poring pet, Poy-Poy!); and lovers Iruga, the soft-spoken Assassion and Judia, a skilled and battle hardened Huntress.

The animation series, produced by Studio Gonzo of Japan (producers of Gatekeepers, Blue Submarine 26 and Final Fantasy Unlimited), will be adopted for the local market and will be "tagalized" by a well-known team of professional voice-actors.

Tapping the skills of veteran dubbing director Danny L. Mandia (ABS-CBN's Magic Knight: Rayearth, Meteor Garden) to helm the all-important dubbing of the anime into Tagalog for local audiences, it wasn't immediately apparent how big the project was until he found out his son played the game.

Though it is much like the Online Game, the anime has its own identity. The places, items and characters pretty much function the same way in-game and in the series. Porings, Spores and Fabres scurry around the same forests as they do in-game. Geography and travel have remained consistent; the early journeys of the characters between the cities of Geffen and Prontera took them through forests as much as a player in the game would. However, the epic scope and deep themes dealt within the series contrasts heavily with the jovial, anything-goes attitude of the people in the online community. Think of Rayearth more than Lupin III.

The fans of the game weren't totally disregarded in the dubbing process however. The in-game lingo unique to the local pRO community is there whenever they feel it fits into the scene. Apart from using the same game terms in the Tagalog-dubbed anime, some fan lingo made it through to the production. Common playerspeak ("i-heal", "pa-heal", "oist"), contractions (Clocktower = "C.T.") and even their unique vocabulary (guapo = "wafu") has made it into the anime dub.

For true RO players, the catch is to seek the references out. An RO player like Yuufa's voice-actress, Sherwin Revister, should know. "They're there," she says, "You just have to listen carefully to find them."

So, all pRO enthusiasts take heed! Level-Up! Games will soon be coming out with an official site for Ragnarok: The Animation. There, you'll learn more about our heroes, Roan, Yuffa and their friends. Also, there's tons of stuff to download too, like wallpapers, desktop themes, and trailers.

Stay tuned for updates and announcements at the notice patch, in-game and the LUG website, www.levelupgames.ph


RAGNABEAT

RAGNABEAT
Ragnarok: The Animation to �rok Philippine TV

      
Ramon C. Macutay

ABS-CBN and Level-Up! Games recently inked the deal for a strategic multi-media partnership for the much awaited Philippine release of �Ragnarok: The Animation.� The multi-media partnership includes TV rights, merchandise licensing, cable airing and video distribution. Ragnarok: The Animation will hit the small screen in October over ABS-CBN 2.

Centered on the tale of neophyte adventurers Yuufa and Roan, Ragnarok: The Animation details their epic journey around the world of Midgard while fighting the evil denizens that have infested the world after a series of unfortunate disasters took place. Along the way, they are helped by companions and friends to help defeat the evil that's been causing the chaos.

Yuufa is the Acolyte with the golden heart, because she will heal anyone without even asking for a single zenny! She often acts like a princess whenever she would ask Roan for something (which happens a lot of times). Although she won't readily admit to having any feelings for Roan, she will do anything for him. She's a good support Acolyte and an indispensable member of their party.  Her memory of the death of her brother, Keough, torments her to this day. Yuufa travels with her childhood friend, Roan.

Roan is Yuufa's self-proclaimed protector. He has a huge crush on Yuufa, but he can't admit it until he has proven his worth. He's a clumsy lad and blunders a lot, but he's very brave and possesses great potential. Even with the occasional goofs, people should watch out for him because his Magnum Break packs a mean punch!

During their travels, Roan and Yuufa team up with newfound friends, Takius, the lovely yet mysterious Mage; Maaya, the cute and lovable Merchant (and her Poring pet, Poy-Poy!); and lovers Iruga, the soft-spoken Assassion and Judia, a skilled and battle hardened Huntress.

The animation series, produced by Studio Gonzo of Japan (producers of Gatekeepers, Blue Submarine 26 and Final Fantasy Unlimited), will be adopted for the local market and will be "tagalized" by a well-known team of professional voice-actors.

Tapping the skills of veteran dubbing director Danny L. Mandia (ABS-CBN's Magic Knight: Rayearth, Meteor Garden) to helm the all-important dubbing of the anime into Tagalog for local audiences, it wasn't immediately apparent how big the project was until he found out his son played the game.

