SAN MARCOS, Texas — Chester, Taz, Ronnie, Sincho, and Alfred are all part of Ian Varella’s family.

Varella is a ventriloquist. His family are all puppets.

Varella lives in San Marcos and has been performing for years on stage and television.

"I love doing shows. Just hate to travel. The shows are the easy part. It’s getting there, the right time, the right day, " Varella said.

But the shows have stopped because of COVID-19.

"You can’t have an audience," Varella said.

Varella says some of his fellow ventriloquists have lost tens of thousands of dollars because of canceled gigs.

"Now I’m waitin’ tables at Chili’s!" Varella's puppet Chester said.

Varella had several dozens shows lined up. He has been in touch with agents hoping for some good news.

"We booked a show!” said Varella “In September."

"Ah-geez!" Chester replied.

In the meantime, Varella is getting by on savings. Although he keeps some pretty crazy company, don’t let the fluff and foam fool you!  Chester had some words of wisdom.

"Life is like being a statue," Chester said. "Sometimes you’re the statue, sometimes you’re the pigeon!"