Category Archives: Branson Shows

KidsFest, Peter Pan and pixie dust mean more fun for kids in Branson

Cathy Rigby in her roll as Peter Pan.*

Please Note this article is from 2010 and is here for archival purposes only.

“On a daily basis, Branson has an amazing number of attractions and fun things for kids and families to do” said Paul Miller, General Manager of the Branson Tourism Center. In terms of Branson’s normal attractions and activities for kids and families there is everything from its lakes and all they offer; to the international award winning 1880s theme park Silver Dollar City; two million gallons of cooling wet fun offered by White Water with its seven story “Kalani Tower” multiple lane water slide; golf, miniature golf, go karts, water boats and just about every other fun thing imaginable from zip lines to bungee jumping.

Miller said, “KidsFest, one of the biggest festivals of the year for Silver Dollar City is currently going on and will run until August 8.” In addition to the rides, shows, crafts and everything else there is to do at Silver Dollar City there are additional KidsFest activities and entertainment such as the magic of Peter Gossamer, Sponge Bob, VeggieTales stunt dogs and much more. “The plate of fun in Branson is so overflowing it’s hard to imagine being able to fit anything else on it,” he said, “but sprinkle it with a little pixie dust and anything is possible.”

“What goes better with pixie dust than the adventures of the boy who can magically fly and never grows old?” Miller asks. The story of Peter Pan has been told in many ways since the Scottish novelist J. M. Barrie created him and holds a special fascination for children of all ages. The presentation of “Peter Pan,” staring Kathy Rigby, opening for a limited engagement in Branson on July 6 and running through August 15 is a world class production filled with excitement, beautiful sets and action as she flies above the stage, takes the audience into the magical world of Peter Pan and shares not only the magical pixie dust, but the joy, adventure and magic of Peter Pan..

Miller believes that Peter Pan provides a wonderful entertainment experience for families to share together and points out the show received excellent reviews during its 2009 engagement. One reviewer, in a review entitled “Peter Pan..What a Show!!” posted on the “Show Forum” of 1Branson.Com said, “I ventured into Neverland last night and came home changed forever OK, that may be a bit of a stretch, but we did have to comb the pixy dust out of our hair. Peter Pan is everything you would expect from a professional Broadway production. Fantastic performances from the entire cast, great set work, superb special effects including flying like you’ll never see anywhere else…. it’s a definite 5 Star production”

Miller continues, “July is one of the most popular times of the year in Branson for families.” He suggests making advance reservations for Peter Pan and lodging to insure not only availability, but the best seats and accommodations. He recommends contacting the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most trusted vacation planning services by calling either their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

* Photo courtesy of McCoyRigby.com

Branson Tourism Center celebrates seven years of sharing its passion for Branson

Whether is a ride on Silver Dollar City's new $7 million dollar RiverBlast Ride or..

How does one of Branson’s biggest and most respected providers of Branson travel services go from selling zero tickets to Branson shows and attractions to beyond two million and counting? “By using the synergy of the amazing people working with us and all that Branson has to offer to provide our customers, one at a time, with the greatest Branson experience possible,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center (BTC). “Our passion at BTC is providing a great Branson experience for our customers that will not only bring them back to Branson, but back to the Branson Tourism Center time and time again.”

Johnson points out that on May 27 the Branson Tourism Center celebrated its seventh birthday. When Lianne Milton, the owner of BTC with her husband Larry, started the company seven years ago, there was a passion for sharing Branson, three employees and the number of tickets sold was zero. A short seven years later, the passion for sharing Branson is, if anything, more intense, BTC has 100 employees and the number of tickets sold is well over the two million ticket mark and rising.

Johnson attributes the success of the BTC to a number of things not the least of which is the passion of BTC, from the top on down, to making sure that every customer has a great Branson experience. Realizing that experience starts with the initial gathering of information on Branson, BTC’s free personal “concierge type” service has the made the gathering of that information as simple as dialing 800-785-1550, toll free, from 7 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. every day of the year except Christmas Day.

or an incredible show like the Acrobats of China, it's all about making sure the Branson guest has a great experience.

or an incredible show like the Acrobats of China, it's all about making sure that Branson's guests have a great Branson experience.

