Author Archives: BTC News Staff

Grand Jubilee is more than “grand,” it’s amazing entertainment!

New South, Jamie Haage and Mike Patrick, Luke Menard and David Regan, and Jackie Brown.

Continuing a 16 year tradition of opening Branson’s new show season, the Grand Jubilee premiered its 2018 show as part of their New Year’s Eve celebration and, except for a short vacation break, is in full swing with their 2018 season. Mike Patrick, the show’s producer and MC said that in developing the show, the challenge is to keep the things that their audiences like and expect and work fresh new elements and numbers into the show.

Having just seen it earlier this month and observed the audiences reaction, it’s obvious that he has done just that. It’s an extremely fast moving show, showcasing great music and hilarious comedy all performed by an award winning cast that just resonates with their audience. The blend of music, colorful costumes, strategically blended in with the hijinks and comedy of “Jim Dandy” and MC Mike Patrick, results in two of the fastest and finest hours of entertainment on any Branson Stage. It is one of those rare Branson shows that simultaneously entertains both adults and children throughout the majority of the show.

New South, Grand Jubilee’s award wining quartet is composed of Lead Vocalist, David Ragan; Tenor, Luke Menard; Baritone Jon Drockelman; and Bass, Mark McCauley. They sing a variety of music from gospel to pop, patriotic, and rock and roll and do it so beautifully. From many, two of my favorite highlights was their medley of Bobbie Sue, All The Gold in California, Tomorrow Never Comes, and Mountain Music. Their unique version of Hallelujah is simply breath taking! Jackie Brown, the shows award winning vocalist shines as she sings a number of songs with my favorite being the Patty Loveless classic, Timber, I’m Falling In Love.

“The Grand Band,” affectionately called “The Rhinestone Mafia,” is blessed with some of the finest musicians in Branson; Michael W. Davis, Piano/Keyboard & Vocals; Wayne Massengale, Fiddle and Acoustic Guitar; Larry Allred, Bass Guitar; Rob Blackburn, Drums; Chad Cathell, Lead Guitar, Acoustic Guitar and Gene Mulvaney, Steel Guitar, Electric Guitar, Banjo and Band Director. Their talent is evident throughout the show as they accompany the vocalists and have solo features with the vocalists. Their talent and “personality” adds a wonderful dimension to the show.

If the music was all there was, that would be enough, but there’s more, the comedy talents of Jamie Haage, as “Jim Dandy.” He, and his straight man “Mike Patrick,” have the audience rolling in laughter throughout the show with their comedy. Just as amazing and entertaining, is the metamorphosis of multi-talented Haage as he surprises the audience with his wide range of musical talents.

There’s just something special about this show! In a previous story I wrote, “From the intimacy of the Grand Country Music Hall, the entire cast coming out during intermission to meet the audience, talk, and sign autographs, and the way the cast relates to the audience during the show, this is a “close up” entertainment experience where it is obvious that both the audience and the entertainers are having fun!” That has not changed one IOTA! This is a unique Branson entertainment experience that should not be missed.

For more information on the Grand Jubilee or other great Branson shows or lodging please contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, and sellers of over 5 million Branson show and attraction tickets by calling 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Best Branson Insider Highlights for February 2018

One of the “big cats” at the National Tiger Sanctuary, the Titanic Museum Attractions’s full scale replica the Titanic’s “Grand Staircase, and the Grand Jubilee’s award winning quartet “New South.”

“With more shows starting to open for their 2018 season, Valentine’s Day, the long President’s Day Weekend, and smaller crowds, February is an ideal time to visit Branson ” said Preston Garrison, Business Unit Manager for the Branson Tourism Center. “It’s hard to imagine a more romantic place to celebrate Valentine’s Day or a better shopping destination during President’s Day Weekend,” he added.

