Terry Fator at Mirage

Once rife with impressionists lending their hand (or vocal chords) to ventriloquism, Las Vegas has seen it's fair share of the talented, and talentless. Such comedic artistes inevitably fell into two categories; the guy propping up the hotel bar in the hope of recognition (plus a dime or two), and the guy whose prowess as a voice-throwing ventriloquist, made him an overnight name within the competitive confines of 'Sin City'. Terry Fator is one of the latter – albeit a relatively young addition to the few remaining ventriloquist acts still headlining in Las Vegas.

Crowd drawing tends to be an art-form; a combination of clever marketing and word-of-mouth, that contribute to the 'must see' factor of a comedy artiste. But there is also the aspect of venue, that can really make or break a show, and for Fator, “The Mirage” proved to be an audience-packing powerhouse of leading acts and sell out shows. It was therefore only appropriate “Terry Fator: Ventriloquism in Concert” should follow suit. Already home to the “Aces of Comedy” variety show, and the “Master Series”, the grandiose Mirage sets the precedent for both first class service, and memorable entertainment. Designed to resemble an exotic Utopia; the hotel oozes contemporary cool from every aspect – which also extends to the “Terry Fator Theater”.

Surprised to learn Fator has his own theater-space? Perhaps you'll be more so, when you learn Fator was actually the “America's Got Talent” winner of Series Two (2007). Staunch encouragement from both family and friends prompted Fator's application, however nobody could predict just how endearing the 'master of puppets' act would become to the national audience. Winston, the “Kermit The Frog” impersonating turtle went down a storm, as did Fator's uncanny mimicking of Garth Brooks, and Elvis Presley. Several of these originals still feature prominently during the 90-minute show, however the “Ventriloquist in Concert” now boasts a stellar line-up of over sixteen puppets, including “Wrex” - the crash test dummy, and Mickey Thomas, of 80's band “Jefferson Starship.”

Key to the continued popularity of Terry Fator's headlining show, is his ability to keep the entertainment fresh – without subsidizing the 'favorite' acts, which have been borne through the rave reviews of his many fans. Fator combines his distinct impressionist talents, with stand-up gags relevant to the modern world. His sources of inspiration range from his country's own President, to observations regarding Texas (helped in no small part by Texan puppet “Walter T. Airedale”.) A segment which continues to be retained as part of the act (despite the namesake's unfortunate demise) is the “Michael Jackson” bit, where Fator himself adopts the complete “Jackson” persona for a stint of satirical reflection upon the life of the star.

Like any comedy professional, Terry Fator is adept at keeping a set pace to his running order, and the pace of “Ventriloquism in Concert” never really lets up. One minute you can be chortling at an uncanny representation of mega-star “Cher”, and the next, you find yourself singing along to Gnarles Berkley's “Crazy” with Julius - the doppleganger doll. Unlike many of the casino-hotel offerings of Vegas, “The Mirage” remains intent upon serving up family-friendly entertainment – possibly part of the reason Terry Fator fits the bill so well. His likable characters, traditional approach and relatively non-complex gags mean that there's little that will go 'over the heads' of youngsters, and there are even parts of the show where they are encouraged to participate. Who can resist a sing-a-long with Kermit?

The quirky, unkempt characters, and Fator's astounding talent for keeping his lips perfectly still throughout his impersonations invoke the curiosity of patrons from far and wide. True, some may come to experience Fator for his “America's Got Talent” fame, but the majority attend on the tail of consistent high praise and feedback. For a man who rose to fame on the back of a well-publicized T.V talent show; Terry Fator is proving he can kick it, among the best that Las Vegas has to offer.