Carolyn Lawrence is the very talented actress behind the karate chops of Sandy Cheeks on SpongeBob SquarePants. She has also provided the voice for Cindy Vortex on Jimmy Neutron, and for characters in video games such as EverQuest II, Ratchet and Clank: Going Commando and Resident Evil 4.

Carolyn took time out of her busy schedule to share with me what it's like to work on these fantastic projects.

Following is our question and answer session.

Animated TV Guide Nancy Basile: How did you break into "the biz?"

Carolyn Lawrence: I'm not convinced that anyone actually breaks into "the biz." (In Los Angeles, all the local residents call everything having to do with entertainment, "The Industry.") I think most of us just keep pounding the pavement until we get work. I did, however, get a nudge in the general direction of voice work. I was dancing with the Gus Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, and a gentleman (Steve) came up to me in the company class, and asked if I would be interested in auditioning for the voice of a couple of stuffed toy characters. The whole concept of voice work was new to me, but I've always been one to take risks, and not shy away from an opportunity. I got the job, and that helped me to expand, and grow my talents as a performer/entertainer. I went from dancing full-time to studying and working in voiceover and acting.

What drew you to voice work, as opposed to on-screen work?

Honestly, I love film, television, voiceover and stage. I don't really have a preference. Every job offers a unique experience to develop a character, and that process helps me to grow in my profession.

How do you decide on the sound of a character? How does a director influence the sound of a character?

What? You are asking for my secrets? I'll never tell!

I have been fortunate to work with exceptional directors and they assist in focusing in on every aspect of the character's life and their idiosyncrasies; that process influences the sound of the voice tremendously. Directors really help to develop the fullness of a character, and... well, the direction!

What do you do to prepare for recording?

That really depends on the show. On SpongeBob SquarePants they send us a storyboard so we can see the drawings beforehand. I absolutely love that! Not only do I get to read the script, I can actually see what the artists have in mind. It is an amazing process and I feel so fortunate to be able to work that way! As a guest on a show, there are times when you don't even get to see a script before you get there. I would prefer to let the script come alive in me before a taping.

Do you get to work with the other actors on SpongeBob SquarePants? Or do you record alone? What is it like, or which would you prefer?

On SpongeBob SquarePants and Jimmy Neutron they try to have the whole cast record together whenever possible. When the whole cast is there, I love it, because all the actors get to play off one another. When I think about it, I would have to say, that is my favorite way of working. Although, occasionally, if a character is really complicated, it can be good to record alone, because it is easier to achieve a higher level of concentration or focus.

Have any of the writers ever used any of your suggestions, if you've made any?

Yes, but out of complete respect for the writer's talent, I would never make a suggestion if I wasn't absolutely certain it was a good one. Occasionally, in order to make a suggestion, an actor will record exactly what is written, and then ask if it can also be recorded another way. By doing it that way, it will almost immediately be obvious which way will produce the desired outcome.

What are the pros and cons of doing work for video games?

Carolyn Lawrence: One great part about video games is you can often play many characters within one game, and that kind of variety is rare, and incredibly fun. Video games can also be interesting, because your characters have such fantastic adventures. I love going outside of the ordinary. The biggest drawback of doing a video game is that a high action game can cause you to blow your voice out, and not be able to work for a couple of days.

How do you feel about the Resident Evil films?

I scare easily and I'm not good with violence. What's weird about that is I love acting in the genre. I'd love to do a really scary film... I just wouldn't be able to go and see it!

Has anyone, including a child, ever recognized you or your voice work?

Click through to Page 2 to find out who recognized Lawrence's voice and why.