Ventriloquism
We all know that choices are personal preferences. From the food we eat, to the car you buy, it tells others something about you. Marketers target people based on their previous purchases. And now, we dig even deeper into your psyche, as we explain what your favorite ventriloquist reveals about you.
If your favorite ventriloquist is:
The Great Lester –
You desire to be the best at everything you do. Fame and accolades are not your focus. You realize by staying true to yourself, others will discover and appreciate your accomplishments.
Edgar Bergen –
You long for the traditional ways of the past. Personality is key to everything you do, bringing more life to those around you. You are a smart business person who intends to make a lasting impression for future generations.
Paul Winchell –
You are extremely creative and enjoy variety in your life. While you have your ups and downs, your talents always shine through. Happiness comes when you are active and involved in following your passions.
Jimmy Nelson –
Nostalgia is important to you. You value the gentle ways of the past and are happiest when life moves at a slower pace. Kindness and generosity are among your best traits and you try to treat others with the utmost respect at all times.
Senor Wences –
You are a person of many talents and blend them together seamlessly. A hard worker, when life throws you a curve, you are able to think outside of the box, even if it means using the box in a unique way.
Shari Lewis –
You are a multi-talented person who is capable of being successful in many areas of your life. An original thinker, you are the type of person who would rather wear socks on your hands instead of your feet.
Willie Tyler –
A humble person, you appreciate all that life presents you. Each day is considered a gift and you treat it like one. When all is said and done, you will look back over an amazing life and be proud to have experienced every moment of it.
Ronn Lucas –
Although admired by those around you, you don’t always feel appreciated. Others sometimes fear your wrath because you are overly protective of all you do. Always striving to be the best, you can easily become frustrated. You should try to relax and enjoy the benefits of your accomplishments.
Jay Johnson –
The best word to describe you is WOW! Not only are you highly talented, you always exceed expectations. Extremely creative, you never cease to amaze those around you. You are also a kind, giving person who feels lucky to enjoy life on your own terms.
Jeff Dunham –
You enjoy living life on the edge, laughing and going for the gusto. A do-er, you are able to focus on a goal and pursue it with passion. Even when others tell you you can’t succeed, you know differently. No matter what, you intend to be happy and surround yourself with those you love.
Terry Fator –
Passion and generosity drive you. Your concern for others is legendary. A gifted individual, you realize that things may not always work out. By keeping a focus on what is truly important, you believe your life will be abundant and it will be. You inspire others who look up to both your talent and your kindness.
David Strassman –
Clever, creative and forward thinking, you are at the forefront of innovation. Respected by colleagues and sought after by people, you highly value your privacy. When you do step into the spotlight, your brilliance shines.
Nina Conti –
Quiet and reserved, you become larger than life when called upon. Your gentle nature relaxes those around you, creating memorable moments. You realize education and experience combine with your natural talents and work ethic to make you successful.
Dan Horn –
You are motivated to take everything you do to the next level. Unafraid to wear your heart on your sleeve, you are highly respected as a true artist.
If your favorite ventriloquist isn’t listed here –
You are unique, original and not afraid to forge your own path. Unconcerned with more traditional choices, you look for inspiration outside of the mainstream. These qualities will take you where you want to go, even if the trip takes longer than expected.
We invite you to share this post on FaceBook, Twitter and other social media, so you can learn more about your friends!
Looking to hire a ventriloquist? Contact our office to discuss your event needs. We can help you find a ventriloquist who will make your event a success!
Corporate Event Entertainment
Podcasting isn’t new, but I’m surprised by how many people have no idea what a podcast is.
In its basic form, a podcast is an MP3 audio file. Listeners can download the files and play them on a computer or mobile device. You can subscribe to a podcast through an online service like iTunes or Stitcher.
Keys to a good podcast is:
- excellent sound
- an entertaining host
- fascinating guests and
- killer information shared with the audience.
There are all different types of podcasts. Unfortunately the event planning industry isn’t well represented in the podcasting universe. That fact and the desire to help my clients plan better events, led to the creation of my latest project:
The Savvy Event Planner Podcast
Each episode features a guest from the event planning industry. You’ll hear from event service providers offering tips to help you navigate tricky areas of the event. Event planners offer insights and ideas to make your events amazing. I also interview planning experts that share advice to help you improve the planning process.
