Doing an impression and bringing a character to life ask different things of a voice actor. Zelda Khan Black has been learning that difference through the work.
Zelda returns to talk with Jay about moving from viral character impressions toward acting in her own voice, including her work on Project Parasomnia. She describes the pressures she encountered around her name and identity, and the friends who helped her question advice that asked her to become a stereotype.
She also shares her experience after a gas leak affected her breathing and voice, the practical setbacks of working with recording equipment, and the community that helped her keep going. Jay reflects on how their first conversation inspired music for the show. Together, they explore what it means to grow as an artist while protecting the person behind the performance.
What We Explore
* Returning to the Academy after Butterfly Words
* Impressions, acting, and finding a character's voice
* Project Parasomnia and creative opportunity
* Resisting pressure around identity and representation
* Zelda's account of recovering after a gas leak
* The tools and challenges of recording from home
* Friendship and support within the voice-acting community
About Zelda Khan Black
Zelda Khan Black is a voice actor, author, and artist. Her creative work includes poetry, character performance, and independent animation.
Zelda: http://zeldakhanblack.com • https://www.instagram.com/zeldakhanb/
The Tragedy Academy
Candid conversations exploring the human experience through tragedy and triumph.
Hosted by Jay Hicks.
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