Bird rescue

It was nearly 11 years ago when we sold and moved from the house on Littleton Blvd that had been our home for nearly three decades. Many of you visited us during those years. The house now has yet another new owner and is undergoing a major renovation inside and out. When we moved in 1998, one of the items we left behind was a large wooden woodpecker made by Adelia's father, Alvin Yoder. The wooden bird was mounted in the highest gable of the house where it remained - until yesterday. The new owner was preparing to repaint the house when we drove by the place. Anticipating that the woodpecker would be discarded, we stopped by and with the owner's permission, a bird rescue was performed.

Now the question is, where can we remount the bird (after refinishing) here at our current home? Ours is covenant controlled community which frowns upon such creative expression when placed in public view! We'll think of something.

Ouch!

What's worse than a dummy with malfunctioning eyes? I'll tell you - it's that same dummy when an inept person has attempted repairs! But, after a couple days on my workbench, he was feeling pretty good again.

"Shrink the room"

Question: Without a microphone, how close should you be to your audience?
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Answer: As a performer, you need to speak and project your voice loudly enough to be heard by the people furthest distance from you. In the back of the room or whatever. So, the more loudly you speak, the larger the audience you can effectively entertain without a PA system, and the greater the separation between you and the closest members of the audience. Room acustics have alot to do with this, too, of course, but the general rule is the same. With a PA system (very valuable to the ventriloquist) you can "spread" the room. Without, you need to "shrink" the room.


Speak to the entire audience, especially to those on the last row.

Give your puppet an accent/dialect!

Question: Hi Clinton, Do you by any chance have any of those Acting with an Accent tapes or CD's left? If so which ones and how much are they? Thanks. John
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Answer: I do not - sorry. However, they were produced by David Alan Stern and you can purchase the instructional CD's (excellent!) directly from him on-line:
http://www.sandcastle-online.com/authors/stern.html

Vent figure making

Dear Clinton: Hello I am a regular reader of your blog and would like to ask how old you were when you started making figures and what way you did it (clay, wood dough, carving). Thank you, Nick

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Dear Nick: I was 22 or 23 year's old when I built my first vent figure. It was made of paper mache following the instructions in Paul Winchell's book, Ventriloquism For Fun And Profit. It was more than 10 years later (1969) when we purchased Maher School of Ventriloquism that I built my second vent figure (and subsequent figures) of wood dough. Carving was required on the wood dough heads and hands, but I have never carved a figure totally from wood. I've always considered woodcarving another skill, one I'm intrigued with, but have not taken the time to master. Clinton

New arrival

Building character in a puppet is key to performance success. The Dummy Shop (Puppets by Jet) provide their customers a head start on puppet personality by annoucing them with a clever biography. Such as with their new character, Abbie.

Abbie's Biography

Abbie is a fun loving one (but almost two) year old little girl. She never meets a stranger. She is totally fascinated by anything that spins, such as ceiling fans, windmills, or the wheels on her big brothers tricycle. When Abbie gets very excited, she gets the hiccups.

Abbie puts EVERYTHING into her mouth. She seems to believe that she can learn the most about an item if it is in her mouth. She enjoys looking at herself in the mirror. She thinks that she is just the cutest thing.

Abbie is an unusual little girl, because unlike her siblings, she enjoys going to the Doctors office. When she arrives at the Doctors, she is the absolute center of attention in the waiting room and when she goes to the examining room, she loves to play with anything that she can reach. Her favorite thing is to play with the Doctor's stethoscope. Lots of interesting sounds to hear. But the most important thing about the Doctors office is that the nurse always lets her pick a sucker from the big bowl of suckers on her desk. It requires a keen mind to know which one of the brightly colored suckers to pick. This is especially fun because Mommy does not let her have a lot of candy since sugar tends to make her a little too "happy".

Abbie just loves sitting on someones knee, listening intently to every word that they say. You would almost think that she understands everything you are talking about from the way her great big blue eyes light up when you talk to her.
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You may contact The Dummy Shop at: dummylady01@gmail.com

Frank

New teeth. New paint. New lashes.

All he needs now is his wig! But, because he came to me without it he'll have to wait until he returns home to receive that final step.

memorization

Question: I'm preparing for my first show but have encountered the fear of memorizing and remembering (forgetting) all that dialogue. Are there any tricks or short cuts regarding this?
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Answer: First shows should ideally be kept shorter in length. With experience you will in good time be able to provide longer shows. Use a cue card or cards to help remember your script. Key words and phrases that will keep you on track. Some vents try to find clever ways to hide the cue card, and while that is appropriate, I don't feel it is totally necessary. Most speakers and Pastors use notes - our President can't give even a short speech without his tele-prompter. There's no need to hesitate to use some sort of helps to avoid total memorization of a script - especially when presenting it for the first time.

