Jeff Howell joined the VO Peeps this December to show us the new trends in Promo.
Trends are changing, and we are now hearing a more diverse voiceprint, with promo reads evolving to be less stylized and more natural-sounding. in promo. Jeff showed the peeps how to analyze the structure of a promo script, how to match the mood of the show, and how to honor the intentions of the promo writers and network. Jeff also discussed tips for demos, getting work through agents, managers, and directly through working your contacts.
Words of Wisdom
"A quick google search should bring up your website! Make sure your website is close to the top of the Google search webpage. Sometimes casting directors look through your website when casting." - Jeff
"Lines in promo build up to a reveal - a setup and a payoff. When you get scripts that lead to something, hold back so that you can add some punch to the payoff without sounding out of control." - Jeff
"In Promo, observe the punctuation. Don't create punctuation, we don’t have time for it." - Jeff
"If you had a TV where you could see everyone listening to your promo and you’re trying to get them to stay. This is the sense of urgency that needs to be in your read. They’re getting ready to get off the couch and you're trying to stop them, capture and engage that audience, tease them into watching it. You need to have that in your delivery, the urgency, the desire." - Jeff
What Peeps are Saying ...
“DO IT!!! I'm SO glad I took a recent Promo workshop with Anne, with special guest speaker, Jeff Howell. This is the 2nd workshop I've done, led by Anne! I'd always wondered if I had a knack for Promo work and taking the workshop was the PERFECT way to receive constructive feedback from a truly seasoned Promo professional to that end. Whether you're looking to brush up on a particular genre or looking to explore a new one, Anne's workshop classes are the perfect environment for growth!” - Mike Ciporkin
"Jeff Howell's Promo Workshop with VO Peeps was outstanding. He is very generous with his time & information. It is very obvious that he is passionate about teaching. He even went out of his way to research every participant's background prior to the workshop; just so he knew what to expect from each actor. I don't know too many instructors who go that extra mile. His feedback is straight to the point; there is no sugarcoating. His training method provides motivation for actors to strive more toward their goals. Because Jeff is such a sought-after Director, he may not teach very often. So if you ever have the opportunity to train with Jeff, that will be a wise decision!" - Mike Woodley
Video Replay:
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Upcoming Events
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Our next event is: Agent Micaela Hicks from Vox Inc. Participant spots are sold out, but audit spots still remain.
Gain a clear idea of what it takes to succeed in the character and commercial realm of this industry. Micaela will give you honest and raw feedback from the agent perspective. Micaela will share what she has learned over the years, what has changed, and what it takes to make it in the industry today.
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Let's face it, most New Year resolutions are broken long before January rolls into February. But this year you're ready to get serious about making some positive changes.
Gratitude is where it all begins -and is a great start to setting the right kind of goals. Research shows that writing down goals -- the right goals -- and being grateful for what we have helps us do more and be more.
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