Computer / Video Games

I have just broken into this fast-growing market. It turns out there are loads of games made in the UK that need North American voices! I recently voiced characters in Belief & Betrayal (release date: March 25, 2008) and Worldshift, and this week I'll be recording the voice of Mondra Diamond in the science fiction adventure game, Perry Rhodan. Not only are the jobs well paid, but they're also fantastic fun and a short time commitment so you can fit them in between other jobs. You get to stand in front of a mic and play for hours!

As I understand, many of these games are initially made in Germany. Once the game is successful, the developers want to re-voice the game for the significantly larger English-speaking markets like the USA and the UK.

All of my recent jobs have come from the excellent voice production company, Outsource Media. They have studios in the UK (London & Sheffield) and the USA (LA), and are known for producing top notch voice performances.

Joining Equity & the North American Actors Association (NAAA)

Two more questions from an actress who recently moved to London from New York:

Q: Equity: I was not a member of any union in NYC (tried to stay out of SAG/AFTRA so as not to be shut out of non union jobs), and was told its fairly easy to qualify for UK equity here. However they have no sets of rules on their websites. I trust that eventually, via my agent, I'll somehow qualify- but I was wondering if there are rules posted online I may be missing.

A: I'd start on the How to Join Page on the Equity website. They have a link to download application forms, and they say the following about overseas performers:

"Overseas Experience: If you have worked professionally overseas and can provide proof of your employment, together with details of membership, if any, of the relevant union in the country or countries concerned you are eligible for membership of Equity. This applies to UK and EU citizens, or to those from other countries who have been granted permission to work in the UK."

You can also just phone any of the offices using the details listed on their Contact page.

Q: North American Actors Association: I was told by them, two years ago (when thinking of moving), that I was not allowed to join unless a member of a union. But I've met several actors who joined while not in a union. Curious if you have any insight.

A: I was a member of AEA (Actors Equity Association) and SAG (Screen Actors Guild), and a UK permanent resident when I joined, so I didn't run into an issue. In your case, I'd email Laurence Bouvard, the head of the NAAA, at LaurenceBouvard@aol.com, tell her your situation and see what she has to say. She's usually quick and thorough in her responses. If she says you have to be a union member, I'd chase Equity and try to convince them to let you join since you have professional experience.