Acting and Audiobook narration
I’ve been meaning to address something important: why audiobook narrators need acting training.
Many aspiring narrators believe that a great voice is all you need to deliver a professional performance. But that misses the mark. Audiobook narration isn’t just about reading words in a pleasing tone—it’s about acting.
To truly engage and captivate an audience, narrators need more than vocal talent—they need the depth and skills that come from acting training.
Mikhail Chekhov, the brilliant actor and coach, understood the deep connection between physicality and emotion. His psycho-physical technique teaches us that even in voice work, how we move, sit, and breathe impacts how emotion and character are conveyed.
Stage and screen actors use their bodies to express feelings. The same principle applies in audiobook narration—though we only have our voices, every subtle movement and breath influences how we communicate emotion. This isn’t just reading; it’s about inhabiting characters and bringing stories to life.
Without acting training, narrators may have a pleasant voice, but often lack the emotional depth that professional narration demands. Acting skills help unlock the nuance and authenticity that makes a performance stand out.
As an audiobook narrator, I wholeheartedly endorse the value of acting training. On stage or screen, actors rely on body language and facial expressions to convey meaning. In audiobooks, our voice has to do it all—and yes, even something as simple as a smile can be heard.
If you want to excel as an audiobook narrator, acting training isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. It’s what transforms a good reading into a truly compelling performance.
