Who is the best ventriloquist?

I hear that question all the time. As a professional ventriloquist and creator of the #1 online ventriloquism course, I should know these things. Right?

First, let's look at the fundamentals of the art. The best ventriloquist should have the basics nailed.

Most people believe ventriloquists only talk without moving their lips. While that is an important skill, one many ventriloquists struggle with daily, it isn't the only skill.

Ventriloquism is a multi-faceted art. The ventriloquist creates the illusion of life by performing many skills at the same time with apparently no effort on their part.

Acting, puppet manipulation, mouth synchronization, vocal changes, deep breathing, timing and lip control all come into play. In addition to these a strong comedy background is important. These skills require years of practice to perfect and constant effort to maintain.

One problem many wanna-be “ventriloquists” encounter is laziness. (Yes, I know I will get complaints about this!) People learn the skill and say “I am a ventriloquist!” But, just because you know how to do something doesn't mean you can.

The best ventriloquists put in the time to practice. They isolate the skills and work on them one at a time. Then they combine the efforts to rehearse a routine. Routines are eventually coordinated to create a show. That is when they go on-stage.

To the audience, the routine appears effortless. The conversation flows as if the ventriloquist and puppet (or figure, or character) are speaking off the cuff. It looks easy. And that is why you have so many bad ventriloquists. The ones who don't understand a ventriloquist act is a choreographed performance.

The ventriloquist community is rather small. It is easier to do magic, juggling, comedy, or almost any other form of variety entertainment. The number of professional ventriloquists is smaller than almost any other performing art. You would think that makes naming the best ventriloquist easier. It doesn't.

Who is the best ventriloquist? Is it Jeff Dunham, who is without a doubt the most popular ventriloquist alive? Is it Terry Fator, who has the million dollar voice and won America's Got Talent? Is it Nina Conti, who dazzles with her comedy brilliance? Is it Jay Johnson? Paul Zerdin? David Strassman? Someone else?

Do you really want to know?

In my opinion, the best ventriloquist is one who entertains the audience in front of them. The ventriloquist who keeps a crowd laughing, creating positive memories of a great show.

If you are looking to hire a ventriloquist, contact our office now to discuss your entertainment needs. We'll make sure you have the best ventriloquist for your event and guests.