The phone will be answered by a trained BTC Branson Vacation and Reservation Specialist who lives in the Branson area, is familiar with all that Branson has to offer and will be happy to answer any questions prospective Branson visitors may have regardless of whether or not they actually buy tickets, lodging or other services from BTC. In the event the person calling wants to purchase tickets or lodging, the Vacations and Reservation Specialist can make all the arrangements including reservations with absolutely no service charge of any kind.

“In fact,” Johnson states, “because we buy in bulk and pass the savings on to our customers, in many cases, particularly with packages, they actually save money. Our free flagship concierge service, with the personal assistance of our Vacations and Reservation Specialist provides an unequalled level of convenience and service all designed with one thought in mind, help our customers have a great Branson experience.”

She also points out that BTC owns and operates Branson’s first, oldest and the most trafficked Branson website, www.Branson.com and www.BransonTourismCenter.com which provide a wealth of information on Branson, its shows, attractions, shopping, history, current news articles and just about anything else anyone could want to know about Branson. In addition, for those who want to do their own research and make their own reservations on line, BTC also operates www.BransonOnTheWeb.com, a transactional site with one of the best Branson search engines available anywhere to help users get the Branson information they want. Johnson stresses however, that BTC enjoys the reputation it does because of personal service and that personal assistance is no more than a toll free phone call away.

Johnson said that BTC is a member of the Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitors Bureau, Better Business Bureau, American Society of Travel Agents, American Bus Association, and the Branson Lakes Area Lodging Association. It has been a member of the Better Business Bureau of Southwest Missouri since 2003 and enjoys an A+ rating.

As excited as she is about what has happened over the last seven years at the Branson Tourism Center, Johnson says, “It happened one customer at a time by helping them have the best Branson experience possible. That will not change as we move into the future, it is our passion and our privilege.”

Could Branson be the adventure capital of the world?

Kalani Towers is just one of the adventures at White Water.

Many people know that Branson Missouri has so many live shows it is sometimes referred to as “the live music show capital of the world.” Still others know about the fabulous shopping that is available at venues like Branson Landing or the specialty shops in historic downtown Branson and other places throughout Branson, but one has to wonder how many people look at it as an adventure destination. Paul Miller, General Manager of the Branson Tourism Center says, “From one end to the other, day in and day out, Branson is one big adventure.”

With almost a gleam in his eye Miller says, “The term ‘Adventure’ has various definitions one of which is ‘an undertaking involving risks or unknown dangers.’ Another, and the one that applies to the type of adventure Branson offers, is ‘an exciting or remarkable experience.’” He goes on to say, “The ‘adventure’ most families coming to Branson are looking for is to share a special time of fun, newness, and excitement with each other. From that perspective and in terms of its uniqueness, variety of activities, natural beauty and its friendliness, Branson could be the ‘adventure capital’ of the world.”

The Payne Stewart Tribute Course is but one of Branson's many golfing adventures.

Branson has so many live music shows presenting just about every genre of music anyone could want, but Miller points out, the adventure of Branson’s shows transcends just music. Shows such Acrobats of China, Yakov’s Moscow Circus, the magic, comedy and ventriloquism of the Hamner Barber Variety Show, the amazing dinner entertainment experiences provided by the Showboat Branson Belle or Dixie Stampede or a performance of shows such as Cirque Montage provide still a different type of adventure.

Branson provides a golfing experience second to none. From nationally recognized championship courses such as Payne Stewart and Branson Creek to other great courses such as Thousand Hills, Pointe Royale and others, Branson provides golfing adventure and excitement for every level of play from the beginner to the PGA pro.

Not a golfer, how about an adventure on one of Branson’s beautiful lakes such as fishing, swimming or boating on Table Rock Lake with its 43,000 acres and hundreds of miles of shoreline. If fishing is your thing, Branson area lakes provide a unique opportunity to catch lunker Large Mouth and Small Mouth Bass in Table Rock and Bull Shoals Lakes as well as trophy sized Rainbow and Brown Trout all within about five minutes of each other. If you want a watery adventure in a theme park environment, then White Water with its 12 acres and 2 million gallons of wet fun, and 7000 feet of water slides, featuring the seven story Kalani Tower, is for you.

