Building Characters

What to expect

Vanessa Lemonides and Sean Kenin Elias-Reyes have been working in animation for more than two decades, having voiced characters in shows like The Family Guy, Casagrandes, Firebuds, Wallykazam, Welcome to the Wayne and many more. They are both skilled at creating broad but grounded characters. Creating a compelling animated character involves more than just doing a silly voice. In fact, no matter how wild the animation style, every beloved character is beloved BECAUSE they feel real.

Over four weeks you’ll learn how to give real performances in a wacky world. We’ll start with the animated version of your own voice and you'll work on giving reads that complement the heightened reality of cartoons. Then we’ll teach you how to come up with the wildest character voices you can muster - using voices from your childhood, your family, or foreign accents to create characters that are a departure from your “normal” speaking voice. Finally, we’ll teach you how to create three different characters. Most new voice actors don’t realize that you typically audition for ONE character but most animation contracts include THREE voices per session. How do you create voices “on the fly” and keep them unique and separate? Can they convincingly carry on conversations with each other? Expect to take chances, step outside your comfort zone and bring your own spin to each performance including a little improv. Animation is not for the faint of heart, but it can be some of the most fun and rewarding work in voice over.

 Please note: There is a $100 non-refundable cancellation fee for cancelled registration up to one week before class start. If you are canceling less than ONE WEEK prior to the first class you will be charged the full amount unless someone is found to take your spot. Thank you.

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