Rest...

The plane flight from San Francisco was tedious. I was anxious to get home. The lay-over in Chicago was made worse by the fact the final flight was delayed by over an hour. We then got to sit on the runway for 90 minutes. I returned tired and fighting jetlag for the next couple of days.

Friday night, I gave my final performance of 2008 - and it was a blast. I have just as good a time as the audience and they were having FUN. The best part, the event was minutes from my home and I was actually able to sleep in my own bed. A treat this holiday season.

Now I have time to rest and relax. I want to enjoy this holiday and the rare non-working New Years to spend with my family. We've got relatives coming in and I get to see my nephews and my soon to be god son.

Thanks to everyone who has made my year so great. I truly appreciate the opportunity to entertain and am blessed that so many have enjoyed my programs. Your laughter keeps me going - and I realize I am a very lucky man.

Have a safe and happy holiday season.
Tom

In the Air Again...

Wow am I tired of flying. The plane out of Midland ran late, the lay-over at Dallas was shorter than expected so lunch was devoured on the run. Another 4 hours in the air to San Francisco and then two hours behind the wheel of a rental car to go about 40 miles in rush hour traffic.

Here I am, locked in a room, too tired to go out and even see the sites. Figured I'd type my thoughts before I force myself to stay awake past tomorrow night's show time.

Today on both flights I met some interesting people - who thought my lifestyle was fascinating. I'm grateful to be performing for a living. I'm grateful to have the shows. But the travel isn't as exciting as everyone thinks. You spend a lot of time alone, again, un-naturally...

Flying...

Today I was up at 3 AM to catch the first of two flights to reach my destination in Texas. I've got a corporate show tomorrow evening and wanted to get in early to acclimate. I had just done an out and back to Salt Lake City last weekend, two days at home and here I go again. Friday morning I climb on a puddle jumper to Dallas, then fly to San Francisco for my Saturday night show. Sunday I get home late.

I'm already tired of getting on planes - but I am very grateful for the shows and appreciate the opportunity to make people laugh.

Well, time to catch a nap, get dinner and then start practicing. Tomorrow I've got a V.I.P. client with plenty of employees that need to have a great time.

One of those days?

Did you ever have one of those days... where everything went right? I've been having those lately! I am clearing out the clutter - and today I said goodbye to a chapter of my life that is now forever behind me.

For years when I traveled the fair circuit, I drove a 16' step van. This past year it didn't move out of my yard. It was more of a storage unit than a truck. So today, I scrapped it! The guy that drove it away couldn't believe his luck. I'm just happy to have a yard back!

The DVD Taping

WOW! I want to thank everyone who came out to the shows on Sunday. The first show had a lot of kids - in part because the Arts Council advertised it as a children's show. Not exactly what I had in mind, but it was a good run through for the video crew and everyone seemed to have fun.

The evening show exceeded my expectations. Thank you to everyone who was there - and especially those who came back for the second program. It was a blast! I was honored by the standing ovation at the end.

Now we begin the long process of reviewing the footage from five cameras and figuring out what to include on the final edit. Keep checking back with my web site to find out when the DVD will be released!

Taping the DVD

This Sunday I will be performing two shows at the Carroll Arts Center in Westminster, MD. The shows will be taped for my first Comedy Special / DVD. We have a four camera professional shoot planned. Be there early! We'll be showing video from my Mexican adventure before the show starts.

Personally, with the economy, the state of our nation, two wars and a Presidential race that never ends - I need to laugh. If you'd like to laugh - come on out! You can find more information on my web site: www.ComedyVentriloquist.com

Crafty Owl?

I've always considered myself an artist. When not performing, I still have the need to create. Between shows I used to carve - and for those of you not familiar with that aspect of my life, please feel free to visit CRafty OWL.

During my shift from magic to vent, there was a time I seriously considered giving up performance to concentrate on carving. I could be at home with the family, not have to deal with non-appreciative audiences, there were a lot of benefits. But I couldn't do it - I needed the fix of being in front of a laughing crowd.

Crafty Owl became a significant sideline for me, but due to the number of shows this year, I haven't had time to carve. I have been planning on scaling back my art shows, and life was made much simpler on Friday. Which brings me to the point of this blog:

The second weekend in October has traditionally been held for Colorfest in Thurmont, MD. It is one of my biggest arts & crafts shows of each year. I go out, set up a booth and meet with people who collect my carvings. Every year I add a few new collectors to my list. The income is usually substantial - but this year, as Colorfest runs, I am sitting here in my office typing.