Garrison also points out that many of Branson’s great shows will be open, or opening, during February. In fact, the beginning blush of Branson’s 2018 live show season with the opening of some of its most popular shows in February is our “Featured Show” of the month. Among the shows joining Grand Country’s Amazing Pets, Branson Country USA, Comedy Jamboree, and Grand Jubilee which premiered their 2018 shows in January, will be the following, sorted by opening date:^*:

SIX (Feb 1)
Creedence Clearwater Revival Tribute Show (Feb 1)
Legends in Concert (Feb 2)
Eagles Tribute Concert (Feb 2)
Motown Downtown (Feb 9)
The Haygoods (Feb 10)
Doo Wop and the Drifters (Feb 10)
Ozarks Gospel (Feb 11)
Branson Murder Mystery Dinner Show (Feb 13)
The Blackwoods (Feb 14)
Dolly Parton’s Stampede (Feb 23)
Ozarks Country (Feb 25)

^*Please check schedule for specific times and changes.

Many of Branson’s major attractions are open year round providing a myriad of opportunity for fun and adventure. These include, but are certainly not limited to the Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure, Fritz’s Adventure, Main Street Lake Cruises Landing Princess, National Tiger Sanctuary, Shepherd of the Hills ATV Adventures, Titanic Museum Attraction, World’s Largest Toy Museum Complex and dozens more.

Featured Event of the Month: VisionCon 2018 continues a two decade only tradition of being Missouri’s premier comic book, science fiction, fantasy, live action, role playing, and gaming convention. Being held at the Branson Convention center, more than 4,000 people will attend with one common goal, having fun and raising money for local charities.

Special Event Highlights (Sorted by starting date.)

Feb 1-25: Off-Road Ozark ATV Adventures
Feb 14 & 17: Valentine’s Day Cruise on Main Street Marina’s luxury yacht The Landing Princess
Feb 14: Happy Valentines Day
Feb 14: Valentine’s Day Dinner at Keeter Center
Feb 15-19: President’s Day Weekend Sale – Tanger Outlets
Feb 23-25: VisionCon 2018- Gaming, Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Anime Convention
Feb 25: Vince Elfrink Memorial Tournament – Lilleys’ Landing

Branson Tourism Center’s Garrison advises that weather and seasonal show, attraction and lodging availability are important things to consider when planning a trip to Branson during the winter months. He suggests calling the Branson Tourism Center, toll-free at 1-800-785-1550, and talking with one of their Branson-based Vacation Planning specialists. They’ll answer any questions and help with show reservations, ticketing and lodging. There’s no charge for this service.

Three ways to beat the Winter Blues in Branson

Just four of the amazing ways to beat the Winter Blues in Branson.

“Especially with the extremely cold weather we’ve had this year, keeping many indoors, cases of the “Winter Blues abound,” said Preston Garrison, Business Unit Manager, for the Branson Tourism Center. “An article entitled Got The Post-Holiday Blues? Here’s How To Beat ‘Em, by Catherine Pearson, published in the Huffington Post suggests that one thing people can do to help beat the blues is to “‘Get their pamper on’ by giving themselves a break.” Here’s three ways Branson can help you relax, have fun, and escape those winter blues:

1. Just Getting Away from Home and Relaxing: Branson offers a wide variety of resorts, hotels, cabins, condos, and bed and breakfasts. From the quiet and soothing comfort of the Welk Resort, with its recently redecorated and updated rooms and its separate 10,000-square-foot “Splash-A-Torium; the Grand Country Inn with its “Splash Country Indoor Waterpark” and “Fun Spot Amusement Center” with an indoor go kart ride; and dozens of places in between; there’s a perfect place to stay that will provide just the relaxing fun filled experience you need to shake those winter blues.

2. Shopping: Would a little shopping therapy ease those blues? With hundreds of places to shop, Branson is a shopper’s paradise just about any time of year, but even more so during the slower-paced winter season. It’s hard to beat the reduced prices on clothing, housewares, designer shoes, gifts, luggage, and other unique merchandise at Tanger Outlets or The Shoppes at Branson Meadows. Add a unique assortment of flea markets, craft shops, boutiques, art galleries, local eateries, and other specialty shops, including the famous Dick’s 5 & 10, and Branson Landing’s department stores, galleries, and shops, along with lakefront dining establishments, and it’s hard to imagine a better shopping experience than that available in Branson!

