If only there were a neat, one-size-fits-all answer. The truth is, UK voiceover rates vary depending on a whole range of factors: project type, usage, duration, and—crucially—the experience of the voice you hire.

This blog will give you a clear sense of what to budget for different kinds of projects, plus a reality check on why the cheapest option isn’t always the smartest investment.

The two parts behind every quote: session and usage

Professional voiceover quotes usually break down into two main elements:

1. Basic studio/session fee (BSF) – the cost of recording, editing, and delivering the files. (My BSF is £300 by the way.)
2. Usage/licence fee – the cost of using the recording, which depends on where and how it will be heard (internal only vs. national TV ad, for example) and for how long. Because having a voice heard across TV or social is more “valuable” than internal training, and that needs proper compensation.

So when a client asks you “How much will the voiceover be?”, remember that size isn’t everything! The script may be short, but the price is really driven by how the audio will be used. And there are so many different types of voiceover job – and this is where it can get complicated.

What drives the cost of a voiceover? (Or, why your “cheap voiceover” sometimes comes back to bite)

Here are the biggest factors that influence the price:

• Length and word count: A two-minute internal explainer is cheaper than a 10-hour audiobook. But a 60 second TV ad can be as much as a decent new car!
• Usage and reach: Internal training? Modest fee. National TV ad? You’ll need broadcast licensing. There’s a simple algorithm based on TVRs.
• Complexity and style: Technical scripts, medical narration, multiple characters, or niche accents need more prep.
• Turnaround speed: Rush jobs usually come with rush rates.
• Revisions and retakes: A pro like me will include fair revisions, but extensive rewrites aren’t free.
• Studio vs home setup: If I use my own professional home studio (as I do) it lowers overheads for you vs booking big studios.
• Experience and quality: You’re paying not just for a voice, but for reliability, consistency, experience and the ability to nail the read first time. Trust me, it adds real value.

Sample UK voiceover rates (ballpark figures you can whisper to your clients!)

Here’s a rough idea of what different types of projects might cost in the UK market. These aren’t rigid rules, but they give you solid benchmarks for client discussions:

These ranges cover the “average” professional. Experienced, in-demand voices may charge more, and rightly so (more on that in a minute).

Price vs value: why the cheapest voice can be the most expensive mistake

Here’s where things get interesting. Clients often fixate on cost, but for agencies and most clients, what really matters is value. You’re not just buying a few minutes of recorded audio—you’re buying everything that comes with it.

Think about it this way:

• Experience saves you money: A pro can deliver the right tone in fewer takes, meaning less editing, fewer revisions, and faster project turnaround. Time saved = money saved.
• Cheap voices cost more in the long run: If the recording isn’t up to scratch, you may need to re-record with someone else, explain delays to your client, or worse—deliver subpar work. That “bargain” £50 read suddenly looks very expensive.
• Professionalism matters: Deadlines, consistent quality, file formats, availability. An amateur might leave you hanging; a pro voiceover artist won’t.
• Your client notices: A polished voiceover elevates the entire production. A ropey one can undermine all the great design and strategy work you’ve put in.
• Creative polish: The difference between “reads the words” and “makes your message land.”
• Peace of mind has value: Knowing the job will be done right the first time means you can focus on everything else your client needs.

So yes, you could get a cheaper voice from, say, a freelancer in a less saturated market. But there’s a reason some voices cost more—and why creative agencies and clients often prefer me:

FAQs agencies ask about voiceover pricing

Why do voiceovers cost so much for ads?
Because the reach (TV, radio, online campaigns) massively increases the value of the voice. A national ad that airs for months is very different to a one-off internal training video.

Isn’t there always someone who’ll do it cheaper?
Yes, but if they can’t deliver broadcast-quality audio on deadline—or if their performance falls flat—you’ll end up paying more to fix it. Plus, a pro knows how to approach the script with minimal direction and adds ideas and experience to the mix. My clients often come in with one idea, I offer my take – and that’s the one they use!

Can’t AI just do it now?
Synthetic voices exist, but they can’t capture nuance, humour, or subtle persuasion the way a real human can. If your client cares about brand identity (and they should), a professional voice is non-negotiable.