When I went to set up my booth Friday, I found the organizers had laid out the lot out of order. After years of being established in an area - they wanted me to set up in an area that was not thought out - pedestrian traffic would have been minimal. Because the booth numbers were completely removed from the regular flow - my collectors would have had trouble finding me - if they could at all. I tried to appeal to the lot coordinator - but her response was indignant - she could or would do nothing for me. I was a client and their customer service was severely lacking. At that point, I walked away.

What did I loose? My booth fee. What did I gain? Knowledge, valuable time and my dignity.

First - on a personal level, my time is too valuable to deal with the idiocy of people who have no respect for artistry. It was empowering to take a stand and say - "No, you will not treat me in that manner."

On a broader level, I realize I will still sell works through my web site - and I will still have people seeking out my creations. I also realize that I can not forget how it feels to be a client, and that as a performer and a businessman, I must always go the extra mile to keep that client happy. Even if it means I am not the act they need.

I am not the first artist that has walked away from Colorfest - and I will not be the last. They will always find new "artists" to fill their spots - but just as they don't "need" me - I do not "need" them. And when you reach that realization - you become free to create.

http://www.crafty-owl.com/

Home at last

The run wasn't extended and quite literally I was thrilled. I worked my last night at Capri and, although I was feeling rough, poured everything I could into it. Luckily the audience gave back and the show went well.

After being dropped off at the condo, I began the tedious task of repacking show and clothes to fit the luggage requirements of the airline. When all was ready except for my last minute items, I fell into bed for a few hours of sleep.

I awoke at 5:20 a.m. - dragged myself into the shower and slowly allowed the water to prod me awake. As I packed the last of my personal items, I could hear rain beating down on the skylight right outside my bedroom door. I carried my suitcases out to the livingroom and tossed trash and the remaining food into a bag, which I then carried down three flights of stairs to the disposal below.

The rain made the air crisp and fresh - the clouds rolled through the sky giving the morning intensely contrasting colors against the festive buildings. I imagined for a second Playa Del Carmen was sad to see me go - nah. I moved my suitcases down the stairs so that I would be ready to go as soon as the driver arrived. While I didn't look back at the condo that had been my home for the past month - I did stop to marvel at the view from the stairs - I was lucky to have spent this time in such a wild place.

During my drive to the airport, I developed a couple of jokes that I plan on using in my taping later this month - then the long plane ride home. For once, no TSA agent opened my case - no Customs agent pulled me aside. That made it a bit easier - but not much.

I am home now - but no rest. Bills must be paid - my aging parents attended to, I have interviews, a taping to sell tickets for, an act to keep busy - oh, and somewhere in there I have a couple of other things that have to be finished. I feel like I could lay down and sleep for a month - the joys of being self employed!

Sickness...

At some point yesterday I realized I was feeling rough. My throat was raw, my tongue felt swollen and my head just wasn't right. (Probably wondering how I figured that last one out, huh?)

The saying the show must go on rang true tonight. Because something was going on in the lounge, I was put in the outdoor showroom. Its a huge, deep room. The audience was spread out, the microphone was too hot - not the setting for good comedy. Those who were close to the stage enjoyed the show, but the ones who hung back were lost. Because I was under the weather, connecting with the reluctant rear audience was impossible tonight, which made a rough performance for a sick vent.

We all have good and bad days. Today was not one of my best - unless you were the people sitting up front. I think I'll go to sleep now and pray I feel better in the morning.

Mexico Update

This has been an extremely interesting month. The shows have been going great - I even rocked Tulum my second and third times there. Life in Mexico is a lot different from being in the states. Its one thing to visit for a vacation, but something else to actually live here for an extended period. I love the country and the people, but I'm starting to miss home.

I was scheduled to fly out this Sunday, however there has been talk and my run may be extended. I will find out in the next couple of days. One highlight of this trip, I was able to surprise my wife and fly her down to spend five days with me. Unfortunately they were mostly overcast and rainy. We did get in some beach time and had great evenings at some of the cool open air restuarants along 5th Avenue here in Playa del Carmen.

As I lay here this morning, I'm toying between the idea of rolling over and going back to sleep, or taking a walk along the beach. Maybe I'll do both - tonight's pick up isn't until 7:30.

What Happens In Mexico...

Sorry for the delay in updates. I flew into Cancun on Sept. 10, had to skirt around Hurricane Ike, so we arrived late. I've just finished my first week and have to say everything went great with the exception of Mexican Independance Day.

