Jim Barber
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Jim Barber is an American ventriloquist, best known for his appearances in a theater he shares in Branson, Missouri.
Barber is best known for his unusual performance in which "Seville," his dummy, actually appears to be holding Barber, contrary to the more orthodox way used by his peers. One of Barber's more popular routines involves "Diva," a female dummy which appears to be operated by Seville (with Barber on the other side), with all three engaged in an operatic song from The Barber of Seville — part of the pun from which the name of Barber's act, "Jim Barber and Seville," is taken.
Barber has been named Ventriloquist of the Year in 2006 by the International Magicians Society, Comedy Entertainer of the Year by the National Association of Campus Activities, and one of the "Funniest People in America" by Showtime/The Movie Channel for his technical vocal skills and creative approach. He was featured in a performance during "Ventriloquists Week 2" on February 15, 2006 on the Late Show with David Letterman.
Barber co-stars in the Hamner Barber Variety Show in Branson. His first work in the resort city was as a featured comedian in the Glen Campbell Goodtime Show. He also worked in Branson with The Osmonds, Tony Orlando, Bobby Vinton and Eddie Rabbitt. Elsewhere Barber has appeared on the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon, The Nashville Network, A&E, FOX, ABC, and NBC. Barber appears regularly in Las Vegas, Reno, and on USO shows visiting American troops abroad.
Barber is also co-owner of a video production, graphic design and publishing company, having developed projects for Silver Dollar City, Big Cedar Lodge, Glen Campbell, Jimmy Osmond, Yakov Smirnoff, Pierce Arrow, and Paul Harris, among others.
