There are now a number of training schools and courses for voice acting, including those catering to middle and high school students. Business at these schools is booming. There are currently an estimated 1,500 voice actors in Japan. However, only a handful have successfully been able to make a name for themselves. Even so, there seems to be no end to the number of young people who dream of becoming the star of an animated series, and schools that teach voice acting are packed full.
Every time there is a new hit anime series or movie, the number of applicants to the school jumps.
Because of the recent increase in demand for multitalented voice actors, students must also take lessons in singing, dance, and drama. The school believes that even after students graduate and join a talent agency, they may or may not be able to find work. And in addition to fundamentals like speaking correctly in a well modulated voice, it teaches students to keep a positive outlook so as to make a favorable impression in any situation. A Kyoto radio station has developed a unique way of lending support to aspiring young actors. Since May 2000, the station has been creating and broadcasting a 10-minute radio drama late on Saturday nights featuring young voice actors.