Unlocking the Potential of Voice Acting Through Improv
Unlocking the Potential of Voice Acting Through Improv
Ever experienced the thrill of an improv class? My introduction to the world of improvisation by my first teacher, Diana Mady Kelly, left an indelible mark on my career. Under the guidance of Kelly, a student of Viola Spolin and Uta Hagen, the power of “yes, and…” became a transformative force, shaping my journey as a voice over actor.
Improvisation, a form of live theatre where the plot, characters, and dialogue unfold spontaneously, offers a unique set of skills beneficial for voice actors. This powerful tool, deeply rooted in the philosophy of “working in the now,” has significantly contributed to my growth and proficiency in the voiceover industry.
Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
Voice acting often feels isolating, especially in a world increasingly reliant on home studios and self-direction. Whether navigating a pandemic or not, voice actors might find minimal interaction with others. Joining an improv group or taking lessons breaks the isolation, pushing you out of your comfort zone both physically and emotionally. In the era of COVID-19, exploring online improv groups becomes a way to connect and create.
Improvisation schools and troupes, including theater sports, share a common thread – collaboration. Stepping out of your personal booth and teaming up with fellow actors fosters storytelling. This collaboration encourages exploration of the unconventional and embracing the eccentric, providing a safe space for pushing creative boundaries.
Be Fully Present in the Moment
The essence of improvisation lies in being fully present in the moment, adapting to the evolving scene or story. This skill translates seamlessly into voice acting, promoting a heightened connection to the script. Staying attentive to the copy and immersing oneself in the project’s world minimizes mistakes, overthinking, and enhances relaxation and engagement for the actor.
Create a World by Improvising One
Improvisers excel at constructing worlds from nothing, imagining and describing environments that captivate audiences. Voice actors, too, engage in world-building within the confines of their booths. By defining characters, settings, and circumstances, a voice actor breathes life into a script, showcasing the importance of a nimble and robust imagination across various genres.
Stay Open to Possibilities
The cardinal rule of improv is embracing the philosophy of “yes, and…” This rule encourages actors to agree with the story’s direction and contribute to its development. Staying open to possibilities and new directions fosters creativity, allowing actors to drop preconceived notions and explore fresh approaches to storytelling.
For voice actors, this openness proves invaluable in discovering new ways to authentically deliver a script. Embracing the moment and the “yes-and” mentality facilitates collaboration with directors and creatives during sessions, unveiling previously undiscovered performance options. In these moments, genuine brilliance in voiceover work becomes possible.
Incorporating improv into your toolkit as a voice actor is more than a performance enhancer; it’s a gateway to a dynamic and creatively fulfilling career.