That evening I was scheduled to perform at a resort in Tulum. They were having a huge Mexican Fiesta, dancing, music, games and food on a huge plaza. They dropped my show right into the mix - so imagine being immersed in Mexican culture and STOP - here is an American Ventriloquil who you can barely see from the rear of the plaza. The audience was far enough back I couldn't connect with more than the front few tables and the show DIED.

I was extremely upset I was placed in that situation. When I return next week I intend to have a chat with the staff about set up!

On a lighter note - I visited the Mayan ruins of Coba Wednesday. Had a great time and shot some video for an upcoming project about Dangerous Duck in Mexico. When I have time to edit I will post it on the net and provide a link.

Well. have to go walk the beach - my driver doesn't pick me up until 5:30 tonight. Its a tough life down here... :-)

Whazz Up....

Thought I should take a moment to update this just in case somebody actually looks this way!

Last weekend was extremely busy. I am co-owner of the Crosewl Magic Shop at the Maryland Renaissance Festival. Last weekend the festival opened, and in addition to getting the shop ready for the season, I was performing on the Blackfriar Stage that weekend.

Renaissance Festivals are unlike any other performance venue - and working ventriloquism there was new for me. The first day was spent trying to tune the show and comedy to the audiences. Sunday was a lot of fun. This week will be spent finalizing the shop's details and stock supply. I then need to start figuring out what I'm taking to Mexico.

I took off these weeks so I could spend time with the family before I have to leave. It doesn't look like much will happen there! My son started High School today - and raced out the door at the last second to catch his bus. My wife has a convention this week, so she left early this morning and won't be back for a few days... oh well, quality time!!!

It does give me time to start getting my office in order and writing checks so all will go smoothly while I'm down there. I've been trying to make my whole office "web-based" so I can handle all contacts, quotes and bookings from anywhere in the world. I've also got to figure out exactly what I want to take with me. I know I should "Pack-Lite", but my brain keeps saying - you may want this - you'll be gone for a month...

Time to get to work!

Nothing Gets Done...

Ever have the feeling you are working as hard as you can and nothing gets done? Welcome to my world the past week and a half.

I had a very successful week at Knoebels Amusement Resort. Great shows, visited by close friends and some family - fun and yet tiring. I sleep in late every morning since my shows don't start until afternoon. Its a working mini-vacation. Problem is, you get lazy and the next thing you know, you are back in the real world with an office, clients to contact, quotes to send, mailings to do - this is a real job.

When I got back, (after 4 shows, a late load out and a 3 hour drive) I was tired, yet the next morning after only a few hours sleep, I had to unload the truck, swap vehicles and get on-line. I had no Internet access for a week; I had a lot to do! During all this, I'm supposed to be learning Spanish, practicing a new routine, working on my show for the Maryland Renaissance Festival and getting things in order for my Mexico trip. The more I get done, the more I remember I have to do - so I've been treading water!

Of course, writing this isn't helping - so I guess I'd better Get Nothing Done...

Rehearsals

After Monday's shows, I made the long drive back home. Tuesday and Wednesday I felt exhausted. Must be fighting something. Last night I started rehearsals for next week, when my wife and son will team with me again at Knoebels Amusement Park in central PA.

We've played Knoebels for 13 years now. During that week, thanks to the great location and lack of cell phone signal, we are completely out of touch with reality. This will probably be my last post before I return from that trip. Not that anyone actually reads this thing anyway.

Rumba

During VentHaven, I met ventriloquist Bob Rumba. Turns out, Bob now lives about an hour or so from the fair I am working this week. I contacted him with my show times when I arrived here and Sunday, he and a friend came out to say hello and see the show.

Thanks Bob, it was great getting to know you and I appreciated the company!

Today I've got an 11:00 check out, then will head to the local mall for air conditioning and to kill time since I don't need to be on the fairgrounds until 4 pm. After my last show, I'll track down my check and then drive 3 1/2 hours to get home. It will be great to sleep in my own bed tonight - although I'm guessing the wife won't be too happy if I wake her as I get in.

Playing Favorites

Saturday was a great day - a couple of friends I hadn't seen for quite a while surprised me by stopping by to say hello. That is something I love about fairs - you meet other entertainers and vendors who become an extended family. You never know where you will meet again, but when you do, it is always fun.

My audiences yesterday had plenty of repeats who came early to get a good seat. I sometimes feel like they will want something different so the show will remain fresh for them. As we talked, I found they each had favorite moments and characters they couldn't wait to see again. Some adults were even doing their impressions of my show. A real surprise was when one family told me they caught my show North of here in the beginning of June. They saw my name in the paper and came out to see me. After the show, they asked if I had brought Deeder. Naturally, Deeder made an appearance in the next show.

