The iconic violin played by bandmaster Wallace Hartley as the Titanic sank.

BRANSON, MO, May 20, 2013 — “The Titanic Museum Attraction has always been noted for the excitement and freshness of the experience it provides its guests,” said Lianne Milton, one of the owners of the Branson Tourism Center, “but this is out of the box. Imagine, the very violin that played ‘Nearer My God To Thee’ as the greatest maritime tragedy of all time was unfolding, over 101 years ago, will have its first and only American displays at the Titanic Museum Attractions in Pigeon Forge and Branson; how special is that?” Milton’s comments followed the press release by Titanic Museum Attractions earlier this morning that the long lost violin of the Titanic’s bandmaster, Wallace Hartley, commonly referred to as the “Titanic Violin” will be displayed in America exclusively and for a limited time only at the Titanic Museum Attractions, first in Pigeon Forge, TN from May 23 to July 27 and in Branson, MO from August 1 to August 15.

The band and their courageous act of continuing to play “Nearer My God To Thee” in the midst of the frantic and hectic activity taking place all around them as the doomed ship gradually sank into her frigid watery grave was described by one newspaper at the time as an act that “Will rank among the noblest in the annals of heroism at sea“ and has played a pivotal role in the memory of that horrific night in books, movies and other depictions of the event. News accounts indicate that Hartley’s body was found floating 10 days after the sinking with his violin in his leather valise, with some jewelry, strapped to his chest above his life vest.

There is general agreement that it was returned to Maria Robinson, who was Hartley’s fiancée and had given it to him in 1910 when they became engaged. Reports indicate that after her death in 1939 the violin was given to “a Major Renwick of the Bridlington Salvation Army” who then gave it to a violin teacher who gave it to the mother of the current owner, in whose family it has been in for the last 70 years, many of them in an attic, until it was discovered by her son in 2006 when he found it in a leather case with the initials “WHH” engraved on it.

He, while remaining anonymous, turned it over to the auction house of Henry Aldridge and Son of Wiltshire, England, because of their expertise in dealing with Titanic artifacts and memorabilia, for authenticity. That process has taken a number of years and involved both extensive forensic testing of the violin and its silver engraved plate reading “For Wallace on the occasion of our engagement from Maria” as well as the examination of a trail of documentary evidence.

The results have led experts to much the same conclusion as that expressed by Craig Sopin, owner of one of the largest private Titanic collections of artifacts and memorabilia. He said, “To say that I was skeptical at first would be an understatement. But after I conducted an exhaustively detailed investigation into the history and forensics of the instrument, I became convinced beyond a doubt that this violin belonged to Wallace Hartley and that is was with him on the Titanic.”

John Joslyn, the owner of Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge, TN and Branson, MO said, “After careful review of all the facts, we agree with the experts that this violin belonged to Wallace Hartley, bandleader on RMS Titanic. We’re honored our museums are the only two in the United States to display this important artifact and share the Wallace Hartley story.”

After the violin’s final American display at the Branson Titanic Museum Attraction from August 1 through August 15 it is scheduled to travel back to England for auction by Henry Aldridge and Son on Saturday, Oct. 19. Due to this historical exhibit, for the first time the museum will host a special VIP preview at 8:30 a.m. everyday starting, in Branson, on August 1 which will be limited to 25 people per day. Regular admission tickets will begin daily at 9 a.m. Reservations are required for all tickets and may be purchased through the Branson Tourism Center by calling 800 785-1550or through its website, www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Celine Dion as portrayed by Legends in Concert Tribute Star Brigitte Valdez aboard "Branson's Titanic."

BRANSON, MO, May 17, 2013 — Congratulations to ‘Legends in Concert’ as it celebrates its 30^th year of their unique tribute recreations of legendary superstar performers incorporating the voice, mannerisms and looks of the star being recreated into a unique entertainment experience.” Johnson’s congratulations came in conjunction with the Branson’s Legends in Concert announcing their all new summer lineup.