If you want to create incredible events that leave your guests talking, check out the podcast at:
http://SavvyEventPodcast.com or subscribe on iTunes, or Stitcher.
The Event Tech Podcast
Event Tech can be dull reading, but this upbeat podcast is fun and informative. You’ll hear from entrepreneurs and executives talking about the latest tools and technologies for event professionals.
You can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes or Stitcher
Event Supremecy
Host Vernon T. Walker II promises information on how create, organize and host kick-ass online and in-person events. He’s interviewed some of the who’s who of the industry. I’m not certain this podcast is still current. Still, there is a wealth of episodes and information here.
The podcast is available on iTunes.
The Persuaders Marketing Podcast
The Persuaders Marketing Podcast is another podcast worth a listen. You can find it on their podcasting platform – Libsysn. Just go to: http://thepersuaders.libsyn.com
The Planner’s Pod – Metropolis
Event professionals sharing their experiences and discussing cutting edge ideas. The program is aimed at anybody in the international events industry.
The Planner’s Pod is also available on iTunes.
and finally
The Meetings Podcast with Mike McAllen & Jon Trask
Mike & Jon cover a wide range of event planning topics on the podcast. From meeting and event logistics, AV and technology, you’ll find a lot of information to help with your events.
You’ll find The Meetings Podcast on the Grass Shack Events & Media website.
If you plan events, subscribe to a podcast today and expand your knowledge when working out, driving or relaxing!
If you are in need of corporate event entertainment, contact our office to discuss your needs. We look forward to helping you create an incredible event!
Corporate Event Entertainment
Need Comedians for Corporate Events?
Filthy isn’t funny when it comes to your company function.
Most comedians develop in the comedy club atmosphere where no holds barred language elicits response. That comedy style doesn’t always translate to the stricter environment of corporate events entertainment.
That is why ventriloquist Tom Crowl might be the perfect corporate comedy entertainment solution. Offering visual and verbal appeal, he creates a unique performance experience. Personalized comedy for your audience, event, theme, message and company, your guests will continue to laugh long after the show.
Variety comedians, like ventriloquists, are different. Tom developed his material and style working for family audiences. He is equally at home in the comedy club because he understands how to make people laugh. And he doesn’t have to resort to vulgarity to achieve results.
Allow Your Group To Enjoy The Gift Of Laughter
Laughter reduces stress and provides emotional relief. A shared emotional experience bonds people. These reasons are just the tip of the “results iceberg” that a corporate comedian like Tom provides your event.
Make your awards banquet, dinner meeting or holiday party a hit. Contact our office now to tell us your vision for a successful event. We’ll work with you to provide corporate entertainment that maximizes your investment, makes you look great and has everyone thanking you for an incredible time!
Corporate Event Entertainment
Do you understand your entertainment needs?
That may sound like a stupid question. It isn’t.
Before you hire entertainers for an event, you need to understand your function’s requirements.
Do you have a goal? Do you have a vision? What entertainment style would make your event a success?
No two entertainers are alike. Using the apples to oranges comparison, you wouldn’t buy apples if you wanted to serve oranges. You wouldn’t hire strolling or walk around entertainers if you envision a stage performance. You wouldn’t hire background music if you want people to dance.
Before you bail out of this article, thinking “duh!”, I want you to understand WHY this is important.
In the entertainment world, there is no certification. Anyone can hang out their “shingle” and become an entertainer. No governing body, no schooling, no requirements. This can spell big problems for event planners.
If you Google (or Bing, or Yahoo) “entertainers”, you will find they run the gamut. From birthday acts to full fledge headline shows. Some acts offer everything, from your child’s party to corporate entertainment. That would be like going to a general practitioner to get brain surgery. Probably not the best idea.
Granted, entertainment isn’t medical surgery, but it has similarities. Corporate Entertainers who specialize in an area tend to work more of that style event. They understand the client’s function and can offer insights to help achieve success.