3. Fun, Adventure, and Entertainment: Branson offers an unrivaled choice of activities and entertainment, like shows, attractions, museums, scenic walking trails, and so much more whether its winter or summer. How about an entertaining evening at one of Branson’s great shows, such as the Grand Jubilee, with the vocals of Jackie Brown, the harmonies of the New South Quartet, the sound of the Grand Band, and the comedy of the multi-talented Jamie Haage, a.k.a, Jim Dandy? How about an exciting “voyage” aboard the Titanic Museum Attraction, spending some time with the big cats at the National Tiger Sanctuary, or enjoying anyone of the dozens of other exciting activities and attractions Branson offers.

What better way to pamper yourself or take a break than an enjoyable getaway to Branson, Missouri? All it takes to plan your Branson escape is one toll-free phone call to the Branson Tourism Center, and talking with one of their Branson-based Travel Planners who will be delighted to assist you in planning the perfect Branson getaway. BTC can be reached by calling 1-800-785-1550 from 8:00 AM to 9:30 PM seven days a week, or through its website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Up-Close and Personal with the Million Dollar Quartet’s John Countryman

Cast of the Million Dollar Quartet Sara Tweedle as Dyanna, Tyler K. Hunter as Elvis Presley, Cliff Wright as Johnny Cash, and John Countryman as Jerry Lee Lewis.

One of Branson’s most popular shows, the Million Dollar Quartet tells the story of one of the greatest jam sessions in rock ‘n’ roll history, an impromptu gathering of four young recording legends-to-be, Carl Perkins, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis. It took place 51 years ago this week, on December 4, 1956, in the Memphis storefront recording studio of Sun Records.

It went largely unnoticed until recordings of the event were discovered and released decades later. It is that jam session, those recordings, and the four rock ‘n’ roll legends involved, that became the inspiration for the Tony Award winning musical Million Dollar Quartet. The show shares the music, excitement, and drama of what happened that day, as these four legends performed together for their first and, last time.

Recently, John Countryman (JC), the tribute artist playing Jerry Lee Lewis in the Branson production of the Million Dollar Quartet, was kind enough to take time from his busy schedule to do an interview for a Branson – Up Close and Personal, a service of the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. It’s intended to provide an “up close and personal look” at a Branson star or personality and uses a “Question and Answer” format.

BTC: If you could meet and perform with anyone, living or dead, who would it be and why?
JC: I’d go with Leon Russell because I like the old ‘rock and rollers.’ I got to meet him shortly before died.

BTC: What do you like most about performing Jerry Lee Lewis in the Million Dollar Quartet?
JC: It’s fun! Everyone else in the session, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Ray Perkins were established performers, but Jerry Lee’s career, at that point, was just starting. He was only there because he was doing some session work for Ray Perkins, but he knew everything and wanted everyone to know that he did. It’s so much fun to play the role as I push everyone’s button.

BTC: Whether you’re in it or not, what’s your favorite part of the Million Dollar Quartet?
JC: The very end of the show when we do the mini concert with four songs back to back.

BTC: Why should someone coming to Branson plan to see the Million Dollar Quartet?
JC: It’s 90 nonstop minutes of fun and exciting live rock ‘n’ roll music, humor, great entertainment, and a history lesson about some of the coolest guys you’re ever going to hear about. I have been in a lot of productions and about 800 performances of the Million Dollar Quartet. The caliber of everyone in this cast is fantastic and it’s one of the best I have every performed with.

BTC: Where were you born?
JC: Newport News, Virginia

BTC: When?
JC: September 11, 1989.

BTC: When did you first become interested in music?
JC: My mom was a music teacher, mom and dad sang in the choir in church, and there are pictures of me playing the piano when I was a baby, but I was 12 years old when I really decided to get serious and started practicing playing the way I do now.

BTC: Do you have any formal musical training?
JC: Just a couple of music lessons before I was 12 years old. Although my mom was a music teacher, the lessons were from another lady. We, myself and four brothers, were homeschooled by my mom so she thought it would be a good idea to get the music lessons from someone else.

BTC: When did you first become interested in Jerry Lee Lewis and why?
JC: When I first started playing the piano because, “He’s the man!” He was also “kind of dangerous,” played rock ‘n’ roll, and my mom suggested taking a look at his music. Once I played “Great Balls of Fire” I was hooked.”

BTC: When did you first perform publicly?
JC: At a home school convention talent show case in Winston Salem, North Carolina when I was about 15 or 16. I did a Jerry Lee Lewis medley that had Great Balls of Fire and Whole Lotta of Shakin’ Goin’ On‘ in it.

