By Carleen Wild
Moody County Enterprise
There may be few young families who remember his appearances on The Statler Brothers Show or opening for Glen Campbell, but the performer scheduled to take the stage later this week at the Crystal Theatre in Flandreau — along with his lively sidekicks — is one local audiences likely won’t soon forget.
Veteran ventriloquist James Wedgwood is scheduled to perform this weekend at the Crystal Theatre, bringing along a cast of characters that includes his mischievous leprechaun puppet, Patrick McWiggins.
Other venues that have hosted Wedgwood say the show delivers plenty of laughs, and the entertainer’s nearly four decades in the business speak for themselves.
Wedgwood said he has spent about 38 years performing comedy ventriloquism and has been “very fortunate to appear at libraries, state and county fairs, and countless ag and corporate events and colleges across the country,” he told the Moody County Enterprise, along with a number of higher-profile appearances earlier in his career.
His show is designed to be family-friendly, featuring several colorful characters, plenty of audience participation and a few surprises along the way.
At the end of the performance, Wedgwood said he even shares a bit of his craft with the crowd.
“I even teach the audience how to say a few words using ventriloquism,” he said.
His interest in the art form began at a very young age.
“When I was a child, one of my aunts bought me a plastic Danny O’Day ventriloquist puppet and two records,” Wedgwood said.
“I learned the basics then, but also studied acting, improv and a bit of stand-up comedy.”
Joining Wedgwood on stage will be several of his comedic companions, including Bill the manic prairie chicken and outdoorsman Willard Twittsnoggle, each bringing their own brand of humor.
Wedgwood said his goal is simple: to give families a place to gather, laugh and enjoy a memorable evening together.
Show time is 3 p.m. this Sunday, March 15 at the Crystal Theatre.
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