Though it is much like the Online Game, the anime has its own identity. The places, items and characters pretty much function the same way in-game and in the series. Porings, Spores and Fabres scurry around the same forests as they do in-game. Geography and travel have remained consistent; the early journeys of the characters between the cities of Geffen and Prontera took them through forests as much as a player in the game would. However, the epic scope and deep themes dealt within the series contrasts heavily with the jovial, anything-goes attitude of the people in the online community. Think of Rayearth more than Lupin III.

The fans of the game weren't totally disregarded in the dubbing process however. The in-game lingo unique to the local pRO community is there whenever they feel it fits into the scene. Apart from using the same game terms in the Tagalog-dubbed anime, some fan lingo made it through to the production. Common playerspeak ("i-heal", "pa-heal", "oist"), contractions (Clocktower = "C.T.") and even their unique vocabulary (guapo = "wafu") has made it into the anime dub.

For true RO players, the catch is to seek the references out. An RO player like Yuufa's voice-actress, Sherwin Revister, should know. "They're there," she says, "You just have to listen carefully to find them."

So, all pRO enthusiasts take heed! Level-Up! Games will soon be coming out with an official site for Ragnarok: The Animation. There, you'll learn more about our heroes, Roan, Yuffa and their friends. Also, there's tons of stuff to download too, like wallpapers, desktop themes, and trailers.

Stay tuned for updates and announcements at the notice patch, in-game and the LUG website, www.levelupgames.ph


Magic knight rayearth tagalog opening w/lyrics on video




"Dakilang Tagapagtanggol Mo"
Magic Knight Rayerath ABS-CBN Tagalog Opening
Music By: Naomi Tamura & Hiromon Ishikawa
Tagalog lyrics by: Danny Mandia
Performed by:Cynthia Villanueva, Daisy May Carino & Maripette Narvasa

Magic knight rayearth tagalog opening w/lyrics on video




"Dakilang Tagapagtanggol Mo"
Magic Knight Rayerath ABS-CBN Tagalog Opening
Music By: Naomi Tamura & Hiromon Ishikawa
Tagalog lyrics by: Danny Mandia
Performed by:Cynthia Villanueva, Daisy May Carino & Maripette Narvasa

VOICEWORX! GRADUATION




Redbox Greenbelt 3 MAKATI CITY August 18, 2007

VOICEWORX! GRADUATION




Redbox Greenbelt 3 MAKATI CITY August 18, 2007

Friday, August 17, 2007

everythingVO.com from Dave & Dave Incorporated

http://everythingvo.com/

everythingVO.com from Dave & Dave Incorporated

http://everythingvo.com/

Voice Over Resource Guide

http://www.voiceoverresourceguide.com

Voice Over Resource Guide

http://www.voiceoverresourceguide.com

VOICE DUBBING V/s ACTING

VOICE DUBBING V/s ACTING

Voice Dubbing, Mimicry or doing voice overs brings out a talented artiste’s ability to play different voice roles from background first voice, dubbing for cartoon films, muppet or puppet animation, mimicry, advertisements containing variations of voices ad the list goes on. The area of specialization is also unending and a simple voice artiste can be a specialized voice artiste in any of the mentioned areas.

 
 

In today’s arena where more than one thousand feature films roll over in India every year, more than 150 satellite channels are beamed over and lot of Foreign Films are like of Indians, regional language dubbing is welcomed by us. Even reputed and famous starts have lent their voices in many animated and cartoon films here in India. Some of you must know that Cartoon Network had a low TRP when it was launched in India as a first animated Channel. But since they have started their Hindi Channel their TRP has enhanced a lot. Same is the case of other channels. Now Hindi dubbed animations and films are considered as original as they are in their source language.

There is also a misconception that Voicing is easier than acting in front of camera. Yes, in terms of getting ready, good clean face, costumes etc, but a big No in terms of quality and providing satisfied work. In some terms voicing becomes more difficult than acting. You have to get in the character and you’ve got only one tool- your voice to bring out the real person out of it. Your ability to give variations in your voice, be it different human voices or many types of other sounds or expressions do provide a broader spectrum in regard to your profession.