BTC: When did you first start performing professionally?
JC: In 2009 when I played with the Dirty Names Band. I played with them for about a year and a half. I left for many different reasons and took a job in a bank.

BTC: How did you end up in the Million Dollar Quartet?
JC: Shortly after starting with the bank, I got a call to audition for the Tony Award® winning hit Broadway show and the rest is history. In 2013, I went on the National Tour with the show and have been performing in it ever since.

BTC: Whether sung in the Million Dollar Quartet show or not, what is your favorite Jerry Lee Lewis song?
JC: The obvious answer would be songs like Great Balls of Fire and A Whole Lotat of Shakin’ Goin’ On, but I like some of his deeper cuts. His version of the Hank Williams song, Jambalaya from ‘Live at the International Hotel’ is one of my favorites.

BTC: What’s your favorite genre of music?
JC: Boogie-Woogie and Rock ‘N’ Roll.

BTC: Jerry Lee Lewis or not, what’s your favorite song?
JC: I really like the song Freight Train Boogie by Doc Watson.

BTC: If you could influence someone to remember one thing about Jerry Lee Lewis or his music, what would it be?
JC: The power’s in the left hand. Boogie-woogie involves a repeating bass pattern from the left and throughout. It’s that pattern that’s the music’s soul.

BTC: Prior to coming to Branson you were performing in Chicago. How did you end up in Branson?
JC: I was performing in the Chicago production of Million Dollar Quartet the first time I had a chance to do the show in Branson. I turned it down to stay in Chicago, but it closed a few months later and I had been performing the role in regional productions of the show when the Branson opportunity opened up. I was exhilarated when I got the chance to play the role in Branson and it’s been a great experience so far.

BTC: When was your first time in Branson?
JC: In the spring of this year. I had never been to Branson before and arrived on Friday just before we started rehearsals on Monday.

BTC: What was your first impression of Branson?
JC: It’s so beautiful and the people so friendly.

BTC: What do you like the most about Branson?
JC: I just love to play music, so I just love it that “you can’t throw a rock’” without hitting a musician.”.

BTC: What’s your favorite thing to do in Branson when you are not performing?
JC: Play music.

For more information on the Million Dollar Quartet and other amazing Branson shows, attractions, or lodging, please call one of Branson Tourism Center’s Branson based Travel Planners at 1-800-875-1550. They will be delighted to answer any questions you might have about Branson, its shows, hotels, or attractions and assist you with reservations to help ensure that you obtain the best available seating at shows and the accommodations you desire. There is no charge for this service and they are available daily, except Christmas Day, from 8:00 AM to 9:30 PM.

End of Season Branson Show Guide for 2017

The “Million Dollar Quarter;” Ambrus Presley and Chuck Crain singing “Mary Did You Know” during the “Presleys’ Country Jubilee Christmas show;” Jason Hughes and family performing in the “Hughes Brothers Christmas Show,” and Sharon Owens as, “Barbara Streisand,” in “Legends In Concert.”

“Wow, it’s near the end of the 2017 Branson show season already,” said Preston Garrison, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest providers of tourism services and information. “As the season winds down, some of our most popular shows will be ending their season over the next two weeks however, many will be open through Christmas week and up through New Year’s Eve.

Here is a list of the last date in 2017 that some of Branson’s most popular shows will be performing. It’s sorted chronologically by week(s), starting on December 3 and ending on Dec. 31. Within each week it’s sorted date. We’ve followed it up with a list of some of Branson’s most popular New Year’s Eve shows and celebrations:

LAST 2017 PERFORMANCE BETWEEN Dec. 3 – Dec. 9

The Lettermen: Dec. 9
Down Home Country: Dec 15
Andy Williams Christmas Extravaganza: Dec. 16

LAST 2017 PERFORMANCE BETWEEN Dec. 10 – Dec. 16

Ozarks Gospel: Dec. 10
Ozarks Country: Dec. 10
New South Gospel: Dec. 14
Branson Country USA: Dec. 15
Presleys’ Country Jubilee: Dec. 16
New Jersey Nights: Dec. 16
Christmas Wonderland: Dec. 17

