Billy Billee (L), Billy Bob and Billy Joe, The 3 Tenorinas,performing at the "Masonic Lodge and Catfish Farm
BRANSON, Mo., August 25, 2012 — After seeing the 3 Redneck Tenors show in each of its last two seasons in Branson and just having seen the 2012 version this week, all that can be said is that the 2012 edition is a completely different experience that takes an already unique and entertaining show and makes it, exponentially, even more so. From the git-go, one thing should be made perfectly clear, although the story line of the first half of the show is based on the entertaining and funny adventures of three loveable Texas Rednecks who have great vocal talent, as they transition from being unknowns in Paris, Texas, to performing on Broadway and in Carnegie Hall in New York City, it is the vocal performance of the shows star’s that is the heart and soul of the show.
The 3 Redneck Tenors is funny; has a very talented live band, composed of David Cassavitis, Musical Director; Paul Houser, Guitar; Tim Pope, Percussion; Matt Skates, Bass and Tom Eckert, Violin; lots of colorful costuming and an amusing funny story line. However, it is all of that in combination with the magnificent vocals of the show’s stars, “Billy Joe,” performed by Tenor Matthew Lord; “Billy Bob,” performed by Tenor Alex Bumpas, and “Billy Billee,” performed by Baritone, Blake Davidson that make this show such a unique and special experience. Each of them has extensive operatic experience which is displayed over a wide variety of music ranging from their compound version of “Ave Maria” and “Dixie,” “Hound Dog” to “The Impossible Dream” and the inspirational “Nessun Dorma.
The shows Redneck theme is played out during the first half of the show, starting with a Redneck memorial service that adds new meaning to the term, “Chip off the old block;” the discovery of the 3 Redneck Tenors by the “Colonel,” performed by Dinny McGuire and their journey from unknown obscurity to stardom along with the realization of their dreams. The journey is an exciting, fun filled and fast paced “adventure” filled with colorful costuming changes, wonderful humor and absolutely great vocals. This writer’s favorite stops along the journey was when the “3 Tenorinas” performed “You Light Up My Life” a benefit at “The Masonic Lodge & Catfish Farm” and the “3 Village Tenors” performed “YMCA” at “The Mudcat Saloon.”
Blake Davidson (L), Dinny McGuire, Alex Bumpas and Matthew Lord performing the shows finale "Nessun Dorma.."
A major change in the show this year is its second half and WOW what a wonderful change it is. When the curtain closes on the first half it closes on 3 Redneck Tenors. When it rises for the second half, it rises on the shows three stars appearing as themselves, with the red neck persona nowhere evident , as they sing the “Impossible Dream.” They introduce themselves and interact with the audience as they perform a variety of music ranging from Broadway to their powerful rendition of “Lone Prairie and a classical duo including “Figaro” and the shows closing piece, the beautiful, inspirational and powerfully sung “Nessun Dorma.”
The magnificent voices of its stars is showcased with just the right amount of “themed comedy” in the first half and explodes into an entirely different entertainment experience in the second half. What a delightful, personable and entertaining show. If you have never seen this show, don’t miss it and, if you have seen it before, but not this year, you owe it to yourself to see it again.
For additional information or tickets for the 3 Redneck Tenors or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.