I love ventriloquism.

But before we start today’s post, I have another question.

How are you?

Seriously, how are you?

People have had different reactions to the current state of affairs. We are all in this together and we will get through it. Reach out to your friends and say hello. See how they are. Show some love!

I used to live in the United States of America. 

I haven’t moved, but it sure feels like I have!

When I was a kid, Russia was an enemy. They had checkpoints. They had military police who could arrest you for being on the street.

We were the home of the free and the brave.

In Maryland, the governor issued a “Stay At Home” order. If you weren’t out for medicine, gas or grocery shopping, you can get arrested. Penalty is a year in prison. So leaving the house means going to jail? Okay, but I expect at least six feet between prisoners at all times.

I also hope they have toilet paper at the lock up!

My son tells me there was a checkpoint on the CT./RI. border. He heard a Connecticut car drove past without stopping. The police pulled him over and arrested the man. Sounds like a Russian story from my childhood.

Comrade, do you have your COVID19 test results?

(Cough…)

The United States of America, home of the free and the brave?

Look, I know that viruses can be nasty things. I understand no one wants to get sick. But a military state isn’t the answer.

Can’t we all use a little common sense?

Enough of this ranting … 

Isn’t this supposed to be a blog about ventriloquism?

Well, it is and here I go!

What are you doing with the extra “Stay At Home” time?

Are you surfing social media and complaining? Talking about how shows have canceled? Being negative with a depressed or gloomy outlook?

Stop it! 

(This is coming from a guy with depression!)

Find an outlet …

Some entertainers are seeking online audiences. I understand Al Getler has been doing interviews. (He had a live one with Jay Johnson!)

David Crone is producing daily videos on FaceBook. A great way to build his social audience and help people find him. David told me it keeps him active, practicing and creatively producing.

I’m taking this opportunity to learn and grow. 

What exactly?

Most creatives perform because they love the feeling their art provides. It may be self satisfaction. It may be applause, laughter or praise for an entertainer. It may be creating feelings in others.

Creatives are, well, creative.

Unfortunately, not all creatives are organized.

I’m not, which is why I am taking “getting organized” and “business” classes on line. Some are paid courses, some are Youtube videos. But I am learning and trying to improve certain areas of my life and business.

I’ve taken up a new hobby.

 

I’m now studying photography. Always felt like I had an eye, and getting a new Canon camera in my hands has inspired me.

I’ve purchased four online courses on different topics of photography. I’m off automatic and playing with settings. I’ve learned a lot about light, composing shots and what goes into successful imagery.

The new hobby has done a lot to pull me out of my depression!

I’m also learning more about social media techniques to reach targeted clientele. Things to do online to increase inquiries. There is so much great information out there I don’t have time for Netflix right now!

So my advice to you is to take this time to study and improve yourself.

Practice your art. It will do a lot to help ease the tension you may be feeling right now.

Have trouble writing scripts?

Study comedy writing online.

Having issues getting work?

Well, almost no one in my sphere of the business is booking right now. (My experience doesn’t mean it will be yours.)

But now is the time to figure out new ways to reach out and connect with potential clients. Fine tune your website, update your communications by re-writing your business emails. Figure out your work flow and create templates and systems to make things easier.

This situation will not last.

So work now to come out of it better, stronger and faster than ever.

One more note …

Lately people on Facebook have been questioning if the Vent Haven ConVENTion will be held.

I’ve read comments like: “I don’t see how they can/how it can happen.” “It doesn’t look good.” etc.

That is speculation. Fake news! Much of it coming from people who never attend anyway.

Mark Wade is in constant communication with the Kentucky Convention Bureau. (Are they? NO!)

No events have canceled for July or August.

Until advised otherwise by the state, we are going ahead with the planning and details. There is a lot of behind the scenes work that has to happen for this thing to go off on schedule.

So please stop worrying about it – we aren’t closing school the day before because of the news.

And for those who are concerned about the registration fee or hotel booking, don’t. Registrations will roll over to the next conVENTion, which has been our policy for years. And hotels and airlines currently have generous refund policies because of this outbreak.

So don’t worry! – Plan on coming to the Vent Haven International Ventriloquist ConVENTion in July and be happy!