It's hard to top the excitment & adventure of Silver Dollar City's "Wildfire."

Branson largest and oldest attraction, Silver Dollar City, is an 1880’s themed amusement park with over 30 rides, craft demonstrations and shows providing adventure at every turn. From the excitement of its world class coaster “Wildfire” and its newest ride the $7 million Tom & Huck’s RiverBlast to its Grand Exposition Area containing rides that the oldest to the youngest members of the family can share together; Silver Dollar City will provide all the adventure, fun and excitement that most families could ever want.

“And that’s just the highlights of the adventure and excitement that awaits families in Branson,” said Miller. “From attractions such as the Titanic Museum, the Hollywood Wax Museum, Butterfly Palace and Rain Forest Experience, Branson Scenic Railway and Ripley’s Believe It or Not to go carts, miniature golf, hiking, bird watching, helicopter rides, kayaking, Branson’s newest thrill Adventure Zip Lines of Branson and many more activities, Branson has an adventure to share with everyone.”

For additional information or tickets for any of Branson’s shows, attractions and activities or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center, 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.

Why should you bring your family to Branson for their vacation?

Righteous Brother Bill Medley and daughter McKenna Medley performing at the Starlite Theatre in Branson.

Is it Branson’s great shows offering entertainment as diversified as the Amazing Pets, Righteous Brother Bill Medley, Cirque Montage, Paul Revere and the Raiders, Yakov’s Moscow Circus, Pierce Arrow or unique Branson originals such as The Baldknobbers Jamboree and Presleys’ Country Jubilee? Perhaps it’s great amusement parks such as the 1880s themed Silver Dollar City or White Water; museum attractions such as Branson’s Titanic or the Hollywood Wax Museum; pristine lakes such as Table Rock Lake and Lake Taneycomo; golfing; hiking; shopping or any one of the hundreds of other great activities that families can share and do in Branson.

Paul Miller, General Manager of the Branson Tourism Center says, “Those are all excellent reasons why someone should vacation in Branson, but they are just things. It is the experience people have while doing those things that, to paraphrase Silver Dollar City’s words, ‘Have been creating Branson memories worth repeating for over 50 years.’”

As this writer listened to the Righteous Brother Bill Medley sing “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’” during a show recently the words “You’ve lost that lovin’ feeling, Whoa, that lovin’ feeling, You’ve lost that lovin’ feeling, Now it’s gone ..gone ..gone ..wooooooh,” gave him pause to think. He thought, “That’s one of the primary reasons Branson is so successful. When the majority of our visitors leave, in terms of their Branson experience, they know Branson ‘hasn’t lost that lovin’ feeling.’” In fact, that very “lovin’ feeling” becomes an integral part in the memory of their Branson experience and will bring them back again and again.

Much of that “lovin’ feeling” is embodied in “The “Branson Promise,” a formalized statement and commitment from the Branson community to its guests and the communities adherence to that promise. It does two things, provides our visitors with an expectation that transcends things and activities and reminds those of us having the privilege of living and working in these beautiful Ozarks hills and serving our guests of what it is that makes Branson so special.

Among other things it says, “We believe that a vacation is not an escape from reality but a connection to what is real, you, your family, laughter, music, pure fun, and doing the things you really want to do, together…We believe in our American values and celebrate them every day, respect for the individual, patriotism, faith, hope, optimism, family, courage, generosity, and opportunity for all…We’re proud of who we are and where we are going. We’d love to show you around, because we love the ways in which we will surprise you. We’ve found what we want in Branson, and we know you’ll find what you want here too. Our doors are open, come on in.”

Recently, Branson entertainer Mike Grimm, who had only been in Branson for about six months, took leave of the Righteous Brother Bill Medely Show to pursue his dream on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent.” During an interview he was asked what his first memory of Branson was. He replied, “My first memory of Branson is the hospitality and friendliness of everybody. This is God’s country out here, this is America and that’s what I love about it.”

That’s the Branson Promise in action and one of the primary reasons why your family will have a great vacation experience in Branson. As the promise says, “We’ve found what we want in Branson, and we know you’ll find what you want here too.” We believe there is a synergy in to share it with you and your family.

