High Notes

Melissa Thom

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PERFORMING ARTS
UPDATED MONTHLY

High Notes is a podcast featuring conversations on the art and business of voice, hosted by voice actor and BRAVA CEO, Melissa Thom. From Mongolian throat singing to vocal health, accents, gaming, and more, HIGH NOTES uncovers the craft behind the business. Brought to you by https://www.brava.uk.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SEASON 3 TRAILER

High Notes Season 3 Trailer

High Notes returns for its third season with Words at Work, a series about the role of voice in business. BRAVA founder, Melissa Thom talks to leading figures across business, culture, and communication: Simon Lancaster, Margaret Heffernan, Dr. Rockford Sansom, Jane Duffus, Colin Burgess, Tricia Duffy, Lynne Franks, and Janey Lee Grace. Together, they explore how voice shapes influence, leadership, and true connection at work: how to stay composed under pressure, engage an audience and speak with authority. Subscribe on your preferred podcast platform, or visit brava.uk.com/podcast for more. Season 3 Guests Simon Lancaster: speechwriter to business and political leaders, on the Language of Leadership and the hidden patterns that make communication persuasive.Jane Duffus: writer and historian, on Women, Wit & the Power of Speech and how women’s voices have shaped, and continue to shape public life.Colin Burgess: BAFTA’s Executive Director of Operations, on the Resilient Voice, building legacy, and nurturing new creative voices in film, games and television.Tricia Duffy: leadership coach, on Creative Confidence and finding your voice in times of change and uncertainty.Dr. Rockford Sansom: voice coach to executives worldwide, on Influence & Impact, and how leaders can speak with presence in the boardroom.Janey Lee Grace: BBC broadcasting legend and coach, on Executive Presence, clarity, sobriety and having the courage to speak up.Lynne Franks: author, entrepreneur, communications strategist and fashion pioneer on Leading with Wisdom, and using voice as a force for visibility, purpose, and change.Margaret Heffernan: business thinker, writer and voted one of the "Top 100 Media Executives" by The Hollywood Reporter on Voice, Creativity and Embracing Uncertainty, and why leadership today demands adaptability.High Notes — where every performance is a conversation. Subscribe now so you never miss an episode. Follow us for more information https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravauk/ https://www.facebook.com/bravauk https://www.instagram.com/bravauk Subscribe to the BRAVA newsletter for regular updates on news, training opportunities, and insights from the world of voice: https://www.brava.uk.com/subscribe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

3 min
AUG 4

Bob Bergen - The voice behind Star Wars, Spirited Away, and Looney Tunes.

In this episode of High Notes, we’re joined by iconic voice actor Bob Bergen, famous for voicing beloved characters like Porky Pig, Tweety, Marvin the Martian, and No Face from Spirited Away. Bob discusses his journey from mimicking cartoons as a child to becoming a full-time voice actor. He offers invaluable advice for aspiring performers, emphasising the importance of craft and focus. Bob also shares his thoughts on the rise of AI in voice acting and the significance of continuous learning and dedication to the craft. The episode concludes with a surprise guest appearance from our characters' coach, Elaine Clark. More about Bob: https://www.bobbergen.com/ https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0074036/ Also featuring: https://elaineclarkvo.com/ Subscribe to the BRAVA newsletter for regular updates on news, training opportunities, and insights from the world of voice: https://www.brava.uk.com/subscribe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