Tips for getting better value from your voiceover budget

1. Be specific in the brief – usage, audience, tone, file format. Clear briefs save money.
2. Bundle jobs – recording multiple scripts in one session keeps costs down.
3. Plan ahead – avoid rush fees by scheduling voiceovers early in the project timeline.
4. Ask for usage clarity – always confirm media, territory, and duration up front.
5. Work with the same voice over time – long-term collaboration builds efficiency (and trust).

The bottom line: what’s a voiceover really worth?

So, how much does a voiceover cost? In the UK, a simple narration couple start around £200. A broadcast commercial could run into four figures with usage fees. An audiobook may be hundreds per finished hour.

But the real question isn’t “How much does it cost?” It’s “What’s the value of getting it right first time?”

A pro voiceover doesn’t just tick a budget line. It makes your client’s content sound credible, trustworthy, engaging—and by extension, it makes your agency look brilliant.

Why hire me?

I’m Claire Wyatt, a professional UK voiceover artist with 20+ years’ experience. I offer:

• Broadcast-quality recordings from my own studio.
• Versatility across corporate, commercial, e-learning, IVR, Gaming, Drama and more.
• Transparent pricing and clear usage rights (no nasty surprises).
• A friendly, reliable partnership with agencies who want to impress their clients.

In short: great value for money, because I bring the skills, speed, and professionalism that save you time, stress, and revisions.

If you’d like your next project to sound as good as it looks, drop me a line at claire@clairewyatt.com

Let’s make your client’s brand unforgettable—without the budget headaches.

The post How much does a voiceover cost? (and why value matters more than the sticker price!) appeared first on Claire Wyatt Female Voiceover.

With 20+ years of professional experience, exceptional vocal range, and a reputation for delivering high-quality recordings, Claire has quickly become the go-to voiceover artist for a wide variety of projects. Whether you’re working on an animation, commercial, corporate video, or e-learning project, Claire Wyatt’s voice brings an unparalleled level of expertise and artistry to every project. Here’s why she should be your first choice for your next voiceover.

1. Exceptional Vocal Range and Versatility

One of the key reasons Claire Wyatt is a standout choice for your voiceover project is her remarkable vocal range. Whether you need a warm, soothing tone for a narration or a high-energy, animated performance for a commercial, Claire has the ability to adapt her voice to fit the needs of your project perfectly. Her versatility allows her to voice a variety of characters, from serious and professional to quirky and humorous, and everything in between. Claire’s flexibility means that no matter the tone or mood you’re seeking, she can deliver it with precision and flair.

2. Professional Quality Recordings

When it comes to voiceover work, the technical aspects of the recording process are just as important as the voice itself. Claire Wyatt brings professional-grade recording equipment and editing techniques to every project she works on, ensuring that you receive crystal-clear audio with minimal noise and distortion. Whether working from her fully-equipped home studio or collaborating with top-tier production houses, Claire ensures that her recordings meet the highest industry standards. The result is a polished, professional sound that will elevate your voiceover project and make it shine.

3. Tailored to Your Project’s Needs

Every voiceover project is unique, and Claire Wyatt knows that. She takes the time to understand your vision and works closely with you to ensure her voice complements your specific needs. From the tone and pacing to the pronunciation and emphasis, Claire tailors her performance to capture the essence of your brand or character. Her attention to detail and dedication to perfection means that you won’t have to worry about the final product. Claire provides the kind of personal touch that makes your voiceover sound as though it was made just for your project, rather than a generic performance.

4. Proven Experience in Various Industries

Claire Wyatt’s extensive portfolio speaks for itself. She has worked with clients across a wide range of industries, including advertising, corporate videos, e-learning, animation, video games, and more. Her diverse experience ensures she has the right skills to take on any type of voiceover project, no matter how specialized. Whether you’re looking for a soft, authoritative voice for a corporate training video or an engaging, energetic tone for an animated character, Claire’s adaptability makes her the perfect fit for virtually any type of voiceover work.

5. Client-Focused Approach and Excellent Communication

One of the reasons Claire Wyatt is so beloved by her clients is her commitment to clear, effective communication. From the moment you reach out to her, she prioritizes understanding your goals and requirements. She’s responsive, approachable, and always ready to make adjustments based on your feedback. Her collaborative nature ensures that your vision is realized, and that you’re completely satisfied with the final product. With Claire, you can be confident that you’ll receive a top-notch voiceover that meets your project’s specific needs.