“Beginning May 23^rd, see tribute performances to Celine Dion, The Temptations, Johnny Cash, The Blues Brothers™ and Elvis Presley. This incredible cast, backed by the beautiful Legends dancers and fabulous Legends band, is sure to rock the house at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater!  Experience country classics from the ‘Man in Black’, Johnny Cash; hear the beautiful voice of Celine Dion performing hits such as the theme song from Titanic; listen to your favorite Motown hits by the incomparable Temptations and, of course, no Legends show would be complete without the crazy antics of The Blues Brothers™; and the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley!”

Johnson points out that over the last 30 years “Legends in Concert,” has been “widely recognized in the entertainment industry as the original celebrity tribute show…has not only performed throughout the United States, but traveled to 15 countries on 5 continents, entertaining more than 25 million fans. It currently operates numerous fixed-based, touring, limited-term and private engagements of ‘Legends’ throughout the world. In addition to Las Vegas, ‘Legends’ is presented year-round in numerous cities including Myrtle Beach, S.C., Atlantic City, N.J., Foxwoods, CT; Waikiki, HI” and of course Branson, MO.

For tickets or additional information on Legends in Concert or for any of Branson’s other 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.

Rankin Brothers, Matt, left and Mark performing "The Anchor Holds."

BRANSON, MO, May 14, 2013 – In a previous review of this show I said, “One does not just ‘see’ the Rankin Brothers Show they experience it and what a wonderful experience it is. From beginning to end it is a wonderful musical journey through the classic music hits and super stars of the 50s through the 90s. It will bring back memories to those who actually heard the music in real time and create new memories for a generation that was not even born when this timeless music was first performed.” Those words were true when I wrote them for the first time and, after seeing the show the evening of May 10, all I can say is “Ditto!.”

From their full cast opening number of Neil Diamond’s 1966 hit “Cherry, Cherry” to their finale, Chuck Berry’s 1958 rock and roll hit, “Johnny B. Goode” the Rankin Brothers Classic Music Revue is a non-stop musical entertainment extravaganza presented by some of the most talented, energetic and “audience personable” vocalists and instrumentalists in Branson. And it’s more than just talent; during the two plus hours that the show runs, as the cast performs over 50 numbers, it is obvious to the audience that they love not only doing what they do, but the music they are performing. It was interesting to watch the audience reaction as people who were not even born when many of these songs were popular seem to “catch” and share the excitement, fun and emotion of Mark, Matt and the rest of the cast. It makes for a very special, fun filled and entertaining experience.

Matt Rankin performing during Buddy Holly medley.

Although, if you closed your eyes and just listened to many of the songs being performed you would swear that you were hearing the original artists, the show is not a “recreation” show like the “Legends of Concert.” It is more a “replication” of the classic songs “the way you remember hearing them.” As one who heard a number of these performers and groups “real-time” during the height of their careers, I can attest to the fact that it is that and much more. And it gets better because in a number of songs, quite a few as a matter of fact, that sound is enhanced by the “appearance” of the performer themselves such as, among others, “Sonny and Cher,” Mark Rankin and Lori Kelley; “Elvis,” Mark Rankin; “Buddy Holly,” Matt Rankin and many more which adds variety, excitement and, in some cases, a little comedy to an already excellent show

The set, costuming and the use of full screen videos in the background and on the sides all add to the overall entertainment experience, but it is the musical performances that touch the heart and provide the wonderful memories and experience that is the Rankin Brothers show. The show’s stars, Matt and Mark Rankin are two of the most talented vocalists and guitar players in Branson both on their own and from a “replication” stand point. Whether it’s a duet performance of the inspirational “The Anchor Holds;” Matt’s performance of “Buddy Holly,” Mark’s tribute to “Elvis Presley” based on his “Aloha From Hawaii” concert or any of the dozens of other numbers they perform it is easy to see why they have won so many Branson awards and are so popular with their fans.

