High Notes

Tom Keegan, a performance director known for his work on AAA titles like Jedi: Fallen Order and Call of Duty, shares insights from his creative journey. He discusses the evolution of voice acting in video games, emphasizing the importance of emotional nuance and subtext. Keegan explores how improvisation and authenticity enhance character performance, along with the challenges actors face. He also previews his upcoming book, which offers practical guidance for aspiring directors and actors, as well as fostering passion and continuous learning in the industry.

In this conversation with Jessica Jefferies, a passionate casting director in motion and performance capture, listeners dive into her remarkable transition from acting to casting. She discusses the challenges in the gaming industry and the vital role of inclusivity in casting. Jessica shares insights on navigating voice acting nuances, emphasizes the importance of traditional theatre training amidst technological advancements, and offers advice for aspiring performers. Plus, she teases some exciting upcoming projects that are set to redefine the landscape of video games.

Inside Aardman: Bringing Clay to Life - Characters, Voice & Performance with Merlin Crossingham In this episode of High Notes, Melissa talks to Merlin Crossingham, Creative Director for Wallace and Gromit at Aardman Animations. Merlin shares some surprising stories from his childhood that led him onto a very specific career path in animation, as well as thoughts on the timeless appeal of Wallace and Gromit. The conversation explores the intricacies of voice performance, character development and the evolving landscape of voice acting, in an era of AI and immersive media. Melissa and Merlin also discuss the importance of physicality in voice acting, the challenges of directing new talent, and magic moments in the booth that can really bring animation characters to life.Find out more about the wonderful world of Aardman https://www.aardman.com/Subscribe to the BRAVA newsletter for news updates, training opportunities, and more from the world of business, acting and voice: https://www.brava.uk.com/subscribe00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast00:51 Meet Merlin Ingham: Creative Director for Wallace and Gromit01:42 Merlin's Journey: From Circus Skills to Animation03:34 The Timeless Appeal of Wallace and Gromit06:11 The Art of Silent Storytelling08:31 Casting Voices for Animation19:03 Directing Voice Actors for Stop Motion25:29 The Evolution of Morph and Voice Acting28:41 Challenges of Interactive Storytelling31:20 The Human Touch in Animation32:34 Keeping Wallace and Gromit Fresh35:10 Advice for Aspiring Voice Actors37:23 Reflections on Success and Future Projects39:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of High Notes, Andrew Whieldon Dennis reflects on his expansive career as a voice actor in the videogame industry, from indie projects to AAA blockbusters.He talks about his early inspirations, the cultural influences that shaped him, and his evolution into a true 'vocal shapeshifter'. Andrew offers a behind-the-scenes look at his acting process, emphasizes the value of consistent training, and explores how he weaves his British/Puerto Rican heritage into his performances. He also highlights the importance of community, mental health, and lifelong learning — all while sharing his deep affection for his hometown of Bristol.https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2340991/https://andrew-dennis.com/Subscribe to the BRAVA newsletter for news updates, training opportunities, and more from the world of business, acting and voice: https://www.brava.uk.com/subscribe00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:19 Early Inspirations and Career Beginnings01:52 Developing Vocal Skills and Cultural Influences07:10 Character Development and Acting Process12:16 Training and Career Highlights19:17 Advice for Aspiring Voice Actors29:48 Living and Working in Bristol32:56 Upcoming Projects and ConclusionRead an edited transcript here... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Magic of PIxar: Voice Casting with Kate Hansen-BirnbaumIn this episode of High Notes, Melissa chats to Kate Hansen Birnbaum, Casting Director at Pixar, whose credits include beloved animated films like Inside Out 2, Soul, Elemental, and Luca.Kate shares her unconventional path into casting, which began at a San Francisco talent agency under the mentorship of seasoned actors. She offers a rare look inside Pixar’s intricate casting process, highlighting the value placed on authenticity, natural vocal tone, and the ability to truly inspire the animation team. The conversation touches on Pixar’s commitment to diverse and inclusive casting, including their practice of anonymised auditions to help reduce unconscious bias.Kate also brings the episode to life with memorable stories from her career, particularly the joy of working on Elemental — and shares thoughtful advice for aspiring voice actors. She highlights the importance of continuous growth and curiosity, and the unmitigated joy of delivering life-changing news to chosen performers.https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10779349/https://www.jetalent.com/https://www.pixar.com/Subscribe to the BRAVA newsletter for news updates, training opportunities, and more from the world of business, acting and voice: https://www.brava.uk.com/subscribe00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:19 Kate's Journey into Casting02:19 The Casting Process at Pixar04:22 Finding Unique Voices08:02 Diversity and Inclusion in Casting10:16 Changes in Casting Over the Years16:50 Advice for Aspiring Voice Actors19:33 Favourite Moments and Final ThoughtsRead an edited transcript here... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Season 2 of High Notes — the podcast exploring the art and business of voice. Brought to you by BRAVA https://www.brava.uk.com/Season 2 will focus on the world of Games and Animation.This season, host, Melissa Thom, speaks with leaders across the business from Pixar, Aardman, and the world of AAA gaming. Discover how voices are cast, directed, and brought to life — from Mocap to claymation, and indie games to blockbusters.Featuring guests from Pixar, Aardman and more.Voices heard in this episode are: Melissa Thom - https://www.brava.uk.com/melissa-thomBob Bergen - https://www.bobbergen.com/Merlin Crossingham - https://www.aardman.com/about/people/merlin-crossingham/Kate Hansen-Birnbaum - https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10779349/mediaviewer/rm1539075329/?ref_=nm_ov_phAndrew Whieldon Dennis - https://andrew-dennis.com/Jessica Jeffries - https://www.jessicajefferiescasting.co.uk/Tom Keegan - https://www.tomkeegan.net/High Notes — where every voice tells a story.Subscribe now so you never miss an episode.Follow us for more informationhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/bravauk/https://www.facebook.com/bravaukhttps://www.instagram.com/bravaukSubscribe to the BRAVA newsletter for regular updates on news, training opportunities, and insights from the world of voice:https://www.brava.uk.com/subscribe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of High Notes, we engage in a captivating conversation with Abi Longstaffe from Spotlight. Abi discusses her journey in the creative arts, from her theatrical family history to drama school and her extensive career in casting and talent management. We delve into the evolving landscape of talent and voiceover work, hear expert advice on navigating a creative career, and explore the significant roles Abi has held in various renowned organisations. Tune in for insightful anecdotes, professional guidance, and a closer look at the art and business of voice acting.00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast00:52 Guest Introduction: Abi Longstaffe from Spotlight01:34 Abby's Early Life and Inspirations05:43 Acting Journey and Drama School Experience08:42 Transition to Professional Roles and Spotlight16:13 Spotlight's Evolution and Voiceover Support21:01 Importance of Industry Relationships23:13 Conclusion and FarewellRead the full transcript here... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we chat with Curtis James, an accomplished podcaster, producer, writer, and presenter. Curtis shares his inspiring journey from his early days experimenting with music to his experiences with grassroots podcasting, the importance of authentic storytelling, and the impact of social inequality on education and creativity.Curtis talks in depth about his podcast Class Divide, how it came to fruition, and its aim to close the educational attainment gap in Brighton. The conversation also touches on the challenges of working-class representation in creative fields, the profound influence of teachers, public speaking anxiety, and the nuances of voice and accent in public perception. It’s a really fascinating conversation.Links:Class Divide funding page: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/class-divide?utm_term=kvdD4pqj9Class Divide Podcast Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7dQGuWugM9x5HQzsh1pn8l?si=ggphFak-Qaaiqu4ZWym7eg&pi=dQKQscrtTZ2rH&nd=1&dlsi=1237a64362814c9400:00 Welcome to High Notes00:24 Introducing Curtis James02:12 Curtis's Early Influences05:25 First Record Deal Experience06:22 Working with Family07:19 Breaking into Radio10:52 Challenges and Barriers15:20 Creating Class Divide22:22 Reflecting on Podcast Success23:32 Impact of the Podcast on Local Policy25:14 The Power of Storytelling and Authenticity28:40 Accents and Public Speaking31:26 Embracing the Microphone38:52 Future Plans and Challenges43:50 Final Thoughts and FarewellRead the transcript here... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