Bringing up ventriloquists

I received an email from Pearce Columb who told me how much his very young children were enjoying his ventriloquist puppets. So much so that he is planning to get them started as ventriloquists when they are a just a few years older. Pearce wrote the following.

"My children have an old Charlie McCarthy and Carol Channing with Pull string that they play with now. I was thinking when they are 6 I will get one of the ones I see your granddaughter holding in the E-Bay pics. Then at 8 or 9 I will give my deluxe figure to my son, Jude, and I will get another one from you. Its funny. I am not even that great at it. But when I make Billy talk they go Bananas! They look at him and talk directly to him like they believe he is in there! 3 1/2 years old - It's like a Magic age for kids. So much fun. "

I think Pearce has a good plan to introduce and encourage his children. They now have play dummies to work with and talk with which is important. And he will be able to offer them incentive for pursuing their involvement in ventriloquism. Successful ventriloquism is a result of a good and creative imagination. Imagination seems to come naturally to a child, so that is the very best time for them to begin to put it to use. Almost all the professional ventriloquists I have met began their involvement in ventriloquism as a child/youth. I don't believe it's a coincidence.

He won't be forgotten!

When I received a request to make a figure with bright red curly hair I was at first a bit hesitant. But the more I worked building him, the more he grew on me. I now believe the unique and unusual color of his hair will be one of the primary reasons people will remember and love him!

Performing Arts - Sri Lanka

I believe it was 2007 when we met Royston De Silva at I-Fest (Illinois). Royston's enthusiasm for learning ways to use the performing arts in his ministry to the poorest of the poor in his homeland island of Sri Lanka was inspiring. In 2007 his country was in the midst of a bitter ethnic war. Yesterday we received an eMail from Royston with the miraculous (his words) news that just two weeks ago the government over ran the terrorists, but not without great price, including the displacement of over 300,000 innocent civilians, including many, many children. It is to these thousands living in temporary shelters Royston is awaiting the governments permission to help in several ways including his "Royalroy Christian Performing Arts." He wishes to thank those who have prayed on behalf of Sri Lanka and requests your continued prayers for his work using the Gospel Through Performing Arts. present@sltnet.lk

P.S. I see the little fellow from my shop (lower right) is now blessed with some new royal clothes. Nice! You better look out for the duck behind you - it appears he's up to no good!

Echo Lake

Nestled in a glacially formed hanging valley at 10,600 feet elevation in the Colorado Rockies, views of the lake, lodge and Mount Evans are truly majestic. Located just 45 minutes from my driveway, today was my first visit to Echo Lake in the 40+ years we have lived here! Hopefully, it won't be my last. Beautiful! (Above L-R) Nicole, Grandpa D., Hannah

In route to Echo Lake

Germs!

When I unpacked this fellow and saw how the owner had wrapped him for protection during his trip, I just had to take a picture...too funny. And even more so since it was during the first days of the "Swine Flu" newscasts!

wit

Question: I received my 30 Lesson Study Course on Friday and can't put it down. I am on Lesson 10 and find it so interesting, that I am going back to it as soon as I finish here. I am not a quick witted person, and I was wondering if one can learn wit. Do you necessarily have to be born with that trait as part of your personality and character? I think it would come in handy with my dummy.
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Answer: Some people do seem to be more quick witted than others. But I think it is both a personality trait and a learned skill - more of the latter, I believe. Those people who demonstrate quick wit are simply more practiced. I do believe any person can sharpen their wit through practice and exercise. And what better way to do that than through ventriloquism? You will surprise yourself with some of the quick and witty comments your puppet will make at times...it's as if he says things before you even think of them. As you become more familiar with working with him, quick clever comments, will come from him more frequently - some planned and prepared, and some totally spontaneous. I predict you will surprise and impress others with your wit - and even yourself! Dale Brown also addresses this subject in his book, Making It Up As You Go. (I do have it in stock. $6.00 PP)

Customer Comment: I have just received the Maher Ventriloquist course, and I have to say I am so impressed on how fast it came (I live in Canada). I ordered the Course last week and literally seven days later it was waiting at my door.