36 min
JUL 28

Directing Performance for Epic Games - with Tom Keegan

In this episode of High Notes, we sit down with Tom Keegan, an acclaimed performance director behind major AAA titles such as Jedi: Fallen Order, Wolfenstein, Call of Duty, World of Warcraft and more. Based in LA, Tom reflects on his creatively rich upbringing and his path to becoming a leading figure in video game performance direction. The conversation looks at the evolution of voice performance in games, the power of subtext, and what sets video game acting apart from other forms of voice work. He also previews his upcoming book, The Complete Guide to Video Game Performance Directing: Place, Time, Action, offering practical insights into the craft, your own creativity, and other deeply human aspects of game development. Whether you're an aspiring actor, director, or simply fascinated by the art behind your favourite games, this episode offers a compelling look into the world of interactive storytelling. https://www.tomkeegan.net/ https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1146741/ https://www.instagram.com/tomkstudios/ https://www.routledge.com/The-Complete-Guide-to-Videogame-Performance-Directing-Place-Time-Action/Keegan/p/book/9781032914541?srsltid=AfmBOoroDSYuJU8bQauYeiIyWVq2CgLfuM35ClTVL7dvRCk4BhaG2Udi Subscribe to the BRAVA newsletter for news updates, training opportunities, and more from the world of business, acting and voice: https://www.brava.uk.com/subscribe 00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast 00:52 Meet Tom Keegan: Journey to Video Game Performance Direction 02:58 The Art of Voice Acting in Video Games 04:12 Tom Keegan's New Book: A Guide for Directors and Actors 10:03 Understanding Place, Time, and Action in Voice Acting 12:31 Common Mistakes in Performance Capture and VO Booths 17:02 BRAVA: Elevate Your Voice Acting Skills 17:46 Tapping into Emotional Truth in Imaginary Worlds 20:22 The Physicality of Voice Acting 23:28 The Evolution of Voice Performance 24:32 Casting Voice Actors for Games 26:32 Finding Subtext in Game Scripts 28:49 Unlocking Great Performances 31:56 Self-Care for Directors and Actors 35:00 The Importance of Coaching 36:41 Skills for Iconic Storytelling Projects 38:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

40 min
JUL 21

Casting for Mocap, Games & Animation with Jessica Jefferies. **A Women in Games Special**

Casting for Mocap, Games & Animation with Jessica Jefferies In this episode of High Notes, host, Melissa Thom, sits down with Jessica Jefferies, a casting director who specialises in motion and performance capture for video games. Jessica opens up about her transition from actor to casting director, the challenges she faced in the industry, and how performance capture continues to evolve. The conversation explores her unique career journey, the critical role of inclusivity in casting, and the growing influence of AI in the gaming world. She also offers valuable advice for aspiring voice and performance capture artists, and shares a sneak peek into current and upcoming projects. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10955582/ https://www.instagram.com/jessicajefferiescasting https://www.jessicajefferiescasting.co.uk/bio Subscribe to the BRAVA newsletter for news updates, training opportunities, and more from the world of business, acting and voice: https://www.brava.uk.com/subscribe 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:58 Jessica Jeffries' Journey into Motion Capture 03:52 Transition from Acting to Casting 07:29 The Evolution and Excitement of Performance Capture 09:12 Casting Insights and Advice for Actors 20:05 The Importance of Inclusivity in Casting 24:20 Training and Career Development for Aspiring Actors 26:36 Balancing Work and Family Life 29:54 Future Projects and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

34 min
JUL 14

Inside Aardman: Bringing Clay to Life - Characters, Voice & Performance with Merlin Crossingham

Inside Aardman: Bringing Clay to Life - Characters, Voice & Performance with Merlin Crossingham In this episode of High Notes, Melissa talks to Merlin Crossingham, Creative Director for Wallace and Gromit at Aardman Animations. Merlin shares some surprising stories from his childhood that led him onto a very specific career path in animation, as well as thoughts on the timeless appeal of Wallace and Gromit. The conversation explores the intricacies of voice performance, character development and the evolving landscape of voice acting, in an era of AI and immersive media. Melissa and Merlin also discuss the importance of physicality in voice acting, the challenges of directing new talent, and magic moments in the booth that can really bring animation characters to life. Find out more about the wonderful world of Aardman https://www.aardman.com/ Subscribe to the BRAVA newsletter for news updates, training opportunities, and more from the world of business, acting and voice: https://www.brava.uk.com/subscribe 00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast 00:51 Meet Merlin Ingham: Creative Director for Wallace and Gromit 01:42 Merlin's Journey: From Circus Skills to Animation 03:34 The Timeless Appeal of Wallace and Gromit 06:11 The Art of Silent Storytelling 08:31 Casting Voices for Animation 19:03 Directing Voice Actors for Stop Motion 25:29 The Evolution of Morph and Voice Acting 28:41 Challenges of Interactive Storytelling 31:20 The Human Touch in Animation 32:34 Keeping Wallace and Gromit Fresh 35:10 Advice for Aspiring Voice Actors 37:23 Reflections on Success and Future Projects 39:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