LAST 2017 PERFORMANCE BETWEEN Dec. 17 – Dec.23

Puttin’ on the Ritz: Dec. 17
Dublin’s Irish Tenors and The Celtic Ladies: Dec. 22
SIX: Dec. 22

LAST 2017 PERFORMANCES BETWEEN Dec. 24 – Dec. 31

Reza Edge of Illusion: Dec 28
Clay Cooper’s Country Express: Dec. 29^*Hughes Brothers Christmas Show: Dec. 29Acrobats of China: Dec. 30
Grand Jubilee: Dec. 30^*The Haygoods: Dec. 30^*Million Dollar Quartet: Dec. 30
Miracle of Christmas: Dec. 30
The Blackwoods Morning Show: Dec. 30
Acrobats of China: Dec. 31
Amazing Pets: Dec. 31
Comedy Jamboree: Dec. 31
Dixie Stampede: Dec. 31
Legends in Concert: Dec. 31^*Showboat Branson Belle: Dec. 31

BRANSON’S MOST POPULAR NEW YEARS EVE Shows/Celebrations

Hughes Brother’s New Year’s Eve Party: Dec. 30Bill Anderson and Friends
Clay-Goods Jambor-Eve (Clay Cooper and Haygoods joint celebration)
Grand Jubilee
Legends in Concert
Main Street Lake Cruises Landing Princess
Americana New Year’s Eve Show
Hamners’ Unbelievable Variety Show
Pierce Arrow New Year’s Eve Celebration

^* Has New Year’s Eve celebration. Clay Cooper & Haygoods celebrating jointly

Branson Tourism Center’s Garrison points out that weather, abbreviated Christmas show schedules, and availability are excellent reasons to, not only check the schedule for the show(s) you are interested in but, make advance reservations. He suggests calling 1-800-785-1550 and talking with one of BTC’s Branson based Travel Planners. They will be delighted to answer any questions you might have about Branson, its shows, hotels, or attractions and assist with reservations to help ensure that you obtain the best available seating at shows and the accommodations you desire. There is no charge for this service and they are available daily, except Christmas Day, from 8:00 AM to 9:30 PM. BTC may also be contacted through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com

The Best of Branson Insider Highlights for December 2017

Landing Princess, “Christmas in Midtown” at Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas, Grand Jubilee’s New South quartet, and Bill Anderson & Friends.

“From its night time Adoration Parade, to multiple drive through Christmas lighting displays, Silver Dollar City’s nationally renowned “Old Time Christmas Festival,” and its great live shows, December in Branson is filled with that special spirit of the traditional American Christmas,” said Annette Wood, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “And there’s not a letdown the week after Christmas either; its filled with the entertainment, excitement, and fun that Branson is known for right up to the celebration of New Year’s Eve, Branson style,” she added.

Here’s our Featured Show, Event, and Limited Engagement of the Month, along with a list of the major, special limited engagement performances and events you can enjoy in Branson during December, 2017:

Featured Show: The Grand Jubilee Christmas show has it all, including amazing vocals by Branson’s award winning quartet, New South and Jackie Brown; hilarious comedy with Jamie Haage, a.k.a. “Jim Dandy,” and his sidekick Mike Patrick, who is also the show’s emcee and producer; and the “Grand Band,” one of the best bands in Branson. From the preshow to the final curtain, this awesome production will entertain and inspire you with “grand” music, comedy, and the spirit of a traditional American Christmas.

“We sing the traditional favorite Christmas songs that people sing every year,” said Mike Patrick, the shows emcee and producer. “To me our show is like taking out your favorite Christmas ornament each year and hanging it on the tree.” When asked what his personal favorite part of the show was he said, without hesitation, “When we get to read the Christmas story from the Bible and see how it resonates with our audience.” His two favorite numbers in the show are New South’s rendition of a Gatlin Brothers’ song “Santa Are You Going To Atlanta” and Jackie Brown’s beautiful performance of “I’ll Be Home For Christmas.”

