Today, we're peeling back the curtain and delving into the fascinating backstory of VO North – the ultimate gathering in Canada for voice actors.
A Canadian Love Story
The story of VO North begins in the vibrant city of Toronto, Natasha's hometown. Picture a casual meetup in a charming bar, where voice actors from all over gathered. That's when Dervla Trainor, a talented voice actor herself, felt a spark—a need for a more curated community experience where voice actors could not only mingle but also learn and grow together. Little did she know that this casual gathering would evolve into something truly exceptional.
Dervla's journey took an exciting turn when her agent, the fabulous Tanya Buchanan of Ta-Da VoiceWorks, joined forces. Together, they embarked on a mission to create a conference that went beyond the ordinary—a conference that celebrated the art of voiceover and provided a unique learning experience for all attendees. And thus, the idea for VO North was born!
From Concept to Reality: The Birth of VO North
With a background in event production and a passion for bringing people together, they set out to turn our vision into reality. Armed with determination and a touch of creativity, they began crafting a one-of-a-kind event that would cater to the needs of voice actors far and wide.
Curating an Unforgettable Experience: The Speaker Selection Process
The main stage at VO North is where the magic happens. A lineup of industry giants, from voice actors to agents and casting directors, takes center stage to share their insights, experiences, and invaluable tips. This isn't your typical lecture series; it's a dynamic exchange where attendees absorb wisdom, laugh, and occasionally shed a tear.
Imagine sitting in on an intensive session led by Eric Bowser, the iconic voice of Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck. Now, picture yourself in a room with David K, a seasoned professional with a resume so extensive it could fill volumes. These are the moments that make VO North unforgettable—an opportunity to learn directly from the voices behind beloved characters.
Personalized Learning with Intensives
VO North goes the extra mile with intensives—specialized sessions that cater to various experience levels. Whether you're a novice looking to grasp the basics or a seasoned pro aiming to refine your craft, there's an intensive tailored just for you.
The intensives are more than workshops; they're immersive experiences where attendees delve deep into the nuances of voiceover. Picture Tracy sharing her expertise on LinkedIn, offering actionable strategies to conquer the platform. It's not just about learning; it's about applying newfound knowledge to elevate your voiceover game.
Networking Extravaganza
Beyond the structured sessions, VO North excels in fostering a culture of networking. Picture this: casual conversations over coffee, impromptu meet-ups in the hallway, and late-night discussions at nearby restaurants. Connections are made, collaborations are born, and friendships are forged in an environment that encourages authenticity and shared passion.
Growing Pains and Triumphs: The Evolution of VO North
Over the years, VO North blossomed into something truly remarkable. What started as a humble gathering has now become a must-attend event for voice actors of all levels. With each passing year, they saw the community grow and thrive, thanks to the unwavering support of the attendees and speakers alike.
Unfortunately the curtain has fallen on the last VO North conference. Though the founders have left an indelible mark. Let’s be hopeful that this is not a goodbye but a chance for a different set of passionate individuals to breathe life into this beloved event.
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