HOW TO AVOID ACCIDENTALLY STEALING
I have seen many performers that have been doing lines and jokes that were originated by other acts. They also are using puppets very close to what top pros are using and it looks like a direct swipe. If confronted, the newbie act will claim “I...
FINDING YOUR NICHE IS IMPORTANT!
I know we’ve talked about this important thing in the past but it still bears repeating. You can’t be all things to all people or audiences. You will go through a period at the beginning of your performing career where you try different...
PRACTICING YOUR “CHOPS” A MUST!
I am a real believer in practicing when it comes to ventriloquism. Not only do I believe in practicing the routines and he manipulation, but I also believe in practicing my “chops” or basic exercises to keep a still lip and to pronounce...
Maher Ventriloquist Radio – The Start Of Something New
Things are changing here at Maher Ventriloquist Studios. Maher Ventriloquist Radio is now becoming a part of the IVS member services. That means to hear future (and some past) episodes, you will need to become a member of the International Ventriloquist...
Maher Ventriloquist Radio – Working Fairs & Festivals
Fairs and festivals can pay well, but they can be hard work. Today we discuss our hours spent in the heat and dust. You'll hear what makes the market a nightmare - and what makes it fun. Find out how to determine if working a fair or festival will be a...
WHEN SHOULD YOU ARRIVE PRIOR TO YOUR SHOW ?
When should you arrive for a show or presentation with your ventriloquism? That’s an interesting question, and one that could have multiple answers, depending upon the venue. When I toured with country stars like Garth Brooks, Reba...
PREPARED ADLIBS…IS THAT ALLOWED ?
I know many of you are reading this headline and saying “ Is that an oxymoron (and it has nothing to do with Oxyclean, the soap detergent)?”. Yes, adlibs or off-the-cuff- remarks can be premeditated. In fact, I ENCOURAGE you to write...
Maher Ventriloquist Radio – Ugly Scary Puppets
Does your puppet look good to you? Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. The real question should be, does your puppet look good to the audience? They may not see it like you do. There are a ton of ugly puppets out there. Don't settle for one because it's...
THE MAGIC OF PRACTICE
Thee is no secret to success in ventriloquism other than practice, so I am going to let this installment be a short piece on how to do that. The first rule of practice is that practice does not make perfect! PERFECT PRACTICE makes...
WHAT’S YOUR “BIG TIME” ?
We’ve all heard it said “That person just hit the “big time!”, but what does that exactly mean? The term “big time” can mean a lot of different things to different performers. “Big time” is a relative term, depending upon whom you are...
