Test Your Ventril-Ability No. 6 Answer Page

This test is found in Lesson Thirteen of the
Maher Course Of Ventriloquism – Detweiler Version.

It is a “self-check” test for your benefit.

True. Yes, it is wise to initially avoid some words difficult to say because of the labials they contain. But to make such avoidance standard procedure for a lifetime would be unwise, indeed.

True. However, we do not advise nor would be condone making slurred ventriloquist words accepted long term policy. Clear and distinct diction is always the goal.

You be the judge as to how this question should be answered. Many of the words containing a labial are actually quite easy to say without lip movement; others are more difficult. Include any easier to say labial words. Doing so will make the performance more impressive.

False. Yes, some words are more difficult to master than others, but with practice it is possible to say any word ventriloquially without lip movement.

Traditionally, there are six labials in ventriloquism: B, F, M, P, V, and W (listed alphabetically – not in order of difficulty.) But we’ve suggested several other letters and sounds (“Pucker words”) ventriloquists need to treat similarly to the traditional labials. Especially Q, and possibly Y and R.

False. You will discover through practice which labial substitute method produces the best results for your own use. This then becomes the “correct” method for you, even though it may differ from what another ventriloquist does.

True. As long as you think about the substitute letter as you use it in a word, the listener is likely to detect the substitute. But when you learn to employ the substitute letters without thought, the listener is more likely to hear the intended sound. “What you think is what you get!”

Eleven.

False. Absolutely false! Ventriloquist skills are developed toward perfection through practice and performance. As important as practice is, perfection can not be achieved through practice alone. The audience plays an important role in achieving a successful performance. Prepare your act with practice; polish your act through performance.

Only you can answer which labial is most difficult for you. It is not the same answer for all ventriloquists, although P and B come up high on most lists, followed closely by M. Actually, it is where the labial is placed within the word that creates the degree of difficulty.

Join The IVS!

The International Ventriloquist Society is open to ventriloquists and those interested in the art. If you would like to become a member, click this link to join!