For the Love of Voice

A new relationship can quickly bring about feelings of anxiety, vulnerability, uncertainty and anticipation. But a ‘real’ connection cannot exist if we don’t approach every relationship openly and honestly. Business relations can be the toughest. When we feel pride and connection in our work, emotions can run hot. I’m happy to say that emotional business baggage was left behind with all that attended Voice 2008. At the risk of sounding like a John Paul Young song, love was definitely in the air.

I’ve been to lots of conventions. Most are cliquey, closeted affairs where folks stay within the safety of the groups they arrived with. Business is conducted, cards are exchanged and everyone looks forward to the social lubricant offered at the nearest bar.

Voice2008 was an entirely different affair! The event was comfortable and familiar even to those attending for the first time. Laughter was heard and hugs where plentiful as lifelong bonds where formed instantly.

Is it the inevitable result of 400 voiceover actors being put in the same space together? Perhaps. But much credit is due to Penny Abshire and James Alburger the “mama” and “papa” of the show. They brought all their “kids” together from near and far. Penny and James made it look easy! Gracefully trolling the beautiful halls of the Hyatt Regency each day; they never once broke a sweat.

Talent at every stage of their career could be found at Voice 2008. The resulting melting pot was an environment where beginner and intermediate talent were able to mix and mingle with VO royalty like Randy Thomas, Bob Bergen, Joe Cipriano and Julie Williams. (Penny…James…where was Voice when I was getting started?)

The selection of panels and sessions were no less impressive at Voice 2008 as presenters demystified the voiceover industry as a whole. Experts from all areas of voiceover gave insightful gems of wisdom that covered everything from performance to marketing to technology. My only regret was not being able to see more of the breakout sessions, however, I did find kindred spirits in Nancy Wolfson, Deb Munro, Raleigh Pinsky and countless others.

The exhibit hall was also a love fest. Education prevailed in this bustling epicenter that proved to be productive and fruitful for exhibitors and attendees alike.

Yes, all of us who attended from VoiceHunter.com retired to our hotels each evening delirious from the outpouring of warm and fuzzies. Voice 2008 was encouraging and hope filled for everyone. The humanity in our industry is absolutely overwhelming as is the tenacity of every future and current voiceover talent.

When dealing with affairs of the heart, we can’t help but look toward the future and what delights it will bring. As for Voice 2009…? I can only make one recommendation – Go! And get YOUR love.