Featured Limited Engagement of the Month: There’s not a more “Limited Engagement” than the spectacular unique ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Branson.How about cruising Lake Taneycomo aboard Main Street Lake Cruises Landing Princess, a 100 foot luxury yacht, while enjoying a live DJ, dancing, games, prizes, party favors, full-service cash bar, hors d’oeuvres, a dessert bar, and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight? Cruising not your thing, then how about an entertaining and exciting evening with some of Branson’s most popular shows as they welcome in 2018 with unique awesome New Year’s Eve celebrations including:

Dec 30: Hughes Brothers New Years Eve Party
Dec 31: Main Street Lake Cruises Landing Princess
Dec 31: Legends in Concert
Dec 31: Bill Anderson & Friends New Years Eve Show
Dec 31: Americana New Year’s Eve Show
Dec 31: Clay-Goods Jambor-Eve
Dec 31: Hamners’ Unbelievable Variety (New Year’s Eve Fiesta)
Dec 31: Pierce Arrow
Dec: 31 Main Street Lake Cruises Landing Princess

Featured Event of the Month: Silver Dollar City’s “Old Time Christmas” celebrates the true meaning of this special magical season amidst the glow of over 6.5 million dazzling lights, including 1.5 million added just this year for its new light spectacular “Christmas in Midtown.” Proclaimed as “The Most Illuminated Park on Earth” by the Travel Channel and “One of the most sparkly, lively holiday celebrations anywhere” by Midwest Living, “you’ll take home beautiful holiday memories destined to last a lifetime!”

LIMITED ENGAGEMENT PERFORMANCES (Sorted by starting date)

Dec 1-16: Hallmark Presents Maxine’s Christmas Carol
Dec 2: Home Free
Dec 9: Wynonna Judd
Dec 31: Bill Anderson & Friends New Year’s Eve Show

NEW YEAR’S EVE BRANSON STYLE

Dec 30: Hughes Brothers New Years Eve Party
Dec 31: Main Street Lake Cruises Landing Princess
Dec 31: Main Street Lake Cruises Landing Princess
Dec 31: Legends in Concert
Dec 31: Bill Anderson & Friends New Years Eve Show
Dec 31: Americana New Year’s Eve Show
Dec 31: Clay-Goods Jambor-Eve
Dec 31: Hamners’ Unbelievable Variety (New Year’s Eve Fiesta)
Dec 31: Pierce Arrow

SPECIAL EVENT HIGHLIGHTS (Sorted by starting date.)

Dec 1 – Dec 30: Trail of Lights
Dec 1 – Dec 31: Branson Landing’s Winter Wonderlanding!
Dec 1 – Dec 31: Titanic Museum Christmas Tribute
Dec 3: Santa Train
Dec 3: 69th Annual Adoration Parade and Lighting Ceremony
Dec 4 – Dec 10: Branson’s Festival of Trees
Dec 4 – Dec 23: Showboat Branson Belle – Santa’s Pancakes & PJs Cruise
Dec 4 – Dec 24: Visit Santa at Bass Pro
Dec 1 – Dec 24: Santa at the Branson Landing
Dec 4 – Dec 30: An Old Time Christmas Festival at Silver Dollar City
Dec 4 – Dec 31: Gingerbread Houses on Display at Chateau
Dec 2: Pancakes with Santa at Mc Farlain’s
Dec 9: Breakfast with Santa – Branson RecPlex
Dec 16: Chateau on the Lake Breakfast with Santa
Dec 25: MERRY CHRISTMAS
Dec 25: Christmas Day Champagne Brunch at Chateau on the Lake
Dec 27 – Dec 29: Xtreme Winter Branson
Dec 30: Keeter Center New Year’s Celebration (Saturday Evening)
Dec 31: Keeter Center New Year’s Eve Sunday Brunch
Dec 31: New Years Eve Celebration at Keeter Center
Dec 31: Chateau on the Lake New Year’s Eve
Dec 31-Jan 1: Silver Dollar City’s New Year’s Celebration
Dec 31: HAPPY NEW YEAR

For additional information on these events, or any of Branson’s shows and attractions, or for lodging arrangements, please contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services by calling 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com

Six reasons why you should visit Branson during Christmas Week in Branson

Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer leads the “Holly Jolly Christmas Light Parade” during Silver Dollar City’s “Old Time Christmas.”