The casts two female vocalists, the very beautiful and talented Lori Kelly and Amy Cofer make up the “Rankinettes” who are not only the backup singers on the majority of the numbers, but perform solos throughout the show. They sing as beautifully as they are beautiful and their voices and infectious energy makes an already wonderful entertainment experience even more so. Add to that a live band composed of Cody Titus, Keys; Jim Murphy, Saxophone and Keys; Mitch Keirsey, Lead Guitar; Paul Stephans, Bass and Harmonica and Jeremy Castaldo, Drums and things just keep getting better.

Full vocal cast performing a beautiful renditon of "Shenandoah," with Lori Kelly, left, Matt Rankin, Mark Rankin and Amy Coffer.

If I were to pick some of my favorite numbers from among the many in the show, I would have to start with the all cast presentation of the American folk classic, “Shenandoah;” it was simply beautiful. On an individual basis Matt’s performance of “Peggy Sue” during his Buddy Holly Tribute brought back some wonderful memories and Marks performance of “My Way” during the “Elvis Presley Tribute” was wonderfully done. Lori Kelly did a great job with the Bette Midler song, “The Rose” as did Amy Cofer with the Chordettes 1958 hit “Lollipop.” The inspirational and emotional performance of the “The Anchor Holds” by Mark and Matt has become a signature number for the Rankin Brother’s and, once you have experienced their powerful and heartfelt performance of the song you will know why.

I can think of no better way to end a review on this show than by echoing the words of one person who saw the show recently and said, “Simply put, their show was great before, but even better this year. Way to go, Rankin Brothers and Rankinettes!” Yes indeed, “Way to Go,” what a great show.

For additional information or tickets for the Rankin Brothers Show or any of Branson’s other shows, attractions and activities 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.

Material Connection

Presleys' Country Jubilee comedian "Herkimer," Gary Presley, in the red shirt and his son "Cecil," Eric Presley with the white shirt and red tie, during one of their routines.

BRANSON, MO, May 11, 2013 – Ever since 1991 when the CBS Prime Time news show “60 minutes” called Branson “The live music capital of the entire universe” Branson’s reputation for the quality, quantity and variety of its music shows has blossomed and grown. Along with its music shows however Branson offers a variety of other types of shows such as the skill and grace of the Acrobats of China, the world class magic and ventriloquism of the Hamner and Barber Varity Show or the fun and excitement of a game show like the Price Is Right Live to mention a few.

Ever since the Baldknobbers “started it all,” comedy has been a part of most Branson shows. The paradigm established by the Branson earliest pioneer shows, the Baldknobbers Jamboree and Presleys’ Country Music Jubilee, of having heavy coordinated musical and comedy elements throughout the show, has served Branson shows well.

Branson is full of great comedians and has even more who come in for limited engagement throughout the year. However, for this article we are going to take a look at the different comedy styles from two Branson shows that not only follow that paradigm, but have hilarious comedians who are masters of their craft. In addition, although both shows remain true to their country roots they offer a variety of music presented by some of the best vocalists in Branson, live bands and are open for the full Branson season.

Gary Presley, or “Herkimer” as he is known on stage, from Presleys’ Country Jubilee helped establish the paradigm and has been entertaining Branson audiences ever since the Presleys’ opened the first theatre on what is now known as “The Branson Strip in 1967. His combination of Ozark hillbilly dress and humor delivered in the form of one liners, jokes and comedy skits with some great props, special effects and working current events and interests into his routines has made him one of Branson’s funniest men for decades. Factor in the extremely funny antics of his son, Erik, “Cecil” on stage, and some of his action routines and you have a creative comedy duo that keeps their audience laughing and wondering about what they will come up with next.

Straight man, Bobby Blackburn, and Animal Control Officer Ray Bees a.k.a. Jarrett Dougherty

Jarrett Dougherty of the Pierce Arrow Show, is another very funny man who will have you laughing from the beginning to the end of the show with his comedy. His style is one of using different characters in his comedy and wow, is he good at it. “This year Dougherty starts the show with a new character, the funniest Animal Control Officer you will ever meet, Ray Bees who is in search of a snake that has escaped from the new Promised Land Zoo being built just east of the theatre. From there, the laughs just keep coming as he makes just about the whole cast, with special emphasis on Band Leader Bobby Blackburn, “his straight man,” as his hilarious comedic journey, among other places, takes the audience to the bible, the demise of the snake and the most beautiful, funny and unforgettable version of the Nat King Cole classic “Unforgettable” you will ever experience.”

