Delayed Dream ...

Reader Letter:

Mr. Detweiler: I have been interested in ventriloquism for most of my life, but mostly in a passive/audience manner. I can remember as a young kid wanting to have a “Charlie McCarthy doll” so I could learn to “throw my voice”. Several years ago (maybe 12 or more) I finally decided to get serious enough about the art to purchase the Maher Home Study Course. However, as life is often prone to do, things happened, time passed and I never got beyond the first few lessons. However, I continued to keep all of the course material in the box I received it in and occasionally think about getting it out and starting over.

I was disappointed when several years ago I saw that Maher Studios was closing and I realized that I had not followed and attained my dream of studying the course and at least becoming good enough to entertain local children (and some adults!). Again I let time go by and before I knew it many years have passed. When I retired a few weeks ago, I mentioned to my wife that I was still interested in “learning ventriloquism”. Imagine my delight when I ran across your blog site(s) and saw that you still are involved in the refurbishing, selling, etc.

My questions for you today are:
1. Do you think I am I too old at 63 to be able to learn the art of ventriloquism? I do not have any intentions or dreams of doing it professionally, but would like to entertain for local birthday parties or an occasional “entertainment” spot for some small group. I would also like to use it in church work with children.
2. If I will finally buckle down and start studying the materials I received those many years ago, are you still helping out with the home study course? I seem to remember that part of the course included the offering of sending questions and exams to be graded. Are you still doing that and if so, will my old version of the course still be viable?
3. If you suggest that I do go ahead with the course, what would be involved in “upgrading” it with the new 50 minute instruction and demonstration DVD. From what I can tell by reading about your course offering online, it appears to be same basic course I ordered all those years ago, but now has a DVD rather than a cassette tape. I am happy to see that you are “still working” and I hope to hear from you soon. Thanks. George M.
* * * * * *
Response: George:You would be surprised how many people take up the study of ventriloquism upon retirement! Earlier is better, yes, - but it is NEVER too late. You certainly can realistically expect to perform successfully for the local audiences you suggest and in a relatively short period of time. Yes, we continue to provide support to the older version of the Maher Course. Send your exams to the PO Box 420 address on the exams. The current New Millennium Maher Course you see offered is totally rewritten, but, yes, the DVD (Successful Ventriloquism $15.95 PP) would be helpful to you. You can pay with PayPal, or send a check to: Clinton Detweiler, PO Box 420, Littleton CO 80160.