Category Archives: Shows

Branson visitors can count on the “big three” regardless of the weather

30,000 pound ship "sails" the stage and breaks up during the storm.

“Jonah’s” 30,000 pound ship “sails” the stage and breaks up in a storm during this spectacular production.

“As autumn fades into winter and weather has more of an impact on our outdoor activities one of the great things about Branson is that, regardless of the weather, there is always plenty of exciting and entertaining things to do” said Annette Wood, the Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “Even from an outdoor perspective, the weather in Branson is often mild enough that people are able to enjoy golfing, hiking and fishing and other outdoor activities on a near year round basis, but Branson’s “big three,” its shows, attractions and shopping, are not weather dependent,” she continued.

Here’s a list of the “big three” and why Branson visitors can count on enjoying them regardless of the weather:

1. Branson Shows – With the exception of the Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Play, whose last 2014 performance will be Oct. 25, Branson’s legendary live shows are held inside modern environmentally controlled theatres, with comfortable seating, the latest sound and lighting equipment and are performed by some of the best entertainers around. From shows such as Sight and Sounds spectacular production of Jonah, The Acrobats of China, Legends in Concert and Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede to the comedy and country music of shows such as Presleys’ Country Jubilee, Grand Jubilee, Billy Dean and Clay Cooper’s Country Express or the excitement of the Haygoods, Shoji Tabuchi, Dublin’s Irish Tenors and the Celtic Ladies and Mickey Gilley, Branson’s major entertainment offering, its live shows, goes on regardless of the weather.

The Titanic Museum Attraction boards passengers for a unique “voyage” regardless of the weather.

2. Attractions – Cold or snow, heat or rain, the vast majority of Branson’s attractions are not impacted by weather. Regardless of the weather Branson visitors can take an exciting and entertaining voyage aboard the Titanic Museum Attraction or one of Branson’s other attractions such as the “Hollywood Wax Museum,” “Ripley’s Believe It or Not,” or the “Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure” to mention a few. There’s indoor miniature golf at Grand Country or Laser Tag, G-Force drag race simulator and arcades at the Track Family Fun Parks that have the added advantage, weather permitting, of some of the coolest go-cart tracks around.

3. Shopping – Branson is noted for the quality and variety of its shopping. From outlet malls like “The Shoppes at Branson Meadows” and “Tanger Outlets” to the over 100 retail stores, restaurants and attractions at “Branson Landing” and the specialty shops and galleries of the historic downtown Branson shopping district, Branson offers a variety of shopping that is unmatched by any travel destination anywhere near its size. Factor in unique stores such as the “Copper Coin” and the unique “Dick’s 5 & 10,” along with dozens of specialty and gift stores, crafters and studios such as “Crain Creations” and it becomes a shoppers dream regardless of the weather.

Obviously there will be a few days of the year when ice, snow or some other weather condition might impact the total Branson area, but on a day to day basis, three of the major things Branson is noted for, its shows, attractions and shopping, are available for the enjoyment, fun and entertainment of its visitors regardless of the weather.

Branson’s George Dyer Show is an amazing unforgettable entertainment experience

George Dyer during the shows opening number “You Are Loved.”

Having seen and written about the George Dyer Show for each of the five years it has been in Branson and having just seen his 2014 show on September 5, I can say, without a doubt, this is his best Branson show ever and that’s saying a lot! I have previously described George as “Branson’s tenor extraordinaire” not only because of the power and beauty of his voice, which is one of the finest tenor voices I have ever heard, but his ability to connect to the audience and draw them into their own entertainment experience with a genuine warmth and charisma that provides an amazing and unforgettable entertainment experience.

We’ll comeback to George in a minute, but first let’s look at some of the other major elements in the show starting with his amazingly talented family, wife, Clarisse; daughters Kendra and Kassidy and son Mitchell who all perform during the show. Three of my favorite “family” numbers were the “Flower Duet, “from Léo Delibes’ opera Lakmé performed beautifully by Clarisse and Kendra; the performance of the song “At Last” from the 1941 movie “Orchestra Wives” by Kassidy, which was remarkable not only in terms of its vocal acuity, but a presentation that belies the fact that she is still in high school and Mitchell’s entertaining performance of the Fred Astaire classic “Singing In The Rain.”

