Wenceslao Moreno, professionally known as Senor Wences, was a Spanish-born ventriloquist who rose to fame as one of the highest paid vaudeville acts in the world. With his unique blend of ventriloquism, juggling, and charisma, he captivated audiences in both Europe and America.
Born in Peñaranda de Bracamonte, Salamanca, Spain, Wences began performing ventriloquism as a child, an early start that would eventually lead to a lifelong career. After an unsuccessful stint in bullfighting, he turned to ventriloquism and juggling, and by the 1920s, he was touring Europe. His talent and showmanship eventually brought him to America in 1935, where he made his New York debut at the Club Chico.
Wences' big break came when he appeared on TV's The Milton Berle Show, and he soon became a staple on American television, making appearances on The Ed Sullivan Show and TV specials with Jack Benny and Perry Como. His stand-out cameo in the 1947 film comedy Mother Wore Tights, starring Dan Dailey and Betty Grable, further solidified his status as a beloved entertainer.
Wences was known for his iconic ventriloquist characters, including "Johnny," a cleverly crafted creation formed by one of his hands, and "Pedro," a torso-less head in a box. The latter's signature catchphrase, "S'alright," became a classic phrase that audiences loved.
Throughout his career, Wences performed alongside some of the biggest names in show business, including Mickey Rooney and Ann Miller in the musical Sugar Babies, which he toured with in 1986. His dedication to entertaining audiences and bringing joy to millions earned him the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Comedy Hall of Fame, which praised his "devotion to entertaining generations of audiences and bringing countless hours of joy and happiness to millions throughout the world."
