How To

How to Become a Ventriloquist

By eHow Arts & Entertainment Editor

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Ventriloquism got its start thousands of years ago when people would trick others into thinking that voices were coming from spirits. The most famous ventriloquists are Edgar Bergen who learned the art from a 25 cent book, Shari Lewis who won dozens of Emmys and Buffalo Bob Smith, to name a few.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Step 1

Part your lips slightly, and say vowels without moving your lips. This first step should be easy.
Step 2

Memorize tricks for the sounds that give ventriloquist trouble. They are "b, f, m, p, q, v and w." For "b" use "geh." Make this sound at the back of your throat. The audience participates in this deception because they want to hear "b." For F use "th, "Try saying "fake" with the substitute sound. The M is replaced with "neh" or "nah." The P is replaced by saying "kl" at the back of the throat. Q's replacement is "koo." If "q" gives you no trouble, then just use it as is. "Ooh" is substituted for "w."
Step 3

Replace difficult words with those that are easier to say without moving your lips. For example, the preceding word "difficult" could be replaced with "hard."
Step 4

Order or enroll in a ventriloquist-training course.

Tips & Warnings

Develop a thick skin. Audiences can be unkind to beginners.
When first starting ventriloquism, be prepared for some negative reaction from your audience.

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Comments

MissSmartypants said

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on 7/17/2008 Wow. If only it were this easy! There are many schools of thought about creating the more difficult consonant sounds. And there are multiple solutions out there. I'm not sure yours are among the most effective, but they're definitely alright for just starting out. Thanks! Miss Smartypants