From Bunny Dean
Following a singing performance at a party in Memphis, I hurriedly packed my vent pal in a towel and blanket and placed him in the back of my truck. I had a long drive home and was anxious to get started and did not notice that the legs of my little friend were sticking out of the blanket as I placed him hastily into the truck as I left. We drove away quickly and were making good time until the flashing red lights and screaming siren of the police interrupted our trip. Although funny now, I was quite serious and a bit nervous at the time as the officers asked to search my truck. It seems they had received a call from someone who saw me kidnap a child and drive off with him in the back of my truck. When the officers found only my vent figure they almost rolled on the ground with laughter. Relieved, I could finally laugh with them, but I have since purchased a case for my friend to avoid any similar experiences in the future!
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Do you have a "funny but true" ventriloquist experience you would like to share? Contact Mr. D
5/31/11
5/30/11
Memorial Day 2011
It is appropriate today to again bring to your attention the trip Terry Fator made to Texas earlier this year to perform for the service men, women and children of Fort Hood. The purpose of the event was to provide for joy, laughter and a memorable evening for these who sacrifice so much for our freedom. The event has been documented with a very cool video with scenes from that day. Watch the video here: http://www.terryfator.com/videos.html?ma_id=1&mc_id=57&p=1
More recently, Terry donated $20,000 to Snowball Express, an organization started in early 2006 with the simple idea of providing hope and new memories to the children of military fallen heroes who died while on active duty since 9/11. All individuals as well as organizations are welcome to follow Terry's example by contribute to Snowball Express. Any donation, be it $1 or one thousand dollars, is received with gratitude from this largely voluntary effort. www.snowballexpress.org/AboutUs.aspx 
5/29/11
Ready for duty
I want to thank Ed Golick for this wonderful photo of Skinny Dugan" with Ted Lloyd dressed in Navy uniforms. It is the first I had seen this photo. Ed tells me Ted served in the Army during WW2, so what they are doing here in Navy uniform is unknown. They do make a handsome pair!
Skinny Dugan is a 1940 McElroy figure, and was owned and used by Fred Maher until his untimely death in 1952. After Fred's death, Madeleine sold the figure to Ted Lloyd, a Detroit children's TV personality known as "Sagebrush Shorty". "Dugan" was sold with the stipulation that the figure not be renamed.
Lloyd died in 1999 and his widow sold the figure to his current owner, Jeff Dunham. You can read "The Real Skinny On SKINNY DUGAN" here: http://detroitkidshow.com/Skinny_Dugan.htm
Quick change artist
Fred Anderson sent this photo of himself with "Archie", his Lovik figure, dressed in his WW2 vintage Canadian uniform. They normally dress in this manner for their shows for seniors who remember this style of uniform.
After singing a few "hits of the blitz" WW2 songs, Archie decides he wants to leave the army and go into show business. This is when Archie goes under the table where Fred quickly switches the head to a second body dressed in a tux and Archie reappears and the pair move into their regular comedy skit, ending with Archie singing his special version of the "Green, Green Grass of Home", to the delight of their audience.
Honor Veterans - Fly the Flag
This Officer must have those fresh recruits on his mind!
This photo of his self-built figure was sent to me by Mike Palma.
5/28/11
"Happiest when being used..."
Customer Comment: I received Skeeter today (after his touchup)! Thank you he looks great! Do I need to do anything as far as care to lengthen his "life" ? Sounds funny to ask but I just want to take the best care I can of him!
* * * * *
Answer: You know, I think vent figures are happiest and last the longest when they are being used. Not unlike humans. And in some ways, their care is simply common sense almost as if they were a real child. Keep them clean and dry, avoid extreme temperatures, don't drop, hit or slam them around - in other words, treat them with kindness and they will reward you with a lifetime of service. YOUR lifetime - theirs should extend well beyond....
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Answer: You know, I think vent figures are happiest and last the longest when they are being used. Not unlike humans. And in some ways, their care is simply common sense almost as if they were a real child. Keep them clean and dry, avoid extreme temperatures, don't drop, hit or slam them around - in other words, treat them with kindness and they will reward you with a lifetime of service. YOUR lifetime - theirs should extend well beyond....
5/27/11
Ten Ways to Reduce Stage Fright
By Dick Brooks
1. Know your craft intimately. Practice each effect until you can do it without thinking. Some magicians rehearse a trick or move six months before performing it for an audience.
