Michael Winslow: A man of over 10,000 sound effects documented. He or his sounds have appeared in the “Spaceballs” movie, the “Police Academy” movies, “Back to the Future II,” and so many others. Used in the Cadbury and GEICO commercials. He has also appeared on America's Got Talent.
The night started off with a little (warm-up) show of the talented Ziggy, "Artist of Oddities." His fire act was, "On Fire!" Then Michael’s friend, Morgan Preston, colleague and a comedian, entertained us with some of his comedy, who had us laughing and loosened up to welcome Michael to the stage.
Michael was born and raised in Spokane, WA. His dad, Robert, was serving in the military. He was raised on the military base. Michael’s son also served in the military. So, the active military and veterans hold a special place in Michael's heart. He had a few friends growing up, and to pass the time he would imitate all kinds of sounds. Then following high school and acting, modeling and imaging college, he would perform in nightclubs, theaters, basically anywhere that his sounds could get him work. He finally earned enough money to move to Hollywood so that he could get work and act.
The first acting pay job came in the early 1980s and was on "The Gong Show," then things just kept coming in. Michael stated, "When they call you for work, you take it and make it work!" Since 1980, he has appeared in numerous movies.
Before coming to Branson for the first time, he was on a tour of military bases overseas entertaining the troops. And what a time for him to visit Branson, right before Veterans Week. Maybe, they can get something worked out where he can have a show during Veterans Week next year. If they do, remember, I suggested it! Ha ha!
When you attend his show he will demonstrate how he can create and stack his own music using only his own mouth, voice and sounds. John, our son Montie, and I had the privilege to attend his show last Friday. We sat and were amazed and enthralled at what we were watching. John, with his perfect pitch, said to me, "He was SPOT ON!" It had been fun getting to visit with him and his representatives over the phone for the last couple of weeks. When he was asked if he had a favorite sound that he does, he replied, "Do you have a favorite child? It's hard to pinpoint just one. They have all had their purpose." He has thoroughly enjoyed working in all the ways that he has worked. "It has just made me appreciate my work and life dreams that much more," he stated.
Do your children make any sounds? He stated that they don't have as much of an interest in it, but his grandson does as a means of communication.
Michael held a meet and greet for the VIPs after the show. He did autographs, took pictures with you and then had a Q & A. If you ever have the chance to attend one of his shows, I would highly encourage you to do so and purchase the VIP ticket. I asked Samantha at Reza's Theater if they would be having him back and she stated, "It's already in the works." What a fun, entertaining night.
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