High Notes

In this episode of High Notes, we sit down with Tom Keegan, an acclaimed performance director behind major AAA titles such as Jedi: Fallen Order, Wolfenstein, Call of Duty, World of Warcraft and more.Based in LA, Tom reflects on his creatively rich upbringing and his path to becoming a leading figure in video game performance direction. The conversation looks at the evolution of voice performance in games, the power of subtext, and what sets video game acting apart from other forms of voice work.He also previews his upcoming book, The Complete Guide to Video Game Performance Directing: Place, Time, Action, offering practical insights into the craft, your own creativity, and other deeply human aspects of game development.Whether you're an aspiring actor, director, or simply fascinated by the art behind your favourite games, this episode offers a compelling look into the world of interactive storytelling.https://www.tomkeegan.net/https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1146741/https://www.instagram.com/tomkstudios/https://www.routledge.com/The-Complete-Guide-to-Videogame-Performance-Directing-Place-Time-Action/Keegan/p/book/9781032914541?srsltid=AfmBOoroDSYuJU8bQauYeiIyWVq2CgLfuM35ClTVL7dvRCk4BhaG2UdiSubscribe to the BRAVA newsletter for news updates, training opportunities, and more from the world of business, acting and voice: https://www.brava.uk.com/subscribe00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast00:52 Meet Tom Keegan: Journey to Video Game Performance Direction02:58 The Art of Voice Acting in Video Games04:12 Tom Keegan's New Book: A Guide for Directors and Actors10:03 Understanding Place, Time, and Action in Voice Acting12:31 Common Mistakes in Performance Capture and VO Booths17:02 BRAVA: Elevate Your Voice Acting Skills17:46 Tapping into Emotional Truth in Imaginary Worlds20:22 The Physicality of Voice Acting23:28 The Evolution of Voice Performance24:32 Casting Voice Actors for Games26:32 Finding Subtext in Game Scripts28:49 Unlocking Great Performances31:56 Self-Care for Directors and Actors35:00 The Importance of Coaching36:41 Skills for Iconic Storytelling Projects38:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Inside Aardman: Bringing Clay to Life - Characters, Voice & Performance with Merlin Crossingham In this episode of High Notes, Melissa talks to Merlin Crossingham, Creative Director for Wallace and Gromit at Aardman Animations. Merlin shares some surprising stories from his childhood that led him onto a very specific career path in animation, as well as thoughts on the timeless appeal of Wallace and Gromit. The conversation explores the intricacies of voice performance, character development and the evolving landscape of voice acting, in an era of AI and immersive media. Melissa and Merlin also discuss the importance of physicality in voice acting, the challenges of directing new talent, and magic moments in the booth that can really bring animation characters to life.Find out more about the wonderful world of Aardman https://www.aardman.com/Subscribe to the BRAVA newsletter for news updates, training opportunities, and more from the world of business, acting and voice: https://www.brava.uk.com/subscribe00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast00:51 Meet Merlin Ingham: Creative Director for Wallace and Gromit01:42 Merlin's Journey: From Circus Skills to Animation03:34 The Timeless Appeal of Wallace and Gromit06:11 The Art of Silent Storytelling08:31 Casting Voices for Animation19:03 Directing Voice Actors for Stop Motion25:29 The Evolution of Morph and Voice Acting28:41 Challenges of Interactive Storytelling31:20 The Human Touch in Animation32:34 Keeping Wallace and Gromit Fresh35:10 Advice for Aspiring Voice Actors37:23 Reflections on Success and Future Projects39:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Magic of PIxar: Voice Casting with Kate Hansen-BirnbaumIn this episode of High Notes, Melissa chats to Kate Hansen Birnbaum, Casting Director at Pixar, whose credits include beloved animated films like Inside Out 2, Soul, Elemental, and Luca.Kate shares her unconventional path into casting, which began at a San Francisco talent agency under the mentorship of seasoned actors. She offers a rare look inside Pixar’s intricate casting process, highlighting the value placed on authenticity, natural vocal tone, and the ability to truly inspire the animation team. The conversation touches on Pixar’s commitment to diverse and inclusive casting, including their practice of anonymised auditions to help reduce unconscious bias.Kate also brings the episode to life with memorable stories from her career, particularly the joy of working on Elemental — and shares thoughtful advice for aspiring voice actors. She highlights the importance of continuous growth and curiosity, and the unmitigated joy of delivering life-changing news to chosen performers.https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10779349/https://www.jetalent.com/https://www.pixar.com/Subscribe to the BRAVA newsletter for news updates, training opportunities, and more from the world of business, acting and voice: https://www.brava.uk.com/subscribe00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:19 Kate's Journey into Casting02:19 The Casting Process at Pixar04:22 Finding Unique Voices08:02 Diversity and Inclusion in Casting10:16 Changes in Casting Over the Years16:50 Advice for Aspiring Voice Actors19:33 Favourite Moments and Final ThoughtsRead an edited transcript here... