Learning Ventriloquism

When you are learning ventriloquism, the illusion produced is the result, primarily, of an acoustic phenomenon-the uncertainty of the sound's direction; and, secondarily, of a habit acquired of speaking without moving the facial muscles.

As to the exact spot whence the sound proceeds, the ventriloquist usually takes care to show that by an expressive motion and by looking in that direction, or designating it with his finger while his face expresses fear, interest or surprise. The spectator then easily persuades himself that the sound does really come from the exact spot thus pointed out to him in a seemingly unintentional manner.

In order to produce a muffled sound that seems to come from afar or from an enclosed place, the ventriloquist arranges his tongue in such a way that its base, upon bearing against the soft palate, shall form a sort of diaphragm that allows but very little of the voice to pass. If, then, the ventriloquist articulates his words with a strong guttural voice, the sound will seem to come from the earth, from a grotto or cavern, or from a box, cask or closet.

I know of no better way to attain the proper position of the vocal organs than by the ventriloquial drone practice recommended by Robert Ganthony.

To acquire the ability to make this drone, take a deep breath and, while holding it, make a retching sound at the back of the throat as if (to put it delicately) trying to be sick. As you do this utter a prolonged "Ah," exhaling slowly.

At first the "ah" will very likely be little more than a grunt, but by trying again and prolonging the sound as you make a greater effort, the exclamation will begin to sound like an uncertain drone, finally settling down to a clear, sustained hum like that of a distant bee drone, from which it derives its name.

The farther back in the throat the sound is made the more distant will it appear to the listener, and the more forward in the throat the nearer will it seem.

When you are learning ventriloquism, you may not get the drone at once, but a little practice will enable you to do so. When once you hear that clear, distant-sounding drone you may know that you have your mouth as it should be for ventriloquism, but until you do produce that you must hark back because, unless this foundation is laid properly, all that follows is unsatisfactory and your ventriloquism will lack that distant quality, to obtain which is to be a ventriloquist.