Acting Teachers Panel Looks at Preparing Students for Artificial Intelligence in the Voiceover Industry

SAG-AFTRA Interactive Media Agreement Negotiating Committee Chair Sarah Elmaleh was a featured guest at the A.I. and Actor Training panel on Oct. 9. The National Alliance of Acting Teachers hosted the virtual panel.

The panel of actors and educators — which also included Pace University instructor Robin Miles, University of Nevada Las Vegas instructor Adam Paul, SUNY Purchase College Professor of Acting David Bassuk — and panel moderator Desean K. Terry, founder of The Last Actor Studio in Los Angeles, explained how they can prepare students to better understand the influence of artificial intelligence in the voiceover industry. In addition to participating in conversations about instructing new and seasoned voiceover performers about performing for audiobooks, video games, film and television, Elmaleh provided insight into the negotiating committee’s efforts as the video game strike continues.

“The position of SAG-AFTRA is not to prevent or ban the use of A.I. but to insist on principles of transparency, consent and compensation. [Performers] should clearly be told of the intended use of their work; their consent should be meaningful and required; and they should receive proper compensation,” said Elmaleh.

The National Alliance of Acting Teachers is an organization that supports educators within the field of actor training. Its mission is to develop and promote best practices and standards of excellence for teachers, students and administrators.

Photo: SAG-AFTRA Interactive Media Agreement Negotiating Committee Chair Sarah Elmaleh at the ‘A.I. and Actor Training’ panel on Oct. 9.