The Finalists

Charles Swift (Manchester Metropolitan)

Being a participant and a part of the Hobsons Prize 2009 has been a deeply rewarding experience in of itself.

The chance to work in a 'industry' environment with a friendly and supportive group of people has been enriching and instructive, and has really helped me to better understand the workings of a professional voice session and what it entails.
 

 

 

 

 

Kristian Phillips (BOVTS)

The Hobsons Final was a brilliant experience, it was great having the pressure a voice-over artist would have in a professional studio. This competition has also outlined how important it is to prepare and keep practicing the skills learnt at drama school.

I found it very challenging being thrown lots of direction and thoughts so quickly by many different people. The panel were thorough and specific but very helpful.

It amazed me how subtle changes in your voice can make a product much more or less appealing. I hope to keep practicing and honing my skills as a voice-over artist because I think the work really challenges you as an actor. 
 

 

 

John McGrellis (BOVTS)

I have always loved doing voiceover work... however my experience tended to be imitating other peoples voices on TV and radio, while enjoying this, it is not what the industry really wants. They want individuality. During my training for the Hobsons Prize I have found the skill to being a good voiceover is exploiting the power of your own voice, as potentially this is the only difference you will have from thousands of other artists.

I feel I am now able to breakdown scripts much easier and as the final is set up as a professional voiceover job, feel I would now know what to expect in that situation. A cool head is a must, as you often get many conflicting ideas. It may be the sound engineer, producers, Directors, even company executives, and they all might want/need something different. You have to be able to reach the common goal, as effectively as possible.

A Valuable tip I received - "never over rehearse anything", (If you have that luxury) after all they are they client, and as the saying goes the customer is always right!

Vocal preparation is also a must!! You have to enter ready, and fully warmed up! Use of pace, breath control and appropriate vocal inflection and intonation is very important and can be difficult, yet very rewarding when you get it right and hear a pleased studio....even if it is the 12th take!

The Hobsons Prize has changed the way I think and feel about voiceover work, I know now, whatever the outcome, I really want to pursue this further. I have a lot to learn, but the skills I have gained during the competition, allow me to feel ready for that challenge. I would recommend everybody to enter if you have the chance, it really is such a valuable experience.

Thanks to all involved at Hobsons, well done and the best of luck to the rest of the finalists!