Kendra Dyer singing her original song, “Surrender.”

It has been my pleasure to watch Kendra Dyer develop as a performer over the last five years and in this show she really blossoms forth. From “Habanera,” the famous aria from the opera “Carmen,” to “I Dreamed A Dream” from “Les Misérables,” her original song “Surrender” and others, her performance was a joy to see and hear.

The shows live band consists of Ricki Holmes, Pianist and Band Conductor; Bogie Bohinc, Lead Guitar; Rob Wilson-Drums and Maryann Daversa, Keyboard. They were phenomenal not only in terms of their considerable musical talents, but in interacting with George and the audience at key times all of which combined to help make the George Dyer show the great entertainment experience it is.

From his opening number “You Are Loved,” to the last note of theAndrea Bocelli‘s “It’s Time to Say Goodbye,” the power and beauty of not only his singing, but his genuine warmth, gives combine to give his audience something special that I just have to believe will become a favorite Branson memory. Another really neat thing is the way he gives a little “back story” on most numbers before he sings them which not only lets the audience know a little bit about the number itself , but helps set the mood.

Kassidy Dyer during her performance of “At Last.”

I have previously written, “The magnificent rich tenor voice of George Dyer is just a joy to hear as he covers a variety of music as only he can. His singing would be enough, but when combined with his personality, interaction with the audience and the unique way he introduces each number the end result is a wonderful and unique musical entertainment experience without equal.” That has not changed one iota. From among many, three of my personal favorite performances would be “Bring Him Home” from “Les Misérables;””Hallelujah” with the delightful way he used the audience to set the performance up and “They Call the Wind Mariah” from “Paint Your Wagon.”

Although the vast majority of the show has no opera in it there is a unique and powerful opera segment featuring George, Clarissa and Kendra. Strangely, although I can’t read a note of music and didn’t have a clue what they were singing, two of my favorite performances were from that segment, Kendra’s solo of “Habanera” from “Carmen” and the “Flower Duet, “from the opera “Lakmé” that she sang with her mother. Although every number George sings in the show demonstrates why he is “Branson’s Tenor Extraordinaire,” it takes on a special relevancy when he sings opera. There couldn’t have been a better way to demonstrate that than to close the segment and first half of the show with his extraordinary performance of the popular “Nessun Dorma” from Puccini’s opera “Turandot.”

The use of the Josh Groben song “You Raised Me Up” as the basis of the Veteran’s Tribute was inspired. The acapella performance of the family singing “Nearer My God To Thee” was as soul touching as it was inspirational and exquisitely performed. As George sang the closing number, “Time To Say Goodbye,” it seemed as if the two hours had flown by and that the time to say goodbye had come all too soon. If you love great vocals, a beautiful tenor voice and want to be entertained and inspired you don’t want to miss this show.

For tickets or additional information on the George Dyer Show contact the Branson Tourism Center by calling 1-800-785-1550 or through its website, www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Material Connection

Branson Tourism Center celebrates 4 Millionth Ticket with Gift Card Giveaway

Use your gift card to see Sight and Sounds spectacular production of "Jonah" the smash hit of Branson's 2014 season.

Jonah, the smash hit of Branson’s 2014 season, is just one of the many Branson shows, attractions and lodging facilities that winners can use their gift cards on.

BRANSON, Mo., June 6, 2014 – “We are so excited that the Branson Tourism Center (BTC) has sold just under 4,000,000 tickets for Branson area shows and attractions and will pass that milestone later this month,” said Annette Wood, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “Just to think of the number of people those 4 million tickets represent, who have come to Branson and experienced its fun, excitement and adventure, is a humbling thought,” she added.

Wood said that, in celebration of the selling its 4 millionth ticket later this month, the Branson Tourism Center is having a 4 Millionth Ticket Celebration Sweepstakes giving away a Grand Prize of a $400 Branson Tourism Center Gift Card and 4 runner up prizes of $50 Branson Tourism Center Gift Cards. The gift cards can be used at BTC for the purchase of any the shows, attractions and lodging that it sells.

Entering the contest is simple and requires no purchase or requirement to have any social media account. Simply go to BTC’s 4 Millionth Ticket Celebration Sweepstakes page, enter your email address, read of the contest rules and submit your entry by clicking “Enter Now.” Once you have entered you’ll have the opportunity to get more entries by helping spread the word about the contest.

