VentHaven Ventriloquist Convention

This summer I will open the Wednesday night show at the VentHaven convention. Held in Ft. Mitchell, KY., the convention is attended by approximately 400 ventriloquists from around the world. It brings together everyone from the interested beginners to the pros. The art of ventriloquism is discussed, taught and improved.

When I attended two years ago, I was asked if I would try to get on one of the open mic sessions. I replied that I am in front of audiences all the time, so I'd let those that need the experience go for the spots. The truth is, I used that as an excuse.

Somewhere in the back of my mind, I questioned if I was good enough to go before a group of fellow vents and try to entertain them. I wondered if my technique would be good enough, my comedy strong enough. When Mark Wade asked me to do the show this year, I almost refused. I called my mentor, Ken Groves - and he told me to just do what I do.

I'm still nervous about it...

Festival Entertainment

I'm currently getting ready for my summer season which is filled with fair and festival appearances. Things start off in Virginia Beach, VA. with my second year performing for Beach Street USA.

The city of Virginia Beach has a very unique event for the thousands of vacationing tourists that visit the shore. Every night from June 18 - Aug. 31, they have a multitude of artists performing. Starting at 17th Street, all the way to 25th Street, you will come across magicians, jugglers, fire eaters, aerialists, musicians and other variety acts. The best part for the tourists, its all free - no tips are accepted - the City of Virginia Beach picks up the tab.

Outdoor shows are challenging for any act. You are at the mercy of the wind, rain or possibility of sudden storms. Humidity creates moisture which can ruin props, and heat takes its toll too. Everything gets covered with dust, each night following performances is an experience of unpacking, drying, cleaning and maintenance of props.

The show needs to be self-contained, pack small and play big. Sound for a ventriloquist is a requirement - if the audience can't hear, they will move on.

Last year I ended up working 4 shows nightly on Beach Street. They ran almost back to back - with a very short break between. You definitely get the chance to hone material with that kind of schedule.

This year, I will be at Beach Street June 18 - 22, July 1 - 11 and August 17-31. If you are in the area, please stop out and say hello!

Economic Upswing?

I keep hearing the economy is improving and businesses are coming back. While my business has been doing well, I'm not so certain the majority are.

Corporate entertainment is usually one of the first things to go. The little extras, the parties, banquets and events are hard to justify when people are being laid off and salaries cut. This has hit twice in the past two weeks.

The dates create a small dent in my calendar. I am certain they will be filled. I've expanded my markets to stay busy and this is an example of the reason. Still, the government says companies are rebounding, while I'm still seeing many struggle.

Wall Street executives seem to be making money and getting nice bonuses. Maybe I'll start selling my show to them.

Creating Comedy

It felt like my creative side had disappeared awhile ago. Nothing I tried to develop had any wings. I'm happy to say that phase has ended and I'm moving ahead full force while I can.

Two of my older characters, barely used, have been converted into something new. The ideas for their routines have been flowing. When I shared a line with my wife last night, she laughed out loud. That is when I know I'm onto something.

I've also nearly finished a new closer for my act. It is a collaboration with a very respected variety artist in the business. He agreed to sell me the rights to add his creation to my act because my use was very different. I can't wait to try it out!

There is less than a month until my summer tour kicks in. Its a very busy time, and I'm enjoying every second of it!

Out With The Old...

Today I cleaned out my storage. Still have a long way to go, but an illusion was sold and other items disposed of. It feels good to get rid of the clutter.

Business - Where's The Show?

The old saying "showbusiness" is made up of two words, the larger being business, is so true.

As I sit in my office today, I'm not in the mood to create leads or do follow-ups. I'm not in the mood to pull out a new character and work on voice, movement and script. Yet it all has to be done so I can get on stage, and when I do, the show appears effortless.

Guess I should get started on some things - so I can finish.