You don’t have to worry if it will be right. You can proceed with confidence to present an event that will amaze your guests.
Tom specializes in corporate entertainment events. From awards dinners to theme events, holiday parties to conferences and seminars, he works with clients to help them realize their goals.
Unlike the standard corporate comedian, ventriloquism creates a visual impact while remaining highly adaptable. Personalized comedy remains clean while incorporating your guests, message, theme and company. The results are a memorable, hilarious program exclusive to your event.
If you want to create an atmosphere of fun and laughter, contact our office for a no obligation corporate entertainment consultation. If Tom isn’t the right entertainer for your event, he will be happy to recommend someone that can help you.
Let us know how we can be of service!
Ventriloquism
A ventriloquist may not be your first thought when planning entertainment, but maybe it should be!
Ventriloquists have touched the lives of more people than you might imagine. A ventriloquist by the name of Edgar Bergen was one of the most famous personalities in the world during the early days of radio. With his figure, Charlie McCarthy, Bergen was a star of radio, movies and television.
Another popular ventriloquist was Paul Winchell. Winchell had his own television show and guest starred with all-time greats like Lucille Ball. His voice is famous for his voice-overs for Disney’s Tigger and other iconic cartoon characters.
Have you ever heard the Nestles Quik jingle? “N-E-S-T-L-E-S, Nestles makes the very best – Chocolate!” The was a ventriloquist by the name of Jimmy Nelson.
A ventriloquist named Shari Lewis entertained and educated millions of children with her character Lamb Chop. A ventriloquist named Senor Wences was so famous they named a street in New York City after him.
Today, a ventriloquist named Jeff Dunham is one of the top grossing comedians in the world. Jeff revived the art, keeping it fresh for the current generation.
So why hire a ventriloquist for your event?
If you want your guests to have fun, laughter reduces stress, relaxes people and creates a shared experience. Unlike a stand up comedian, a ventriloquist comedian adds an extra level of show to your program. A skilled ventriloquist is like hiring a comedy team.
Ventriloquism is also a great tool for meetings and training seminars. If you need to inform, educate or present a message, a ventriloquist can help. The characters aren’t real, so they can comfortably address the “elephant in the room.”
When you are in charge of planning an event, contact our office to discuss your entertainment needs. We’d be happy to develop a proposal based on your specific requirements. If Tom isn’t right for your function, he is happy to help connect you with someone that can help make your event a success.
Let’s talk now …
Corporate Event Entertainment
You want to host an incredible event.
A large part of that success will depend on the performers you hire.
When entertainment goes wrong, it is usually due to a lack of clear communication. Performers and event planners often have different views of an event. It is important to align these perspectives and make certain everyone is on the same page.
With those differences in mind, we have created a simple to follow guide that makes hiring performers easier. While every event and performing situation is unique, these steps will help in many situations.
BEFORE YOU HIRE PERFORMERS …
The first step is identifying the type of performers you that would be a match for your event goals. You want to hire acts that will appeal to your audience, fit your venue and match your vision.
Examples of this: you wouldn’t hire a juggler if your banquet room has a low ceiling. You may hire a full band instead of a DJ if you are hosting a formal blacktie event.
For more information on types of performers to hire for your event, check out our short video here.
Once you know what type of performers fit your event, develop a list. Search engines can lead you directly to performer web sites. We recommend going to visit a performer’s site rather than settling for what listing agencies offer. You can learn a lot about a performer’s professionalism by checking their web site.
Think about your entertainment budget as you review possibilities. If you have an entertainment budget of $200, an entertainer with national references for corporate entertainment will not be a fit. Chances are they will be well outside of your budget. The reverse is true too. Don’t waste time if the performer’s web site doesn’t match your vision or needs.
In your initial contact, introduce yourself. Explain your role in hiring performers. Are you the decision maker? The information gatherer or part of a committee?
Provide the date, time and location, along with a description of your event. Tell the performer a bit about your audience. Also include a brief description of what you envision for the entertainment part of your event.
