Yuko Yamauchi

Japanese, Okinawan (Uchinaguchi), Hawaiian, local, Asian

My bilingual capability led to a two-year project for a local weekly program with the television company, Ryukyu Broadcasting Company (RBC) in Okinawa, Japan. In less than week's turnaround time, I would get the script for the TV hosts for a cultural arts program, research, translate and then go in studio to record the voiceover. Also worked as premiere freelance voice talent for two major translation companies in Okinawa. Some of my work includes over 33 short film voiceover narrations in English for Japanese website for Okinawa Archive projects. In Okinawa, one might recognize my voice when visiting the Urasoe Art Museum or the Guiness Book of Records-famed Churaumi Aquarium for their English language media guides. In Taiwan, it is my voice in English that prompts the JAPRI photo arcade machines that are all the rage in Japan. In addition, I have done conference announcements, introductory videos, etc. Received unexpected feedback as a college student while reading textbooks for sight-impaired students through the campus' Disabled Student Services. While working for a non-profit organization in Los Angeles, my language skills were first utilized for Japanese language PSA for KSCI-18 for annual bone marrow donor campaign. A scholarship to study the cultural arts in Okinawa, Japan uprooted me in 2000. While there I supported myself in Japan as a registered freelance translator/narrator (as well as English teacher). I am often asked to translate the text, or proofread text that I will narrate. Through word-of-mouth contact, I was requested and repeatedly called back for short-term projects. I am familiar with most of the media outlets in Okinawa, having recorded in small and large recording studios, television and radio stations, too. I can also sing in the classical Okinawan music style as I passed the first of three levels in the sanshin instrument. As I mentioned, knowing Japanese, I believe I am ideal for anime, video games, CD-ROM interactive media originally in Japanese. I can do the translating, as well. I am considered native in Japanese, although my English skills are far above. I can do an authentic Okinawan/southern Japanese accent. I am interested in all genres--documentaries, audio books, films to commercials.