Video Game Voiceover Actors

Neutralize our accent?

Should we get rid of our accent to land more jobs, or is our accent our Unique Selling Point? And what are voice-seekers looking for, when they need a "neutral" English accent? Are they asking for the impossible? Read the article here and let's talk (with or without accent...)!

Tags: Accent, English, Neutral, accent, neutralize, reduction

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Permalink Reply by Sean Crisden on February 21, 2010 at 23:12

Great post Paul.

Ultimately, as you keenly pointed out at the conclusion of the article, each of us has a unique voice and tonal character that is the sum of our experiences.

The debate of what exactly "neutral" English is continues, but we can't deny the subtle effects of accented English on our subconscious just as the EyeView experiment demonstrated. Our impressions and reactions to accented (and so-called "neutral") English are developed and fed directly from whatever socially transmitted stereotypes we subscribe to, for good or ill.

The consummate voice talent definitely benefits from the ability to turn their natural speaking accent "on or off", as well as having an understanding of the various linguistic colors of many of the accents and speech characteristics from people around the globe. This is especially true in character work. However, we can't lose sight of the fact that many folks have been cast in both games and animation simply because they sound like themselves, and I am sure that a majority of us will continue to have such luck. We can't use this as a crutch to not expand our vocal gymnastics however, as expanded flexibility will only sweeten the pot and add to our potential opportunities and ultimately, increase our chances for success.

Sean Crisden
www.seancrisden.com

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Permalink Reply by Geoff Edwards on May 3, 2010 at 18:15

If you are making yourself available globally. I think your accent can be an asset. I hate when I hear a poorly executed accent. If I was casting I would be searching for the real thing... If you have the real dialect market that.