6. Timely Delivery and Professionalism

Deadlines are critical in the world of voiceover work, and Claire Wyatt is known for her punctuality and professionalism. She understands that time is of the essence and ensures that you receive your recordings promptly, often ahead of schedule. Her ability to deliver high-quality work within a set timeframe makes her a reliable choice for projects with tight deadlines, whether it’s a quick-turnaround commercial or an audiobook with a fixed release date.

7. A Voice That Resonates With Audiences

In addition to her technical skill and professional demeanour, Claire Wyatt possesses a unique ability to connect with audiences. Her voice has a warm, engaging quality that captivates listeners and makes them feel emotionally invested in the message. This is particularly important for commercials, e-learning modules, and narrations, where you want to hold the listener’s attention and leave a lasting impact.
Whether you’re trying to establish a strong connection with customers or draw people into a compelling narrative, Claire’s voice will resonate with your audience, helping to build trust and engagement.

8. Affordable Without Compromising on Quality

While some top-tier voiceover artists can come with a hefty price tag, Claire Wyatt offers competitive rates without sacrificing the quality of her work. Her pricing structure is transparent, and she’s committed to providing excellent value for every client, whether they’re working with a large corporation or a small business. You don’t have to break the bank to get professional-level voiceover work. With Claire, you’ll get premium quality recordings at a fair and reasonable cost.

9. Positive Client Feedback and Testimonials

It’s not just Claire’s skill and versatility that make her an exceptional choice for voiceover work—it’s her reputation. Claire has built a loyal client base over the years, and she’s consistently praised for her professionalism, creativity, and ability to deliver outstanding voiceovers. Many clients return to Claire time and time again, citing her excellent communication, dedication to quality, and talent as reasons they trust her with their voiceover needs.

10. Passion for the Craft

Claire Wyatt isn’t just a voiceover artist; she’s an artist who is passionate about her craft. This passion shines through in every project she takes on. She approaches each voiceover with enthusiasm and a genuine desire to deliver her best work, making her a standout choice for any project. Her dedication to her art and her clients ensures that every voiceover project is treated with the care and attention it deserves.

In Conclusion: Choose Claire Wyatt for Your Voiceover Project

With her vast experience, unmatched versatility, and unwavering dedication to quality, Claire Wyatt is the best choice for your next voiceover project. Whether you’re looking for a commercial, animation, e-learning module, or audiobook, Claire brings a unique combination of technical skill, creative talent, and professionalism that sets her apart from other voiceover artists.
By choosing Claire Wyatt, you’re investing in a voice that will captivate, engage, and leave a lasting impression on your audience. Get in touch with Claire today to elevate your next voiceover project!

End note – thanks to AI for this. If you can’t beat them, join them right?

The post Why Claire Wyatt is the Best Choice for Your Voiceover Project appeared first on Claire Wyatt Female Voiceover.

Well, what did we all make of 2022 then? I mean, if we don’t mention the war in Ukraine, economic crisis here at home, the NHS at breaking point, Whitehall in chaos (how many PMs did we have?!), increasing catastrophic impacts of climate change and inaction by world leaders and, of course, the Queen dying then I think we can say it was a good year! At least we weren’t in lock down, right? And Kate Bush was back at Number 1 in the charts so I’m holding on to that. But what about my Voiceover Review of the Year?

The life of a female voice-over in 2022

I have to say that, despite the bleak news, I did have a good year. I focussed on the small and local to insulate myself from the the things that were happening at a larger scale that I felt powerless to change. I’ve befriended a local Ukrainian refugee family, I’ve started volunteering at my daughters school library and I’m fundraising for a new play park in our town. We tried to take every opportunity as a family to have fun this year. Holidays and days out and experiences together. Simple pleasures. Socialising more and laughing as much as we can.

If you check out my review of 2021. You can see I set these these goals for 2022:

• Maintain the wonderful life I have rather than always striving for more.
• Spend more time one-on-one with the girls.
• Craft more, garden more, read more, rest more!
• Take every opportunity to have fun and go out now that we can!

And as for work:

• Improve my website to show off my commercial and corporate video VO content better.
• Win new radio commercial clients.
• Take time to study and improve my voice – mainly in new commercial styles and brushing up my accent work.

The focus was on wellbeing rather than work. It seems weird to be saying that outload and celebrating it on my WORK blog. But I actually think it’s important. Especially when you run your own business. As a freelance voiceover artist I have no corporation or big boss or HR system to care for me. I have to do it myself.