Remember, this should be a brief overview. You will go into greater depth during an:
ENTERTAINMENT CONSULTATION
After (and sometimes during) the initial contact, the performer should consult with you about your event. This will allow you to elaborate on the information above.
Instead of asking the performer questions, communicate your vision of the event. Answer their questions to the best of your ability.
Make certain to tell the performer if other entertainers or speakers will be sharing the stage. If the performer will be on during other activities, (such as dinner*) you will want to share that information as well.
* – We do not advise having entertainment during dinner unless you are hiring background music.
The goal of this consultation isn’t to sell you an act. (If it is – be wary.) The goal of an entertainment consultation is to allow the performer to get a feel for your entertainment needs. It will help the performer to understand if his or her act would be right for your vision.
ENTERTAINMENT PROPOSAL
Before you decide which performer to hire, request a proposal. The proposal should cover everything you have discussed so there are no surprises.
Know when the performer would arrive. The services and time provided. What they will require in terms of space and show tech (i.e. – sound, lighting, etc.)
Make sure you read and understand the technical rider. Riders are not meant to be a burden. They include requirements to make your event entertainment successful.
The proposal should also include the performer’s fee and information on any travel charges. Know who will pay for flights, ground transportation, lodging and meals. Knowing who will pay for what helps you avoid surprises to your entertainment budget.
You should also check out our post on Things To Consider Before Hiring A Corporate Entertainer.
BOOKING PERFORMERS
Once you have decided on the performer you wish to hire, contact them immediately. Most entertainers do not hold dates without some form of written agreement or deposit. You don’t want to decide on a performer only to discover your date is no longer available.
Note: It is always polite to contact the performers you did not hire to explain you have decided to go in a different direction. Offer to keep their materials on file for future possibilities.
Professional performers will usually send a performance agreement or contract. These can consist of a simple form stating all the details to a larger document with clauses and contingencies. Be sure to read over and understand everything before signing. If you have questions, consult your lawyer or request clarification from the performer/agent/management.
All contracts should include a cancellation clause. You are requesting the performer hold a date for your event. This means they must turn away other performance possibilities. If your event cancels, they will require compensation for lost wages. Know the cancellation policy so you understand the ramifications in the event of a problem.
Are you are looking to hire performers for corporate entertainment? Contact our office for a no-obligation corporate entertainment consultation. If Tom is not the right act for your event, he is happy to put you in touch with a performer that works with you to create a successful event.
Corporate Event Entertainment
The term party entertainers may bring to mind a child’s birthday with a magician, clown, bounce house and pony rides. Not exactly the type of entertainment you want at a corporate party. (Unless your party is a family day event.)
There is nothing wrong with a children’s entertainer, but they won’t cut the mustard at an all adult corporate event.
Corporate party entertainers are a different breed.
A corporate party entertainer understands that every corporate function has a purpose. There is a reason behind the event and their role is to help the organizer exceed the boss’ expectations.
Corporate entertainment needs to be appropriate to your event and audience. Keeping things clean, yet genuinely funny is an art in itself.
Foul language, political rants & sexual inuendo may play in the comedy club, but definitely not at the corporate level. If your comedian doesn’t understand that, you will be the one talking with the boss the next day.
A big mistake many new company event planners make is under-budgeting entertainment. There is a difference between the $500 comedian and a $5,000 comedy act. Just as you pay more for a steak from a 5 star restaurant, you get a refined level of quality, service and expertise. That experience shows up big time when laughs are rolling through your audience and people congratulate you on a great event afterward.
Finding the right party entertainer for your corporate event can be a difficult task. Every event has a different level of expectation. A holiday party for a local business is very different than a Fortune 500 company. How can you determine which entertainer is right for your event?
That is where we can help. Tom Crowl has over thirty years of international performing experience. He has entertained at corporate events from coast to coast. In that time he has worked with some of the best event planners and corporate party entertainers in the business.
Contact our office now to discuss your event needs. If Tom isn’t the right act for your corporate party, he will help you find someone that can make your event a success.
Corporate Event Entertainment
Hiring Entertainment For Corporate Functions
Planning a corporate function?
