I’ve discovered a new tool for improving my act. A treadmill.
Yes, I use the treadmill to stay in shape. And that’s a very useful way to use this tool. Being in shape and having stamina contributes greatly to performing as a ventriloquist. It’s great for breath control. But, that’s not what I’m talking about here. I’m talking about pacing.
My single biggest problem continues to be slowing down every aspect of my show. I simply talk too fast. This is especially true with my old man & woman characters, Wilmer and Edna. I’ve been working with them for over 4 years now, and yet I still struggle to slow myself down enough to truly convey the personality traits and mannerisms of people who are in their 90’s.
The other day while doing my exercise run on the treadmill, it occurred to me to try walking at a pace appropriate to Wilmer. So, after my regular jog and cool-down phase, I slowed the treadmill way down. Then slowed it down some more. As I walked at a painfully slow pace, I started working through the routine in my head. I envisioned Wilmer walking along side me. I pictured how he’d move on his puppet stand if we were doing the show at that pace. It clicked.
Now it’s a part of my regular workout on the treadmill. I spend 2-3 minutes with the treadmill running (well, operating…) at what to me is a painfully slow pace. Then, when I pull Wilmer out of the case, I think about walking on the treadmill at that pace.
It’s working.