A good year for Brands and Balance

Well, I think I did a good job. I’ve met my income targets whilst balancing life at home. I’ve spent an enormous amount of time having fun with the girls and being present for them and with them. They’ll only be young for such a short time (thank God!) so I want to treasure it. But I’ve also made sure I get rest breaks so I don’t burn out. I’ve taken more time for me in 2022 than any year since children came along. I’ve learned new skills, read more books, tended to my garden and had more dates with my incredible husband.

But I did focus on work too of course. I updated the website so that I can showcase more of my work in video form and worked with some incredible brands on jobs I’m really proud of.

Brands I’ve voiced for in 2022:

My voiceover work in 2022 covered Radio adverts, TV commercials, Online and Cinema Commercials, Corporate videos VO and explainer voiceover, E-Learning and so much more. I’ve voiced for all sorts of sectors:

• Authoritative and trustworthy voiceover for Banking and Finance
• Engaging and upbeat VO for food retail
• Clear vocal styles for Utilities companies
• Authentic, credible and contemporary voice over for Music and Film industries
• Intimate, genuine and soothing voice for mental health
• Bright, youthful and chatty vocal styles for Children’s Education
• As well as voicing for the Automotive, Built Environment, Charity, Aviation, FMCG and Farming sectors.

A lot to be proud of. So, what’s next?

As for 2023? Well, here goes:

• I didn’t prioritise CPD (Continued professional development) last year as I needed time for other things. But I would like to this year. I want to carve out time to study and improve my voice – mainly brushing up my accent work.
• I think I’m ready to hit the VO social scene again and might submit myself for some awards this year. Will I win? I’ll tell you in next year’s blog.
• I want to continue volunteering and making an impact locally. I despair at the state of politics so doing small acts of kindness helps me feel in control and I can see the effects.
• I want to wrap my head around the rise of AI and how it may impact my business. I need to make sure I’m diversifying and staying resilient. Will I still have a job in 10 years?

Thanks for listening to the ramblings of an English female voiceover working in corporate and commercial voice-over. Yeah, that last sentence helps with SEO. Ha ha. Always got my eye on the prize!

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The post Educational Voiceover Artist of the Year 2019 appeared first on Claire Wyatt Female Voiceover.

Welcome! Come on in! I’d love to show you around. Take a peek inside as I give you a voiceover studio tour. I’ll show you what it looks like and also take you through the sound equipment I use.

Short on time?

If you’re after a quick fix (and shouldn’t be watching videos at work anyway!), here’s a snappy version where I just tell you about the kit I use:

Want to know more?

You can read all about the evolution of my studio from my first mic to this broadcast quality booth on my blog. I’ve also got a film all about how I designed and built the voice over studio and another where I can show you how great the sound proofing is. Enjoy!

The post Now, who would work in a voiceover studio like this? appeared first on Claire Wyatt Female Voiceover.

I’m constantly asked how I started out in voiceover. How I went from a total beginner to someone with her own professional home studio and clients all around the world. So, I thought I’d make a little video and put this blog together to tell some of the story.

I’m focusing mainly on the studio and technical evolution here rather than talking about the training, personal development, marketing, branding and endless hard slog that has built my business. I hope it’s interesting or useful, or both! Here goes…

How did it all start?

I got my first professional job while I was still at drama school. I recorded a series of e-learning projects at a local producers home studio. At the time I was super impressed and thought I’d never figure out how all that recording equipment and editing software would work. I was glad I was the other side of the mic! But you have to remember, this was the late 90s. Ancient history to some of you! At the time I’d only recently bought my 1st ever mobile phone and only had access to a communal University PC. The idea of having the space, cash and knowledge to set up a studio seemed impossible.

But I soon discovered that as an English voiceover artist with a neutral RP accent, there was a lot of demand for my voice – especially in the e-learning and corporate world. Word spread from client to client and I kept booking more gigs. Always in other people’s studios dotted around the UK but mostly in London. I loved the work. So, I took some classes, listened to radio and TV commercials like a loon and had my first demo reels made.

And then I did nothing. Like a prat! It took me a while to find the money and confidence to set up at home. But once I did, I never looked back.

So, less about the why and how, and more about the kit.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

My 1st studio

It was basic! A second-hand mic that was better suited to live music, an ancient interface and a mic stand. The rest was all pillow forts and crossed fingers! But it served it’s purpose. I gained confidence in self-direction, learned the basics of audio recording and editing (using Audacity freeware) and started to build up a list of clients who wanted to work with home voiceover artists.