The entertainment you select will likely become a talking point for your guests. If people don’t like a specific food, they can bypass it on their plate. But when it comes to the program, if it isn’t right, the evening can become uncomfortable.
When you hire a corporate entertainer for a headline show, the program needs to blow your guests away. A strong corporate comedian can uplift everyone, creating shared laughter specific to your evening. A specialty or novelty act can provide a breath of freshness to impress and entertain your audience. Combine both into one and you have an act that can bring the ovations your corporate function deserves.
Every event is different and there is no single entertainment solution. Entertainment loved by one company may be inappropriate for your vision, plans and audience. That is why contacting our office makes sense.
Tom Crowl has provided corporate entertainment for both large and small companies. With over thirty years of experience he has seen:
What works, what doesn’t and what can.
As entertainment at corporate functions, Tom has worked with some of the best corporate performers in the business. He knows many of the top corporate event planners and agencies. If he is not the right act for your function, he is happy to discuss your event and direct you to the person, people or corporate event service that can help.
It’s complimentary – no charge – no hassle.
It doesn’t matter what type of event you’re organizing. From a corporate awards dinner, product launch, conference, office or holiday party or summer ball, we can help.
If you need to hire live entertainment for corporate functions, contact our office now. We will help you determine your entertainment options and tailor them to suit your event.
Ventriloquism
How To Be A Ventriloquist for Beginners.
Learn How To Do Ventriloquism The Right Way!
If you want to be a good ventriloquist, we can help. Just follow these tips and how to instructions provided by professional ventriloquist Tom Crowl.
What Is Ventriloquism?
People are often confused about ventriloquism. Some people think ventriloquism is knowing how to throw your voice. Others think ventriloquists just talk without moving the lips.
The art of ventriloquism is about creating the illusion of life. So what does it take to be a good ventriloquist?
To Do Ventriloquism:
- You must be able to talk without moving your lips.
- Have a different voice for your puppet.
- Keep your puppet or ventriloquist figure “alive” through manipulation.
- And hold a believable conversation with your character.
How To Throw Your Voice:
You can’t really throw your voice. The human ear can not tell where sound is coming from. It must coordinate with your eyes to determine the direction of sound.
When you watch television, it appears as if the actors on screen are talking. The sound is actually coming from the speakers. Because your eyes see the actor’s mouth moving, your brain tells you that is where the sound comes from.
Ventriloquism used this technique long before television. If the eye sees the puppet’s mouth moving, the brain buys into the illusion the sound comes from the puppet. This is a big part of what makes ventriloquism work.
How To Talk Without Moving Your Lips:
Most free ventriloquist instructions overlook a fundamental building block of ventriloquism. Ventriloquists use a resonant voice. A resonant voice is louder and carries further. That makes it easier to understand when the puppet is talking.
When air passes over the vocal chords, it creates sound. Based on the way you manipulate the air flow, you create the human voice. Most people allow the sound to emerge from their mouth in a regular speaking voice. As a ventriloquist, you will manipulate the airflow in a different manner.
Hum for a moment. That is right, hum. Do you feel the vibration in your head? Try it until you do. That is a resonance. Now hum and hold the note. As you continue, open your mouth a bit. Did the sound get louder? It should.
The moment you opened your mouth, the air had two paths to escape. It was still flowing through your nasal cavities, but now it could also emerge between your lips. That is one of the secrets of ventriloquism.
In my online ventriloquism course, the first free lesson covers breathing. Many beginners wonder why breathing is so important. When air escapes through two paths, your lungs empty much faster. Without enough air, your ventriloquist voice won’t be strong. Deep breathing is another secret of ventriloquism.
Once you understand the resonant voice, it is time to move forward. Now you will be:
Learning To Speak Without Moving Your Lips:
Before you can start, you must understand how to position your mouth. The proper ventriloquist mouth position provides a slight gap between your teeth. Your jaw should be open approximately 1/4″. Your lips should be slightly parted. This will allow the airflow to escape.
It is important not to lock your jaw in this position. That can cause pain and problems over time. There is no short cut for learning not to move your lips when you talk. It takes time and practice.
How To Keep Your Lips From Moving:
- Hold a pencil between your lips when you practice.
