As voice actors, we can get pretty wrapped up in our work. And that’s a good thing. But have you ever wondered what your favorite furball is thinking as they walk by, just as you reach a dramatic scene in your narration… angry shouts or a loud scream?
Sidenote: No one’s booth is completely soundproof. (But hey, if you know of one that is, please share!)
The Sound Booth’s Strange Noises
Yesterday, as I was putting the finishing touches on some editing for an audiobook, it dawned on me. I wonder what my dog thinks about when she hears me laughing hysterically at the comments I made while narrating?
Sidenote: Certainly, I am not the only audiobook narrator who does this… right?
I’ve been experiencing this for quite some time, yet I’ve only now looked at it from my pup’s perspective. She doesn’t seem to mind the laughter that, at times, can become almost uncontrollable.
Sidenote: Thankfully, with ‘dogged determination’ (pun shamelessly intended), I have taught myself how to shake it off, before things get really out of hand.
Belle and the New Audience
Well, less than a week ago, my fur family grew by one. Lily is two months old, tiny (compared to her Labrador sister), and wonderfully quiet. She has not yet experienced any vocal outbursts from my booth, but I must say, I’m looking forward to her reaction when she does.
When I open the door to my booth, I can just imagine Belle (the Lab) thinking something like:
“So now the book has come to an end, and I’ve faithfully listened to every word (with only a few strategic naps in between). But the real test is yet to come. My new little sister hasn’t heard a single one of Mom’s dramatic studio outbursts. She has no idea what’s coming. I can’t wait to see her face the first time she hears a villainous cackle echoing from behind the door—or worse, a tearful soliloquy.
Will she bark? Will she hide? Or will she, like me, simply sigh, curl up, and think: There she goes again. However she reacts, I know one thing: the stories may end, but in this house, the voices never really stop. And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Final note: How does your fur family react when you’re in the studio? Bark, nap, or sneak in a cameo? Share your stories in the comments—I can’t wait to hear all the behind-the-scenes antics!