Starting a career in voiceover work as a kid actor can be an exciting opportunity! Our cofounder Sara Kapner started in VO when she was nine years old, and it opened the floodgates for the rest of her acting career which includes stage, screen and voice work.
Teaching young artists at VO Workshop means understanding the demands the craft and industry at large puts on young people. Sara has seen a number of kids in her years as a child actor who were working because it was in the best interest of their families. At VO Workshop, we will always check in with our artists to make sure the want and need for their work as voice actors comes from them and their desire to learn.
It’s important to remember that parental/guardian support and guidance are crucial throughout this process. Open lines of communication between parent/guardian, child and teacher/industry professional is key. Ensure your child's well-being and monitor their workload to maintain a healthy balance between their education, personal life, and voiceover commitments.
Here are some steps that can help young actors get started in the voiceover industry:
Develop vocal skills: Voiceover work requires strong vocal abilities. Practice speaking clearly, enunciating words, and developing different voices and accents. Reading aloud, reciting poems, or participating in school plays can help to hone vocal skills.
Take acting classes: Enrolling in acting classes can provide valuable training for young actors. Look for classes specifically focused on voiceover work or general acting classes that cover vocal techniques. These classes not only develop acting skills but they also illuminate the nuances of performing with voice.
Build a home studio: Having a home studio allows a voice actor to work from the comfort of their own home, which is convenient for both the child and their parents. It eliminates the need to travel to external recording studios, saving time and effort. It also provides flexibility in terms of scheduling, as they can record auditions or projects whenever it suits them best. Plus, post-pandemic, home studios have pretty much become an industry standard - and you can build one without breaking the bank! Click here to read our blog post on equipment recommendations.
Build a voiceover demo reel: A demo reel is a crucial tool for voice actors. It showcases their range and abilities to potential clients or agents. Be sure to work with a professional to create, unless you are skilled in audio editing/mixing/mastering - it's important to ensure the audio quality is clear and professional.
Find a talent agent: An agent can help young actors find voiceover opportunities and guide their career. Look for reputable talent agencies that have experience representing child actors in the voiceover industry. Agents have industry connections and can help secure auditions and jobs.
Audition for voiceover roles: Keep an eye out for voiceover auditions in your area or online. Casting websites and talent agencies often post voiceover opportunities. Audition for various roles and gain experience in the field. Whether the audition results in a booking or not, the practice of auditioning will help improve skills.
Network in the industry: Attend industry events, workshops, and voiceover conventions to meet professionals in the field. Building connections can lead to valuable opportunities and provide guidance from experienced voice actors. Additionally, online voiceover communities and forums can offer advice and support for aspiring young actors.
Continuously improve skills: Keep practicing, attending workshops, and honing the acting craft. Voiceover work requires ongoing learning and adaptation. Listening to professional voice actors, study different styles, and explore new techniques can be incredible helpful to a career in voiceover.
Would you be interested in a class for your child and their friends? Reach out!
Voiceover acting is a wonderful world of creativity for kids to explore and we’d love to get your child started!