Member Spotlight: Meet Ventriloquist DC Mickan

This month’s talent spotlight shines on DC Mickan, a skilled ventriloquist with a passion for making people laugh. From discovering ventriloquism in a community college class to performing over 150 gigs in 2024, Mickan has built a thriving career through dedication, creativity, and a love for entertaining. Keep reading to learn more about his journey, his approach to client communication, and how GigSalad has helped him perform more and grow his business.

Becoming a Ventriloquist

DC Mickan began his ventriloquist journey at 16, pursuing his interest by taking a course at a local community college. “I had always been fascinated with puppets. Jim Henson and the muppets, sesame street, Sherri Lewis and Lamb Chop’s Play Along were all so amazing to me.” So when he saw that a local community college was offering a ventriloquism class, he knew he had to take it. “I honestly had no idea it would lead me to do what I am today.”

The Early Days & Inspiration

About a year after attending the ventriloquism class, DC Mickan had his first gig at his aunt’s church. “I performed there, and it seemed like, out of nowhere, I started getting calls from other churches, nursing homes, birthday parties.” While most teenagers work their first jobs at fast food restaurants or grocery stores, Mickan worked as a ventriloquist from a teenager until he graduated college and went into Worship Ministry.

Mickan is passionate about the ventriloquism art form. “Sherri Lewis and Jeff Dunham were my early influences. But honestly, any ventriloquist I see is an inspiration. I love it!” Reflecting more on his style of comedy, he says, “My comedy was probably mostly inspired by the muppets. I love the classic Muppet Shows and their goofy humor.”

Mastering ventriloquism is no easy feat, though. “It was challenging for sure, but I loved practicing and trying to get better.” For Mickan, the biggest challenge was “…making the substitutions for the letters and words that would normally use my lips sound right. That definitely takes a lot of practice.”

Performing with Passion

DC Mickan slowed down on gigs after college, but the pandemic led him to start performing more often. “I decided to post some videos with the puppets to help bring some smiles during a crazy time. At that point, I was reminded of how much I loved performing with the puppets.” Ever since, he’s been gigging regularly. Mickan noticed a breakthrough after joining GigSalad. He shared, “Joining opened up a LOT of opportunities that I would not have had otherwise.” In 2024, he performed 150 times.

The root of Mickan’s passion goes beyond entertainment. His main goal is ministry. “I hope people see the love of Christ in me and through my performances, whether at an actual ministry show or a secular show.” Thinking about one of his favorite moments at a recent performance, Mickan said, “…a gentleman came to me and said, ‘I haven’t laughed and smiled that much in as long as I can remember. My face hurts.'” Mickan’s love for sharing joy and making people laugh keeps him inspired and looking forward to the next gig.

DC Mickan’s GigSalad Journey

When ventriloquist DC Mickan first discovered GigSalad, he had no idea how much it would transform his career. From landing gigs in 16 states to securing unexpected opportunities, the platform has helped him connect with clients and share his passion.

Using GigSalad

GigSalad: How did you first hear about GigSalad, and what made you decide to join?

DC Mickan: Another ventriloquist named Joe Gandelman directed me to GigSalad.  I started with the free version and was amazed at how many leads I received. It took a while before I landed my first gig on the site, but once I got the first one under my belt, things just took off.  Within a couple of months, I moved to the paid version so that I could also access the GigSoup section of the site. That’s a fun place 😊.

GS: In what ways has GigSalad impacted your career as a performer? Do you have any standout gig experiences through the platform?

DC: GigSalad has put me in front of people throughout the country that I would not have known otherwise. I’ve received a lot of libraries, schools, festivals, and corporate gigs through the site. One of my favorites was not a direct lead but came from GigSoup. It was a festival in Houston, TX, that was looking for something else (maybe a petting zoo?). For some reason, I felt compelled to reach out. I told them that I didn’t do the thing they were looking for but would love to entertain them if they had a need. The next thing I knew, they contacted me and booked the gig. They enjoyed it so much that I was brought back the following year. 

🤔 Want to learn more about GigSoup? Read this: How Gig Soup Works

Client Communication

GS: You have a great rapport with clients, evident in your many glowing reviews! Do you use any response methods that help you land a gig? And then, what communication practices do you use leading up to the gig?

DC: I try to respond quickly with a quote and a follow-up email introducing myself with a few video clips attached. I also like shooting a personalized video introducing myself and a few of my puppets. Usually, just a 3-4 minute video telling them I would love to come and perform for their group. Also, I follow up a couple of times leading up to the performance, letting them know I’m excited to be coming and explaining what to expect. I communicate when I will arrive and when I need anything. Communication is key.

GS: You perform for various occasions, from church functions to kid’s birthday parties to special events with hundreds of people. What’s your process for tailoring a show to a specific event and audience?

DC: I ask questions about my audience, and I do some research. Websites, Facebook, anywhere I can find that they have a presence. If it’s a corporate gig, I familiarize myself with their business. What do they do? How do they do it? I also encourage them to share any information they would like so that I can personalize the show.

📸 Take your photos and videos to the next level with these tips: Create a Media Kit That Will Get You Gigs

Words of Wisdom

GS: How did creating a promo video become part of your booking experience? Is there anything else you do to stand out from the competition?

DC: The promo video was just something I felt I could do pretty easily to help them promote the show and create some excitement for the event. If audiences can see a couple of my characters before the show, it helps them anticipate when they come out and look forward to seeing them in person. It also helps promote me by directing people to my YouTube channel and social media.

I love people, and I love what I do. Most of the time, these people are NOT professional event planners. If they took a chance on booking me, I want them to feel valued and feel like I went above and beyond to give them what they paid for. 

GS: What advice did you receive from a mentor early in your career that impacted you and you’d like to pass on to others?

DC: Not necessarily advice given, but something I once saw in another performer that has had a lasting impact. Years ago, I booked a musical artist for a student event. I was a huge fan, and when he arrived, I was starstruck — but he was incredibly humble and kind. Not only did he put on a great show, but after the concert, he stuck around, chatting with students and taking song requests.

I knew right then that I wanted to be that kind of performer: I don’t want to think too highly of myself. I want to be friendly and go above and beyond for my audience and those who book me.

🌟 Boost your rating with these tips: How to Get More Five-Star Reviews from Clients on GigSalad

🌟 Looking for more inspiration and tips? Check out last month’s talent spotlight with Jared Violin!

We want to thank DC Mickan for sharing his success story with us! We hope the many incredible insights inspire you to take some risks and ultimately help you do more of what you love. 💜😊