One of the hardest things about being a voice actor is figuring out our “type.” This is important because it helps us decide which roles to audition for and helps agents and casting folks decide where to place us in their talent lineup.
They implore us to clearly define who we are in our headshots and demo reels because it saves them time, and helps us stay out of the round file.
Are you: quirky, serious, blue collar, intellectual, girl-or-boy-next-door, sexy, or naïve?
This is a simplistic view of humanity to be sure, but it works in the casting department. It’s just a starting point, and it’s up to us to make these descriptors come alive.
We need to figure out where we fit in these tight spaces, and that’s where things get complicated, because if you’re like me, you probably have bits and pieces of all these characteristics – and then some!
Before you jump in and cast yourself as a “type,” spend some quality time figuring out who you really are and what else you bring to the table.
We’re Not Always What We Seem
Remember the iconic characters in Wizard of Oz? The Tin Man thought he was heartless, not knowing he was full of love. The Scarecrow considered himself stupid, yet was actually very clever, and the Lion was incredibly brave, although appearing cowardly.
There’s a great message in this movie: many of us may be the opposite of who we think we are!
We often grapple with three sides: who we appear to be, who we think we are, and who we really are!
It’s really helpful as actors to become cognizant of all three. Knowing who we appear to be helps us find our “type”; who we think we are can sometimes hold us back; and who we really are is where the power is!
Who am I?
Who I Appear to Be
If you haven’t already done so yet, ask folks you know to jot down descriptive words about you, then make a list of the consistent themes that come up. For instance: do people mostly say you are easy going or empathetic? Quirky? Introverted? Determined? Spontaneous? The life of the party? Put the characteristics that come up time and time again in your “who I appear to be” column.
Who I Think I Am
Next, jot down what you think about yourself. This is the voice in your head that is often critical, telling you that you aren’t’ good enough to achieve your dreams, and picks on supposed imperfections. You may be surprised at the negativity that pops up, which is not necessarily true. This is often the part of ourselves that holds us back.
Who I Really Am
Lastly, and this may be the hardest – devote some time to admitting who you really are to yourself. Set humbleness aside and do a deep dive into everything you have accomplished in your life. Examine your values. Remember the compliments folks have given you – even if you didn’t accept them very well!
Then, jot down your deepest hopes and dreams. Don’t limit yourself; write down what your heart really longs for.
All of this information helps us get a clearer picture of who we are, and has the extra benefit of widening the scope of what we are willing to try!
These things are just tools for us to, as acting coach Sanford Meisner said, “dig deeper.”
Remember that the “type” we fit into is an important jumping-off point; but the most important thing we bring to our acting is the soul or life of the character.
We need to reveal all aspects of ourselves in our work, including the quirks and so-called imperfections; those are often the audience favorites.
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