Bill DeMar (1931-2015) was an icon among ventriloquists. Known for his amazingly-lifelike manipulation of his puppets and his attention to the smallest of details, Bill was a crowd favorite no matter where he performed. And he performed everywhere. From banquets to revue shows to school shows to theaters to nightclubs, he lived the life of a show biz pro. He traveled internationally with the Ink Spots and the Harmonica Rascals. He was performing at Jack Ruby's Carousel Club when Kennedy was assassinated and was later interviewed by the Warren Commission. Bill lived an amazing life with a common thread throughout... his love of performing ventriloquism and his desire to help others learn it. This book is an expanded, updated edition of three other projects Bill and the author produced previously. "Ventriloquism... and Related Subjects" contains complete instructions on how to become a ventriloquist (speaking without moving the lips, developing character voices, etc.), plus professional advice on many related additional topics (sound, lighting, the breath, wardrobe, props, manipulation of puppets, the distant voice, introductions, soft puppets, overcoming stage fright, and much, much more). If you've ever thought you'd like to learn to be a ventriloquist, Bill's method is easy to learn and SURE-FIRE. If you know someone who is interested in learning the unique art of ventriloquism, this detailed book would be a wonderful gift. In addition to the "how-to" section, you'll read Bill's life story in his own words. You'll see Bill's "photo scrapbook", including many previously unpublished photos from Bill's lifetime career, starting with his days in the U.S. Army's Special Services Entertainment Unit. Also included are what Bill liked to call "nuggets"... bits of wisdom and advice from a long-time working pro. Features a Foreword by Jeff Dunham and an Introduction by Jimmy Nelson. This 130 page book with more than 100 photos is Bill's legacy to the ventriloquist community. Whether seasoned pro or brand new beginner, there's invaluable "must have" information here for everyone.
Tom Ladshaw is an accomplished ventriloquist, collector of ventriloquiana, and highly regarded historian on the art of ventriloquism. He is on the Board of Advisors of Vent Haven Museum, Inc., in Ft. Mitchell, KY. In addition to his performing, he also operates a website that sells vintage and new ventriloquism-related merchandise: www.ventstuff.com Tom Ladshaw knew Bill DeMar for nearly 30 years. In that time, they collaborated on several different projects for the ventriloquist community. They shared many, many laughs on many occasions. Tom still misses his friend and has produced this book as a tribute to "The Master of Sight and Sound" - Bill DeMar.
