Understanding ‘Age Ranges’ in Voice Over (VO) Specifics

So, as a voice actor – you will be playing characters of a range of ages – from children to grandparents and often, in the spec, you will see an age range: teens, 20s, 30s, 40s. This includes animation characters but can also be in commercial specs. You will see 30s, or 40s, or an age range of 50s-60s. How do you play a sound that is 40s as opposed to a sound that is 50s? What is the difference?

The difference in age range for voice actors is not necessarily a sound – but a MINDSET.

You are every age you have ever been and even some you have not yet lived. Adjust your energy when you see a spec with a number for age range.

Ask yourself –

• What did you think about when you were 15? What was important to you?
• What did you think about when you were 20-something?
• 30-something?
• What does a 40-year-old think about?
• What does a 50-year-old think about compared to a 60-something?

A ten-year-old might consider making and maintaining a best friend and fitting in. A 20-something might be concerned with getting an apartment, college graduation, or a car. A thirty-year-old might think about having a family and serious health insurance for the whole family. A 40-year-old might think about buying a home. A 60-year-old might be focused on readying for retirement, ETC.

Wherever your mind goes when you think of an age or range – follow it, and it will lead you to a sound. Never force a phony age, but truly find yourself at that age, and you will feel an energy change, a tempo change, and your music will change. What was your favorite song at 11? At 21? At 30? These questions will lead you to a mindset that will quickly put you in ANY age range as a voice actor. Change your energy and thoughts for an age adjustment, and the attitude and sound will be there.

When playing different ages in the spec – change the mindset and the personalization of the age, and the voice will be there.

Paul Liberti
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https://paulliberti.com/
PLibertiNY@aol.com
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