Hi everyone!
I thought I’d talk briefly about casting today. I don’t discuss it as often as writing or directing, but it’s sometimes an amazing experience.
I’ve cast a number of audio dramas now, as well as a movie. Sometimes I already know who I want for the lead.
Sometimes I put out an open call and listen to everything, even thinking about applicants for larger roles that are not this one. Casting can be incredibly rewarding: that moment when someone embodies the character more than you ever expected. They say a few lines and you know that’s the one!
That happened to me recently. I had over a hundred applicants, and the first one I listened to set the bar instantly. Still, I gave every single one a fair hearing – that’s important – and I gave feedback to all of them.
Note: as an indie creator, please don’t leave people hanging. It’s a terrible habit in our industry, and it’s not okay.
Not every role is obvious. In that same project, one character went to someone who hadn’t landed a previous part, but I’d remembered his work and knew he was perfect for it. Another role gave me huge trouble; I listened to so many voices.
Here’s some advice for you: many actors deliver the same read. What I’m looking for is uniqueness. I don’t want standard pronunciation in a polite monotone, I want character. If you’re the wrong person for this role but you bring a distinctive voice, I may even write something for you!
That actually happened with one of my recent audiobooks, Era: Forbidden – Hell on Earth. The actor didn’t fit the original part she applied for, but I adored her voice. I asked her to do a different project instead, and we made a massive audiobook together – a far better use of her talent than a tiny role in a larger cast audio drama.
So listen to what you’re given. Think about how you’d like to use it. And if your instinct after thirty seconds says, “This is the same as the others, it’s not right,” that’s fine. Put it aside, reply politely, and move on. You can always put out a second casting call if you don’t find anyone at all.
Good luck out there, casters and voice actors alike.
We want to hear unique voices. Give me yours!
– Ed