This writer has sat in the audience at both of these shows and observed the reaction of children in the audience. They seem to be having love these guys and the color and variety that add to the musical element of the show as they laugh along with their parents at their antics and humor.

For additional information on any of the shows mentioned in this article 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.

Material Connection

Rhonda Vincent, described by the Wall Street Journal as "the Queen of Bluegrass," and her band "The Rage" will be performing at the festival.

BRANSON, Mo., May 9, 2013 — The smell of Ozark style cooking and the sound of people having fun are a routine part of a day at Silver Dollar City (SDC), but when those smells take on a BBQ aroma and the music has a distinctly bluegrass sound it can only mean one thing, it’s time for Silver Dollar City’s Bluegrass & BBQ Festival which will run through Memorial Day, May 27 and has been recognized by the “International Bluegrass Music Association” having received its “Bluegrass Event of the Year” award.

“What a combination of fun, excitement, music and food,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. She said that the festival activities are in addition to everything one expects from the 1880s styled award winning theme park such as 30 rides and attractions, including its new world breaking wooden coaster “Outlaw Run,” with its initial 162 foot 81 degree drop; dozens of demonstrating craftsmen; unique shopping and great live shows and entertainment. “When coupled with hundreds of performances by some of the best Bluegrass groups and artists in the country and the opportunity to taste just some of the finest BBQ and sauces around there’s simply no other experience like it anywhere,” she added.

The Bluegrass portion of the festival will include “more than 40 bands and hundreds of performances, from international award-winning musicians to the hottest new bands in bluegrass today.” These include Rhonda Vincent and her band “The Rage, ” as well as “the Grammy-nominated Grascals; Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, 6-time IBMA Vocal Group of the Year winners; Blue Highway, the IBMA Vocal Group of the Year; the Boxcars, featuring 9-time IBMA Mandolin Player of the Year and 5-time Grammy winner Adam Steffey; and the Gibson Brothers, winner of the 2012 IBMA Entertainer of the Year and up-and-coming bands in bluegrass, such as The Bankesters, the Snyder Family Band, the Hillbenders, Monroeville and more.” In addition there will be two national Bluegrass competitions, The Youth In Bluegrass Band Competition on May 25 featuring “amateur bluegrass musicians 21 years of age or younger” and the 7th Annual National Single Mic Championship” on May 18 which “highlights the performance skills” of each band as they perform “around a single microphone and balances their sound by moving toward or away from the microphone.”

The “BBQ” part of the festival includes the cooking and serving of thousands of  pounds of mouth watering BBQ prepared on “large outdoor charcoal grills and a custom-made 9-foot smoker.” In addition to Silver Dollar City’s famous flavor feast with “St. Louis ribs and smoked chicken to Texas brisket and sweet roasted corn on the cob” to the “all you-can-eat BBQ rib feast each afternoon” the flavors of two award winning BBQs, “Hawgwild BBQ” out of Aurora, Missouri and “Dickey’s Barbecue Pit” from Texas will also be featured. Guests will be able to sample over 100 different BBQ sauces including Silver Dollar City’s new Outlaw Run Zesty Honey sauce with a kick. The festivals BBQ offerings are in addition to the excellent food service normally available throughout the park.

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson also points out that those purchasing their Silver Dollar City tickets through the Branson Tourism Center will receive a two day pass for the price of a one day pass. For additional information or tickets for Silver Dollar City, any of its festivals or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Material Connection

Michael Haygood performing in the the one of a kind eclectic suit he made to honor Iron Man.

BRANSON, MO, May 5, 2013 — Tens of thousands are discovering on You Tube what millions of Branson visitors have discovered over the years. When it comes to great entertainment, continual innovation in music, special effects and the use of technology and energy it’s hard to get ahead of the Haygoods in Branson or anywhere else for that matter.

