Exploring the Art of Conversational Voiceover with Hugh Klitzke

Welcome to Voice Acting Unplugged

Hello and welcome to the latest edition of Voice Acting Unplugged, where we delve into the multifaceted world of voice acting. In this episode, hosted by Margaret Ashley and Anthony Rudd, we explore the art and nuance of conversational voiceover with a legend in the field, Mr. Hugh Klitzke.

Meet Hugh Klitzke

Hugh Klitzke is renowned for his vast experience in the voiceover industry, having spent nearly 15 years as the voiceover studio manager at Buchwald in New York. He is a respected coach and director with over 18 years of experience and has directed more than 125,000 sessions.

During our conversation, Hugh shares insights into his journey, how he transitioned from an agency manager to going solo, and the profound lessons learned along the way. His story is not just about career evolution but is also an inspiration for anyone looking to pivot and find fulfillment in their professional life.

The Birth of Conversational Voiceover

Hugh Klitzke delves into the history and significance of conversational voiceover—highlighting its origins, development, and how it has become a staple in today’s industry. From the impactful 1984 “Morning in America” campaign by Hal Riney to the MasterCard “Priceless” campaign voiced by Billy Crudup in the early 2000s, the shift towards an interpretative, conversational style is evident.

He describes conversational voiceover as more than just sounding casual; it’s about understanding and interpreting emotions behind a script, making it relatable and authentic for listeners.

Coaching the Conversational Style

One of Hugh’s specialties is helping seasoned voice actors master the conversational read. He listens to voice actors, offers specific feedback, and helps them achieve the right tone and emotional resonance.

While he works primarily with established professionals two to three years into their careers, Hugh believes in focusing on those who need to translate their existing skills into a conversational genre. He shares that it’s not just about knowing the words but understanding their implications and responding authentically in one’s delivery.

The Evolution and Future of Conversational Reads

In conversation with Margaret and Anthony, Hugh discusses the potential future of conversational reads in advertising. He suggests that the language may evolve but stresses that the desire for authentic and genuine communication will remain constant. Even in the rapidly changing landscape of digital media, a well-executed conversational read can build trust and rapport with audiences.

Join Hugh Klitzke Online

For those interested in exploring the nuances of conversational voiceover further, Hugh offers two outstanding resources available through his website, [conversationalvo.com](http://conversationalvo.com):

1. Free Consultations: Book a 20-minute private session to discuss your goals and work on your voiceover skills.

2. Conversational Open Studio: Join a group session to observe a live coaching demonstration and gain insights from Hugh’s direct feedback. These sessions have proven invaluable for many budding and experienced voice actors.

In conclusion, Hugh Klitzke’s work in the conversational voiceover domain offers a roadmap for navigating the broader voice acting landscape. Whether you’re beginning your journey or looking to refine your skills, understanding and mastering the art of the conversational read is crucial.

For more insightful content on voice acting and to keep up with the latest in industry trends, make sure to subscribe to our podcast, Voice Acting Unplugged. You can find links to our guests and resources at the bottom of this post. As always, we appreciate your support and hope you’ll join us again next week for another thrilling adventure in the world of voice acting.

Join Margaret & Anthony next time on Voice Acting Unplugged.