“At BTC the words, ‘We don’t sell discount vacations. We sell amazing vacations at a discount,’ are more than a slogan and one of the primary reasons why we will be selling our 4 millionth ticket this month,” Wood said.

Three tips that every first time Branson visitor should know

Christina Tabuchi, right, Shoji Tabuchi and Sharlyn Smith performing during the “Dixieland” segment of the Shoji Tabuchi Show.

It’s no mistake that Branson, Missouri was listed on the “Top 25 List of U.S. Destinations” in “TripAdvisors® 6^th Annual Traveler’s Choice Destination Awards.” There is just so much to do in Branson and so many ways for families to relax, have fun and create memories that will last a lifetime. Here are three tips for first time visitors that we hope will help them enjoy Branson to its fullest:

1. Start relaxing while planning your vacation: With all there is to see and do in Branson, deciding what you want to see and do, making show and lodging reservations, etc. why not relax, avoid the hassle and start your vacation early by using the free vacation planning services of a company such as the Branson Tourism Center. Just one toll free call to 1-800-785-1550 is all it takes to put you in contact with one of their Branson based Vacation Planners who will be delighted to help plan your Branson trip, answer questions and make all the reservations. “One call does it all.” All you have to do is show up in Branson and enjoy your vacation.

2. Plan to see a Branson show: Annette Wood, the Director of Sales and Marketing, for the Branson Tourism Center, who has sold over 3,900,000 Branson show and attraction tickets points out that Branson is noted for the quantity and quality of its shows. With Branson shows as diversified as Presleys’ Country Jubilee, Shoji Tabuchi, SIX, Le Grand Cirque and almost a hundred others there is a Branson show for everyone. Wood points out that Branson’s shows are some of the most reasonably priced anywhere and made even more so when the fact that many of its most popular shows offer Family Show Passes, which can save families quite a bit, is considered.

3. Pick lodging that will enhance your overall vacation expectations: On any trip, a bad lodging experience can spoil the trip and that is even more so when you are on vacation. The “good news” is that Branson has over 18,000 rooms and 200 lodging facilities to pick from. Whether its enjoying the relaxing atmosphere and quality service of a reasonably priced full service resort such as the Welk Resort, the lakeside luxury of the Chateau on the Lake or the quaint hominess of the Gazebo Inn, centrally located in the Branson Strip, or any one of Branson’s 197 other lodging properties there is sure to be lodging that is just perfect for your vacation. The use of Branson Tourism Center’s Lodging Page and its filters makes it easy to find the lodging you want by just clicking a few buttons or you can call 1-800-785-1550 and one of Branson Tourism Center’s Branson based Vacation Planners will help you find the perfect lodging for your vacation.

You’ve probably been to Branson if…

Silver Dollar City is Branson’s most popular paid attraction.

You’ve experienced one or more of the things mentioned below. When most of us tell someone we have been to a major tourist destination there are generally certain places or things that come up in the conversation. It’s hard to imagine mentioning that you have been to New York City, particularly to someone who has been there before, and not having one or more of the following com up as part of the conversation the “Statute of Liberty,” “Broadway,” the “Empire State Building,” the “911 site” or other key things New York City is noted for.

While certainly not on the same size scale as New York City, Branson has been named as one of the top 25 U.S. Travel Destinations and, like the mention of New York City or other major travel destinations, has certain places or things that come to mind when discussing a visit to Branson. Based on a history that started with visiting Branson in 1976 and living in Branson since 1986, it would be my opinion that most discussions about having visited Branson would include at least one or more of the following:

Branson’s Spirit: It would be hard for me to imagine that the same spirit of hospitality and values that drew me back to Branson year after year, until I finally moved here over 28 years ago, would not be a special memory of a Branson visit. In my opinion, Branson’s spirit and unabashed love of family, God, country and our military; coupled with a sincere desire and commitment to insure that every Branson visitor has a great Branson experience would be something that most people who visit Branson would feel, appreciate and associate with what makes Branson so special.