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of High Notes, we engage in a captivating conversation with Abi Longstaffe from Spotlight. Abi discusses her journey in the creative arts, from her theatrical family history to drama school and her extensive career in casting and talent management. We delve into the evolving landscape of talent and voiceover work, hear expert advice on navigating a creative career, and explore the significant roles Abi has held in various renowned organisations. Tune in for insightful anecdotes, professional guidance, and a closer look at the art and business of voice acting.00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast00:52 Guest Introduction: Abi Longstaffe from Spotlight01:34 Abby's Early Life and Inspirations05:43 Acting Journey and Drama School Experience08:42 Transition to Professional Roles and Spotlight16:13 Spotlight's Evolution and Voiceover Support21:01 Importance of Industry Relationships23:13 Conclusion and FarewellRead the full transcript here... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

High Notes: A Conversation with Sinead Garvan - From Radio to VOIn this episode, we talk to Sinead Garvan, the voice behind some of the UK’s favourite radio shows and podcasts. We chat about Sinead's journey from her early days as a young narrator in school plays to her transition from radio to voiceover.Sinead shares her experience of working with celebrities like Chris Evans, Claudia Winkleman and Nick Grimshaw, takes us through some major challenges she's faced, and shares her views on the evolving media landscape.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:24 Meet Sinead Garvan01:09 Sinead's Early Years and Love for Narration04:31 First Job in Journalism08:17 Experiences in Radio13:44 Challenges in Journalism19:12 Transition to Voiceover Work33:22 Advice for Aspiring Voiceover Artists35:03 Future Plans and Conclusion Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we talk to Adele Cutting - a respected sound designer, audio and voice director and in the video game industry. Adele's extensive portfolio includes work on both blockbuster titles and indie games. The discussion covers a wide range of topics, including Adele's journey into the gaming industry, the evolution of women's roles and casting processes for video games. Adele also shares insights on the importance of natural performances in gaming, the potential impact of AI and offers advice for voice actors looking to succeed in a competitive industry.00:00 Welcome to High Nets: The Voice Industry Unveiled00:52 Spotlight on Adele Cutting: A Trailblazer in Game Audio02:02 Adele's Journey: From Musical Theatre to Video Game Soundscapes06:32 Breaking Barriers: Women's Evolving Role in Gaming13:28 The Art of Sound Design and Voice Direction in Video Games19:39 Casting Voices: The Search for Authenticity and Talent24:43 The Casting Process and Budget Considerations25:18 The Long Game of Voice Acting26:35 The Reality of Social Media Influence in Casting28:21 Trends and Changes in the Gaming Industry30:55 The Impact of AI on Voice Acting34:13 Real-Life Directing Experiences and Challenges38:32 Training and Professionalism in Voice Acting46:15 Final Thoughts and Future-Proofing AdviceRead the transcript here... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In conversation with Talent Agent, Natalie Edwards.In this Women in Games special, we sit down with Natalie Edwards, Talent Agent and Head of Voiceover Division at Excellent Talent, based here in the UK. Natalie talks to us about her career and her extensive work with games in particular. We also discuss important issues, including representation and diversity in the industry, as well as what talent agents look for when signing new VO artists. https://excellenttalent.com/So settle in, and let's hit those high notes, with Natalie Edwards.00:00 Welcome to High Notes: The Art and Business of Voice00:52 Special Guest: Natalie Edwards on Voiceover in Gaming01:58 Natalie's Journey into Voiceover Agency04:07 What Makes a Great Voiceover Artist?05:53 The Importance of Training and Audition Tips08:35 Diving Deep into Voiceover Demos09:55 Casting Insights and the State of VO in Gaming11:41 Addressing Diversity in Voiceover Casting21:40 The Role of Agents and Navigating the Industry25:07 Embracing Technology and Future-Proofing Your VO Career28:18 Key Attributes for a Long-Term Career in VO30:49 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the High Notes podcast, BRAVA master characters coach, Elaine Clark, joins us all the way from San Francisco and talks about her extensive experience in the industry. From starting as a theatre major in college, she then got into advertising and copywriting before moving into Silicon Valley and delving into the corporate world. Her career took a significant turn with the emergence of the video game industry, where she took on various roles from casting and directing to producing and audio engineering. Elaine values her early involvement in the industry and finds satisfaction in identifying potential in her voice-acting students, helping to solve casting problems in the industry. Elaine also talks us through what to expect from the Characters Foundation 6 Week course here at BRAVA.A Women in Games Special.Subscribe to our newsletterFind out more about Women In GamesEpisode guide00:03 Introduction to the Podcast00:52 Special Guest: Elaine Clark - Master Characters Coach01:44 Elaine's Journey in the Voice Industry03:51 The Evolution of Voice Acting in Gaming05:31 The Business Side of Voice Acting10:26 Elaine's Experiences in Voice Acting for Games12:13 The Six Week Characters Foundation Course at BRAVA14:36 Final Thoughts and GoodbyeRead the full transcript here... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.