Interview:Corey Burton (August 2002)
- How did you get to work on Adventures in Odyssey?
I had worked with Bob Luttrell (Production audio engineer / actor) years earlier for the Salvation Army's "Heartbeat Theatre", and I believe one of the other actors had reminded Bob that I was available for a role they were looking to cast.
- What is it like playing a large variety of characters on Adventures in Odyssey?
It's fun. I'd get restless with just one character all the time.
- Of all the characters you've played, which one is your favorite?
I would have to say Bryan Dern (as one of the 'regulars') is the most fun, but I also really enjoyed playing the elderly Polish rabbi in #378: “The Painting”.
- Is it ever tough to pinpoint a scene with your talent? Do you ever need a few rounds of practice before recording?
With a good script and direction, it's seldom difficult to 'get it right' on the first read-through. After all, I was taught the art of radio acting as a teenager, by those who 'lived' the Golden Age of Radio Drama.
- Do you ever regret the way you acted in some scenes? If so which scenes?
Occasionally, I'll hear a scene after production has been completed, and realize that I 'missed' the essential meaning of a line or two, but I've learned not to have regrets about my performances - after all, you never really know how it will 'play' to other listeners. Also, I trust the director's ear in these matters.
- Just out of curiosity, who is your favorite character on the show?
I don't know if I could honestly choose one character as a personal favorite; I really like many of them. But I think I get the biggest 'kick' out of Edwin Blackgaard. He's such a gloriously melodramatic buffoon, and always brilliantly interpreted by my wonderful castmate.
- What other work do you do?
I don't know what I should mention in particular - I've got 30 years worth of credits in this business... Lots of Disney character voices and narration... Most of the notable ones are listed on my website.
Thanks for taking time out of your day to talk to us!