For additional information or tickets for or any of Branson’s 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.

How families can save money going to Branson Shows

Branson's first show on "The Strip" the "Presleys' Country Jubilee" is one of many shows offering "Family Passes."

Even in these challenging economic times, millions of visitors and their families will come to Branson, Missouri because of the vacation synergy generated by its lakes, shows, attractions, shopping, entertainment, many other family activities and value. Paul Miller, General Manager of the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most reputable seller of show and attraction tickets and lodging, said, “According to recent tourism statistics, the vast majority of visitors to Branson see three or more of Branson’s great live shows. Many of those are families.”

Miller points out that most Branson shows provide an exceptional entertainment experience not only in terms of the performance, but price. “Some of Branson’s most popular shows, such as Presleys’ Country Jubilee, Jim Stafford, Pierce Arrow, Yakov’s Moscow Circus, Hamner Barber Variety Show, Duttons, Clay Cooper’s Country Express, Neal McCoy, and the Rankin Brothers to name a few, become even a better value, in terms of price, because they offer “Family Passes” with significant savings. “The challenge,” says Miller, “is to find those theatres that offer “Family Passes” in an efficient manner, especially on the internet.”

Miller said, “Our constant passion at the Branson Tourism Center is helping the customer have a great Branson experience and that experience starts with great customer service. What we call internally, the “Internet Family Pass Identification System” is an extension of that service.”

He said, “Branson Tourism Center operates two major web sites. www.BransonTourismCenter.com, specifically designed to provide free personal one on one assistance and service between potential Branson visitors and a trained Branson Tourism Center Travel Specialist via the 1-800-785-1550 number listed on the website and www.BransonOnTheWeb.com for those who want to make their own online reservations. Both sites use the Internet Family Pass Identification System.”

On www.BransonTourismCenter.com, a list of just those Branson shows offering Family Passes is available by selecting the “Family Pass” link from the top of the Show Schedule page. On www.BransonOnTheWeb.com there is a “Family Pass” filter that can be used with its advanced state of the art search engine to display just those shows offering Family Passes. In terms of the Branson Tourism Center, Miller emphasizes that it has an “A+ Rating” from the Better Business Bureau, there is never any additional service charge of any kind and personal assistance is only an 800 number call away, from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., every day of the year except Christmas.

Miller also points out that it is not uncommon for Branson shows to let small children, generally ages four or less, in for free providing they are sitting on the lap of someone who has purchased a ticket. Miller says that “Cirque Montage” admits all children up to age 16 to the show free with a paid adult admission and others may, at certain times during the year, provide free tickets for children up to ages 17 with the purchase of an adult ticket. Although different theatres and ticket sellers handle the situation in different ways on www.BransonTourismCenter.com and www.BransonOnTheWeb.com the prices will show “Free” for the applicable ages if that is an option a particular show offers. In addition, for those using the free personal service provided by www.BransonTourismCenter.com and its 1-800-785-1550 number, the BTC Travel Specialist will provide that information.

For additional information on Family Passes or discounts for families or children to Branson shows or attractions or any of Branson’s other shows, attractions and activities or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center. BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Why spend Memorial Day Weekend anywhere else but in Branson?

White Water is two million gallons of water fun and excitment for the whole family.

“Every weekend in Branson is special, but there’s just something about Memorial Day Weekend in Branson,” says Paul Miller, General Manager of the Branson Tourism Center. “Perhaps it’s because that’s the long weekend many people associate with the “unofficial” beginning of summer, but one thing is for certain, there is a synergy in the air in Branson that just seems to shout, ‘Let the summer fun begin.’”

What better place than Branson, Missouri for that to happen? Pristine lakes, great fishing, boating, golfing, hiking and access to the natural beauty of the Ozarks, coupled with its live shows, attractions, shopping and activities, make Branson the most unique and one of the most fun filled destinations in the world. Factor in the it’s a long holiday weekend and some of the other exciting things happening that weekend and why would anyone want to be anywhere else but in Branson over Memorial Day Weekend?