The kit:

• Rode NT3 mic
• Roland Edirol UA-25 interface
• Basic mic stand and reflection filter
• Audacity

The sound quality was obviously poor. But it was a great way to start. I was always honest with my clients about my set-up and I made sure that I always sent a sample recording first.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Studio 2 – my first build attempt

It didn’t take long for me to realise if I wanted to build my career, I needed to invest in myself. So, I built a private studio (a room within a room) in my office. I upgraded my mic and kit, invested in much better editing software and really started to push my voice over career. Boy did it pay off! The better sound quality I was achieving, coupled with my improved abilities as a voiceover and editor, meant that the work stared to flow in. I picked up an agent, improved my branding and marketing efforts and started to work in new areas of the industry. It was great!

The kit:

• Rode NT1a
• Audiobox USB interface
• Reaper editing software

So, why change things?

Well, I made mistakes when I built the studio. Sound insulation needed to be improved, ventilation and light was poor, it was small and I wanted an ISDN line and another equipment upgrade.#

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Studio 3 – my current set-up

Ahhhh, now that’s better! Months of research and planning. Thousands of pounds in materials, builders fees, the latest equipment upgrades and I am now one very happy voiceover artist. And, best of all, my clients are thrilled too! I knocked down the old office and studio and did a total re-build. Broadcast quality sound insulation, the best acoustic treatment and the brand new cables and equipment. Mmmmm, yummy!

I now have the space, equipment, confidence and ability to serve all aspects of the voiceover industry, plus my new ISDN line is live!

The kit:

• Rode NT1A Mic
• Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 USB interface
• CCS Musicam Prima LT Codec
• Soundcraft EPM6 mixer with a PDM-300 desk mic for in-booth communications
• Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro (80 OHM) headphones

You can watch more videos all about the studio on my YouTube page where I have video tours, a guide to the build process and other fund stuff like sound tests.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

So, what’s the lesson here?

Well, I guess it’s that nothing is static. The industry is always evolving and so my business is too. As I learn and improve I have to change my studio and equipment to work in new markets and I have to keep up with trends and technology too. We need to embrace that. I know I do. I love learning and stretching myself. I love voice work, but I love running a business too.

If I reflect on the last 20 years of my career, what do I wish?

• I wish I’d found the confidence to start home studio work earlier.
• I wish I’d known that it’s ok to fake it until you make it.
• I wish I’d realised that it’s quicker to ask for forgiveness than wait for permission.  As soon as I threw off the shackles of self-doubt and invested in myself like a professional, I was treated like one.

I’m brilliant at my job and I love it. Let’s see what the next 20 years brings eh?

The post The evolution of my voiceover studio appeared first on Claire Wyatt Female Voiceover.

All good questions and ones that I see A LOT on voiceover forums – especially from beginners. The dizzying choice of mics from £50 to multiple thousands of pounds can make your head spin. And once you scratch the surface you realise that everyone has a different opinion, every voice is different (and therefore suits a different mic) and every studio has different acoustic.

Arrrrghhhh! Maddening right? I know it drove me nuts when I started.

So, I’m adding this blog to the already over-crowded field of info and options on mics in the hope that it will help someone.

The shootout

The wonderful Rob Bee (sound engineer, studio whisperer and all round good guy) came to see my at my home studio recently. He brought a whole heap of mics in the £50 – £500 bracket for me to try. I was pretty happy with my current mic, but it’s always good to see what else is out there. And it’s SOOOO easy to fall into the self-doubt trap when so many other voice artists talk about their mics and you wonder ‘Is mine as good at theirs’.

So, anyway, here’s the video I made. Have a listen and see what you think. Obviously it’ll make a difference how you’re listening. Watching on your mobile phone with cheap headphones is never going to reveal some of the subtle differences as well as decent speakers in a sound studio.

Here’s just the sound file:

So, what did you think? Did you have a favourite? Was it the same as mine? I’d love to know.

I could clearly hear a lot of mic noise on some, a thin sound on others, some sounded cheap and others just didn’t sound good/different enough for me to warrant buying a new mic.

WARNING!!! Do not read below this line unless you want to find out what the mics are.
Watch the video first.