Michael Haygood, of the Haygoods, is a huge Iron Man Fan and had been building a unique one of a type suit in hopes of getting invited to the Hollywood premier of “Iron Man 3″ on May 3, but did not have it ready on time and it’s no wonder. According to recent information released on the suit it has hundreds of LED lights, and its music, Black Sabbath’s song “Iron Man” has 77 computer cues. Haygood said, “It started as just a small idea,” and has taken four months of programming, soldering, and work “until we got it like this.”

Although he did not make it to Hollywood for their premier performance, but to the delight of those attending the midnight showing of “Iron Man 3″ he did perform at the Branson IMAX on May 2 just prior to the midnight showing of the movie. Haygood said, “I never thought in a million years, that people would care about my nerdy little project.” As of this writing almost 97,000 people have viewed the You Tube video of Haygood performing in the suit Kid builds Iron Man 3 light suit and LED guitar!…

Haygood indicates that the suit and performance will be incorporated into their show saying that they would probably end up with four or five of the suits and do an Iron Man-esque kind of light show “that’s just going to blow people away.” Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center, the seller of well over 3 million Branson show and attraction tickets, offered congratulations on the completion of the project and the success of the video on You Tube.

She said, “We advertise ‘The Haygood family recipe for success: raw talent showcased on over 20 different instruments, melodic sibling voices, and the group’s effervescent energy combined with a passion for putting on a top-notch show, every time’ and that, coupled with this kind of continual flexibility, passion, and innovation, is what makes the Haygoods one of the most popular and well received shows that we sell.”

Material Connection

Whether its the unique Gazebo Inn located in the center of the famed Branson Strip, the...

BRANSON, MO, April 30, 2013 — When traveling away from home where do most days start and end? For most travelers that will usually be in their destination hotel, motel, condo, resort or other place of lodging and it makes no difference whether the travel is for business or vacation. One thing is generally certain however, the choice of lodging impacts, one way or the other, on the total enjoyment of the travel experience.

The impact when one is traveling alone or on business is one thing, but it is entirely of an different magnitude while traveling with your family on vacation. in terms of the total vacation experience, the selection of vacation lodging can be as important as the selection of the destination itself and the activities to be enjoyed.

When traveling to Branson, from lakes to live shows, attractions, shopping and so many other activities, there is not only an overwhelming choice of things to do, but of places to stay. From a secluded, but close to the strip Bed and Breakfast like the Bradford House Bed and Breakfast to the unique quaint Gazebo Hotel located right in the center of the famed Branson Strip and the “AAA Four Diamond ranked” Branson Hilton Convention Center Hotel, Branson has a choice of lodging that is amazing.

the AAA Four Diamond ranked Branson Hilton Convention Center or the...

Whether one wants a condo with all the amenities on a golf course, such as Thousand Hills or Pointe Royale; a lakeside resort like Stillwaters Resorts on Table Rock Lake or a hotel right on Branson Landing such as the Hilton Promanade there is a lodging choice that is perfect for just about every interest and budget. From luxury hotels, national hotel and motel chains like La Qunita Inn and unique locally owned and managed lodging facilities Branson has the ideal accommodations to meet just about every lodging and budget and need.

The Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services offers two convenient ways for prospective Branson visitors to select the perfect lodging for their vacation. The first is to call BTC at its toll free number 1-800-785-1550 and talk with one of their trained Branson based Travel Planners. They are available from 8 AM to 9 PM seven days a week every day of the year except Christmas and will be delighted to discuss Branson lodging options as well as shows, attractions and other Branson activities. There is no charge for this personal service. In fact, if lodging is “packaged” with show and attraction tickets it can actually save money.

serenity of the Bradford House Bread & Breakfast, Branson offers an amazing selection of lodging.

Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center said, “BTC’s unique approach of combining the internet with a free ‘concierge’ type of personal service should go a long way towards ensuring that Branson guests get exactly the type of Branson lodging that will an integral part of an overall great Branson experience.” Johnson also suggests that for the best availability and pricing, the earlier arrangements and reservations are made, the better.