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From Clinton: Not bad for a company that's been out of business for 3+ years! I still have Maher Courses for sale. They come with full support and student completion certificates as always. $79.95 postpaid anywhere in the world. mahertalk@aol.com

Lip control

Question: I'm taking your Maher Course to re-learn vent after 20 years absence. The first time around I had an overbite and used "the clenched teeth" with no lip movement. This time with different teeth, and no overbite, I'm having lip control problems. When I use the
Ventrilo-aid, of course I have no problem, but without it I have slight jaw wobble. Could it be that I need to practice more extensively with the Ventrilo-aid until the jaw muscle memory kicks in, before I try it without the aid ? Or should I still try practicing some with and some without and hope the muscle memory will eventually take hold? It seems like I keep trying to go back to the "clench", which I want to unlearn. I want to master lip control before I move on. Thanks, Tom
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Answer: Clenched teeth" steadies the jaw more than lips. You'll need to determine if the lip movement is lip movement only, or if the lips move as a partial reaction to some jaw movement. I suspect a 20 year layoff is a factor as well. I really don't have any secret advice which will instantly solve the movement. I did once hear from a vent who had his dentist make a temporary crown which he could slip over a molar. It was higher then the other teeth which allowed him to clamp his jaw, yet leaving the teeth parted slightly in the front! That's a bit extreme, I believe. (I'd fear I'd sneeze, choke on the crown and have still lips forever!)

Better just to continue your practice until you can train your jaw muscles to be obedient. I suggest you move forward in the lessons while continuing your practice in this specific area. Clinton

Teaching ventriloquism

Good Morning Maher! I am a teacher in Michigan and I have been teaching for the Grant Alternative Ed program for a teacher that had back surgery. I will be here for the rest of February and possibly longer. The reason I am writing is to ask you this: Do you have any resources that I could use (obtain online ... and print) that would help me teach my last hour, "How to do Ventriloquism"? It is a Drama class and I want to introduce them to ventriloquism, puppets, story telling, etc. I ordered your Home Course back..... WAY BACK when I was first married. (1979!!)... and I still have all my little booklets!! Thanks for all you do! Marge

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Marge: Your request is so exciting to me! And encouraging! A teacher of ventriloquism with youth as students. If only there were many more with similar goals - I would be much more optimistic about the future of the art. (But that's another issue for another day.) I suggest the booklet Ventriloquism In A Nutshell as a classroom text. $6.00 for one postpaid, but I do sell them at quantity discount when used for the purpose of teaching the art. The Successful Ventriloquism DVD is another excellent classroom resource. Clinton

Wooden art with heart

We are accustomed to having packages delivered frequently to our door. Without even opening the parcel I generally know by size, shape, and weight when a dummy needing some sort of assistance has arrived. Then there are the packages of unusual size that arrive. Such was the case yesterday. That's when I check to see if the sender's name is on the return label. "Do you have any idea what Donald Woodford would be sending us?" I asked Adelia. "I have no idea," she replied.

Well, in that case the best thing to do is open the box without delay! I can't tell you how amazed we were to find enclosed a beautiful framed woodcut art portrait of our new great-granddaughter, Jaci Michelle Detweiler (right)! The artwork was expertly handcrafted by Donald Woodword. The piece was accompanied by a personally created card with a heart-warming note of appreciation for "the many things you have done for the vent community". We are so richly blessed in so many ways by our friends in the vent community. Words are inadequate. Thank you, Donald!

Size comparison

I have posted this picture for a customer who asked about size comparision of figures, but there may be others who desire the same information. The young lady with braids is 34" tall. The other one is 31" tall. Both have the same animations: turning head, side to side (self-centering) eye movement, and raising eyebrows. The larger figure is priced at $325.00 PP, and the smaller at $295.00 PP.

Youth bookings

Clinton: I have been practicing vent for a couple of years now. Like most ventriloquists I am at the point where the idea of being hired intrigues me. I'd be fine with small children's birthday parties,but I face an issue which may be common for Youth. That is, most adults will either not hire you in the first place, or not take you seriously. My main issue today is the first one. How do I advertise my act (via Flyers in local stores and such?) while letting it be known that I am not an adult, without ruining my chances of getting hired? Is there a way to demonstrate this fact in a positive manner? Ty
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Ty: Getting started is a challenge for anyone. The word has to get out about your skill as a ventriloquist and the availability of your service. It may take some freebie shows. But volunteer shows can result in letters of recommendation and that's what you need when contacting prospective clients. Actually, birthday parties for small children are a very good thing, and lead to further opportunities. You may want to have an adult (parent or friend) act as your "agent". I'll ask on my blog if people have some suggestions for you. Clinton (Any suggestions for Ty?)

Whew!

Until now, I've always considered the ventriloquist figure heads made by Finis Robinson to be the heaviest of any heads I've handled. But I believe "Frank" (shown in this photo) now commands the record. Weighing in at nearly 4 1/2 pounds, this head truly is a handful. He must be made of auto body filler or something similar.