Well, it is time to get ready, grab some lunch and head to the fairgrounds. I'm looking forward to making people laugh today!

TGIF

Yesterday I checked into the hotel - great room! Its a good thing because I will be spending some time there. Got to the fairgrounds and found out I only had one show at 7:45 pm. The early show was cancelled because the fair wouldn't open until 6:00. That meant a lot of waiting before I went on. The show was very well received and the crowd grew during the act, so I think I'll have fun here.

The scheduling problem came in due to the mid-run replacement. I'm here through Monday, then a hypnotist comes in for the final five days of the run. The hypnotist runs 45 minutes to an hour, I run 30 minutes at a fair. I'm extending to 45 min. for the weekday shows, they add a 3:45 show on the weekends - so I'll return to a 30 minute show those days.

Because of the late afternoon starts, I'm getting some business taken care of in the mornings and working on some video projects I started. In fact, I guess I should get busy or my free time will slip away.

Until tomorrow...

Show times?

Tomorrow I start at a fair I last worked 11 years ago as a magician. And to think when they said they wanted me back I didn't believe them! The contract had no show times listed. That isn't unusual since things are signed way in advance. I checked out the fair's web site - first show - 5:45 pm. I call the fair to confirm my arrival and find out they open the gates at 6:00 pm on Thursday. ????

At least I'm not getting up at 4:30 a.m. I can leave around lunch, drive 3+ hours, check into the hotel, freshen up and head to the grounds to get ready for my first show - which I'm guessing starts sometime after 6:00! The office wasn't sure of the times...

Waking Up While Driving

Still exhausted after VentHaven's long hours, I'm staying up late to spend time with my wife and son. This morning I had to be up at 4:30 am to shower and leave for a show - arrival time 10:00 - show time - 11:00. Why so early? Because it was a small show I shouldn't have scheduled, it was hours away, and it wasn't worth spending the money on a hotel room. I used to be able to do these drives when I was younger.

The show went great and I even met a fellow ventriloquist after the show. Its always fun meeting other performers. After that, I met up with some friends for lunch. In itself this was a miracle since I had forgotten my cell phone. It was like living in the early 80's - how did we survive?

The lunch was my downfall - I relaxed and the drive back home was no fun. Several times I startled awake as I slowly began to drift. Sodas provided caffeine, but bed was where I needed to be. So what do I do? Get home and start blogging. Goodnight!

Home At Last!

The VentHaven Ventriloquist convention was a blast. I got the chance to meet Terry Fator and Jeff Dunham - the top ventriloquists in the business. Among the highlights was a midnight tour of the VentHaven Museum with Jeff & family. After a breakfast with Ken Groves Sunday morning, it was a LONG drive back to Maryland with two quick stops for gas. My wife cooked a wonderful dinner, my son told me about his week at Band Camp and I was able to sleep in my own bed!

Today is "fun" - okay, not really. Time to send out packages and return calls. Hopefully I can get a haircut squeezed in here too. I leave before dawn tomorrow for a morning show - out and back. Thursday I head to western PA. for a five day fair run.

Terry Fator

Terry Fator is performing at the vent convention tonight. This afternoon he was at the Junior Open Mic and posed for pics. I'll be posting that in my picture area next week when I stop by the house before heading out to shows in PA.

Kentucky

Drove to Ken's house first thing Tuesday and met up with him & another guest, ventriloquist Ken Lucas. We had a great day relaxing, eating and talking. The Kens reviewed one of my shows taped at the Ocean County Fair last week. Ken Lucas then ended the evening by performing a new bit he will have in his show at the VentHaven convention.

Today we left early and drove to Kentucky. Currently at the Drawbridge Inn cooling off in the room before heading to the registration area. Will write more as time permits!

Welcome

I've finally decided to start one my own blog. Hopefully I'll be posting here often - especially when on the road. If you enjoy reading this, feedback is appreciated!

As I write this I have just returned from an 8 day road trip with shows in New York and the coast of New Jersey. It was great to see my wife and son, even if only for a little while. I enjoy doing the shows and traveling, but when I see them again I realize exactly how much I miss them when I'm gone.

Today I am catching up on signing contracts and mailing packages. I am also waiting for car repairs to be finished and laundry to dry so I can pack to leave for my next trip at 5:30 a.m. Tuesday morning. I'll be heading to my friend and vent mentor - Ken Groves' place in Ohio, then Wednesday we will go to Fort Mitchell, KY. for the VentHaven ventriloquist convention.

I'll try to update from the road!