On more than one occasion I have been asked about what do I do about returning dates or engagements.  Do I use the same puppets, or do I go off in a totally different direction and use something else?  Let’s tackle this situation in this post. First, you always have...

I have often been asked “When is it OK to do a FREE show?”.  Some would answer “Never!”, but I think this is something a performer has to deal with personally. I never say “never” to a free show.  Please allow me to explain… Many times there are causes you believe in...

Impromptu ventriloquism isn't something many "vents" have thought about. As we have found out from most entertainers, occasionally you are introduced to someone and it’s mentioned you are a ventriloquist. Often the person will ask “You’re a ventriloquist..can you do...

Today we are talking about wardrobe for ventriloquists. What you wear on stage can make a big difference in your performance.  Comfort is now king and so we must look at how to properly dress for our shows. As the old saying goes “Clothes makes the man (or woman) !...

For years as a full time traveling childen’s ventriloquist I struggled with the idea of whether or not to use a show backdrop, a curtain behind me  for my shows.  For years I didn’t until my wife Jody suggested I try using one ..and it made all the difference in the...

Where do ventriloquists perform? As ventriloquists we have many different choices to make...."soft puppets” vs. “hard puppets”; costuming; stage settings… but the most important choice is to find the right venue  to do your shows.  Hopefully I can shed some light on...

I have been asked many times about combining other allied arts (magic, juggling, puppetry, etc.) with ventriloquism.  Is this something that’s acceptable?  My answer:  yes! Now before I give you the wrong impression, ventriloquism is definitely strong enough to stand...

One thing I learned years ago from performers and cartoonists is the power of an Idea File. It doesn’t have to be fancy. A simple folder or envelope works. The idea is to have one spot to collect inspiration. They could be notes you jot down, magazine clippings, funny...

You’re at a venue and suddenly something breaks, cracks, of falls apart.  What are you to do? Cry and hide in your room Beg for repair materials at the venue  Have you own emergency repair kit If you answered “3 “, you win the prize for being a successful vent! ...