While the vast majority of Branson attractions are already open, its biggest water park, “White Water,” opens over Memorial Day Weekend. Featuring “Kalani Towers,” a 7- story, 6- slide, thrill ride, the 12 acre attraction has more than a dozen rides, and 7,000 feet of water slides all set in a tropical theme. From play areas for toddlers to the towering “Kalani Towers” White Water offers more than two million gallons of water excitement and fun for Branson visitors and is a wonderful adventure for all ages and families.

Silver Dollar City, celebrating its 50th Anniversary this season, will be hosting its “Bluegrass and BBQ Festival” featuring succulent BBQ served with a choice of over 100 sauces and great Bluegrass music. The festival includes over 50 Bluegrass bands and groups that will be presenting hundreds of performances of both traditional and contemporary Bluegrass music throughout the park. Over 15 of these groups will be appearing over the Memorial Day Weekend including the last day of “The Grascals,” 2010 SPBGMA Bluegrass Band of the Year, on May 28 and IBMA Hall of Fame Inductee Bobby Osborne and the Rocky Top X-press on May 31.

The father and son team of Herkimer and Cecil provide some of their unique action filled comedy at "Presleys' Country Jubilee."

The Bluegrass and BBQ Festival is in addition to everything else that the 1880s Ozarks theme park is famous for. Its 100 craftsmen demonstrating glass blowing, basket weaving, blacksmithing, pottery, candy making, candle making, and many other crafts; over 30 rides and attractions; 60 unique shops; restaurants and the award winning friendliness of its staff have been “Creating memories worth remembering” for over 50 years.

Miller points out that Branson’s full schedule of live shows features a wide variety of live entertainment for every taste. From the amazing skill and agility of the “Acrobats of China,” to the magic, comedy and ventriloquism of “Hamner and Barber” and the spectacular biblical production “NOAH the Musical,” the majority of Branson’s most popular shows, such as “Jim Stafford,” “Presleys’ Country Jubilee,” “Pierce Arrow,” “SIX,” “Liver Pool Legends,” “Twelve Irish Tenors,” “Broadway the Star Spangled Celebration,” The Spirit of the Dance,” “The “Showboat Branson Belle,” “Duttons,” “Rankin Brothers”, “Haygoods,” “Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express,” “Hughes Brothers, ” “Dixie Stampede,” “The Platters,” “Legends in Concert” and “The Righteous Brother Bill Medley,” will be performing.

“And those are just some of the dozens of regular Branson shows that will be open over the Memorial Day Weekend,” said Miller. He points out that in addition “The Oak Ridge Boys” and “Ronnie Reno and the Cumberland Highlanders” will be performing limited engagement appearances that weekend and that Branson’s unique Polynesian show “Island Fire,” starts its season on May 28.

From lakes, to water parks, Bluegrass, BBQ, attractions, live entertainment and fun for everyone in the family, Branson is the place to spend your Memorial Day Weekend. Miller advises advance reservations for lodging and shows to ensure availability and the best accommodations and seating. For additional information or tickets for any of the shows or attractions mentioned in this article or any of Branson’s other shows, attractions and activities or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. It can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Its historic downtown is a unique part of the Branson experience

In the snow of winter or the heat of summer, Dick's 5 & 10 is just one example of the unique things Historic Downtown Branson has to offer.

“Many downtown areas are a shell of what they used to be,” says Paul Miller, General Manager of the Branson Tourism Center, “but historic downtown Branson is alive and vibrant. It has history, shows, restaurants, shopping and attractions and is truly the place ‘where it all started.’”

The Mabe family and their “Baldknobbers Jamboree,” Branson’s first show, is credited as being the “show that started it all.” They first performed in a small rented space in a civic building located behind the historic Owens Theatre in 1959 and now, 51 years later, the rest is history. The only buildings to survive the 1912 fire that virtually destroyed Branson’s downtown district within months after it became a city, the grave of the man it is named after and it’s oldest free standing commercial building are also located in historic downtown Branson.