The weight causes a challenge for the repainting . When repainting a head, I always hold it by the headpost with my left hand while painting with my right. Holding and turning a BIG four plus pounds on the end of a stick for the time required to repaint the complete head is truly a test of strength and endurance! Never fear - in spite of the expression on my face, I am up to the task! :-)

Charlie's cartoon boots

When I asked Michael Fox where he obtained those huge comical shoes for his "Cartoon Charlie" he told me he took them from his unused Ventriloquist/Dummy costume (see next post). I'm told Cartoon Charlie is good for walk around or any travel light situation on the go. Michael also sent me a picture of his formally attired cast (below).
Left to right they are: Tommy, Corky, and Cartoon Charlie. (Surname for all three is Wood)

Ventriloquist/Dummy Costume

http://www.costumeshopper.com/prods/fm59535.html

The mouth sticks!

Question: Clinton, I happened to run across your website and I am thrilled that you are still active in the world of ventriloquism. I purchased your home course and two vent figures sometime in 1998-99. Due to work related demands, I stopped working with my figures, but have been asked to start up again. However, one of my figures has total lockjaw and the other one locks when I open his mouth too wide. Is there anything I can do to remedy this? Candle wax? Graphite? The figures were your large professional series made of a wood-like composite. Your advice will be most appreciated. Thanks. Best regards. Vic
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Vic: I only use clear silicone lubricant for areas such as you describe. It comes in an aerosol can with a long small diameter tube nozzle that allows you to apply the lubricant to a very specific area. Now, this may or may not solve the problems you describe. You could also insert a metal fingernail file into the slots alongside the mouth and "file" in and out at those areas where the mouth seems tight. (See photo below.) If all else fails, I'll be glad to fix the problems for you. Clinton

Visit to the dentist

When Philip Notaro sent me this picture (left) asking if I could add upper teeth to "Frank", I gave him a conditional affirmative answer. The question in my mind was about the amount of space between the lower lip and lower teeth. Would there be enough room to carve a grove for any upper teeth to fit into with the mouth closed? Difficult to tell from a photo.

Philip sent "Frank" to me, and after seeing the mouth firsthand, I decided the uppers could be added. Today I put on my "Dentist" hat and went to work. (Top photo)

Coincidentally, while I was working on "Frank", I received a text message from our granddaughter, Nicole, who had just finished with an appointment with her dentist. "I hate it when my mouth is numb," she wrote. I texted her back: "You're lucky -- I'm working on a dummy's teeth right now and I didn't numb him at all." "LOL" was Nicole's quick reply (although I doubt she was smiling).

Age Barrier?

From Canon John Jordan: Hello, Clinton. I've just moved into a "seniors' residence", and checking over the blogs I've missed in the moving process. I had to chuckle when I read a couple of questions sent to you asking about an age barrier. I think that the only barrier is in the head of the would-be performer. At 82, I'm debating whether or not to get another figure to keep me fresh.

Just ducky

Question: I am a 74 year old retiree who's greatest joy in life is making people laugh. I have had some stage and radio experience and had been thinking of ventriloquism for many years. I discovered your Maher Course by way of the Vent Haven website, for which I am very grateful. I do wonder if you could suggest someone who makes the soft figure of the duck similar to the one used by Mark Wade. I would like that to be my first figure, with a couple other figures to follow, as I improve. Many thanks for this fine program. Don

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Answer: Mark's duck was custom made for him, so you wouldn't want an exact duplicate. But there are similar puppet characters available and some very nice ones. Here are a couple you could check out. The duck at left is sold by One Way Street

And the one at right is sold by Puppet Planet

Both appear to be very fun characters. Along with their appearance, compare the size, price, and delivery times when making your decision.

Mouth Device

Question: I saw a magician rub the mouth of a glass and made a sound. He also made a buzzing sound like a fly. He then took something out his mouth. Do you know what that device is called and where I can get it?
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Answer: It sounds like he was using what is called a Swiss Bird Warbler. They've 0ften been associated with ventriloquism, but are seldom used by a ventriloquist. I did know a ventriloquist (Curt Hansen) years ago who used one of those devices to make his live pet pig "bark like a dog" and his shopping mall shows were very funny and effective. I don't know a current source for the Swiss Bird Warbler although I'm sure they are available. Try magic stores (or Google). Clinton

Boosting motivation

From John: Thought I would drop a note letting you know my progress. I have been working on the Maher Course Lessons, taking them in order and not trying to rush anything. The lessons are well designed. I see slow moving progress giving a person time to learn with other training inserted so that you don't get bored working or thinking about one thing. I still have not found the partner that I want. Would kind of like to make my own. You mentioned a bird and that is what I had been thinking about and with your suggestion I went on and thought of a character. Think I could add a voice and it would be pretty good. So please keep in touch and don't give up on me. I sit in the front at Church or at the very back when I have to help run the Technical stuff. So I try singing using my Vent mouth position. No one hears me, which is good, but I must get the rest of the labials mastered. Take care.
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Clinton's comments: Thanks for your progress update. Better to proceed slowly with focus than to rush through the lessons with hasty abandon. Congratulations on finding creative ways to slip ventriloquist practice into your daily routine - including church worship! I do hope you can get started on a vent puppet soon, whatever the character. As it develops, your determination will gain enthusiasm and intensity. Also, the character and its personality will become more focused in your mind. And as the project nears completion, you will find you have a desire to show it to someone (anyone). This is a fun and easy way to boost motivation. I know this is true because that is what I experienced when I built my own first vent figure (I was taking the old Maher Home Study Course at the time -1958). Keep in touch.

