The Art of Ventriloquism Finding New Popularity

Widely referred to as the “Live Music Show Capital of the World,” the phenomenal vacation destination of Branson, Missouri is usually associated with the dozens of quaint theater venues around the town offering a wide variety of production shows featuring great music of every style.  Whether you prefer Country Western, Broadway, Jazz, Rock & Roll,  Motown, Native American, or even Celtic Rock… Branson has a diverse line-up of live entertainment that appeals to all ages and taste in music.

Among the diverse musical options in Branson, is another form of live entertainment that is experiencing a huge resurgence of popularity across the country… the ancient Art of Ventriloquism.

Branson is home to three of the Country’s most unique comedians who have not only perfected the vocal techniques of ventriloquism, but developed and honed their skills to a point where they have achieved wide recognition for their contributions to the craft. You won’t believe your ears or eyes when you experience the live comedy performances of all three… Jim Barber, Todd Oliver and Patty Davidson.

Ventriloquist – Jim Barber

Co-star of the Hamner Barber Variety Show, comedian and vocalist Jim Barber entertains Branson audiences nightly along with his partners,  award-winning illusionists, Dave and Denise Hamner.  Their popular variety show celebrates it’s 8th Season in 2011 at the Hamner Barber Theater on Shepherd of the Hills Expressway.  Jim is not only known for his original comedy routines and one-of-a-kind puppet characters, but his vocal abilities as a singer have earned him accolades as well.

His most famous act is titled “Barber & Seville” (Jim plays the part of the little Dummy) and has been featured on every major television network in programs hosted by David Letterman, Matt Lauer, Vicki Lawrence, Jerry Lewis and many others.  Other original characters include a hilarious baby in a bag and a singing Chihuahua dog named Chico Pete.  Jim’s trademark “Ventriloquist Karaoke” also brings unsuspecting members from the audience in on the act, which leaves everyone talking… and singing!

Jim first came to Branson in 1994 as the featured comedian in the Glen Campbell Goodtime Show and later went on to appear in other Branson production shows before developing his own show with The Hamners in 2004. He has performed in every State in the Nation for nearly 2000 colleges and universities as well as in over a dozen foreign countries for the USO.   He is also a popular act for corporate events and convention groups when not appearing in Branson.  The Hamner Barber Variety Show is a must-see for anyone who loves comedy, magic, music, dance, and especially great ventriloquism performed by a master of the craft.

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BransonWebcast Episode #53
Guest: Todd Charles
What do you get when you mix a huge box of funny humor, a boat-load of intelligent wit and a big bag of musical skill? Todd Charles of course!

This multi-talented comedy genius has not only been a featured artist in Branson, Missouri, but also around the world on both stage and television. Spontaneous and always unpredictable, Todd’s stage show developed from his background in stand-up comedy, musical theater, circus arts and magic.

We’re proud to introduce you to this charmingly irresistible funny man, Todd Charles.

Related Websites: www.toddcharles.com

BransonWebcast.com | Todd Charles [ 13:22 ] Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

BransonWebcast Episode #29
Guest: Lex Pearson

Lex Pearson is one of those multi-talented entertainers who can do it all. From performing magic, riding a unicycle, and making balloon animals to full stage rigging of curtains, lights and sound, Lex has become an invaluable asset to many theatrical productions in Branson.

As an illlusion builder, he has created props as large as an Elephant Vanish and as small as an electronic, micro-radio controlled Flea Circus. Lex is the in-house Illusion Manager for the Hamner Barber Variety Show, where he also performs his unique blend of comedy magic during his own intermission show.

Related Websites: Hamner Barber Theater

BransonWebcast.com | Lex Pearson [ 18:03 ] Play Now | Play in Popup | Download