WHERE YOU'VE HEARD OUR TALENT
Original Worlds is a collection of bold new universes—strange, wondrous, and deeply human at their core. Spanning speculative fiction, fantasy, horror, and science fiction, these stories shine a light on characters facing personal struggles, navigating unfamiliar cultures, and venturing across extraordinary frontiers.
We’re seeking voice talent to help bring these tales to life in our anthology podcast, transforming them into immersive audiobook experiences. Each production is community-driven, lovingly crafted, and created purely from a passion for storytelling—never for profit or ad revenue.
We’re looking for versatile narrators who can deliver a compelling performance and embody a wide range of characters. From vulnerable everymen and women to cunning leaders, daring explorers, enigmatic mystics, and creatures beyond human imagination—these roles call for presence, nuance, and creativity.
What We’re Looking For
We welcome volunteers who can:
Deliver compelling characterizations —whether emotional, atmospheric, or dramatic.
Perform narration with clarity, nuance, and a strong sense of storytelling.
Why Volunteer with Us?
Showcase your voice in professionally produced, immersive fiction.
Collaborate with creators passionate about original storytelling.
Be part of a monthly community of 20,000+ readers and listeners that value creativity and the arts.
How It Works
- Audition Process: Interested applicants are invited to submit a demo reel showcasing their ability to portray a narrative audiobook reading or if they have previously been cast in a Cold Open Stories audiobook or audio drama to write a letter of interest.
- Submissions: Click the button below (or email coldopenstories.casting@gmail.com), attach your .mp3 or .wav demo reel or sample, and include a brief introduction on your relevant experience or interest in voice work.
- Compensation: Cold Open Stories is a volunteer not-for-profit, and does not derive revenue from its publications or productions. Writers, editors, and voice talent are unpaid volunteer positions.
Production Samples
Immersive Design
We put meticulous effort into capturing sounds and foley for each audio drama. Find yourself transported to spaces far and wide.
Authentic Voices
From moody atmospheric beats, to authentic emotional moments, we cast voice talent from all backgrounds and countries.
Unique Tales
Feel the world around you and discover characters in stories that are original to the site. These are inspired, standalone tales.