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At Podcast Movement 2024 in Washington, D.C., Lisette Alvarez of Stormfire Productions shared her inspiring journey and innovative approach to podcasting, especially in the realm of fiction audio dramas. As a passionate storyteller and producer, Lisette dives deep into how she bridges the worlds of audio and visual media, the nuances of casting voice actors for podcasts, and the exciting projects she has in the pipeline. Here’s an in-depth look at her insights and creative process.
About Lisette Alvarez and Stormfire Productions
Lisette Alvarez is the driving force behind Stormfire Productions, a podcast production company specializing in fiction podcasts that connect listeners to the magic and mystery of the world. Since 2017, Lisette has been crafting stories that blend immersive audio experiences with expanding visual elements, aiming to engage audiences across multiple platforms.
Her work includes a variety of shows, such as Tales From The Heart, which combines folk tales with interviews featuring other storytellers. This unique format not only shares stories but also explores storytelling as a craft and calling.
Integrating Video into Fiction Podcasting
One of the most compelling topics Lisette discussed is the integration of video into audio fiction podcasts. Unlike interview or documentary podcasts, where video is more commonly used, audio dramas have traditionally been audio-only experiences. Lisette is pioneering ways to incorporate visual elements without detracting from the audio-first nature of her stories.
She explains that many podcasts on platforms like YouTube attract audiences who expect a visual component, even if minimal. To capitalize on this, she uses stock footage and imagery to set the tone and atmosphere of her stories. This approach is reminiscent of video advertising and book trailers where motion images enhance the narrative without overshadowing the primary medium.
Her goal is to strike a balance where visuals support and enrich the audio drama, creating a multi-sensory experience that appeals to today’s social media-savvy audiences on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram.
Voice Casting for Audio Drama: Tips and Insights
Casting for audio fiction is a unique challenge. Lisette shared valuable advice based on her experience hiring a casting director who was new to voice acting. Here are some key takeaways:
- Voice Acting is a Distinct Skill: Unlike on-screen acting, voice acting requires a different approach to convey emotion, tone, and character purely through voice.
- Understand the Medium: Many voice actors come from animation or video game backgrounds where performances are often more exaggerated or cartoonish. Audio drama typically demands more naturalistic and nuanced vocal performances.
- Guide Your Casting Director: Provide examples of voice actors who excel in audio drama to help your casting team understand the style and emotional range needed.
- Character Acting vs. Sustained Intensity: While character actors who can embody unique voices are valuable, maintaining a consistent tone suitable for audio storytelling is crucial to avoid overwhelming listeners.
Lisette’s casting journey began with a viral TikTok casting call, which attracted a large audience and led to collaboration with a casting assistant eager to expand into voice work. This partnership allowed them to develop casting strategies tailored specifically for fiction podcasts.
Exciting Projects: Havana Syndrome and More
Lisette is currently developing Havana Syndrome, a multimedia spy thriller podcast and alternative reality game. The story follows a CIA sibling who goes AWOL after encountering a mysterious sound during an unauthorized trip to Cuba. This project is deeply personal to Lisette, who is a second-generation Cuban American and the first in her family to return to Cuba in 60 years.
Through Havana Syndrome, Lisette aims to create immersive storytelling that explores international intrigue, travel, and cultural connections. The audio format allows her to transport listeners to different places and experiences, offering a world-expanding narrative that video alone might not capture as intimately.
Other notable works from Stormfire Productions include:
- Stormfire’s Economical Magic Services: An urban fantasy podcast about a witch for hire.
- Tales From The Heart: A podcast that fuses tarot card readings with modern folk tales and interviews with storytellers.
- Once Upon a Time in Havana: A documentary series chronicling Lisette’s personal journey to Cuba and reflections on US-Cuba relations.
The Power of Audio Storytelling
Lisette emphasizes the unique intimacy of audio storytelling. Listeners often feel more open and connected when engaging with audio fiction, which can foster empathy and broaden perspectives in ways that visual media might not. This makes audio drama a powerful medium for exploring complex themes, diverse worlds, and personal stories with depth and nuance.
Her work exemplifies how podcasts can be both a creative outlet and a platform for cultural exploration, political reflection, and personal expression.
Connect with Stormfire Productions
For those interested in exploring Lisette’s work or following her creative journey, Stormfire Productions is active on social media and online:
- TikTok: @stormfiredoaio
- Instagram: @stormfireproductions
- Website: stormfireproductions.com
- Havana Syndrome Podcast: havanasyndromepodcast.com
Lisette Alvarez’s approach to podcasting is a refreshing blend of tradition and innovation. By combining the power of audio drama with visual storytelling elements and thoughtful casting strategies, she is helping to redefine what fiction podcasts can be. Her dedication to storytelling as both craft and calling inspires creators to push boundaries and engage audiences in new, meaningful ways.
Whether you’re a podcaster, voice actor, or storyteller, there is much to learn from Lisette’s insights into the evolving landscape of audio fiction and multimedia storytelling.
