Something New
Something that makes Ventriloquism unique over other forms of entertainment is this: If you see a singer do something that demeans music, people don’t come away saying that music is a dying art form. They say, “That was an awful singer”, or “That guy can’t act his way out of a bag”.
For reasons I can’t explain there is an unspoken brotherhood (with an inclusion for sisters) about Ventriloquists. Someone says, “What do you do?” When you respond that you are a Ventriloquist, some will say “Isn’t that a dying art?” Or at least they used to say that until there was Jeff Dunham, Terry Fator, Darci Lynn and a few others.
We are all linked together with the art form and that is why I believe that this admonition is important. Since Ventriloquism is jointly held in the public eye be what a person sees in each of us, it is very important that we all conduct ourselves in such a way that we only cast a positive shadow on the art form.
When you show up at a performance location, make sure that you are:
a.) Early
b.) Top form on your hygiene
c.) Courteous and polite
d.) Well groomed.
You and Ventriloquism will be judged in a negative light if you walk in with bad breath. (Always carry a toothbrush with you when you go to perform.) You and Ventriloquism will be looked down on if you are late. Don’t show up (guys) two weeks past your normal time to go the barbershop. Dress like you just got a date with that person you have been dying to go out with. Let your skill make the audience laugh. Don’t have them laughing because they think you are a joke.
Behave like you are applying for the job of a lifetime, because both you and the rest of the vent world depend on each of us putting forth our best foot at every possible opportunity.
This is just a reminder. The vast majority of us never need to be reminded, but just keep it in mind because it is one of many important things we must all keep up with. Don’t allow yourself to be lulled into thinking “it’s just a kids birthday party”. That “kid” may be the child or relative of an adult guest who might just consider hiring you for a large corporate event if he/she is impressed with your act.
You must perform well. We all know that. But your step upwards into the world of “bigger and better” could well depend on how you present yourself from the second you walk in the door. If you want to become a professional . . .act like one. That even includes washing your car before you go.
That’s all for now.
Until next time,
Steve and JET
That sounds like very sound advice.
Thank you.