From Stage to Screen: Actor Finds New Life in Gaming
For actor Neil Newbon, the world of video games presented a lifeline during a difficult period in his career. After feeling disillusioned with the limitations of traditional stage and film acting, Newbon found solace and opportunity in the virtual realm.
"I was in a terrible state," he confided in a recent interview. “2008 was still nothing, and in 2009 I said to myself: ‘I can’t do this anymore.’"
His struggles stemmed from the rigid requirements of the entertainment industry, where actors often face stringent demands based on their physical appearance and other external factors. The lack of such restrictions in the gaming industry proved to be a breath of fresh air.
“Games are what saved me,” Newbon stated emphatically.
His rediscovery of passion ignited after reading an article in PC Gamer about voice actress Keeley Hawes, known for her iconic portrayal of Lara Croft. A mention of "motion capture" sparked Newbon’s interest, drawing him to a new world of possibilities.
“I didn’t know what it was,” he admitted. “Nobody ever talked about it. I didn’t have any friends related to this. But I thought: it’s like a theater and a cinema. I realized what it was and decided, ‘I don’t know if I can do it, but I’ll try. I might have to quit [acting] anyway so why not try contacting Audio Motion?’”
The decision launched him on a new career path. Music to his ears followed, landing a role in Ghost Recon: Future Soldier after auditioning for Audio Motion. His journey continued, fueled by gratitude for the support of Audio Motion’s Brian Mitchell and Stacy Boycel.
Today, Newbon’s career is flourishing. Following the success of his role in Baldur’s Gate 3, he has become a regular at conventions and events, connecting with fans and sharing his love for gaming.
Newbon’s versatility extends beyond current projects.When asked about dream roles, he expressed interest in lending his voice to Seifer, a memorable antagonist from Final Fantasy VIII, should a remake ever materialize.
This characteristic ability to bridge the gap between traditional acting and the exciting world of gaming
demonstrates the transformative power of this innovative industry.
## Finding His Voice: Actor Neil Newbon’s journey From Stage to Video Game Stardom
The entertainment industry is known for its glittering facade, but behind the scenes, many actors face intense pressure and limitations. For Neil Newbon, the traditional avenues of stage and screen offered little fulfillment. A chance encounter with the world of video game voice acting, however, ignited a passion that would redefine his career.
In this exclusive interview, we delve into Newbon’s inspiring journey, exploring the challenges he faced, the transformative power of motion capture technology, and the burgeoning opportunities within the gaming industry. Newbon, a seasoned actor with credits spanning film, television, and stage, offers a unique perspective on the evolving landscape of performance in the digital age.
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### A Career Crossroads
**World Today News:** neil, your story is quite remarkable. Can you tell us about the turning point in your career that led you to explore video game acting?
**Neil Newbon:** It was a difficult period in my career. Stage and film acting were incredibly demanding, and I often felt constricted by the limitations placed on actors based on appearance and external factors.
in 2009, I reached a point where I felt I couldn’t continue down that path.
It was during that time that I stumbled upon an article about Keeley Hawes, who voiced Lara Croft, and the mention of “motion capture” caught my attention.I had no idea what it was, but it sparked a curiosity that would change everything.
**World Today News:** What was it about motion capture that resonated with you?
**Neil Newbon:** “It felt like a blend of theater and cinema. The idea of using your physicality and voice to bring a character to life in a virtual world was incredibly appealing. I knew I had to learn more.”
### embracing New Possibilities
**World Today News:** Making the leap into a new field can be daunting. What were some of the challenges you faced transitioning from traditional acting to video game performance?
**Neil Newbon:** Initially, it was all about learning the ropes. motion capture is a very specific skill set, requiring precision and an understanding of how your movements translate onto the screen.
I’m incredibly grateful for the support I received from Brian Mitchell and Stacy Boyce at Audio Motion, who took a chance on me and helped me hone my craft.
**World Today News:** Your role as the paladin Minthara in “Baldur’s Gate 3” has received significant acclaim. How did you approach embodying such a complex and morally ambiguous character?
**Neil Newbon:** Minthara is a fascinating character—cruel, ambitious, but also deeply wounded. I wanted to portray her with nuance, highlighting both her strength and vulnerability. It was a rewarding challenge.
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### The Future of Performance
**World Today News:** How do you see the gaming industry evolving in terms of performance and storytelling?
**Neil Newbon:**
We’re only beginning to scratch the surface of what’s possible. As technology advances, we’ll see even more immersive and emotionally resonant experiences in video games.
**World Today News:** What advice would you give to aspiring actors who are interested in pursuing a career in video game performance?
**Neil Newbon:** “Be open to learning and embrace the challenge.
The gaming industry is a dynamic and exciting space, offering unprecedented opportunities for creative expression.”
***
Neil Newoban’s story is a testament to the power of adaptability and the boundless potential of the gaming industry.
As video games continue to blur the lines between entertainment mediums,stories like Newbon’s serve as inspiration for actors and fans alike.
**What are your thoughts on the increasing interconnectedness of traditional acting and video game performance? Share your views in the comments below!**
**For more insights into the world of video game growth and performance, check out our related articles:**
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* The Impact of Virtual Reality on Storytelling
