Gracie Allen was the wife and comic partner of comedian George Burns. Hiding behind a “ditzy” character, she often got in some really wonderful zingers during their routines (Gracie was a very intelligent woman, by the way).
In one great bit from a Radio show in my collection, George feeds her the straight line for a joke. She comes back with something totally unrelated.
“Gracie,” he scolds gently, “that’s the wrong answer.”
“No, that’s the right answer,” Gracie replies blithely, “you asked the wrong question.”
I’ve been blessed during my career with trusted friends who’ve given me the right answer, regardless of how I worded the question. And fortunately over time, I’ve become better able to understand, accept, and utilize the words I’ve received.
I can count among my friends in the voiceover business a number of people whose approval I covet…but whose honest answers I respect. That’s come into play a lot this year as I’ve gone through the long and sometimes frustrating process of re-tooling my online image, my demos, and even my business card (you all know who you are).
I don’t always get the answer I wanted or expected. But more often than not it’s the response I need.
— over and out —