Another important aspect of being a voice artiste is knowledge of the language you are speaking in regard to pronunciation, diction, clarity, grammar and the diction. A voice artiste should be capable of giving as close to the original soundtrack of source film in providing a real, sensible voice with proper pauses, gestures and behavior. Your ability to translate from the source language to the dubbed language is another asset, which should not be forgot of. Sometimes a translator has to adapt a foreign script in to a target local language like, you may have to dub an English film into bhojpuri to target that area of people, this needs to add many local dialects and diction and the voice artiste should have proper knowledge of that.

You have the courage; you have the voice, do train yourself good, practice, practice and practice. Read the other articles and enrich yourself and my endeavor to have more and more people in this trade makes me happy. You are welcome to comment upon anything you like. We all are learning. One thing more, would like to mention that you have to reach the world to show case your talent so try to grab every opportunity that come your way. One who is not a loser who fails in an audition, one is a loser who does not appear for auditions.

VOICE DUBBING V/s ACTING

VOICE DUBBING V/s ACTING

Voice Dubbing, Mimicry or doing voice overs brings out a talented artiste’s ability to play different voice roles from background first voice, dubbing for cartoon films, muppet or puppet animation, mimicry, advertisements containing variations of voices ad the list goes on. The area of specialization is also unending and a simple voice artiste can be a specialized voice artiste in any of the mentioned areas.

 
 

In today’s arena where more than one thousand feature films roll over in India every year, more than 150 satellite channels are beamed over and lot of Foreign Films are like of Indians, regional language dubbing is welcomed by us. Even reputed and famous starts have lent their voices in many animated and cartoon films here in India. Some of you must know that Cartoon Network had a low TRP when it was launched in India as a first animated Channel. But since they have started their Hindi Channel their TRP has enhanced a lot. Same is the case of other channels. Now Hindi dubbed animations and films are considered as original as they are in their source language.

There is also a misconception that Voicing is easier than acting in front of camera. Yes, in terms of getting ready, good clean face, costumes etc, but a big No in terms of quality and providing satisfied work. In some terms voicing becomes more difficult than acting. You have to get in the character and you’ve got only one tool- your voice to bring out the real person out of it. Your ability to give variations in your voice, be it different human voices or many types of other sounds or expressions do provide a broader spectrum in regard to your profession.

Another important aspect of being a voice artiste is knowledge of the language you are speaking in regard to pronunciation, diction, clarity, grammar and the diction. A voice artiste should be capable of giving as close to the original soundtrack of source film in providing a real, sensible voice with proper pauses, gestures and behavior. Your ability to translate from the source language to the dubbed language is another asset, which should not be forgot of. Sometimes a translator has to adapt a foreign script in to a target local language like, you may have to dub an English film into bhojpuri to target that area of people, this needs to add many local dialects and diction and the voice artiste should have proper knowledge of that.

You have the courage; you have the voice, do train yourself good, practice, practice and practice. Read the other articles and enrich yourself and my endeavor to have more and more people in this trade makes me happy. You are welcome to comment upon anything you like. We all are learning. One thing more, would like to mention that you have to reach the world to show case your talent so try to grab every opportunity that come your way. One who is not a loser who fails in an audition, one is a loser who does not appear for auditions.

Wednesday, August 15, 2007

Steve Jobs Stanford Commencement Speech 2005




Here we see Steve Jobs delivering his commencement speech to the graduates of Stanford University in 2005. In it he talks about getting fired from Apple in 1985, life & death.

Steve Jobs Stanford Commencement Speech 2005




Here we see Steve Jobs delivering his commencement speech to the graduates of Stanford University in 2005. In it he talks about getting fired from Apple in 1985, life & death.

Voiceover Artist Rodney Saulsberry's Interview on FOX 6 News




Voice-over Celebrity and Author Rodney Saulsberry's 2004 book tour for his bestseller, "You Can Bank on Your Voice."

Voiceover Artist Rodney Saulsberry's Interview on FOX 6 News




Voice-over Celebrity and Author Rodney Saulsberry's 2004 book tour for his bestseller, "You Can Bank on Your Voice."

Rodney Saulsberry : Promote Yourself: Voice Over Strategies




Join Voice Over Expert Rodney Saulsberry as he teaches you how to "Promote Yourself: Voice Over Strategies". As instructed in Rodney's book "You Can Bank on Your Voice", learn how to advertise yourself with the saturation method and get your name on the client's brain.