Steve Petra trained at the National Theatre of Puppet Arts and at Jim Henson Productions in Manhattan. He is a full-time professional ventriloquist and puppeteer performing his own scripts, songs and music. Previously, he worked as a professional musician. He now specializes in curriculum-based assembly programs for elementary schools.
Steve also performs for family audiences at libraries and some other venues. These shows are like being at a Comedy Club for families. With zany illusions, props, music, audience participation and a cast of outrageous puppet characters.
When he isn't out doing live shows, Steve is working on audio and video projects, and as a video editor. His instructional series, Let's Get Visual, is selling to performers all over the world. He is now in demand as a lecturer at conferences for professional performers and has taught workshops on show building, puppet manipulation, character voices and ventriloquism.
PetraPuppets is Steve and his wife Jeanie. Steve performs the shows. Jeanie does the website, database, booking, scheduling, contracts, fliers, teacher's guides, and collaborates on the shows.
Steve has performed at The Vent Haven ConVENTion, The KIDabra Conference, KAX, Puppeteers of America festivals and at Puppet Guild events. He's a member of The International Ventriloquist Society and The Puppeteers of America.
Steve Petra was named 2019 Northeast Ventriloquist of the year by the International Ventriloquist Society
In this Episode we discuss:
- Origin Story
- Transition from Musician to Puppeteer
- Jim Henson Studio
- School Shows
- Pricing
- Becoming a Vent
- Libraries
- Audience Control & Pre-show
- Early Struggles
- Nikon School
- Newbie Advice
- Interest vs Obsession
- Branding
- World of Puppetry
- Social Media
- Continuing Education
- Top 3 Things to be Successful
Explore these Resources:
- "Making Puppets Come Alive"
- The Jim Henson Company
- Carol Fijan
- Barry Mitchell
- Lee Andrews
- KAX
- Ken Scott
- Mark Wade
- David Ginn
- Tim Sonefelt
- Sammy Smith
Follow our Podcast
Popular Podcasts
Are You A Charlotte?
In 1997, actress Kristin Davis’ life was forever changed when she took on the role of Charlotte York in Sex and the City. As we watched Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte navigate relationships in NYC, the show helped push once unacceptable conversation topics out of the shadows and altered the narrative around women and sex. We all saw ourselves in them as they searched for fulfillment in life, sex and friendships. Now, Kristin Davis wants to connect with you, the fans, and share untold stories and all the behind the scenes. Together, with Kristin and special guests, what will begin with Sex and the City will evolve into talks about themes that are still so relevant today. "Are you a Charlotte?" is much more than just rewatching this beloved show, it brings the past and the present together as we talk with heart, humor and of course some optimism.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com