One thing is a near certainty; the travel experience you have in Branson, or anywhere else, will be directly influenced by your lodging choice. With a little preplanning that influence can be a positive part of a pleasant, enjoyable and memorable travel experience.

Disclosure of Material Connection

Barry Williams with Missouri Walk of Fame Star

BRANSON, MO, April 30, 2013 — “Another well deserved honor for Barry Williams,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center after hearing of his induction into the Missouri Walk of Fame in Marshfield, Missouri on April 26 during its Cherry Blossom Festival. Johnson points out that Williams, perhaps best known for his performance as Greg Brady on the hit prime time TV series, The Brady Bunch, is in his third year of performing in Branson and is starring in a new show this year, 70′s Music Celebration Starring Barry Williams.

The show is a high energy, multimedia production full of “disco, folk and classic rock songs featuring the music and comedy of the 70s staring Williams. It features a live band and dancers as Williams uses his personal experiences and some of the greatest music of the 70s from Elton John, The Eagles and The Bee Gees to take the audience “on a nostalgic trip through the grooviest decade.” It is “a spectacular ‘Dy-no-mite’ trip back through this colorful era in a ‘Far out’ and ‘Outta sight’ kind of way that is perfect for all ages.”

Williams, who was born in Santa Monica California, has been performing in Branson for the last three years and has made Branson his permanent residence. The Missouri Walk of Fame is Missouri’s version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Each year “the walk” honors famous Missourians and a star is unveiled during Marshfield’s annual Cherry Blossom Festival which has been celebrated since 2006.

Williams has had an extensive career starring in hundreds of television shows and over 85 productions of Broadway Musicals including appearances on several television shows such as Dragnet, Adam-12, The Invaders, That Girl, Mission: Impossible and others before landing his role as Greg Brady on The Brady Bunch. Williams has also been involved in musical theater, touring with Pippin, Music Man, City of Angels, The Sound of Music, West Side Story and others. In 1988, he appeared on Broadway in Romance/Romance.” This versatile performer “has been a DJ on satellites’ Sirius Radio, has recorded several live CD’s and recently, starred in a 2013 Sci-Fi made for television movie Bigfoot with Danny Bonaduce and Sheryln Fenn.

For additional information on the 70′s Music Celebration Starring Barry Williams or for information or tickets for any of Branson’s shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please feel free to 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.

Another way to get information is to visit the Shows Forum of Branson’s oldest and biggest Information Board 1Branson.Com to see what other people who have attended a particular show thought of it. Here are three such reviews on shows that people have visited within the last 30 days. The link under the show title will take you to the specific Branson Tourism Center Branson Show Listing where additional information is available. The “name” in bold type preceding the review is the screen name of the poster.

Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express

rjw1991A1 – “I spent my birthday evening last Thursday enjoying Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express. What a great choice. It’s hard to believe that a show so good can actually get better every time I see it. But with the talent of the entire cast, and the amazing audience interaction of Clay Cooper, it does. The range of music is terrific. From classic country to new country, and gospel. In addition to some great rock and pop, and a very moving patriotic song, written by Clay’s wife Tina, it has great entertainment for anyone. Great dance numbers by the Country Music Express Dancers led by Tina, comedy by Matt Gumm, and Clay’s son Colton, and one of the most talented bands in Branson. The amazing little Ezrah Noell is another high point of entertainment as well…

“If I would give anybody a recommendation for a Branson show I would say Clay Cooper must be on their list. In fact I would say that If you are limited by time, or budget to only one show, you can’t go wrong with Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express being that one show!”

Rankin Brothers

leftsaidted – OK, been waiting for someone to comment on the revamped for 2013 Rankin Brothers show at the Clay Cooper theater. NO one has yet, so guess I will.

So probably most people who have seen the Rankin Brothers over the last few years would agree that it has been one of Branson’s top shows, year after year. But they have really improved it for 2013, in my opinion. There are probably not a half dozen songs from their past show, the vast majority of songs are new and fresh.