Puppet Planet

For those of you who enjoy creatures of great quality and lots of whimsical characteristics we suggest that you take a few minutes to look at a site that is just full of wonderful characters. Michele Acquin's wonderful work can be found at her site. Take a minute and enjoy the tour at Puppet Planet

The puppet shown here is a stage puppet, but Puppet Planet provides 36" full body stock and custom puppets as well.

"Living mouth conversion"

Question: I've got this great idea for my Lovik "living mouth" character. Problem is, the living mouth isn't all that swell a thing. Now...looking at the way it's set up inside the head, I'm beginning to wonder if I couldn't do a slotted-jaw conversion myself. I used to build hand puppets and marionettes in my youth, and for awhile I made a living as a tech director at a theatre, building all kinds of things for our children's theatre division (I sure miss Celastic, pulled from the market because it was a carcinogen). What do you think? Could I do a conversion myself? Any tips? Can the hinge apparatus inside be adapted, or would it be wiser to start from scratch? Philip
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Answer: I have never converted a "living mouth" to slotted jaw although I've spent many hours with both types of figures. So I can offer a bit of conjecture. I believe I would start by removing the leather and then somehow build/fill the space between the upper lip and the chin (fill with wood, auto body filler, molding mache, a combination, or ???). Only after completing the rebuilding of the chin and shaping of same would I cut the side slots and the horizontal cut on the neck under the chin. I believe those mouths used a cabinet hinge as the axle. I would cross my fingers and hope that original hinge could remain as positioned, because if not, you'll have to drill a hole into the area you just rebuilt in order to remove the screws holding the hinge to the headpost and then remove the mouth. After that it would be "make it up as you go" (my favorite method)because I can't foresee the next steps. Good luck! Clinton

In route

Buffy was completed yesterday, her photo taken and then packed for shipment within the hour, and is now in route to her new home in England. She was pleased to discover she would not have to learn a new language after her trans-Atlantic flight although I suspect after listening to me talk for the past couple weeks, when she is greeted by her new owner she'll know for certain she's no longer in Colorado! :-)

Finding the puppet's voice

Question: I received your 30 lesson course, in excellent condition, a few weeks ago. I have been reading through the first several lessons then going back and doing each lesson with much serious effort. So far, so good. I am having a minor problem with developing a ventriloquial voice for a duck puppet. Any suggestions you may offer would be greatly appreciated.
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Answer: It's still early in your learning, study, and practice so what you are experiencing with your ventriloquist voice search is very common. I would suggest you concentrate your efforts on a resonant voice higher in tone than your own voice. Especially for use with a duck. Try singing up the scale "do-re-mi-fa-sol-la-ti-do" and find a tone several steps higher from the initial "do" which you can use as a "springboard" into your ventriloquist speech. Move directly from the selected musical tonal level into spoken words. I think you will find it becomes easy and easier with practice repetition. (You can use the word "Shay" in the same manner as explained in the lessons.)

Premium 31" Super Deluxe Dolls

I do not plan to list ventriloquist figures on eBay during the Summer months, but I will continue to build figures and take orders. These two are my latest. Professional quality, operation & appearance at a budget price! Designed with petite and youth ventriloquists in mind. Handcrafted and hand painted. Offered for sale at Maher Studios -Encore:
Premium 31" Super Deluxe Dolls

Michael Casey

From Ed Casey: Good Morning, Clinton. I thought you would enjoy this picture of Michael with some of your characters and Colorado Rockies pitcher, Jason Grilli. Michael performed Saturday at Mount Vernon Country Club.

Free publicity photos

From Hillary Saffran

I had the opportunity to have some free photos taken of me and my puppets for a student's portfolio at The Art Institute. The meet was the result of an ad on Craigs list - "Wanted - a magician/ventriloquist, female preferred". I emailed back right away. The ad was placed by a photography student enrolled in the Art Institute in Denver. She had gone to a museum in Dallas a few months ago and saw a puppet exhibit, and thought it would be a cool thing to photograph a ventriloquist for her portfolio. So I brought everything I owned to her studio. She told me that her model wouldn't be paid, but I'd get the pictures for free as compensation. Is this divine Intervention, or what! It will save me a bit of money for sure! What fun!

