Transformational Voice Work: Using Theatre-Based Vocal Practice to Support Gender-Diverse Voices

Abstract

As a voice coach and teacher, Jane MacFarlane guides actors to a greater understanding of how their voice works, to reveal a character that is rooted in truth and believability. The foundation of the work she does is based on Kristin Linklater’s Freeing the Natural Voice, which identifies habits and patterns of tension in the body that can limit the range of our voices and employs techniques to access the fullness and richness of the vocal qualities we are born possessing. A few years ago, MacFarlane was approached by a colleague who was transitioning and wanted to know if voice work could help her find a vocal quality that affirmed her gender. They began crafting a progression through the voice work that helped her find a voice that felt organic and true to who she really is. Through working with her on her journey, MacFarlane became associated with Skipping Stone, a transgender support organization in Calgary. Together, they began to offer online classes that were based on the work MacFarlane does with theatre practice and applied it to the needs of the transgender community. This article outlines the process of the eight-week progression for vocal feminization through Skipping Stone.