Matt and Mark are in top form this year, no doubt energized by the new song performances. And the “Rankinettes, Lori and Amy, are even better than before, and somehow more beautiful, if you can believe it possible. Again, their song choices are new also. The quick change hat/beard/hair routine that Mark does is, new and very entertaining and comical at times, along with a revamped, albeit shortened, Elvis routine. To wrap this up, simply put, their show was great before, but even better this year. Way to go, Rankin Brothers and Rankinettes!

it at the Hughes Brothers Theatre

Nicola – We went to see “It” last Wednesday night at the Hughes Brothers Theater. We booked the day before and got second row center seating, so I’m not sure if it was just a quiet week or if we simply got lucky. We attended with two folks in their late 60s, myself (37), and my son (9). We all LOVED this show, start to finish. There was something for everyone. The guys were SO energetic and talented. The music was amazing, the comedy was hilarious, and the show just kept on moving forward. It started at 8pm and finished somewhere around 10:30. We were shocked at how quickly the time had passed. I loved the fact that they introduced their (huge!) families and brought that wholesome Branson feel to the show. For my parents, visiting from Southern CA, this was quite unique! The show was well-rounded with everything from country to pop to oldies to show tunes to patriotic fare to good old favorite hymns. I would not hesitate to go and see this show again — something that I’ve never done yet in Branson (discounting the Stampede which isn’t quite the same). I’ve already told my husband that we’re booking to see their Christmas show when we’re down for our annual Thanksgiving trip this year. Hopefully it shines as brightly as “It”.

For additional information on the shows mentioned in this article or for 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 for assistance by calling 1-800-785-1550 or through its website, www.BransonTourismCenter.com

Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express

rjw1991A1 – “I spent my birthday evening last Thursday enjoying Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express. What a great choice. It’s hard to believe that a show so good can actually get better every time I see it. But with the talent of the entire cast, and the amazing audience interaction of Clay Cooper, it does. The range of music is terrific. From classic country to new country, and gospel. In addition to some great rock and pop, and a very moving patriotic song, written by Clay’s wife Tina, it has great entertainment for anyone. Great dance numbers by the Country Music Express Dancers led by Tina, comedy by Matt Gumm, and Clay’s son Colton, and one of the most talented bands in Branson. The amazing little Ezrah Noell is another high point of entertainment as well…

“If I would give anybody a recommendation for a Branson show I would say Clay Cooper must be on their list. In fact I would say that If you are limited by time, or budget to only one show, you can’t go wrong with Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express being that one show!”

Rankin Brothers

leftsaidted – OK, been waiting for someone to comment on the revamped for 2013 Rankin Brothers show at the Clay Cooper theater. NO one has yet, so guess I will.

So probably most people who have seen the Rankin Brothers over the last few years would agree that it has been one of Branson’s top shows, year after year. But they have really improved it for 2013, in my opinion. There are probably not a half dozen songs from their past show, the vast majority of songs are new and fresh.

Matt and Mark are in top form this year, no doubt energized by the new song performances. And the “Rankinettes, Lori and Amy, are even better than before, and somehow more beautiful, if you can believe it possible. Again, their song choices are new also. The quick change hat/beard/hair routine that Mark does is, new and very entertaining and comical at times, along with a revamped, albeit shortened, Elvis routine. To wrap this up, simply put, their show was great before, but even better this year. Way to go, Rankin Brothers and Rankinettes!

it at the Hughes Brothers Theatre

Nicola – We went to see “It” last Wednesday night at the Hughes Brothers Theater. We booked the day before and got second row center seating, so I’m not sure if it was just a quiet week or if we simply got lucky. We attended with two folks in their late 60s, myself (37), and my son (9). We all LOVED this show, start to finish. There was something for everyone. The guys were SO energetic and talented. The music was amazing, the comedy was hilarious, and the show just kept on moving forward. It started at 8pm and finished somewhere around 10:30. We were shocked at how quickly the time had passed. I loved the fact that they introduced their (huge!) families and brought that wholesome Branson feel to the show. For my parents, visiting from Southern CA, this was quite unique! The show was well-rounded with everything from country to pop to oldies to show tunes to patriotic fare to good old favorite hymns. I would not hesitate to go and see this show again — something that I’ve never done yet in Branson (discounting the Stampede which isn’t quite the same). I’ve already told my husband that we’re booking to see their Christmas show when we’re down for our annual Thanksgiving trip this year. Hopefully it shines as brightly as “It”.

