Idioteex

Posts Tagged ‘Improving’

One of the major components to any Humorous Interpretation are vocals.  Vocals are used not only for humor purposes but for characterization as well.  All characters must have a distinct voice which is clear, consistent, and a good representation of who that character is.  Though the definition of vocalization is fairly basic, vocals are anything but.  Defining multiple personas’ voice with the vocal chords of one is ambitious.  It takes practice, dedication, and WORK.  Blindly trudging forward with the development of a vocal range is admirable.  However, here is some guidance on the subject.

Reference your script. As you create your Humorous Interpretation characters it is important to keep them in tune with the intentions and heart of the script.  And finding a voice is easier when you understand the character.  Analyze their lines and interpret what sort of character they are.  Look for personality traits and sculpt an image of who that person is.  Once you have an idea, try to connect that image to your established prior knowledge; “this character reminds me of…”  Further, a character with a prominent style of speaking could suggest a particular vocalization.  For instance, a character with complaints for lines could have vocals that sound whiny/nasally to vocally reflect the annoyance of their speech.

Look to television and film for accents. Reflect on films or television shows you have seen with accents unlike those on your circuit.  An accent is a quick fix to expanding your vocal range, and TV and film can be a great way to learn an accent.  Honestly, watching nothing but BBC America for a week will have you imitating the English with ease.  Just be careful to not overuse accents in your Humorous Interpretation or to do a poorly imitated accent (when not intended for comic effect).  Accents take practice, so find sources of quality accents, watch, and start speaking!  Read more...