The Branson Strip: Located on Highway 76, called by some “Country Music Boulevard,” the “Branson Strip” is where most of Branson’s theatres and major attractions are located. It is said that Branson “has more seats than Broadway” and its signage, particularly at night, reminds one of Las Vegas, but its entertainment, personality, value and spirit is rooted in the history and tradition of the Ozarks and family.

Silver Dollar City: This award winning 1880’s styled theme park is Branson’s oldest continually operated attraction and is easily its most popular paid attraction. It features dozens of rides, including the record setting wooden coaster, “Outlaw Run” and its “Wildfire” coaster; practicing craftsmen; shows; six world class festivals including “An Old Time Christmas,” and everything else one would expect from a world class theme park.

Branson Landing: The 95-acre, $435 million public/private multiuse project spans 1.5 miles of waterfront on Lake Taneycomo and is conveniently located adjacent to historic Downtown Branson. It’s combination of luxury condos and over 120 retail stores, kiosks and restaurants including “eclectic shops, national retailers, fine dining, intimate cafes and nightspots,” Main Street Lake Cruises, a zip line, two “floating restaurants, lakefront boardwalk on Lake Taneycomo and the spectacular free $7.5 million Branson Landing Fountain synchronized fire, water, light and music show make it one of the most popular attractions in Branson.

Branson’s Titanic Museum Attraction towers above the famed “Branson Strip.”

Titanic Museum Attraction: The iconic, two story, ½ size, replica of the Titanic opened in 2006 and dominates the intersection of State Highway 165 and the Branson Strip. This permanent museum holds hundreds of Titanic artifacts in its many galleries and is an interactive adventure that makes the guests part of their own Titanic experience from beginning to end.

Inspiration Tower: Located in the historic Shepherd of the Hills Homestead, where Harold Bell Wright wrote his 1907 classic novel “The Shepherd of the Hills,” Inspiration Tower stands 230 feet above one of the highest points in southwest Missouri and on a clear day, provides a unique spectacular view of the Ozarks that extends over 90 miles into Arkansas.

Tanger Outlet Mall: It might seem strange to list an outlet mall as one of the things people who visit Branson are more than likely to talk about, but its central location in the middle of the Branson Strip, the fact that its Branson’s biggest outlet mall and one of the most popular shopping destinations in Branson combine to put it on the list.

Branson’s Live Shows: Although certainly not everyone who comes to Branson attends one of its live shows, the vast majority do and just about everyone who has visited Branson is aware of its shows. From the Acrobats of China and Jonah to Clay Coopers Country Express, Shoji Tabuchi, The Haygoods, Legends in Concert, SIX and dozens more, Branson has a variety, quantity and quality of shows that is unmatched by any travel destination anywhere near its size.

Presleys’ Theatre: Home of the Presleys’ Country Jubilee, the theatre was the first theatre on the Branson Strip in 1967. Two of its current cast members, Drummer, Steve Presley and comedian, “Herkimer,” Gary Presley have been performing continuously since that time.

Spectacular Beauty the Ozarks: Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Branson is surrounded by the constantly changing tapestry of the beauty of the Ozark Mountains and its two pristine lakes, Table Rock Lake and Lake Taneycomo.

Those who have had a Branson family vacation share why they “Got It”

Silver Dollar City’s record setting wooden coaster “Outlaw Run” is just one of the many exciting and fun things awaiting Branson visitors.

Over 12,000 people who have ‘Liked’ our Facebook page and have, at one time or another, interacted with us to get or share information about our favorite town, Branson, Missouri,” said, Annette Wood, Director of Sales and Marketing, Branson Tourism Center. “Earlier this week we asked the question, ‘Why should someone who has never been to Branson before pick it for their family vacation this year?’ We think that some of the responses, in the words of people that we believe have been to Branson, are insightful, particularly to those who have never shared a Branson vacation with their families before,” she added.

Here is a list of six of the reasons along with the supporting response from the post:

1. Family Friendly – Stacy Smith-Frost: Because it is family friendly! I can bring my two girls to Branson and know the shows I watch are going to be clean and good for my girls!

2. Wide Variety of Fun Things to Do – Patricia Eidschun: There is such a wide variety of fun things that can be done in Branson: great food, water fun for kids, beautiful music for the entire family, friendly atmosphere to name a few.

