I am proud to announce that I’ve been requested  and have agreed to return to the staff and Advance Team of Voice 2008, scheduled for August 8-11th, 2008 at the Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles.

Last year’s inagural event in Las Vegas was incredible. I get the feeling this year will be not only bigger, but definitely better!

I sat in on a team conference call this week with this year’s organizers, James Alburger and Penny Abshire, who disclosed many exciting plans,  including a red carpet reception on Thursday night, which will essentially be a giant networking party for attendees, Los Angeles talent and agents.

Friday will begin at 9AM with the Keynote address by Susan Berkley, who will also be in a breakout sesh Saturday. Each morning there will be a general session, followed by breakout sessions, featuring the fantastic lineup of gifted teaches, coaches, and successful voice talent, all ready and willing to share their knowledge and insights.  Go to the Voice 2008 site and check out the speakers lineup with links to their individual sites.

Saturday afternoon, Bob Bergen heads up a panel with LA  and Denver agents and casting people. Monday, Pat Fraley is giving the closing Keynote in a general session on accents and dialects anyone can use in voice over.
Sunday evening there’s a celebrity banquet. Special guests to be announced!
 
Other things in the planning stages or interesting to note:

• They’re working on having a whisper room with ISDN available for use by talent for emergency sessions with 1/2 hour’s notice


• Free wi-fi in all hotel rooms


• Expanded vendor area featuring all things “voiceover”; mics, software, soundproof booths, training, books, audio processors, etc.


• Superior accomodations, with “Heavenly Beds”


• NO SMOKING! yay

More information is being updated at the Voice 2008 site. There’s also a  Forum for this event. 
This event is only 5 months away. It’ll be here before we know it!!!!!