Comprehensive Voiceover Animation Training

by Debbie Wilson
Debbie.Wilson@theanimationschooldirectory.com
Animation Columnist

While it is true that the voiceover industry has historically been comprised of approximately 90% males, today that figure has changed to incorporate more than 30% females. This change has allowed unprecedented opportunities for both women and men to earn top dollar in a fast growing segment of animation. So if you have a desire to showcase your voice, stretch your creativity, and embark upon a unique and adventurous journey, you might want to consider a career in voiceover animation.

Why Voiceover Animation Training Is Critical

The first cartoon voice artist was probably Walt Disney. He made the first sound cartoons, casting himself as Mickey Mouse and other staff members as various cartoon characters. And while this worked well for a while, the animation industry soon came to realize that it took special voiceover animation training in addition to raw talent to provide quality voiceover results. Today, competition for voiceover animation jobs is fierce, which means you must be well prepared before interviewing for such a position.

Voiceover animation training can take the form of acting lessons, improvisational comedy, cold readings, and the development of a demo cassette, which will demonstrate your versatility and professionalism. There are many qualified schools and programs where you can obtain the voiceover animation training you desire. Some schools even provide successful, voiceover industry professionals who can refine your voiceover skills in a technical environment. Additionally, many schools will also help with job placement and the interviewing process.

Voiceover Animation Jobs – Where Are They?

The opportunities for voiceover actors continue to increase. Voiceover animation jobs can be found virtually anywhere you find animation and airwaves. Some typical voiceover jobs include animated cartoons, commercial and film industry, industrial and corporate films and videos, books-on-tape, audio tours, CD-ROMs, children's records, interactive voice response (IVR) telephone, video games, and documentaries. In most cases though, the work won't come to you so be prepared to travel or live where the work is. With the proper voiceover animation training and a strong desire to succeed, your quest for an exciting voiceover animation job could become reality. Come find your voice today!

About the Author

Debbie Wilson owns and operates a lakeside resort, managing all aspects of operations, including marketing and promotion. Her previous experience includes management and profitability consulting for a national healthcare company. In this capacity, she oversaw a five-state operation, utilizing her extensive knowledge of healthcare billing, A/R management, and human resources. Debbie holds a B.A. in Business Management with a minor in Physical Education.