Voicebank.net’s VoiceRegistry Blog

What’s Happening with Voice Over in Canada?

As the world continues to get smaller with technology, connecting us to the far reaches of the globe, it begs the question, how are voice actors in other countries are faring? Canadian voice actor, Deb Munro, shares her insights about her international career.

-Tracy Pattin

Working internationally as a full-time voice performer Debbie has a long list of credits including her newest as voice of the new Global series “True Pulp Murder.” Debbie can be heard around the world on several radio and TV Stations as a voice talent, but also as instructor and speaker at many events across North America such as Voice International (2007/2008), Voice Acting San Diego, VO Cruise with Bob Bergen, Animethon events in various locations, Breakfast Television (Canada), various radio stations and now her writings published in various ezines around the world and in the number one Voice Over book out there, The Art Of Voice Acting© (3rd Edition).

TJP: How did you get into voice over?

DM: I always wanted to be an actress, but then became a very young mom and had to find a real job. I graduated at the top of my broadcasting class and began as an announcer but found that I didn’t like to talk to myself. Give me a script however and I soared so later I got out of broadcasting and pursued freelance voiceover, acting, hosting and more. I came from a medium market so getting involved into the internet world was the best option.

TJP: As a Canadian, what’s the Voice Over industry like there?

DM: Interesting to say the least. This is hard to answer in short form but I will say there is lucrative Voice work ANYWHERE in the world. As freelance voice talent with home studios, we aren’t subjected to our local markets anymore so most of my larger clients are from the U.S. There are fantastic voicing opportunities here in Canada. The challenge becomes rates and quantity of work. The rates aren’t equal, especially if you’re union.

TJP: How does it compare to the U.S.?

DM: One of the biggest differences between US and Canada is size and that is paramount in the voice market. The US is larger, therefore offers more opportunity. One of the biggest things to consider is that as a Canadian Voice Talent I must cater to an American Accent. There must be one neutral accent in VO and Mid-Western or Neutral American is it.

In my part 2 of my Q&A with Deb Munro she talks about the pros and cons of being a voice talent in the U.S., how to market with ezines, and her advice for both American and Canadian voice over actors.