Wisdom and workshop — the world of voice acting

by Stephen Alexander, Theatre Manager,

Portland-based performer Mary Mac to present seminar on rarely-seen world of voice artistry, and vocal and dialect coaching.

How do I become a voice in “Assassin’s Creed”? What training do I need for a Lunesta commercial? Do I have to know someone to get the job saying “Yo, Joe!” on G.I. Joe?

The answer: Ask MaryMac.

Mary MacMary McDonald-Lewis presents a seminar and workshop, “MaryMac: A View from Here” at the Pelton Theatre on Friday, March 8, 1 to 4 p.m., as part of the Theatre Department’s long-running Guest Artist Program. The seminar and workshop are free and open to the public. Participants must register here. 

Artists of the stage — emerging and veteran alike — can especially benefit from McDonald-Lewis’ perspective and workshop. The seminar will take participants into the rarely-seen world of voice artistry and vocal/dialect coaching. The second part of “A View from Here” welcomes participants into the studio for a hands-on experience in voice recording, using sound technology and recording materials, as well as scripted copy for study and performance.

“Developing voice acting skills demands the same kind of training that any other aspects of performing do. If you need to learn a fight for a stage play, film, you work to get in shape, stay in shape, and train for that specific fight. It’s no different in my craft,” says McDonald-Lewis.

You may never have seen McDonald-Lewis but you probably know her work. Credits since the 1970s include Lady Jaye from “G.I. Joe,” Lois Lane and Wonder Woman from “Superfriends,” Maven from “Batman,” and femme fatale on “Archer,” Veronica Dean. McDonald-Lewis’ career includes hundreds of commercials, political ads, and being the voice of OnStar. She was the series dialect coach on “Leverage” and developed and trained “Grimmish,” the language of “Grimm,” where she also played the role of Frau Pech. McDonald-Lewis lives in Portland.

McDonald-Lewis’ visit is supported by the College of Liberal Arts Faculty Fund to Enhance Student Learning.

Due to time and space restrictions, only the first 12 who register for the workshop can be assured of voice recording experience, although everyone will join together for the full seminar and workshop time.

If you require disability accommodation for this event, contact the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at 503-370-6195.

If you go

“MaryMac: A View from Here”

1 to 4 p.m., March 8

M. Lee Pelton Theatre, Willamette University

Registration

Willamette University

University Communications

Address
Waller Hall, Fourth Floor
900 State Street
Salem Oregon 97301 U.S.A.

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