It was such a joy to be cast to narrate Carrie Hope Fletcher's With This Kiss.
As an actor and writer who graduated in 2019, I have been keen to explore the world of audio for a while but have never really known how to get into it, so the casting opportunity Harper Collins opened up to Arts Emergency Young Talent was ideal, and I was lucky enough to be cast!
I think that the world of audio is so important, as not only is it an essential access tool for many people, but it also opens up a whole other world of creativity and experimentation which I am eager to explore as much as possible.
I have been a mentee with Arts Emergency since January of this year and so far have benefited greatly from the meet ups with my mentor Charlie Dinkin. I was really interested in applying for a mentor, as I am drawn to collaboration and all I have learnt has been from other kind people who are willing to offer their time and advice, so I was keen to have someone to share ideas with, and to look to for advice and guidance. This industry can feel very closed off for a multitude of reasons, but I have found financial barriers to be the greatest ones for myself. Programmes such as Arts Emergency allow you to feel like you can have a bit more a chance to look through the closed doors.
I'm lucky to have a supportive family and circle of friends, but often second guess myself, so it helps to have not only a mentor but also a network of support in the form of Arts Emergency who won't judge you for your stupid questions. Yes there is no such thing as a stupid question - but some people have the ability to make you feel like there is!
As a writer who also aspires to write a novel, it was a treat to be wrapped up in the world of someone else's book, getting to know the characters, and enjoying the twists and turns of the story
The recording experience was really eye opening, and quite different from the usual setting you find yourself in as an actor. The audition was very relaxed for starters. And, when you are recording in a small space, just you and the microphone (and of course the sound recordist Santi in the booth opposite who did all the work and made me sound good, thanks Santi) you really can allow yourself to become immersed in the work. Plus you can wear a massive baggy jumper and trousers because no one can see you (my usual uniform anyway).
As a writer who also aspires to write a novel, it was a treat to be wrapped up in the world of someone else's book, getting to know the characters, and enjoying the twists and turns of the story. To record a piece written by Carrie Hope Fletcher was so special. I think that all that Carrie has done in her career is so impressive, (plus she is a lovely person which is always important) and the chance to play a part in bringing her words to life has lifted me.
I hope I am able to have the opportunity to do more audiobook narration in the future and am looking forward to continuing to learn more and more. I would like to say a massive thanks to all at Arts Emergency, and of course to Carrie and Rebecca for making me feel so welcome on the day.
Beth Noonan-Roberts is on Twitter @bethtinyhands and is represented by North Artist Management. You can find more of her work here.