When ventriloquist and comedian Todd Oliver takes the stage with his wise-cracking canine sidekick Irving the Talking Dog on May 1, audiences at the Brighton Center for the Performing Arts can expect a lively evening packed with laughs, magic and plenty of audience participation.
Aimed at audiences of all ages, the production offers a lively, quick-moving experience built around playful humor and engaging moments on stage.
“Our show is 90 minutes of family-friendly comedy, ventriloquism, my family pets, magic/ illusion, music, video and lots of audience participation,” Oliver said. “It’s a comedy show for ALL ages!”
A fast-moving variety show
Oliver says his performance style has evolved over the years as he continually refines his craft and creates new material that resonates with audiences.
“My show has evolved naturally because, as with most artists, I love working at my craft, and I am passionate to always present new original routines that are appreciated because they are naturally relatable to your average public,” Oliver said.
Pets, he said, are a universal source of humor and connection.
“Most of us can relate to having pets as part of the family,” Oliver said. “Pets are loved by all ages, and all ages can laugh at the funny stuff our pets do, AND the funny stuff WE do with them!”
Over time, Oliver added more elements to the show to create a seamless and high-energy experience.
“I brought back magic to my show because we were having problems using opening/ guest performers who took audiences in a direction that didn’t always work with family audiences,” Oliver said. “But it worked out great because now we present 90 minutes of fast-moving variety that has fun continuity!”
A lifelong love of animals
Animals have always played a central role in Oliver’s life and career. That love began during his childhood and has shaped both his comedy and his advocacy.
“I have always had such a love for animals. Dogs, cats, horses, birds, and bunnies,” Oliver said.
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His bond with animals became especially meaningful during a difficult time growing up.
“My dad was sick a lot when I was a kid. He died when I was 10 years old,” Oliver said. “My pets helped me greatly with dealing with the loss. AND by spending every day with my pets, we have this cool bond.”
Today, Oliver uses his performances to promote compassion toward animals and responsible pet ownership.
“Now I want to use my talents to promote pet responsibility and help communities and their animal rescue goals,” Oliver said. “I am so blessed, and that I am helping is another way of being blessed.”
He also hopes audiences leave the show inspired to make a difference.
“A True Win- Win! Good attracts good!” Oliver said. “Honest goals for the decency of animal welfare is so important. Because of the overpopulation of pets, it takes a bigger effort each day.”
“We ALL can help our little animal friends in some way,” he added. “It starts with loving hearts—but is also means putting in the work and making real sacrifices every day.”
Why Brighton chose Todd Oliver
According to Kimberly Sergent, director of the Brighton Center for the Performing Arts and advisor to the Brighton High School Theatre Tech Club, Oliver’s message and humor made him a natural fit for the venue’s programming.
“When selecting entertainment for each season, the Brighton Center carefully weighs what sort of performances our varied audience will wish to see,” Sergent said.
Oliver’s work with animal welfare helped seal the decision.
“When we saw how committed Todd Oliver has been over the years to shelter pets and promoting responsible pet ownership, we knew we had a winner with our Brighton Bulldog community,” Sergent said. “Todd is an ambassador to our youngest fans in the elementary school and also a terrific comedian who our adult audience members will thoroughly enjoy.”
Students behind the scenes
While audiences will see Oliver and Irving on stage, a group of local high school students will be working behind the scenes to make the performance possible.
“The members of Tech Club meet weekly to train for and develop skills to work in the technical theatre industry,” Sergent said.
Students explore a wide range of backstage roles.
“Interested students at the high school level explore work in any off-stage field from stage management, sound and lighting design, makeup and costumes, box office and house management to constructing sets and props, all in a fun after school environment,” Sergent said.
Working on professional productions gives students valuable real-world experience.
“Members of Tech Club receive hands-on experience working in our performing arts center during all school and community events,” Sergent said. “The students not only apply their knowledge regarding technical theatre arts, they learn how to work with a team and alongside industry professionals.”
Supporting future theatre professionals
Community shows like Oliver’s also support the Tech Club program itself. Concession sales during events help fund student opportunities and future initiatives.
“Establishing Tech Club was an important step in identifying just how many BHS students are interested in technical theatre,” Sergent said.
The fundraising helps expand the program’s reach. “Club members were thrilled to have the opportunity to sell concessions at all sponsored shows in order to save proceeds toward educational programs in technical theatre and to begin a Brighton High School Tech Club scholarship fund,” Sergent said.
A community arts hub
Beyond hosting touring acts like Oliver’s, the performing arts center serves as a cultural gathering place for Brighton families and residents.
“The Brighton Center for the Performing Arts and Brighton Community Education strive to bring a diverse set of acts to our community each season,” Sergent said. “Our audiences have come to anticipate wonderful music, comedy, dance and theater presented by our district students, community members, and nationally recognized artists.”
For Oliver, the opportunity to perform for communities like Brighton reflects a larger message he hopes young audiences take with them.
“We live in a country where we have the freedom to chase our rainbows,” Oliver said. “In America if you work at your craft/ talent you can turn a talent into a skill that WILL take you on an amazing journey.”
His advice to young fans is simple
“So use your time wisely, stay away from the bad stuff, and focus on doing good,” Oliver said. “Boys and girls, BE the good.”
Todd Oliver & Irving the Talking Dog will perform at 7 p.m. May 1 at the Brighton Center for the Performing Arts, 7878 Brighton Road in Brighton.
Pet supplies drive information
Doors to the lobby open at 6 pm. Please bring a donation of new and unopened pet supplies for Livingston County Animal Shelter (suggestions: unopened dog / cat food and treats, new toys, leashes, collars, harnesses, cat litter, small animal bedding).
