One reason that I am performing some audiobook work on Librivox as a service project is because it allows me to practice some acting techniques needed for effective storytelling in audiobooks.

A project that was recently completed and is now available for free download is a multi-cast drama of The Perils of Pauline. I voiced the role of the heroine Pauline for two-thirds of the book.

I only read the lines for my character. Much like an audition for a radio dialogue spot, I didn’t have the benefit of hearing and playing off the other voice actors in the scene. I had to imagine that I had heard the other characters speak and then react with an appropriate emotional response.

This particular project lasted over 2.5 years due in part to lots of casting changes. Editing all of the hundreds of character reads into the narration was a herculean task undertaken by David Lawrence. I enjoyed hearing the finished product.

LibriVox is a great way to hone your narration and editing skills, but you can also volunteer in other ways such as being a proof listener on projects. I am proud to be part of this active, thriving community.