“Many think there’s not much to do in Branson during Christmas Week, the week between Christmas and New Year Day,” said Preston Garrison, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Not the case at all. Although many of Branson’s shows are closed, many of its most popular shows are open; as is Silver Dollar City with its Old Time Christmas; and most of Branson’s attractions. From butterflies and tigers, to drive through Christmas lighting displays, acrobats, museums, world class shopping, New Year’s Eve celebrations second to none, and so much more; if you’re looking for excitement, fun, and entertainment during your Christmas vacation then Christmas Week in Branson is the place for you!” he added.

1. Branson Shows – Although many of Branson’s shows are closed for the season, some of Branson’s most popular shows will be open during Branson’s Christmas Week presenting the live entertainment Branson is noted for. This includes, in alphabetical order, The Acrobats of China, Amazing Pets, Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express, Comedy Jamboree, Dixie Stampede, Grand Jubilee, Hamner’s Unbelievable Variety, Million Dollar Quartet, The Haygoods, Hughes Brothers Christmas Show, Legends in Concert, Pierce Arrow, The Miracle of Christmas, and the Showboat Branson Belle, and others.

2. Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas Festival: Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas Festival is one of the Nation’s top Christmas events. Its spectacular display of millions of Christmas lights throughout the park, entertainment, parade, Broadway style shows, and much more has been recognized and featured nationally by USA Today, CNN Travel, The Travel Channel, Good Morning America and many others.

The award winning 1880s styled theme park glitters against the Ozarks sky with over 6.5 million sparkling Christ lights, including 1.5 million added just this year for its new light spectacular “Christmas in Midtown” and is filled with shows; crafts; unique shopping; food; weather permitting, dozens of exciting rides and demonstrating craftsmen; and other activities. At dusk, each evening, something special begins to happen in the Square on Main Street. First, the 5-Story Special Effects Christmas Tree comes to life, with its 350,000 colorful sparkling LED lights, choreographed to Christmas music, and making over 100 light changes per second. “The most famous reindeer of all” leads Rudolph’s Holly Jolly™ Christmas Light Parade with its nine musical floats, illuminated with 200,000 ultra-bright LED lights; 33 colorful costumed characters, including Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, 14-foot moose characters, 12-foot tall elves and 10-foot candy canes, plus penguins, elves and a troupe of marching wooden soldiers.”

3. Spectacular Christmas Lighting Displays: Although Christmas Day is past, the major drive through Christmas lighting displays will remain open through December 31. This includes the Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights, Branson’s Gift of Lights and the giant 30 foot nativity scene on top of Mount Branson overlooking Lake Taneycomo and historic downtown Branson.

4. Branson Attractions – The vast majority of Branson’s attractions will be open. This includes its oldest and most popular paid attraction, the international award winning Silver Dollar City presenting its “Old Time Christmas;” the Titanic Museum Attraction decked out for its beautiful “Edwardian Christmas;” the unique White Flight exhibit at the Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure; National Tiger Sanctuary; Promised Land Zoo and others.

5. Branson Shopping – Branson’s legendary shopping is “always” open and Branson’s Christmas Week is no exception. From the unique “Branson Landing,” with its 100 retail stores, to the shops of Historic Downtown Branson, featuring “Dicks 5 & 10;” outlet malls such as “Tanger Outlet” and “The Meadows” and specialty shops offering arts and crafts and one of a kind items, Branson’s Christmas week shopping should not only satisfy the most avid shopper, but just might have a few “after Christmas sales” to boot.

6. New Years Eve – In addition to other New Years Eve celebrations, among other, the following shows will have special New Year’s Eve celebrations:

BTC’s Garrison points out that the off season scheduling of shows, limited seating and the fact that some Branson lodging facilities are closed requires some advance planning. He suggests that an easy way to avoid problems, save time and, in many cases money, is by simply calling the Branson Tourism Center, toll free at 1-800-785-1550 and talking with one of their Branson based Travel Planners who will be delighted to answer any questions and assist in making any show or lodging reservations. There is absolutely no charge for this service.

Branson Entertainers Unite to Create a “Showstopping” Mannequin Challenge

BTC Videographer, Chris Canote, “shooting” Shoji Tabuchi during Mannequin Challenge.

Over 40 entertainers from some of Branson’s most popular and iconic live shows gathered at the Yakov Theater to create a truly showstopping Mannequin Challenge video that embodies the immense talent that graces the Branson stage on a daily basis.