One hair at a time...

I shape the right and left eyebrows for raising eyebrows of brass. The brass is then painted to match the skin tone of the forehead. On figures with a deluxe wig such as the one in this picture, I glue individual hairs from the wig onto the painted metal eyebrow backing. It's a long tedious process and even more so when the wig is curly. The hairs need to be straightened as they are glued in place, a few at a time until the proper buildup has been achieved. Then the excess hairs are trimmed away until a properly shaped brow is achieved. It actually takes more time to create eyebrows in this manner than it takes to completely hand paint the figure which is why I only take time to do it on the finer figures.

Too old for Kid Shows?

Question: I have a odd question for you... I'm 40 years old, do you think its too late for me to get into the kid show business with ventriloquism?
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Answer: Absolutely not. If you have an age appropriate entertaining kid program, YOUR age is NOT a factor. You will want to purchase Mark Wade's excellent DVD, The Art Of The Kid Show. Clinton

Paw-Paw D. and Jaci

How can it be possible that our son, Kevin, is now a Grandpa?! It seems only yesterday he was that young grade school kid always at my side in my shop. Somewhere along this amazing road of life we all travel, I must have blinked!

"Conversion" dolls

Question: Would you please tell me what a Conversion figure is? I am fascinated with all the different vent figures I see on the net. And the more I see the more intrigued I become. The features on some of these figures are really hilarious. Very Interesting! Donna
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Answer: Usually the term "conversion" or "up grade" when used in a description of a ventriloquist doll means that a commercial doll (such as Charlie McCarthy or Howdy Doody, etc.) has been taken and changed (converted) into another character. There's a number of ways this can be done.

Or, a commercial doll may be "up graded" from a stuffed body doll into one with more professional features such as hollow body, headpost, moving eyes, etc. Clinton

Question: CLINTON ARE YOU MAKING ANY MORE VENT FIGURES TO SALE? IF SO WHAT ARE THE PRICES ON THEM? THANK YOU FOR TIME AND TROUBLE.
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Answer:
Yes. Here's the link: http://www.maherstudios.blogspot.com

Magical Puppet?

What a fun novelty puppet with which to add variety to a magic show! "Tonight, ladies and gentlemen, I have brought with me for this show a brand new box of "Tricks" (Trix)! With the ability to close his eye, "Trix" could be used for some sort of comedy "mind reading" feat, too, as suggested in Bill Andersen's book: Mental Magic For Ventriloquists.

I gave my first official magic show when I was in the 8th grade. I built many of the effects myself, following instructions found in the magic "how-to" books checked out of our local public library. What fun I could have had with this puppet! Of course, "Trix" had not yet been cooked up in 1949. Maybe I could have created a puppet from "Shredded Wheat"!

Mark Wade Writes

BEING EARLY IS BEING ON TIME!

One of the biggest mistakes school show vents (or any kind of ventriloquist for that matter!) can make is to arrive at the venue just minutes before show time. Although the vent may only need 10 - 15 minutes to set up the act (and still have time in advance), it's much more than that. It's the "comfort level" of the principal or buyer of your show that matters at this point. Every principal I have dealt with over the years has a horror story about the act that didn't show up - or showed up very late. The principal had all the kids in the auditorium, they were getting noisy and restless, the teachers were upset for taking valuable time out of the classroom, and no performer! I have found that arriving 45 minutes ahead is just perfect for these types of shows. It gives you, the performer, time to look over the show area, decide where to set up, and the principal is relaxed knowing YOU are on the job. The same holds true for other types of shows as well. Even agent-driven bookings require you to be there early so you can make their client feel good about booking you. Remember - it's not always about us or about the act - it's often about the "comfort level" of the people that are booking us.

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CONTRACTS IMPORTANT FOR KIDSHOWS? YOU BET!

I often hear performers banter over the importance of contracts, especially if they are in the kidshow field. Somehow some of these well intentioned folks feel that since it's "just a kidshow" that paperwork in the form of a contract isn't necessary. Not true! I say, "ALWAYS have some sort of a paper trail, especially a contract, to be sure you get things right and get paid in a timely fashion." If you are doing school shows and libraries, it is very important to get contracts into the hands of the customers. If there is a descrepency on what time the show is to begin, the contract that both you and the customer signed is the determining factor. Also in the contract, you can spell out how long the show will be, once again avoiding any problems. And the BEST thing about the contract, it will help you get paid on time. If the customer signs the contract and it says that you will be paid the day of the show, there is no misunderstanding, no waiting for a check to be sent weeks after the performance. Contracts don't need to be elaborate, in fact, they can be in a letter form, as long as there is a place for both you and your customer to sign, and each of you gets a copy of the document. Once you have everything in "black and white" there are no hidden surprises, and it DOES make you more professional. Remember, kidshows are as important as any other type of performing. Please don't treat it as "second rate". You are as professional as the paperwork you choose to send out.