Interestingly, Branson’s first show started its performances behind Branson’s first theatre, the “Owen Theatre,” built in 1936 by Jim Owen, a local float trip operator on the White River, to provide entertainment for the fishermen when they weren’t fishing. It was originally called the “Hillbilly Theatre” and, although originally a movie theatre, is considered Branson’s first “theatre,” movie or otherwise. Its distinctive architecture and beautiful interior stone walls make it one of the most unique buildings in Branson.

Miller goes on to point out that the term “Elvis is in the building” takes on new meaning in historic downtown Branson with two “Elvis” shows right across the street from one another. Dave Ehlert is currently performing “Elvis and the Superstars” in the “Hot Hits Theatre.” He has been performing the show in Branson for 16 seasons with one hour of his show devoted to “Elvis.”

The Kyle Hall family has completely remodeled and restored the historic Owens Theatre right across the street and it is the venue of Branson’s newest Elvis show, “Joseph Hall Presents Eras of the King.” Hall has placed in the top ten of the “Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest,” since its inception in 2007, had a top ten finish on “NBC’s America’s Got Talent” in 2008 and is officially recognized by “Elvis Presley Enterprises.” It is two hours of nonstop Elvis, one number after another covering all the eras of “Elvis’ career.

Historic downtown Branson has a variety of restaurants from Thai to good old fashioned Ozarks café cooking. “In fact,” Miller says, “Branson’s oldest cafes and restaurants are located in historic downtown Branson within a block of each other including the “Branson Café,” “Farm House,” “Clocker’s and “The Shack.” Also located within the historic downtown district is Thai Thai Cuisine,” “Bleu Olive Mediterranean Grille & Bar,” “Rocky’s Italian Restaurant” and Branson’s newest upscale restaurant, the “Level 2 Steakhouse,” located in the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel.

In terms of shopping, historic downtown Branson has too many opportunities to mention by name, but suffice it to say from the working art studio of noted outdoor and wildlife artist T. Morgan Crain to the unique merchandise of specialty shops such as “Branson Bills Emporium” and the beads of the “Plum Bazaar,” a shopping experience in Historic Downtown Branson is unique and special.

“Dick’s 5 & 10” is not only a one of a kind shopping experience harking back to the old time “5 & 10” stores, but is also one of Branson’s most popular attractions. It’s wide selection of varied merchandise has led some to say, “If you can’t find it at Dick’s you don’t need it.” Historic Downtown Branson also has a horse and carriage ride, a free “Discovery Trolley” that runs through the historic downtown area to Branson Landing and along the Lake Taneycomo Lakefront and the Branson Scenic Railway offering scenic excursions throughout the beautiful Ozark area surrounding Branson.

Keeping Branson’s history and heritage alive is an inherent part of doing business in Historic Downtown Branson. Among other things, Historic Downtown Branson sponsors a number of festivals and events throughout the year. The “37th Annual Plumb Nellie Arts & Crafts Festival,” featuring 200 crafters exhibiting their work, demonstrations, seminars entertainment and special sales by downtown merchants will be held in historic downtown Branson May 21st through the 23rd. Click here for a full schedule of the various events and festivals sponsored Historic Downtown Branson.

In terms of its history and heritage, historic downtown Branson is “The Heart of Branson.” In terms of having fun and sharing in a special unique experience, historic downtown Branson has it all and has it all within walking distance of each other.

For further information on historic downtown Branson or its events please call Historic Downtown Branson at 417-334-1358 or visit their website www.downtownbranson.org. For Branson lodging, show or attraction information or reservations please call 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.

Blue Grass, BBQ and Plumb Nellie Days means it must be May in Branson

Rhonda Vincent is one of the Bluegrass stars that will be playing at Silver Dollar City's "Bluegrass and BBQ Festival."

“One of Branson’s constants is that there is always something new and exciting to do,” says Tammy Johnson, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Whether it is one of the many Branson shows or attractions making a change, the change of the seasons, limited engagement performances, a new festival being celebrated at Silver Dollar City, other activities, shopping or dining there is always something fresh to experience in Branson as indicted by what will be happening in the next few weeks.”

One of the biggest events, as Silver Dollar City continues to celebrate its 50th year will be, Silver Dollar City’s “Bluegrass and BBQ Festival” which will run from May 13 through the 31st. In addition to all the craftsmen, rides and entertainment that Silver Dollar City is famous for, the festival will include Blue Grass music presented by national stars such as The Grascals, Rhonda Vincent and others, all styles of BBQ, and two exclusive special events, the Annual Single Mic Championship and KSMU Youth in Bluegrass Band Contest.