3. Kids Love It – Amy Sooter: Because my kids have been to Disney world and they say Branson is also the best place on Earth!! We love it.

4. Genuineness – Tammy Mullins Witte: There’s just so much to do for all ages of the family! We usually need a vacation to rest after a week in Branson because we’re just going, going, going. Another reason we love Branson is no matter where we go in town, we’re not treated like “just another tourist”. Everyone seems genuinely glad we’re there. Branson is our favorite vacation spot.

5. Create Precious Family Memories – Susie Edge: Because you said “family” and Branson screams family! I have the most precious memories of several family vacations to Branson!!!!

6. Relaxation – Diane Sartori Kelemen: For years there were people around me going to Branson and raving about it. I thought, what’s the big deal? Sounds like another tourist place. Well, we finally went, and now I get it. There is something about all the sights and sounds and things to do …like a mini Vegas with lights! It is crowded, but you don’t care, because it comes with a sense of relaxation. Everyone is friendly, and there is plenty to do. It takes repeated trips to do it all, so it can be a new adventure every time you visit.

The words, “For years there were people around me going to Branson and raving about it. I thought, what’s the big deal? Sounds like another tourist place. Well, we finally went, and now I get it,” in number 6 above, is a common reaction of first time Branson visitors. It sums up the feelings of those who have heard about Branson for years and once they came, for all of the reasons mentioned above and more, “Got It.”

Three ways to a great value vacation in Branson

Shoji Tabuchi and his daughter Christina, start in the Shoji Tabuchi Show, one of the many Branson shows that offer Family Passes.

Having lived in Branson for over 28 years it is easy for me to understand why travelers picked Branson to be on the “Top 25 List of U.S. Destinations” in “TripAdvisors® 6^th Annual Traveler’s Choice Destination Awards.” It would be hard to find any other destination of a similar size anywhere in the world that has a bigger variety of fun filled, entertaining and exciting things to do than Branson and offers more value in terms of the pricing for its outstanding shows, attractions and lodging.

Here’s three ways to add even more “value” to a great Branson vacation:

1. Family Show Passes: “Branson’s shows are known for their outstanding quality entertainment and value,” says Annette Wood, Director of Sales and Marketing, for the Branson Tourism Center, who has sold over 3,800,000 Branson show tickets. “Many of our shows have enhanced that value even more by offering ‘Family Passes’ which, when combined into a package with lodging makes an already great value even better,” she added.

Typically a Family Pass will include two adults and up to a certain number of children for a substantially reduced rate. As an example, Clay Coopers’ Country Express is a great show that the entire family will absolutely love and is one of Branson’s most popular shows. By using its Family Pass, a family of two adults, three children through ages 16 can save over 34%. Here is a list of some of Branson’s most popular shows that offer Family Passes:

Adventures of Marco Polo

Amazing Pets

Ayo Starring Voices of Glory

Bretts

Clay Cooper’s Country Express

Doug Gabriel’s #1 Hits Tribute Show

Presleys’ Country Jubilee

Rankin Brothers

Shoji Tabuchi

2. Bundling/Packaging Shows, Attractions and Lodging Together: If you are dealing with a Branson travel service such as the Branson Tourism Center, they not only have a variety of packages already set up, but will custom design a package to meet your specific needs and save you money. One example of many packages available through the Branson Tourism Center is a saving of $195.00 on a four night two adult package including your choice of two of Branson’s most popular shows such as Dancing Queen ABBA’s Greatest Hits, Dublin’s Irish Tenors and The Celtic Ladies, New Jersey Nights and many others; dining vouchers and more.

3. Convenience and Saving Time: To many, “value” includes more than dollars and cents. They realize that in addition to money spent on vacation there is only so much time in a day. To maximize the value of your time, both in planning your Branson trip and to help make sure that you make the best use of your time while in Branson and don’t miss doing something that you want to do, it might be advisable to use the free planning services of a company such as the Branson Tourism Center. Just one toll free call to 1-800-785-1550 is all it takes to put you in contact with one of their Branson based Branson Travel Planners who will be delighted to help plan your Branson trip, answer questions and make all the reservations.

All you have to do is show up in Branson and have a great time. There’s a reason they have sold over 3,800,000 Branson show tickets and I just have to believe that their “One call does it all” approach is a large part of that success.