The Mannequin Challenge is a viral internet trend that attempts to mimic the dynamic sequences in movies like “The Matrix” with individuals frozen in place throughout the entire filming process.

“Branson’s filled with unparalleled performers,” says Tammy Johnson, Vice President and General Manager of Branson Tourism Center. “We have world-class dancers, aerial acrobats, comedians, beautiful costuming, the greatest musicians and attractions…what could possibly make a more engaging video?”

Entertainers from Branson shows, attractions, and theaters participating in the Mannequin Challenge included Shoji Tabuchi, The Baldknobbers, The Acrobats of China at the Yakov Theater, “it” starring The Hughes Brothers, Branson Zipline, The Duttons, Patsy Cline Remembered at the Americana Theatre, Down Home Country at Grand Country, Dublin’s Irish Tenors & Celtic Ladies at King’s Castle Theatre, Parakeet Pete’s Steampunk Balloon, Legends in Concert and The Bretts at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater, and The Petersen’s at the Little Opry Theatre.

Branson’s Showstopping Mannequin Challenge, created by Branson Tourism Center and the Branson Show League, can be found on:

FACEBOOK

YOUTUBE

Branson Tourism Center welcomes new Branson Chamber and CVB CEO

Jeff Seifried, the new President/CEO of the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and CVB.

“We extend a warm Branson welcome to Jeff Seifried, who has just recently been announced as the new President/CEO Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and CVB,” said Tammy Johnson, the General Manager for the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. “Seifried was named the new President/Chief Executive Officer of the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau, according to Randy Brashers, Chairman of the Board of Directors. Seifried is leaving his position as the Manager of Regional Development for the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce [which he has held since July of 2007] and will begin the Branson job on March 2, 2015.

“Mr. Seifried’s professional career has largely been spent in the area of Economic Development. In July, 2007 he joined the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce and had direct oversight of initiating business recruitment and marketing strategies for the Springfield region.

“Seifried is a graduate of Drury University and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration, with a minor in Global Studies and is also a graduate of the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute.”

At the time of his selection Seifried was serving on the city council of Springfield, Mo and was the “Mayor Pro Tem.” Upon resigning from the council it was reported that one of his fellow council members, Councilwoman Cindy Rushefsky, described Seifried as being thoughtful, intelligent and independent and willing to stick his neck out to come up “with creative solutions.”

Jarett Dougherty joins country great Billy Dean

Jarrett Dougherty and Billy, a wonderful combination of the best in country music and comedy

If you want some great country music and zany comedy while in Branson here’s some great news. In announcing that one of Branson’s favorite comedians, Jarrett Dougherty, will be joining his Billy Dean Live show at Branson’s Starlite Theatre; Grammy Award winner Billy Dean said that he has had a great time and a lot of fun performing his shows at the Starlite this Spring, but “It’s going to be even more fun, and definitely sometimes crazy, adding Jarrett to the mix of entertainment we offer.” Dougherty will join the show starting May 13 and will be “creating a whole new cast of zany characters for the show.”

A native of the Ozarks, Jarrett has been “performing in Branson since 1995 and “his side-splitting humor has rightfully earned him recognition as one of Branson’s funniest comedians! While seeking a work-life balance Jarrett could not resist the opportunity to perform with country music great Billy Dean. Dougherty said, ‘I feel privileged to be given the chance to showcase my comedy alongside such great musical talents at the Starlite Theatre. It is definitely the hottest place for the coolest show in town!'”

General Manager Linda Merkling says, “Jarrett is a true pro and an excellent addition to our team! We are excited about his talent! Life is stressful and Jarrett is guaranteed to make you laugh and put a smile in your day!”

Country music superstar Billy Dean has been performing is currently performing the Billy Dean Live show with his hot band, “Steel Horses,” at the Starlite Theatre in Branson. They perform a dynamic mix of country rock plus all the hits you remember from the ACM Male Vocalist of the Year and Grammy-Winner Billy Dean, who owns over 20 hit singles, 11 Top Ten hits and 4 Gold Albums!

For additional information or tickets for the Billy Dean Live show or information or tickets for any of Branson’s shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services by calling 1-800-785-1550 or through its website, www.BransonTourismCenter.com.