2. Do as many shows as possible, even perform for free whenever the opportunity comes up. The more often you perform, the less important each individual show becomes. Some of the finest performers may do 20 or more shows a week and have to "grind" out a show from time to time. In such a situation, however, it is important not to lose the sense of excitement for the show, the presentation, and the audience.
3. Picture the results of success. Don't picture failure. Whatever you see vividly in your mind will come true. Imagine yourself working the finest jobs, in the largest places, in front of the most important people.
4. Get to know as many professional entertainers as you can. It makes you realize that they are "just plain folks," and the success tends to rub off. Attend conventions and gatherings of your peers.
5. Read everything you can about your business. See all you can. The more information you have at your fingertips, the better you will become.
6. Think of all the possible mistakes that can happen during your performance and plan on ways to cover them should they occur.
7. Take a good deep breath just before going on. Some performers like to run in place, or pace back and forth to increase the adrenalin in their system at show time. Don't overdo it. Learn to channel your nervous energy into an exciting performance.
8. Relax with your audience. They want you to be good. After all, they don't want to see a bad show. Talk to them as a friend. Don't yell. Let the microphone do the work. Make contact with the audience by looking into their eyes.
9. We can't leave out the oldest trick of all: Imagine the entire audience in their underwear. Even the most important audience will become ordinary this way.
10. Most important, have fun when you perform. The audience will know it.
* * * * *
Adapted from Hocus Pocus 1978/Newsy Vents 1980. Copyright 1978/1980/2011
1. Know your craft intimately. Practice each effect until you can do it without thinking. Some magicians rehearse a trick or move six months before performing it for an audience.
2. Do as many shows as possible, even perform for free whenever the opportunity comes up. The more often you perform, the less important each individual show becomes. Some of the finest performers may do 20 or more shows a week and have to "grind" out a show from time to time. In such a situation, however, it is important not to lose the sense of excitement for the show, the presentation, and the audience.
3. Picture the results of success. Don't picture failure. Whatever you see vividly in your mind will come true. Imagine yourself working the finest jobs, in the largest places, in front of the most important people.
4. Get to know as many professional entertainers as you can. It makes you realize that they are "just plain folks," and the success tends to rub off. Attend conventions and gatherings of your peers.
5. Read everything you can about your business. See all you can. The more information you have at your fingertips, the better you will become.
6. Think of all the possible mistakes that can happen during your performance and plan on ways to cover them should they occur.
7. Take a good deep breath just before going on. Some performers like to run in place, or pace back and forth to increase the adrenalin in their system at show time. Don't overdo it. Learn to channel your nervous energy into an exciting performance.
8. Relax with your audience. They want you to be good. After all, they don't want to see a bad show. Talk to them as a friend. Don't yell. Let the microphone do the work. Make contact with the audience by looking into their eyes.
9. We can't leave out the oldest trick of all: Imagine the entire audience in their underwear. Even the most important audience will become ordinary this way.
10. Most important, have fun when you perform. The audience will know it.
* * * * *
Adapted from Hocus Pocus 1978/Newsy Vents 1980. Copyright 1978/1980/2011
5/26/11
Historic Maher Memories
It was Dave Robison who was going through some of his old documents and came across his 1980 issue of Newsy Vents that featured Fred Maher with his original Skinney Dugan on the cover. Dave suggested I frame a copy of that cover to use as a give away. Great idea, Dave, and today I'm doing just that.
I'll also include a copy from that issue of the three page article with photos detailing the history of the NAAV (North American Association of Ventriloquists) which was celebrating its 40th year anniversary that year. The article also details the moving of Maher School of Ventriloquism from Detroit to Littleton. Although I was fully involved in that 1969 move, I had forgotten some of the details so even I found my account of the transfer fascinating to reread now 31 years later.
The winner of this framed historic Newsy Vents cover shown here is Reford Theobold. I made up a couple extra framed covers as well, so if you would like to own one of these rare pieces (frame style may vary), the price is $20.00 (free shipping US).
5/25/11
YOU are a winner!
