FAQ

What is BRAVA?

BRAVA stands for the Bristol Academy of Voice Acting, founded by Melissa Thom in 2021.
Why does BRAVA exist?

The company exists to offer high quality training in the art and business of voiceover. Although anyone can train with BRAVA, we specialise in teaching drama students of any level and age from the age of 17 years old.
What are the learning experiences on offer?

BRAVA provides a range of personalised online courses in the art and business of voiceover. If you’re a complete beginner who has always been interested in finding out more about the world of voice acting, or even if you’ve been voicing for a while but need guidance and support, then BRAVA is for you. There are a range of ways to train. Our core offering is bespoke 1-1 classes, including our 10 week Intro to VO Course, which is the access point for all beginners. We also run a waiting list for this course to train in group sessions. We also offer VO Masterclasses to support our core training, some of which are detailed below: Courses include: • Intro to VO – 10 Week Course • Corporate, Commercial, Narration Intensives • Intro to Characters • Creating Characters – 6 Week Course • Audiobooks - 4 Week Course • Podcasting • Performance Techniques • Home Studio • Marketing • Vocal Health • VO & Shakespeare • Presentation Skills § Demo Production
How can I subscribe to your mailing list?

Click here to subscribe to the BRAVA mailing list: https://www.brava.uk.com/subscribe. We send out a monthly eblast, with details of upcoming classes, news and information.
As well as subscribing to your mailing list, are there any other ways I can keep up to date with BRAVA News?"

Yes, you can click here on our News Page (https://www.brava.uk.com/news) to keep up to date on our news and announcements.
What are the benefits of studying with BRAVA?

All BRAVA teachers are experts in VO. Melissa Thom the founder of BRAVA, has been voicing for over 25 years across the UK, Europe and America. Elaine Clark, our Character specialist has over 40 years’ experience as a master VO coach in the US. Our Bristol based teachers have all extensive experience training actors at Bristol Old Vic, many for over 30 years. We also run regular Masterclasses to support our core training, ranging from Characters, Vocal Heath, VO & Shakespeare, Singing, Audiobooks and more.
Where are the BRAVA courses held?

Currently, all BRAVA sessions are offered via Zoom.
Where should I start?

We ask that you apply to work with us via our website here: https://www.brava.uk.com/apply We will then arrange a short telephone call for us to have a chat about your interest, goals and aims and for you to find out a bit more about how we work.
What is the audition process?

After our initial telephone call, if you would then like to audition, we will send you two scripts to record. There is no specialist equipment needed (you can record on your smartphone). Auditioning in this way enables us to spend some time listening to raw vocal quality and ability, and to put together personalised training recommendations.
How do I train in between classes?

We offer regular Masterclasses to complement the core BRAVA training, some of which are detailed below.
How do I register for BRAVA Masterclasses?

All our Masterclasses can be booked at our Eventbrite page here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/brava-bristol-academy-of-voice-acting-33754518153
Is there an age requirement to train with BRAVA?

Yes, the minimum age we work with is 17 years old.
Do I need acting experience to train as a VO?

No. Although BRAVA specialises in training drama students but we also work with many people who have no formal acting training. We teach everything you need to know about working as a successful VO.
My class is full. Can I register for the waiting list?

Yes, of course. If your class if full, please email info@brava.uk.com to be put onto the waiting list in the event that someone should cancel and a spot should free up.
Do I receive a qualification?

The most important aspect for clients when booking talent is that you have the performance and technical skills to deliver every time. This is an outcome of high quality training, coaching and mentoring and there is currently no degree level qualification for voice acting. Here at BRAVA, we award certificates of course completion, as well as online badges that you can add to your marketing materials. All our coaches have been teaching for over 20 years in their various fields and have extensive experience in the industry so you can be sure of the very highest quality when training with us.
How long should I train before cutting my demos?

Everyone is different. Together with a good coach, you will decide when the best time is for you to cut your demo. Do not rush this process. It can take anything from one to two years for beginners to cut their first demo.
How do I make a voice over demo?

We offer a demo production service here at BRAVA for narration, commercial and character demos. For more information, please email info@brava.uk.com
What does it take to make it as a VO?

There is no shortcut to becoming a highly skilled, experienced voice actor. You will need to put time and commitment into training and be realistic about your budgets. Take your time, do the learning and the rest will come.
How much does it cost?

Fees range from £75 per hour to £150 per hour, depending on individual training needs. All content is bespoke and caters to individual requirements. Audition fees are £30.
What is your Cancellation Policy?

Please see our Cancellation Policy here: https://www.brava.uk.com/cancellation-policy
What do others say about us?

Want to see what students think about working with us? Have a look at our Testimonials on our website here.
Any more questions?

If you have any further queries or questions, please don’t hesitate to drop us a line at info@brava.uk.com