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KEEP YOUR AUDIENCE TOGETHER!

Many performers do not realize the importance of keeping audience members seated closely together during a performance. It's true! This one thing can often determine the difference between a great show and a mediocre performance (or even a bad show). I've learned over the years that laughter is contagious and when you get part of the audience laughing it soon spreads to others quickly. Especially when doing school shows I have to remind the principal that I do not need an aisle that is a half a gym floor wide. The teachers want to make short rows (to get to their kids) but also want to leave a huge center opening that they feel is the appropriate aisle that is needed. Not true! The kids and I only need an aisle about 24-28 inches wide. This still allows the kids to exit the show in case of an emergency but is also close enough to make the audience feel they are one group. As I told a principal the other day "When you have an aisle so wide that you can land a Boeing 747 between the two sections of kids, it's not good for me or anyone." (I said this with a smile on my face and did it kiddingly.) "When there is a large amount of dividing space," I continued, "I have two audiences instead of one! I'll have to constantly turn from side to side because I have no audience directly in front of me!" The principal got what I was saying, shifted the kids so that I had a much smaller aisle, and the show was a huge success. This fact is also true when you have the first row of kids too far away from you. Set them up so the first row is only about 6-10 feet away from the performance area. Once again the fact remains that comedy, especially kidshow comedy, works well with the audience being close.

Newsy Vents 11/05

From Fred Anderson: "Fortunately my licence plate holder is still withstanding the test of our hot summers and very cold winters. Like Jeff, I get a chuckle from the looks on faces of people behind me when they read my plate frame. They also get a big smile on their faces when they figure out that my personalized plate DMY MAN means Dummy Man."

Cruiser

Comment: Hello, Clinton. Nice to see that "great minds" not only think alike but also drive alike. I've had three PT Cruisers. Judging from the latest news, I guess we'd better take good care of the ones we have as there may not be any more! PS --Your cases, lined up placed on end, fit perfectly in the back cargo area. (I, of course, make sure the figures' heads are "up.")Steve Engle
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Reply: Steve: Of all the vehicles I've owned in my lifetime, the PT Cruiser is the first I've really enjoyed. (This is my second.) And now, like you, I've heard on the news Chrysler will discontinue them. Well, I'm going to drive this one I have until the only appropriate place left to drive it is in parades with the local vintage Cruiser Club! As for hauling cases, with the back seat folded up, I've had 12 cases in mine at one time and there was still room for a couple more. Love that car! Clinton

Historical Figure For Sale!

Our daughter, Joy Scheuerman, owned Maher Studios for three years (2003-2006). Shortly before operations were closed in 2006, Joy commissioned Keith Lovik to build a ventriloquist figure for her personal collection of Maher Memorabilia. What a fun character "Cody, Jr." was! (right). He is 35" tall and is signed by Keith and dated with his completion date of 4/14/06, just two days prior to the official closing of Maher Studios (4/16/06).

Keith shipped the figure to Joy who asked me to add raising eyebrows to the figure, which I did. So why do I consider this to be an "historical" piece? Of the hundreds of Lovik World figures sold over a period of over 30 years, this is the FINAL Knee Pal built for Maher Studios by a member of the Lovik family! Truly a rare part of Maher Studios' history. It has been kept in careful storage since its completion and has never been used. Mint condition. Joy has now decided to sell, so I have it listed now on eBay, for sale at auction with no reserve and FREE shipping (USA). One-of-kind chance-of-a-lifetime: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=260418352479

I have also listed a new Custom Carrying Case which is the perfect size for this figure (or any figure 35"-38" tall): http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=260418361821ViewItem&item=260418361821

Eye change?

Question: Clinton, I was thinking of getting a pair of highly realistic eyes in brown for my female Col. Bill Boley figure. If I order them, can you install them in her and repaint her?

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Answer: Normally I do not advise an eye change in a figure because the mechanics have to be totally rebuilt. But since this figure has no other extra effects, it could be a job that is cost effective. Can I give you a bit of personal advice? Avoid selecting a pair of eyes that are too human in appearance unless you intend to "freak out" some of our friends and audience. When a vent figure becomes too humanly realistic it will make some people uncomfortable. Part of the magic of ventriloquism is the fact that something obviously a puppet can be made to act in a lifelike manner. You don't want to lose that "magic". (I avoid eyes with veins in the white portion of the eyeball.)