Johnson said that there is additional fun and excitement for the Silver Dollar City guests this year, a new ride that just opened up called “Tom & Huck’s River Blast.” It is a new $7 million raft ride with a twist. Brad Thomas, the General Manager of Silver Dollar City said, “The twist is that there are water guns on the rafts and on the shore. Riders can shoot their water guns at folks on the shore, folks on shore can shoot their water guns at people on the boats and when you come face to face with another boat you can blast the people on that boat as well. It’s basically this big organized, well maybe not so organized, water fight.”

Among other events, there will be the “9th Annual Branson Motorcycle Rally” that takes place May 20 through 23. It will feature “rides, ” poker runs, a sanctioned boxing match exciting live entertainment, vendors, food and the “Rally Ally Tavern” beer tent.

Historic downtown Branson will be celebrating the 50th year of its “Plumb Nellie Days Arts and Crafts Festival in historic downtown Branson May 21through 23. It will feature over 200 American crafters, entertainment, seminars and other activities

Bill Medley and daughter McKenna.

Johnson points out that the “Official Branson.Com Show Schedule,” powered by the Branson Tourism Center, indicates that Branson’s 2010 live show season, like the beautiful Ozark Mountain scenery, is in full bloom. Most of its shows are open with “The Righteous Brothers Bill Medley” with his daughter McKenna Medley opening on May 18, “Island Fire,” Branson’s unique Polynesian show, opens May 28 and Branson newest show, “Legends of Kung-Fu-Chung Yi” opens June 2. Limited engagement performances by “The Gatlin Brothers,” “The Oak Ridge Boys,” “The Texas Tenors,” “Ray Price,” and “Roy Clark” just add to the excitement and variety of Branson’s live music show offerings.

For additional information or tickets for Silver Dollar City, any of the shows mentioned in this article 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.

There’s no place like Mother’s Day in Branson

"Broadway, The Star Spangled Celebration" is just one of the many Branson Shows open on Mother's Day.

Mothers Day is a special day and what better place to celebrate with Mom than in that special place called “Branson.” Whether it’s just a weekend of fun and entertainment or a special occasion like Mother’s Day it’s hard to beat the variety and quality of the entertainment Branson offers.

For many, a Mother’s Day brunch or buffet has become a tradition. Paul Miller, General Manager of the Branson Tourism Center points out that Branson offers a large selection of brunches and buffets with varying prices. Among others, these include the following, listed alphabetically with the adult’s price and phone number:

Bleu Olive Mediterranean Grille & Bar, Adults $25.00 417 332-2538
Chateau on the Lake, Adult $40.00, 888-333-5253
Devils Pool, Big Cedar Lodge, Adults $29.95, 800-225-6343
Golden Coral, Adults $12.29, 417-336-6297
Grand Country Square Buffet, Adults $10.99, 417 335-2434
Grandview Conference Center, Big Cedar Lodge, Adult $34.95, 800-225-6343
Keeter Center, College of the Ozarks, Adults $29.95, 417-239-1900
Level 2 Steakhouse, Hilton Covention Center Hotel, Adults $39.00, 417 243-3433.
Plaza View Restaurant, Grand Plaza Hotel, Adults $12.95, 417-335-2798
Steve’s Tree House Adults $22.95, 417-239-0445
Worman House, Big Cedar Lodge, Adults $34.95, 1-800-225-6343

Miller said that in addition to the above, the majority of Branson’s major restaurants will be open on Mother’s Day. He also points out that Dixie Stampede and the Showboat Branson Belle will also be available for Mom to be entertained while she is dining and that the Branson Landing Princess and Lake Queen will also be offering cruises including meals.

