Auditioning as a voice actor is a unique challenge. It’s not just about reading the script — it’s about finding your way to stand out and bring something extra to the table without altering the words themselves. In this blog, we’ll dive into some top tips on how to nail your voice acting auditions and make an unforgettable impression.
1. Stand Out by Adding Your Unique Touch
When you read a script for an audition, the first thing you should consider is how other people might interpret it. There’s a good chance many actors will approach the script in a similar way. So, think about how you can bring something new to the performance. This doesn’t mean changing the script but rather adding a unique delivery — a subtle hesitation, an unexpected pause, or a shift in tone.
If you’re auditioning for a younger audience, don’t make it too intense or dynamic; keep it relatable. For older audiences, avoid being overly monotone. The goal is to tailor your delivery to the imagined listener, bringing a subtle difference that will catch the casting director’s attention.
2. Set the Right Mood with Music
One trick I often use is listening to music while I record. Depending on the project, different genres or tempos can get me into the right mindset. For example, if the script calls for something emotional or slow-paced, I might listen to a calming or melancholic song. On the flip side, if I need high energy or excitement, I’ll throw on something upbeat. I’ll often switch the music between takes to see how it affects my delivery.
This is a great way to shift your mood quickly and fine-tune your performance without overthinking.
3. Voice Actor, Experiment with Different Characters in Your Auditions
When approaching voice actor auditions, it’s essential to think beyond just reading the script — experiment with different characters and delivery styles to showcase your range.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. Think about the character or scene you’re voicing, and then push it further. Try doing a read as an elderly woman or a shy young boy. Your delivery shouldn't necesseraly sound like an old lady, but just have that character in your head. How does that change the tone and delivery of the line? Maybe it’s an overly enthusiastic version or a super chill, relaxed one. Playing with these different approaches not only helps you discover new ways to approach the script but also gives the casting directors a fresh and unexpected take that might just be what they’re looking for.
4. Audio Quality Matters — Normalize Your Audition
Last but not least, the technical aspect of your audition is crucial. While you don’t need to go full post-production on your audition like you would for a final project, one thing you should do is normalize your audio. Why? Because casting directors might be listening on basic laptop speakers, and you want to make sure your performance comes through clearly and at the right volume.
Normalization ensures that your audio is loud enough without distorting the quality, making it easier for the casting team to hear you, even if they’re using less-than-ideal equipment.
Final Thoughts
Nailing an audition as a voice actor is all about preparation, creativity, and attention to detail. Stand out by adding a personal twist to your performance, get into the right headspace with music, explore different characters and perspectives, and ensure your audio is clean and clear. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to landing that next big role.
Good luck, and remember — your voice is your instrument. Make it unique!
Cheers,
Serge.
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