The mics (and rough prices)

1. Rode NT1a – £130
2. Focusrite CM25 – £50
3. Aston Origin – £200
4. Sennehiser MK4 – £250
5. Lewitt LCT540 – £500
6. Sonotronics STC3X – £250

The result

Both Rob and I preferred the Rode NT1a.

It’s quiet, clear and clean and suits the middle part of my voice so perfect for a general mic. It’s cheap too! And it’s my current mic. Winner!

So, was it a waste of time? No way! I’ve tried a few mics and realised again that the combination of voice, environment and purpose should dictate mic choice and not brand and price. I really can’t stress enough that every mic is different, every voice is different and every studio is different. Just cos we preferred the Rode doesn’t mean the other mics are no good. The Rode is right for me in this studio at the moment. I will be trying some more expensive mics when I can get my hands on them to see if they are worth the investment. And, as I age and my voice changes, I’ll change mics again I expect!

Thanks for reading and watching and get in touch if you’d like to find out more or if you have questions.

The post Blind Mic shootout – female voiceover appeared first on Claire Wyatt Female Voiceover.

Well, what a year it’s been! I always get reflective around Christmas and it’s nice to be thankful for all the good things that have happened. So, what do I mean by voiceover journey? Well, 2017 has been hugely challenging on a personal level, so it’s been a blessing that my professional life has blossomed and flourished alongside it all. I’ve made new friends, worked with some amazing new companies and brands, collaborated with some heroes and had a lot of fun.

I really hope the year has been as wonderful for you.

Tis the season to be…THANKFUL

Here’s a little list of the great work I’ve been honoured to be part of this year:

• I’ve become a voice of Global (home of some of the UK’s best loved radio stations) and now regularly voice radio commercials all over the country.
• I confused my little toddler in TK Max when Mummy’s voice suddenly came over the tannoy! It’s been great fun doing some in-store announcements this year.
• My first Torchwood episode was released and I did my first drama for Audible working with an amazing cast including Miriam Margolyes, Douglas Booth and Alison Steadman
• I’m super proud to have been part of an audio drama set in WW2. Can’t say more until it’s released sadly!
• I’ve added brands like Tesco, DHL, TFL and BP to my rosta of clients.
• And of course I’ve launched my new website with updated demo reels and some fun seasonal offerings.
• But, best of all, I’ve built my business and continued to make friends from the wonderful people in our industry.

Some festive fun at the Gravy for the Brain Christmas Party

Louisa Gummer and Claire Wyatt

Me, Ally Murphy and Kenny Blyth

Me and Helen Quigley

My raffle winnings!

Here’s hoping 2018 is as exciting and rewarding.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New year to you all

Love Claire

The post Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year appeared first on Claire Wyatt Female Voiceover.

I was thrilled to be asked by the fantastic director Barnaby Edwards to be part of a three-part narrated audio drama for Audible. Not only is it narrated by the legendary Miriam Margolyes but it meant being reunited with with fantastic colleagues and friends. These included Helen Goldwyn, Tracy-Ann Oberman Richard Earl, Nicholas Pegg, Sarah Sutton and Niky Wardley.

The original drama is called Apprentice – Scarlet City – Part I. I played a couple of parts, but most notably the sassy and seductive Lillian who uses her looks and wit to great effect! I won’t say more as it will spoil it for you.

Pre-order a copy on the Audible site.

So, what’s it all about?

Here’s the Publisher’s Summary:

This Original multicast drama blends history with fiction to tell the story of Jonah, a young apprentice from London who raises himself from poverty by wit and luck to become one of the most powerful merchants of the age.

A rags-to-riches tale, Jonah’s journey spans the breadth of human experience, from the intricacies of Edward III’s political intrigues to the cutthroat world of international trade, from the triumphs of war to the agonies of personal loss – love, friendship, joy, heartbreak and glory. Set largely in London, the Scarlet City, the centre of medieval England, the Scarlet City trilogy is a thrilling portrait of the age and the people who made it so rich, colourful and extraordinary.

London, 1330. Jonah Durham grows up in the household of his tyrannical cousin Rupert, and only his grandmother, the calculating Cecilia Hillock, recognizes his talent and intelligence. After her death he inherits a handsome fortune, bestowing him with both wealth and independence but also the wrath of his increasingly dangerous cousin. However, a fateful encounter with the young King Edward III is set to radically change Jonah’s life and the future of English cloth production.