Branson, Missouri has it all. With all its fun, excitement, adventure, shopping, entertainment, the spectacular relaxing beautify of the Ozarks and its pristine lakes, it might be the best travel “value” available anywhere.

What you should know about Branson’s “Cruising With Stars”

Cruise with SIX one of Branson's hottest groups on the ...

Cruise with SIX one of Branson’s hottest shows on…

In my 28 years in Branson, it has been my personal experience that Branson entertainers are not only some of the best entertainers anywhere, but the most accessible to their audiences. That accessibility is taken to new levels through Branson Tourism Center’s exclusive Cruise With The Stars entertainment experience combining two great entertainment activities, seeing the Branson show of the star(s) you will be cruising with and going on a VIP luncheon cruise with them into one special unique event.

The 100 foot luxury yacht “Landing Princess.”

You will attend the show of the entertainer(s) you will be cruising with and have an unparalleled opportunity to interact with them while cruising aboard Main Street Lake Cruises 100 foot luxury yacht the Landing Princess. This includes a beautiful scenic cruise on Lake Taneycomo, lunch, opportunities for photos, autographs and interacting with them in a unique up close and personal experience that is available only to those participating in Branson Tourism Centers exclusive Cruise With the Stars experience.

The 2014 schedule for Cruise With The Stars, subject to change is:

Billy Dean with Paul Harris & the Cleverlys – May 23, 2014

Paul Harris & The Cleverlys with Billy Dean – May 23, 2014

Legends in Concert – June 19, 2014

SIX – July 17, 2014

The Texas Tenors – September 18, 2014

John and Ambrus Presley of Presleys’ Country Jubilee – October 7, 2014

This special and unique Branson experience is made available exclusively to Branson Tourism Center customers because of the special relationship it has with Main Street Lake Cruises, the participating entertainers and their theaters. “There is a limited number of seats available for each cruise,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center, who recommends making reservations for the cruise of your choice as soon as possible. For tickets or information for Cruise With The Stars please feel free to contact the Branson Tourism Center by calling 1-800-875-1550.

Hamner’s Unbelievable Variety Show Is “Unbelievably” Entertaining

Dave and Denise Hamner with one of magical winged friends.

Dave and Denise Hamner with one of their “magical “winged friends.

Went to see Branson’s newest show, Hamners’ Unbelievable Variety Show, this week. From the exciting, colorful and “magical” introduction of its cast to its spectacular inspirational and equally “magical” 911/Veterans finale, Hamners’ Unbelievable Variety Show combines two hours of unique, colorful, exciting and entertaining acts into an entertainment experience unlike anything else appearing in Branson. From great illusions and close up magic, presented by two of the world’s finest magicians, to high flying “silk” acrobatics, an amazing strength adagio act, comedy, musical impersonations, vocals, dancing and ventriloquism the scope and variety of this show is, well, “Unbelievable.”

The show starts in a spectacular fashion with a “Grand Illusion.” Actually two “Grand Illusions,” one the musical and dancing performance of the Styx hit, “Grand Illusion” and the other, in conjunction with the first, the “Grand Illusion,” performed in true Hamner style, used to introduce the cast of the show. It was a wonderful and exciting flurry of color, excitement, illusions and action getting the show off to an absolutely “Unbelievable” start.

I could talk about the venues Dave and Denise Hamner have appeared in from Las Vegas to Disneyland and others as well as the awards they have received including the “prestigious “Magic Masters Award” by their peers in Las Vegas,” but none of it would compare to just watching these two masters of their craft perform their unbelievable illusions and interact with their audience. Their one of a kind bird act with beautiful Macaws and Cockatoos is as amazing as it is beautiful to watch; the original “Vertigo: The Fall of Death,” and Dave’s simple elegant performance of the close up magic doing a unique “baseball” twist with the “Cups and Balls” illusion were, from among many others, three of my favorite illusions.

Impressionist Jeff Brandt.