Here you see two mounted and framed TWO CENTS ventriloquist collectible coins. They are securely mounted under glass without glue or adhesive of any type to insure the coins will remain in mint condition. Ready to display on your desk or wall at home or office. And at a price so low you may wonder if it's a joke - it's not. Yours for $10.00 (free shipping US), AND I'll include a third coin FREE! Contact me to arrange payment (Paypal, check or money order). mahertalk@aol.com
The first framed set you see here is being awarded as today's prize drawing. The lucky winner is: Chuck Lyons.
Coin Comment from Charles Prouty: "I received my coins yesterday and again, they TOTALLY ROCK! "
Plus, YOU MAY BE A WINNER, TOO! If you are one of those reading this who has yet to receive one FREE TWO CENTS coin, what are you waiting for? All you have to do is ask and provide me with your current mailing address!
5/24/11
Golden Girl
From Bastiaan Verhorst: Today the glamorous two-cent-coin arrived. Thank you. Betty is so enthusiastic about it, she claimed it as her earring. Well, she may use it one day. One day a golden girl.
5/23/11
"New" Ventrilo-ett
From John Degel: I hope you take this effort as a compliment. Since I no longer do Santa, I had to find a new life for the elf. He's now Ranger Rick - executive ranger assistant to Smokey the Bear, Jr. (an Axtell bear), and helping him with fire and camping safety classes. Smokey thinks he's a ventriloquist, too, and made me change the Elf to Rick so he could have his own vent figure.
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From Mr. D: Absolutely I take your adaptation of the Elf as a compliment. From Elf to Ranger Assistant sounds like a promotion to me! But the adaptation is primarily a compliment to you. Those who are able to find creative ways to adapt to life's changes, planned or unplanned, move onward successfully. Those who do not, cannot, or refuse to adapt, soon fade into the sunset. Neither you or I are ready for that! With puppets in hand, onward we go!
5/22/11
Photos needed
With next weekend being Memorial weekend, I'd like to have photo(s) of figures in uniform for posting on this blog. If you have such, and care to share, I thank you in advance.
Disaster Ministry
Jim Burke sent me a letter last week in which he shared an experience he had as a ventriloquist working with school age victims of the recent tragic tornadoes in our southern states. I asked his permission to share a portion of his letter where he described his experience when called out one evening to do some "after loss" counseling at an Alabama school. Jim wrote:
"I worked with a fourth grade and a second grade class. In the first, everyone in the class knew one student who had been hurt in the tornado, and the child's mother had died in the storm. Several went to the funeral. One child (the teacher's daughter) had their house severely damaged. In the second class, one child had his home damaged, and had withdrawal problems.
"In my backpack I carried a Ventriloett, a Puppet in a Can (sold by Maher Studios years ago), a squirrel puppet, and 'Smiley', the Pocket Puppet. After a time of sharing back and forth with the students, the puppets were able to address several issues, even while entertaining. In the second grade class, the student whose house had been severely damaged, literally 'came out of his shell' through the use of the puppets.
"A call come the next day, and the gentleman calling said that I had done 'too good a job'. This State Disaster Relief Director wanted me to do similar 'counseling in two other schools this week. Unfortunately I had to decline because of a commitment to a conference in North Carolina."
I want to express appreciation to Jim for sharing this experience. Some of you reading this may be in a position and location to consider offering this type of "disaster ministry" should the need arise. Sure, we want to see people smile, but there are times when healing must take place as well, and here is one more example of how puppets could possible serve in that role. To quote Jim, "It truly is amazing what God an do when 'wood becomes alive'".
"I worked with a fourth grade and a second grade class. In the first, everyone in the class knew one student who had been hurt in the tornado, and the child's mother had died in the storm. Several went to the funeral. One child (the teacher's daughter) had their house severely damaged. In the second class, one child had his home damaged, and had withdrawal problems.
"In my backpack I carried a Ventriloett, a Puppet in a Can (sold by Maher Studios years ago), a squirrel puppet, and 'Smiley', the Pocket Puppet. After a time of sharing back and forth with the students, the puppets were able to address several issues, even while entertaining. In the second grade class, the student whose house had been severely damaged, literally 'came out of his shell' through the use of the puppets.
"A call come the next day, and the gentleman calling said that I had done 'too good a job'. This State Disaster Relief Director wanted me to do similar 'counseling in two other schools this week. Unfortunately I had to decline because of a commitment to a conference in North Carolina."