High Notes: A Conversation with Sinead Garvan - From Radio to VOIn this episode, we talk to Sinead Garvan, the voice behind some of the UK’s favourite radio shows and podcasts. We chat about Sinead's journey from her early days as a young narrator in school plays to her transition from radio to voiceover.Sinead shares her experience of working with celebrities like Chris Evans, Claudia Winkleman and Nick Grimshaw, takes us through some major challenges she's faced, and shares her views on the evolving media landscape.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:24 Meet Sinead Garvan01:09 Sinead's Early Years and Love for Narration04:31 First Job in Journalism08:17 Experiences in Radio13:44 Challenges in Journalism19:12 Transition to Voiceover Work33:22 Advice for Aspiring Voiceover Artists35:03 Future Plans and Conclusion Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of HIGH NOTES, we talk to award-winning journalist and broadcaster, Marverine Cole. Over the last 21 years, Marverine has worked as a reporter, producer and news anchor for the majority of Britain's most watched and listened to broadcasters, including Sky News, 5 News, Talk TV, Classic FM, 5 Live and BBC Radio 4. Marverine is one of only 10 Black British women to have ever presented national and international news bulletins in the UK during the last 40 years. She is currently best known as a newsreader for ITV's Good Morning Britain.We also talk to Marverine about her experience training as a VO with BRAVA, politics and grassroots democracy, her advice to those breaking into the industry today and her new podcast, The Trouble with Politics, which was recently recommended by The Independent as one of the top 6 podcasts to listen to in 2024. Marverine Cole: https://marverinecole.co.uk/ We are Black Journos: https://weareblackjournos.org/ Luck Be a Lady Tonight: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01mqmytBlack Girls Don’t Cry: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0b9zfwsMarverine Cole & David Harewood talk about Black British Mental Health: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/black-british-mental-health-matters-with-marverine/id1645113032?i=1000586923149 Her Media Diary: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/her-media-diary/id1549480567The Trouble with Politics: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-trouble-with-politics/id173639788300:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast00:51 Guest Introduction: Marverine Cole02:14 Marverine's Early Inspirations and First Steps in Radio08:57 Transition to Television15:07 Challenges and Achievements in Media21:43 Mental Health and Resilience in Journalism30:16 Exploring Voiceover Work34:10 Launching The Trouble with Politics Podcast39:59 Advice for Aspiring Media Professionals42:20 Conclusion and Farewell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.