For additional information on the shows mentioned in this article or for 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 for assistance by calling 1-800-785-1550 or through its website, www.BransonTourismCenter.com

"Outlaw Run's" record setting 162 foot 81 degree first drop.

BRANSON, MO, April 20, 2013 — With the addition of the spectacular world record setting “Outlaw Run” wooden coaster to its world class coaster repertoire, Silver Dollar City has to be a coaster riders dream come true,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. In addition to everything else the 1880′s styled theme park offers on a day to day basis, the opening of “Outlaw Run” gives SDC five unique coasters of which four are exciting world class coaster experiences and the fifth is the most unique and entertaining coaster ride in existence,” she added.

Silver Dollar City’s five coasters along with temperature requirements to operate and minimum height restrictions for riders are:

“Outlaw Run” is the $10 million first-of-its-kind ride” that sets several world firsts for wood coasters. Its “record-breaking 3 inversions, with a 720-degree (double) barrel roll and a 153-degree outside banked turn” and its initial 162 foot 81 degree drop is a world first for a wood coaster. At speeds of up to 68 miles per hour, as it takes riders on a 2,937 foot ride in just 1 minute and 27 seconds. Outlaw Run does not operate if the temperatures are 37 degrees or below and has a minimum height requirement of 48 inches for riders.

Silver Dollar City's iconic Wildfire metal coaster.

“WildFire ®” is SDC’s iconic coaster that provides a world class coaster experience and, if one has time to appreciate it, a fantastic view of the Ozarks and Table Rock Lake. Traveling at speeds up to 66 MPH the cobra-rolling coaster incorporates high-speed spiral, a full loop with its five inversions, a vertical drop of 15 stories and corkscrew into one of the most exciting coaster rides anywhere. It does not operate if temperatures are 40 degrees F or below and the minimum height requirement is 52 inches.

“PowderKeg ® ” is a compressed air-launch coaster that accelerates from the “Powder House” going from 0 to 53 MPH in just 2.8 seconds. Its initial 110 foot drop sends riders through spiraling turns and trees at speeds up to 64 MPH exposing them to negative “G” forces on their exciting 3,500 foot journey back to the Powder House. PowderKeg ® does not operate if temperatures are 40 degrees F or below. The minimum height requirement is 42 inches . To ride unaccompanied riders must be 48 inches tall, but those between 42 and 48 inches may only ride with a ” supervising companion at least 16 years old who also meets all ride requirements.”

“Thunderation” is themed as a runaway mine train. It is a high-speed coaster that takes its riders 121 feet into the air as it sends them on a scenic view of the Ozarks at speeds up to 48 MPH before a spiraling drop and trip through an underground tunnel returning to its starting point. Thunderation does not operate if temperatures are 38 degrees F or below. Its minimum height requirement is 42 inches. To ride unaccompanied riders must be 48 inches tall, but those between 42 and 48 inches may only ride with a ” supervising companion at least 16 years old who also meets all ride requirements.”

“Fire-In-The-Hole” is the parks oldest coaster and has been a favorite of families for decades. It’s a unique indoor coaster taking its riders on a night time trip through an Ozarks town that has been set on fire by the infamous “Baldknobbers. It’s a ride filled with adventure, high-speed drops and an exciting ending that shows why the ride is called, “”Fire-In-The-Hole.” The minimum height requirement is 36 inches, but those between 36 and 42 inches may only ride with a ” supervising companion at least 16 years old who also meets all ride requirements.”

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson reminds those interested in going to Silver Dollar City that when they purchase their ticket from the Branson Tourism Center they get two days at the park for the price of one which is quite a savings. For additional information or tickets for Silver Dollar City or any of Branson’s other 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 either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.