I want to express appreciation to Jim for sharing this experience. Some of you reading this may be in a position and location to consider offering this type of "disaster ministry" should the need arise. Sure, we want to see people smile, but there are times when healing must take place as well, and here is one more example of how puppets could possible serve in that role. To quote Jim, "It truly is amazing what God an do when 'wood becomes alive'".
5/21/11
Wouter van Riessan, artist
Bastiaan Verhorst brought to my attention the works of Dutch artist, Wouter van Riessan. With a creative style totally unique, he has produced a number of paintings and prints of himself with a ventriloquist figure or other puppets. I do not know if he has involvement in these arts or just some fascination with puppets, but expressions are eye catching. It is with his permission we bring you this sample of his work (right).
5/20/11
Too late?
Question: I have been practicing, but to be honest, not on a everyday basis and to this day still have not bought my first puppet. The reason I am telling you all this information is because I am saddened and frustrated and about too give up. I have heard that, "if you want to be successful in the ventriloquist field/art you should of started in the early years", or, " You're too old to start a business doing this art." Now, I will tell you that I don't expect to be famous like Terry Fater, or like Jeff Duham, but I would like to do small parties and/or church functions. I would love to continue studying and become better and do small jobs to make some money on the side and have fun too. I would take your opinion and words very seriously and respect them. Do you think its too late for me? Do you think I am to old at 41 to do this art and have fun and make money at it? I really need to know.
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Answer: It is NEVER TOO LATE to take up ventriloquism! You may never reach elite skill level, but you WILL be able to enjoy performing for yourself and friends. Many folks take up ventriloquism after retirement age. We had one student, Clinton White, who began his study of the Maher Course at age 85 and performed publicly for 10 years prior to his death at age 96. And just this week we received a letter from a gentleman in the UK who was going to purchase the Maher Course in order to refresh his ventriloquist skills at the age of 95! It's never too late! One more thing - I would encourage you to practice with a puppet in hand - it's much more FUN, you'll progress faster, and you will be less likely to become discouraged. I would suggest you begin with a soft puppet of some type, or even a Ventrilo-ett.
* * * * * *
Answer: It is NEVER TOO LATE to take up ventriloquism! You may never reach elite skill level, but you WILL be able to enjoy performing for yourself and friends. Many folks take up ventriloquism after retirement age. We had one student, Clinton White, who began his study of the Maher Course at age 85 and performed publicly for 10 years prior to his death at age 96. And just this week we received a letter from a gentleman in the UK who was going to purchase the Maher Course in order to refresh his ventriloquist skills at the age of 95! It's never too late! One more thing - I would encourage you to practice with a puppet in hand - it's much more FUN, you'll progress faster, and you will be less likely to become discouraged. I would suggest you begin with a soft puppet of some type, or even a Ventrilo-ett.
5/19/11
Preparing for Moving Day!
From Bob Abdou/Mr. Puppet
After living in Austin, Texas for eight years almost to the day, my wife, June, and I are moving to Columbus, Ohio. I will make the final move on August 8th. My summer shows are booked with many travels throughout the state of Texas. At the beginning of August, I will be performing at the Toy and Action Figure Museum in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma (which is one of the coolest toy museums in the count
ry), then off to the Puppetry Arts Institute in Independence, Missouri (the PAI has the largest collection of Hazelle Puppets).
Then onward to Chicago to perform at the official Beatles Convention (my 17th year in a row). Then comes my final move to Columbus. I plan to continue performing once I settle in, and also start my new pop culture toy museum and stage show. I have to do something with over 3,000 vintage toys and my wife says, "no more in the house" - I agree with her.
The photos are "before" and "after" the packing of one of my toy rooms. I had to personally pack all 3,000+ individual toys so they would stay in display condition during the move. I smell like cardboard and wrapping tape!
Here is the website for my youtube tribute video for all the shows (over 3,ooo) and the folks in Texas. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhmYr1b-iyQ
After living in Austin, Texas for eight years almost to the day, my wife, June, and I are moving to Columbus, Ohio. I will make the final move on August 8th. My summer shows are booked with many travels throughout the state of Texas. At the beginning of August, I will be performing at the Toy and Action Figure Museum in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma (which is one of the coolest toy museums in the count
ry), then off to the Puppetry Arts Institute in Independence, Missouri (the PAI has the largest collection of Hazelle Puppets). Then onward to Chicago to perform at the official Beatles Convention (my 17th year in a row). Then comes my final move to Columbus. I plan to continue performing once I settle in, and also start my new pop culture toy museum and stage show. I have to do something with over 3,000 vintage toys and my wife says, "no more in the house" - I agree with her.
