HARRY CHASE
If you’re over thirty five, you have probably lamented some of the changes that have taken place in the casting and directing of commercials, narrations and promos. The fact is, the business has changed.

Voice actors have to be constantly aware of changes and trends in advertising and television promotion else they risk irrelevance and ultimately early retirement. One of the trends that should be noted is the addition of “non-actors” to the world of the voiceover. This is typically an attempt to relate to the target audience as well as to the sponsor with a “real person”. Of course, with all these new actors flooding the voiceover world, it is sometimes a challenge to find those who understand the medium as well as the message. Producers know all too well that time is money. With professional studio time at $300 to $500 an hour, an actor with little experience can often cost many extra dollars while trying to “get it right” for the producer. Efficiency and cost containment in production will ALWAYS be in vogue.

This is where EXPERIENCE comes in. I have had conversations with celebrities who have asked me how they can tailor their delivery to the strict time constraints placed upon them in the formats of advertising and promotion (......take 25, take 43, take 76.....). After nearly thirty years of experience in every area of voice over acting, I count myself lucky to be very busy most of the time. Fads, fashions and “what’s cool today” will come and go, but thoughtfully taking direction and interpreting that direction into total communication with your target demographic will always be the objective. And to accomplish this quickly and efficiently, saving time and money in production, makes a voice actor that much more viable. This, coupled with just a little bit of that elusive trait called “talent”, has been the reason a few of us have not found our way onto the discount rack of irrelevance.

Another trend that has changed the face of the voice over world is the accessibility of so many to the market place via the Internet and ISDN. Discount voices are found doing premium jobs simply because they are accessible! Accessibility is something that any voice actor should take seriously - and in these times, any seasoned pro will be able to accommodate a client with a minimum of fuss and bother. Since the early 90s I have made it a practice to keep my studio available to my clients until the job is perfected. It’s a mark of professionalism to be able to provide the desired result with ease and assurance.
After a bit of consideration, it’s simple to see why so many have.... Cut To The Chase!