To answer your question: Yes, I can install the eyes and repaint her, but to give you an exact price, I need to see her and the new eyes you select first hand. And, I'll have a few additional questions for you. When I have an idea of the time that will be required for the job I can quote you an exact price. You'll be under no obligation to me (other than the cost of return shipping) if you decide not to proceed.

Clinton

The eyes have it

This fellow came to me with a request only to touch up the eyelid paint and add new eyelashes. Small details; HUGE improvement. They say people can speak volumes with their eyes. I'm convinced the same is true of ventriloquist figures!

License Frames

Question: Clinton, Does that wonderful storage shed of yours happen to have any more of the ventriloquist license plate frames left in it? The one I received from the "grab bag" boxes you sold a few years back was attacked by a runaway grocery cart and broke. It was good advertising. I actually had fun reading people's lips through the rear view mirror as we sat at red lights as they read ventriloquist! Jeff Scott

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Answer: Dr. Jeff, The "Grab Bag" boxes we sold in 2003 & 2006 contained the last of my supply of ventriloquist License frames. Sorry! Mine got broken, too, a number of years ago, and I can only wish it had been a runaway grocery cart that was the cause rather than a "bumper-to-bumper" event! The frames you refer to were made of plastic and came in a choice of colors. But way back in the 1970s we had some made of metal with the wording, "N.A.A.V. Ventriloquist". They were nice. But years of weather and road wear and tear finally forced me to discard mine. Clinton

Distant Ventriloquism

Question: Dear Sir, Myself, Abhijeet, a resident of India (Age 22). I'm an amature ventriloquism student, performing since last 4 years. I'm crazy about everything which is related to ventriloquism. While searching on Net on this subject I came across to your blog. I need some help in distance ventriloquism. I can't do distance ventriloquism. Will you please give me instructions on this? And how to use it on stage shows. I'll be thankful if you help me. I apologise for mistakes. Waiting for your response. Thank you. Regards.
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Answer: Hello, Abhijeet. I'm excited to hear of your enthusiasm for ventriloquism! Your question concerning Distant Ventriloquism is one I receive often. I will give you a very brief answer here. Distant Ventriloquism is always an illusion. No one can physically "throw" or produce their voice from some point distant from themselves. It is always an illusion. The secret is to produce a voice that sounds as if it is coming from some distant point, and through acting, prepare the listener to expect a voice from that point. When these two things are combed and presented skillfully, the listener will actually be convinced they hear the voice coming from that distant point! For a more detailed explanation and DEMONSTRATION on this subject, I suggest Mark Wade's DVD "Advanced Ventriloquism". For sale here
Clinton

Stuffed animal to vent puppet conversion

Clinton: Thank you for the wonderful information you have shared with all of us in the past 4 years. I am sure that there will be much more to share. I have a question - I have some stuffed animals I would like to turn into puppets, do you know anyone who has the capabilities to do it or is it really worth the endeavor. One is a mid size brown 100th anniversary bear and the other is a large duck, both will need to have the mouth opened and made to work, and I guess some stuffing would need to be removed and the body relined. Hope you or someone you know has some ideas as to how to go about it.
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Answer: To answer this question properly would take more details than I have at hand, but generally speaking, it is not cost effective to convert a stuffed animal into a vent puppet if you have to pay someone to do it. But if you can do it yourself, then that's a different story. I say this because from experience I know I can build a couple ventriloquist figures (such as those you can see here ) in less time than it would take me to convert a stuffed animal into a vent figure. But, I can't expect anyone to pay the cost of two figures for one stuffed animal conversion. So, while I've done it for my own pleasure, I don't offer such a service. Nor, unfortunately, do I know anyone who does. Clinton

PT versatility

One of the problems with selling lined and padded custom carrying cases is SPACE. This week I have orders for four cases in three sizes. Only my garage has the room I need to roll out foam and fabric (on an unseen table to the left) when cutting to size. On this day I was using my car as a place to lay the pieces until I set up a mini-spray booth so I could glue the fabric to the foam. Adelia laughed when she happened to step through the door, took in the sight, and commented, "Now there's a picture for your blog!" I replied, "Well, get the camera." She did - and now you see part of what I have to go through to prep materials for lining a case.

It was exactly a year ago this week when David Pendleton asked me about the possibility of getting some more cases for his figures. I thought I had retired from that facet of my career since my shop is far too small to handle such jobs. But I decided to temporarily bring the cases back and use my garage as workspace. I thought it would only be for a couple weeks. Now, here I am - one year later, still unable to park but one vehicle in my garage due to my case "workshop". If it could talk, even the PT would complain. I told Adelia this morning I think it's about time consider the wisdom of re-retiring from that portion of my shop career!