41 min
JUL 7

Vocal Shapeshifting: Acting for Video Games with Andrew Whieldon Dennis

In this episode of High Notes, Andrew Whieldon Dennis reflects on his expansive career as a voice actor in the videogame industry, from indie projects to AAA blockbusters. He talks about his early inspirations, the cultural influences that shaped him, and his evolution into a true 'vocal shapeshifter'. Andrew offers a behind-the-scenes look at his acting process, emphasizes the value of consistent training, and explores how he weaves his British/Puerto Rican heritage into his performances. He also highlights the importance of community, mental health, and lifelong learning — all while sharing his deep affection for his hometown of Bristol. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2340991/ https://andrew-dennis.com/ Subscribe to the BRAVA newsletter for news updates, training opportunities, and more from the world of business, acting and voice: https://www.brava.uk.com/subscribe 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:19 Early Inspirations and Career Beginnings 01:52 Developing Vocal Skills and Cultural Influences 07:10 Character Development and Acting Process 12:16 Training and Career Highlights 19:17 Advice for Aspiring Voice Actors 29:48 Living and Working in Bristol 32:56 Upcoming Projects and Conclusion Read an edited transcript here... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

37 min
JUN 30

The Magic of Pixar: Voice Casting with Kate Hansen-Birnbaum

The Magic of PIxar: Voice Casting with Kate Hansen-Birnbaum In this episode of High Notes, Melissa chats to Kate Hansen Birnbaum, Casting Director at Pixar, whose credits include beloved animated films like Inside Out 2, Soul, Elemental, and Luca. Kate shares her unconventional path into casting, which began at a San Francisco talent agency under the mentorship of seasoned actors. She offers a rare look inside Pixar’s intricate casting process, highlighting the value placed on authenticity, natural vocal tone, and the ability to truly inspire the animation team. The conversation touches on Pixar’s commitment to diverse and inclusive casting, including their practice of anonymised auditions to help reduce unconscious bias. Kate also brings the episode to life with memorable stories from her career, particularly the joy of working on Elemental — and shares thoughtful advice for aspiring voice actors. She highlights the importance of continuous growth and curiosity, and the unmitigated joy of delivering life-changing news to chosen performers. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10779349/ https://www.jetalent.com/ https://www.pixar.com/ Subscribe to the BRAVA newsletter for news updates, training opportunities, and more from the world of business, acting and voice: https://www.brava.uk.com/subscribe 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:19 Kate's Journey into Casting 02:19 The Casting Process at Pixar 04:22 Finding Unique Voices 08:02 Diversity and Inclusion in Casting 10:16 Changes in Casting Over the Years 16:50 Advice for Aspiring Voice Actors 19:33 Favourite Moments and Final Thoughts Read an edited transcript here... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

27 min
SEASON 2 TRAILER

Season 2 High Notes Podcast Trailer

Welcome to Season 2 of High Notes — the podcast exploring the art and business of voice. Brought to you by BRAVA https://www.brava.uk.com/ Season 2 will focus on the world of Games and Animation. This season, host, Melissa Thom, speaks with leaders across the business from Pixar, Aardman, and the world of AAA gaming. Discover how voices are cast, directed, and brought to life — from Mocap to claymation, and indie games to blockbusters. Featuring guests from Pixar, Aardman and more. Voices heard in this episode are: Melissa Thom - https://www.brava.uk.com/melissa-thom Bob Bergen - https://www.bobbergen.com/ Merlin Crossingham - https://www.aardman.com/about/people/merlin-crossingham/ Kate Hansen-Birnbaum - https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10779349/mediaviewer/rm1539075329/?ref_=nm_ov_ph Andrew Whieldon Dennis - https://andrew-dennis.com/ Jessica Jeffries - https://www.jessicajefferiescasting.co.uk/ Tom Keegan - https://www.tomkeegan.net/ High Notes — where every voice tells a story. Subscribe now so you never miss an episode. Follow us for more information https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravauk/ https://www.facebook.com/bravauk https://www.instagram.com/bravauk Subscribe to the BRAVA newsletter for regular updates on news, training opportunities, and insights from the world of voice: https://www.brava.uk.com/subscribe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

3 min

High Notes is a podcast featuring conversations on the art and business of voice, hosted by voice actor and BRAVA CEO, Melissa Thom. From Mongolian throat singing to vocal health, accents, gaming, and more, HIGH NOTES uncovers the craft behind the business. Brought to you by https://www.brava.uk.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Creator

Melissa Thom
Years Active

2023 - 2025
Episodes

20
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Melissa Thom
Show Website

High Notes