Cast information

Narrated by Miriam Margolyes, OBE (Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Romeo + Juliet, Mulan) and starring Douglas Booth (Riot Club, Loving Vincent, Shelley) as Jonah, and Alison Steadman, OBE (Gavin and Stacey, Orphan Black, Shirley Valentine) as Cecilia Hillock.

Also featuring: Daniel Anthony, Josephine Arden, John Banks, Tim Bentinck, Clare Buckfield, Oliver Coopersmith, Beth Chalmers, Elliot Chapman, Trevor Cooper, Ray Coulthard, Gareth David-Lloyd, Richard Earl, Andrew French, Helen Goldwyn, James Joyce, Tony Millan, Tracy-Ann Oberman, Katarina Olsson, Steven Pacey, Nicholas Pegg, Nigel Planer, Siobhán Redmond, Christopher Ryan, David Schofield, Dan Starkey, Sarah Sutton, Niky Wardley, Alexander Wlahos, and Claire Wyatt.

My other audio drama and audio book work

If you’d like to hear more, then please visit my audio book and audio drama page. I’ve created characters for Doctor Who and Torchwood, narrated children’s stories and adult fiction!

The post An epic audio drama from Audible appeared first on Claire Wyatt Female Voiceover.

As an actor I gained a reputation as the go-to person for playing multiple roles in one show. In fact, I’ve rarely ever been in a show where I only play one character! It requires an active imagination, an ability to manipulate your body, a willingness to make a fool of yourself and, of course, a great ear for accents and vocal character.

And it’s not just inventing characters. I’ve had to impersonate real people too. It takes a lot of listening and playing around before you find all the elements that make up someones voice. Are they breathy, nasal or shrill? What pitch and speed do they talk at? Is there a defect or impediment? What shapes do they make with their mouths and faces to form the sounds? Detailed research and a lot of hard graft but I get there in the end.

Anne Hegarty from The Chaser

What’s great is that all my theatre training and experience is now bleeding into my voiceover work. A recent client found me via Google precisely because they needed a skilled voiceover artist who could also do impersonations. They needed someone to impersonate some people from the TV game show The Chaser as well as coming up with characters playing the game. It was a lot of fun. Sadly, I’m not allowed to share the content so I’ll have to leave it to your imagination. But they did share the avatars with me.

Jenny Ryan from The Chaser

My many acting roles

Here’s just a selection of some of the shows I’ve done where I’ve had to take on characters and do impersonations:

• Vanity Fair by William Thackeray. I played the wealthy,grouchy and flamboyant octogenarian Lady Steyne as well as an hilarious and loving Irish military wife. I also played a teenager, a middle aged mum and a sour and snobbish Governess.
• Cyrano de Bergerac by Edmond Rostand. In this I played a man. Yup, you heard that right. At 5’2″ and the tender age of 25 I played the comic role of Ragueneau the pastry chef as well as a few extra characters here and there.
• Coronation Street on Stage by Jonathan Harvey. To celebrate 50 years of the iconic soap we toured and amazing show featuring some of the most famous characters and scenes. It was the hardest  job and most epic vocal challenge of my life! I played 11 characters including Vera Duckworth, Elsie Tanner, Annie Walker and Hayley Walker. The hardest part was doing an accurate impersonation but one that would work on stage to audiences in their 1000s. A breathy TV voice would never carry. So I had to adapt the voice but still sound like the character. Not easy! And then you add the millions of costume and wig changes. I was a sweaty mess by the end of each show.
  • You can see a short video of me playing Annie Walker on YouTube – watch from about 45 seconds in.

“Claire Wyatt is an instantly recognisable Elsie Tanner, her Vera Duckworth pairs well with Lailey’s Jack, but the audience’s hearts almost audibly go out to her Hayley and Sangster’s Roy Cropper.” Theatre Review

Some memorable Doctor Who Audio drama characters

• The Boy that Time Forgot – I played Madam Teegarna, a Scorpion-like alien military leader, as well as other minor characters.
• Exotron – in this I played a telepathic hyena called a Farakosh, a young Northern technician and a computer!
• Return to the Web Planet – I played Mother Earth herself in this spooky existential tale.
• The Silver Turk – this was fun to record as I had to play the posh Countess Mitzi Wittenmeier as well as her young Scottish maid in the same scene. I also played at least three more minor characters.

I also use my character skills for radio commercials too. And of course there’s Halloween and the Xmas season approaching!

Don’t forget to get in touch if you’d like to find out more.

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