- Hold your index finger across your lips as if telling someone to be quiet.
- Place three fingers horizontally across your mouth.
These techniques will help you feel when your lips move. If they do, practice what you are saying over and over until your lips do not move.
Saying The Alphabet Without Moving Your Lips:
With your mouth in the proper position, try to say the alphabet. You will notice you have a problem with a few letters. The letters most ventriloquists have problems with are “B”, “F”, “M”, “P” and “V”. These are the labial letters. Chances are the letters “Q” and “W” gave you some problems too.
As a ventriloquist, you will need to pay attention to how sounds are made. Here is an example. Say the word “Quick.” How did the “Q” sound? It made a “K” sound didn’t it? Say the word again. When followed by the “u”, the sound of the word starts with “Koo-ick”. You can say “Quick” without moving your lips.
Saying the letter “W” is difficult because it contains a “B” when sounded out. “B” is a labial letter. Now say the word “Why.” The “W” sounds more like “ooo-uh”, “Ooo-uh-i”.
Here is another of the secrets of ventriloquism. Any time you have trouble saying a word without moving your lips, break it down into syllables. Practice how each syllable sounds and then put them together again to say the word.
How To Say The Labials Without Moving Your Lips:
Most how to ventriloquist lessons offer poor solutions for the labials. For generations, ventriloquists were taught to use substitutions. You will read ventriloquism instructions that tell you to substitute “D” or “geh” for the letter “B”.
Do you have a voice recorder? Try saying “The Doy Dought A Dlue Dicycle.” Now play the recording back. Does it sound anything like “The Boy Bought A Blue Bicycle”? No.
Try saying “The Gehoy Gehought A Gehlue Gehcycle”. Not any better is it?
Other instructions suggest the substitution of “N” for the letter “M” and the letter “T” in place of “P”. It is no wonder people who have never had correct instruction in ventriloquism are so confused. These substitutions don’t make sense and do not sound right.
Tom covers modifying the substitutions to pronounce the labials properly in his Learn-Ventriloquism Course. Here he provides the basics of creating these changes. With plenty of practice, you will be able to create these modifications. To shorten your learning curve, you can always sign up for Tom’s online virtual ventriloquism course.
Each of these labials has similarities. When you say the substitution “D”, notice how your tongue hits the roof of your mouth. Now begin to change how the tongue comes into contact with the top of your mouth. Instead of where it did hit, move it forward so it contacts the ridge right behind your teeth. The sound changes. Keep playing with this. It takes time, but you will eventually get a “B” sound. Record it to be certain. Our voice sounds different when played back. Make sure you get the proper labial sound.
How To Say “F” and “V” Without Moving Your Lips:
The letters “F” and “V” are close cousins. Say these letters and you will notice your teeth connect with your bottom lip. So the same substitution is used to create the sound. For the letter “F” use “th” as in “Ethel”. For the letter “V” use the “th” sound as in “Then”. The sounds of the letters “F” and “V” may also be created by a push of air. Many ventriloquists find themselves using both methods. They alternate based on which method creates the best sound for the word they are saying.
The labials are the hardest part of learning to talk without moving your lips. The paragraph above gives you the technique to learn through practice. Lots of practice. But being a good ventriloquist like Jeff Dunham takes time.
We have covered a lot of material in this article on How To Do Ventriloquism. If you want to be a ventriloquist, now is the time to practice. For best results, practice for short periods several times a day. As a ventriloquist, your voice is your instrument. Don’t overwork it.
You can practice anywhere. In front of a mirror, when walking or exercising, driving a car, etc. It is important to practice daily. The best ventriloquists never stop practicing. It takes dedication to improve if you want to be a top ventriloquist.
Other Resources To Help You Learn Ventriloquism
Tom Crowl’s Learn-Ventriloquism OnLine Course:
Hundreds of ventriloquists have taken Tom’s virtual online course. Video and written how to instructions release daily. You can sign up for five free lessons to start.
