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Since #podcasting advice is popular lately—as is starting a podcast while in quarantine, I figured I’d throw my two cents in on audio storytelling for anyone considering starting an #audiodrama or #audiocomedy.
My apologies. 1/
My apologies. 1/
When I started writing @shelflifesitcom, I was originally going to do it as a straight-up drama. No comedy, save for a few moments of relief. The more I thought about it, the more I wanted to do something light. But above all else, story was king. #audiodrama 2/
Your show may have narration. It may take place in one location. It may be one voice actor or a whole cast. It doesn't matter--you are telling a story. #audiodrama 3/
For your audience to believe it and become immersed in your world, they need to buy into the story. What they hear is as important as what they don't hear. Think of it like writing a novel. #audiodrama 4/
Have an outline. Know where your story is going to go. Who are the players? What makes them unique? What brings them together? What are their differences (tension! Friction! DRAMA!)? #audiodrama 5/
Before you write a single line of dialogue, know your world. The more it's fleshed out beforehand (even if you don't use all of it), the more invested in it you'll be--and so will your audience. They'll feel like they're a part of it, too. #audiodrama 6/
When writing the script, remember no one can see your actors. It has to flow. It has to have a rhythm. Every pause, every word is a CHOICE. Read it aloud. Get a few friends to read it with you to see how it flows. Get feedback. #audiodrama 7/
Does it make sense logically? Are character motivations clear? Is the plot easy to tell from the dialogue or will listeners need to really focus to make sense of it? You might not want to write The Big Sleep for people listening as they wash dishes. #audiodrama 8/
During production, use sound to your advantage! Footsteps can travel from left ear to right. A low hum can set the scene inside an airplane cabin or spaceship. Sounds should be clear to the listener and not left up to interpretation. Context is key here. #audiodrama 9/
Make sure you have several episodes lined up prior to launch. PRODUCTION TAKES FOREVER. Technical difficulties or waiting for other voice files to come in from your actors can push out your release schedule. Account for problems. Have contingencies. #audiodrama 10/
Throw in some inside stuff for loyal listeners. Ppl who listened to @shelflifesitcom from E1 knew the "dripping sound" was something to pay attention to. They got the reason for it in the season finale. Reward your die hards. #audiodrama 11/
Plus, having certain phrases or recurring themes can be great for merch--as slogans on t-shirts and mugs for example. 
#audiodrama 12/
#audiodrama 12/
All this to say: building a world in audio is HARD, but ask yourself: why do you keep coming back to your favorite movies, books, and TV shows? It isn't the catchphrases or the theme song or the pretty fonts. It's the writing. The characters. The STORY. #audiodrama 13/