The photos are "before" and "after" the packing of one of my toy rooms. I had to personally pack all 3,000+ individual toys so they would stay in display condition during the move. I smell like cardboard and wrapping tape!
Here is the website for my youtube tribute video for all the shows (over 3,ooo) and the folks in Texas. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhmYr1b-iyQ
5/18/11
Reader Comment
I truly enjoy hearing "voices from the past" such as happened to us again recently. John Pattison first contacted Maher Studios in the early '70's and took the Maher Course as a pre-teen. After several years of regular contact he dropped off our radar. But last week it was a pleasant surprise to hear from John again and get caught up a bit on his vent and puppet career. Among other things, John wrote:
"I have not seen you in many years but I wanted you to know that I'm alive and well and busy up here in Canada. I'm a writer producer of television up here, and I don't know if you know that I spent a number of years working with Jim Henson on the Fraggle Rock series in the '80's. I have since gone on to do quite a few other projects.
"I'm doing a small theater show this summer where I talk about my career as a puppeteer/ventriloquist/performer, and how I got started doing this some 40 years ago - which is why I was thinking about you. I still have all the letters you sent me and as I went through them the other day it brought back a lot of memories. I really do owe you a big thank you for your generous help and patience in getting me started so long ago. I was very lucky to have you as a coach. It was a long time ago and it's hard to believe I'm still at it."
Well, John, it's hard to believe we're still at it, too! Thanks for your encouraging words - you made our day!
5/17/11
Breaking String - what are the odds?
Question: As I continue to read Mark Wade's book, I need to address something with you. He mentions the possibility of strings breaking on hard figures that we use (which are usually the only kind I prefer to use). Is this something which can be expected happen eventually? If so, how is it corrected?
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From Mr. D: Seldom do I receive a vent figure for repair because the string has broken. It can happen, yes, but I think the figures with direct rod linkage are just as prone to malfunction. I would not worry about a string breakage. Most strings will last for a lifetime of use. Each type of puppet or figure has it's unique features. Even soft puppets will wear out and have to be repaired or replaced. That will happen long before the string breaks on the average hard figure. The difference, of course, is that a string break could be more sudden. If the possibility of unexpected breakage during a show causes you concern, then just keep a second puppet of some sort on standby. If you are using more than one figure/puppet in a show, then you're already covered. And if the hard figure is being repaired or repainted, especially if the wig has been removed, that's the time to inspect and service all inner mechanics, but even then, I do not recommend opening the head if there is no apparent problem. My "two cents".
* * * * *
From Mr. D: Seldom do I receive a vent figure for repair because the string has broken. It can happen, yes, but I think the figures with direct rod linkage are just as prone to malfunction. I would not worry about a string breakage. Most strings will last for a lifetime of use. Each type of puppet or figure has it's unique features. Even soft puppets will wear out and have to be repaired or replaced. That will happen long before the string breaks on the average hard figure. The difference, of course, is that a string break could be more sudden. If the possibility of unexpected breakage during a show causes you concern, then just keep a second puppet of some sort on standby. If you are using more than one figure/puppet in a show, then you're already covered. And if the hard figure is being repaired or repainted, especially if the wig has been removed, that's the time to inspect and service all inner mechanics, but even then, I do not recommend opening the head if there is no apparent problem. My "two cents".
5/16/11
TWO CENT COINS!
Your TWO CENT ventriloquist coins are here. If you sent an entry in the slogan contest, I mailed complimentary coins to you already. If you have already requested a FREE coin, I'm mailing yours today.If you have not requested a free TWO CENT coin, what are you waiting for? Just send me a quick email and confirm your mailing address. I've set aside a free coin for every person that requests one.
These bright coins of golden color are great fun to pass around - they do attract attention and fun comments. Order a supply - Spread your "two cents" around your community! Great for gifts, prizes, and advertising.
3 Two Cent Coins: $5.00
10 coins: $10.00
30 coins: $20.00
50 coins: $30.00
100 coins: $50.00
To order, email: mahertalk@aol.com
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