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How to Control Ventriloquist Dummies

Ventriloquist dummies create a fascinating illusion when operated properly. Making the dummy's movements look realistic takes a lot of practice and patience. Once you are comfortable making the dummy's movements look natural, you can synchronize your voice to the dummy and start performing in front of audiences. Ventriloquist dummies come in many shapes and sizes, but there is very little variation in the way a dummy is controlled.

Instructions

- 1
  Reach inside the back of the dummy. You will feel an upright pole or rod. The rod moves the head of your dummy from side-to-side.
- 2
  Use the levers on the same pole to control the dummy's eyes and mouth. Usually, pressing the first lever down will close the eyes and pushing it up will open them. Pressing down on the second lever will close the mouth and pushing up on the lever will open the mouth.
- 3
  Sit the dummy on your lap or a nearby table. To control the hand, pick up the small string or rod that is connected to the left arm of the dummy.
- 4
  Draw attention away from yourself by making broad movements with the dummy's arm and head. The dummy should be the focal point when he is "speaking." Put the focus back on yourself when you are asking the dummy a question or conversing with him.
- 5
  Make the dummy seem more realistic by moving your arm from side-to-side while he is talking. While you are talking, cock the head of the dummy toward you like he is listening and keep him very still. This keeps the flow of the conversation moving, like a real conversation would.

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