Branson is called by some, the “Live music show capital of the world” because of the variety and quality of its shows. Many of Branson’s finest shows will be open on Mother’s Day. Miller suggests this provides yet another way to make Mother’s Day just a little more special. The following list of shows that will be open is sorted by time:

2:00 p.m. Always Patsy Cline, Moe Bandy and Sunday Gospel Jubilee

3:00 p.m. Hamner Barber Variety Show, Legends in Concert, and Shake Rattle & Roll

4:00 p.m. Showboat Branson Belle

4:40 p.m. Dixie Stampede

5:30 p.m.Yakov’s Moscow Circus

7:00 p.m. Ozark Mountain Jubilee, Paul Harris Live and Top 10 Rock and Roll Revue

8:00 p.m. Acrobats of China, Broadway The Star Spangled Celebration, Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express, Country Tonite Featuring Marty Haggard, Jim Stafford, Kirby VanBurch, Legends in Concert, Mickey Gilley, The Texas Tenors and Tony Roi’s Elvis Experience.

Miller also suggests that another special way to celebrate Mother’s Day would be with a visit to “World-Fest” at Silver Dollar City. It is the last day of the country’s largest international festival and to see the show that is “igniting” the Branson entertainment scene with its uniqueness, musicality, and excitement, “Fiery Fiddles.”

For additional information on Mother’s Day in Branson or additional information or tickets for any of Branson’s other shows, attractions and activities or for lodging please contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services for free assistance. BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Branson’s “Grand Jubilee,” entertainment in the grandest Branson tradition

New South's Scott, Trey, Jason, and Mark.

The “Grand Jubilee” has everything one would expect from a Branson show, great vocalist, instrumentalists and comedy, but with something else, synergy. When extremely talented vocalists are combined with equally talented musicians and one Branson’s best comedians the resulting synergy results in a fast paced entertainment experience in the “grandest” Branson tradition.

The Grand Jubilee show features the quartet “New South,” composed of Trey Wilson, Lead Singer; Jason Pritchett, Baritone; Scott Leven, Tenor and Mark McCauley, Bass. These guys have great voices and sing a variety of different music beautifully. Their exceptional harmonies are a joy to hear. Among others, New South’s performance of the inspirational “How Great Thou Art” and the J. D. Souther song, “How Long” support their billing as “Branson’s best quartet.”

If it stopped there that would be enough, but it doesn’t. It is obvious that a lot of extra effort has gone into the production and choreography of the show. That along with the costuming adds so much to the audience’s entertainment experience. A personal favorite of this writer was their performance of “YMCA” during the “70’s Medley” in the second half of the show and the great “moves” by Bass singer Mark McCauley.

Jackie Brown and Todd Bradshaw do a wonderful job as featured vocalists. Brown’s duet performance of the Kenny Rogers Dottie West hit “Every Time Two Fools Collide” with New South’s Trey Wilson and Bradshaw’s performance of the George Jones hit, “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” with Massengale featured on the fiddle were exceptional.

The “Grand Band,” is composed of some of the best musicians in Branson and are an inherent part of the show not only in terms of musical support, but in performing featured numbers during vocals. The instrumentality of the Grand Band is demonstrated throughout with two of this writers favorites being their solo of a “Bluegrass LaLaPaLooza” and their featured performances during many of the numbers such as in “Kentucky River.”

Jim Dandy,” played by Jamie Haage along with his straight man, Mike Patrick, provide the shows comedy. It’s just the right amount of comic relief at the right time provided by one of funniest men in Branson. The constant rumble of laughter from the audience is almost loud enough to hide the sound of what happened to Jim Dandy’s hand grenade.

Comedy is only one facet of the multitalented Haage who is also an accomplished vocalist and instrumentalists. In terms of funny and unique his version of of “Nine to Five” stands alone. At the other end of the spectrum his renditions of “Mama Don’t Allow” and “Mama’s Teaching Angels” are simply beautiful vocals with an eternal message.

Mike Patrick is the show’s producer, Master of Ceremonies and comedy straight man. In addition to his own considerable talents, he uses the synergy provided by the talents of all the shows performers to provide two of the best and fastest moving hours of entertainment in Branson.

For additional information or tickets on the “Grand Jubilee” or any another Branson show, attraction or lodging please feel free to contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC). It is one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, sellers of Branson show tickets, attraction tickets and lodging and may be contacted by either calling its toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.bransontourismcenter.com.