Maher Studios:
Maher Studios is the gold standard when it comes to the art of ventriloquism instruction and education. If you are on a tight budget, check out the Detweiler Version of the Maher Course of Ventriloquism. The Kindle eBooks may are available for only $4.95 per lesson.
Maher Studios also offers advanced study materials. These include scripts and even a course on how to build a ventriloquist figure.
If you want ventriloquist comedy for a live entertainment event, contact Tom’s office.
If you enjoyed this article you may also want to check out the list of ventriloquists also available on this blog.
About Tom Crowl:
Tom is a full time professional American ventriloquist. His act performs at corporate, public and private events across the United States. Tom is the creator of the first virtual online ventriloquism course. Owner of Maher Ventriloquist Studios, Tom is also a co-founder and Executive Director of the International Ventriloquist Society.
Ventriloquism
The art of ventriloquism is not as weird as movies depict. In fact, it is rather fascinating. Ventriloquists are a rare and unique type of entertainment for events. While many have witnessed ventriloquism on television, it is seldom seen as live entertainment. With fewer than 400 professionals in the world, the rarity of the professionals is the cause.
Today we’d like to dig deeper to share some fun filled facts and interesting information behind the comedians with puppets.
Jeff Dunham – Highest Grossing Touring Comedian
Jeff Dunham reached new heights of popularity through a viral video featuring Achmed the Dead Terrorist. Jeff’s combined video view totals exceeded 350 million as of October 2009! (Sorry we don’t have a more recent figure but we can’t count that high.) Forbes magazine recognized him as the highest grossing touring comedian in the world. His comedy puppet skits on YouTube not only resulted in skyrocketing fame but generated worldwide tours that even included Muslim countries.
Ventriloquism Museum
Another interesting fact about ventriloquism is that there is only one museum in the world which is dedicated to this unique art form. The Vent Haven Museum is located in Fort Mitchell Kentucky, and houses around 800 ventriloquist figures. Open to the public by appointment, it provides guests with a deeper understanding of the history and scope of the art form.
Vent Haven International Ventriloquist Convention
The Vent Haven International Convention is an annual event, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this July, 2016, as a successful gathering of ventriloquists. This laugh filled, fascinating gathering of approximately 600 ventriloquists included show stopping performances and lectures from the top experts in the industry. Jimmy Nelson, TONY award winner Jay Johnson, Jeff Dunham and many other ventriloquist comedians have entertained at the yearly convention.
Each year there is a different topic and theme of discussion. It is a unique opportunity for amateurs to learn from and be inspired by professional ventriloquists from around the world.
Famous Actors And Comedians That Started Out As Ventriloquists
A number of comedians and actors, started their careers as ventriloquists. Because these stars achieved fame as actors and comedians this fact which is known by very few. Don Knotts, who gained popularity as Barney Fife on the famous Andy Griffith Show, started out as a ventriloquist. Ted Knight was a ventriloquist who gained fame with his appearance on the Mary Tyler Moore show. Another well-known ventriloquist is Johnny Carson. The king of comedy on The Late Show began as a ventriloquist and magician.
Artificial Heart Patented By A Ventriloquist
Most people assume Robert Jarvik invented the artificial heart. The truth is Paul Winchell the ventriloquist actually invented and patented the first artificial heart! Winchell was very famous. In addition to starring on his own television show he voiced famous cartoon characters. His vocal talents were behind Dick Dastardly on the Wacky Racers and Tigger for Walt Disney’s Winnie The Pooh.
Professional Ventriloquists’ Organizations
Throughout its history, ventriloquism has never had a lasting professional organization. Magicians have the Society of American Magicians and the International Brotherhood of Magicians. Jugglers have the International Juggling Association. Even clowns have a professional organization. For that reason, ventriloquists Tom Crowl, Ken Groves and Mark Wade created the International Ventriloquist Society in 2013. The International Ventriloquist Society is the only professional organization currently dedicated to this unique art form. The society has members from 20 countries and an active base of members who help contribute to the organization’s success.
If you want to learn ventriloquism, check out our free how to do ventriloquism lesson here!
If you want to hire a ventriloquist comedian for your next live entertainment event, contact Tom Crowl to ensure an interesting evening of fun!