From the opening number of the show, a full cast production number, the magic of the Hamners, is choreographed and combined with the talents of the shows other performers resulting in a virtual cornucopia of “Unbelievable” variety, talent and entertainment. Jeff Brandt, considered by some to be one of the top singing impressionists in the country and a featured performer in Wayne Newton’s show for 13 years performs a number of his impressions, including a “magical” appearance during the second half of the show. While performing with Wayne Newton in Las Vegas, Brandt was given the nickname “The Voice.” After seeing and hearing him perform, I know why. His incorporation of the impressions of Elvis, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. into his performance of “My Way” was remarkable and some, might even say, “Unbelieveable.”.

Vadim and Maria Serykh performing their amazing strength adagio hand balancing act.

The father and daughter team of Vadim & Mariya Serykh add to the variety and excitement of the show with their amazing, beautiful and eloquent strength and balancing adagio act. Mariya adds to the excitement and danger as she rises high into the heights of the theatre over the audience and performs a beautiful acrobatic “silk” routine. To say that the audience was amazed and excited by their performance would be an understatement.

The lead female vocalist, Tamera Tinoco, has produced and sung in a number of Branson shows including “The Magnificent Seven,” in which she and her husband Joe star. I particularly liked her rendition of “Defying Gravity” from the play “Wicked.” The transition into the shows ventriloquist, Brenda Hahne and her loveable “Aunt Ruth” was, well let’s say, “in the cards.” Aunt Ruth and Brenda provided a funny and entertaining routine as they discussed, sometimes with a little help from the audience, the funny day to day “doings” of Aunt Ruth.

The shows dancing is choreographed by A. J. Herd, who along with Ken Brown, Dance Captain, and Mariya Serykh provide another unique element to this “Unbelievable” show. Whether it’s their introduction to an illusion, such as when they introduce the Hamner’s unique version of the “Origami” illusion, or the spellbinding performance of young Mariya Serykh during Tamera Tinoco’s performance of “Defying Gravity,” they add an element of grace, beauty and elegance throughout the show.

To this writer, one of the most “Unbelievable” aspects of this show is the way the individual talents of its cast are combined into a production that is as equally entertaining to adults of all ages as it is to teens and younger children throughout its entire length. All of Branson’s shows are “family friendly” in terms of their content, some are designed primarily for kids and others for adults, but very few to entertain adults and kids together for the whole show; Hamners’ Unbelievable Variety Show is one of those shows.

For additional information or tickets for Hamners’ Unbelievable Variety Show or any of Branson’s shows and attractions or for Branson lodging please feel free to contact the Branson Tourism Center by calling 1-800-785-1550 or through its website, www.BransonTourismCenter.com

Material Connection

What You Might Want to Know About Branson Paradigm Shows

The biblical spectacular “Jonah” is but one example of the Branson entertainment paradigm.

“In a town like Branson with nearly 100 live family shows of every type, from the Acrobats of China to the biblical spectacular Jonah and music shows from Clay Cooper’s Country Express to The Haygoods, Shoji Tabuchi and many more; one might wonder what a ‘paradigm’ show is,” said Annette Wood, Director of Sales and Marketing, of the Branson Tourism Center. “It is a show that is ‘a model or pattern that may be copied,'” she added.

When Presleys’ Country Jubilee opened in 1967 on Highway 76 just outside the limits of the city of Branson little did its principals know that it would be the first show on what was to become the famed “Branson Strip.” What they did know however, as did the Mabe family who started the first show within the Branson city limits, The Baldknobbers Jamboree, was that audiences enjoyed their mixture of segments of country, gospel and patriotic music interspersed with segments of comedy between each musical set.

That paradigm of music and comedy, modified to remain current and relevant has served, not only the two shows that established it very well, but a number of other Branson shows as well. Steve Presley, one of the original cast members of Presleys’ Country Jubilee has pointed out that although the paradigm is the same today their music and comedy is constantly being updated to keep the show fresh and exciting. He reminded me that their weekly TV show Presleys’ Country Jubilee on RFD TV gives them the opportunity to update their show with fresh material virtually at any time throughout the season.

The original Branson paradigm shows included a mixture of music that was country based, gospel and patriotic along with hillbilly themed comedy and they still retain that heritage. Now folks, that doesn’t mean the comedy is not relevant to today. Gary Presley, “Herkimer,” in the show, might be dressed as a hillbilly, but much of his comedy material is about as hillbilly as tonight’s six o’clock news and, no matter what, he and his son “Cecil,” who is actually his real life son Eric, will have you and your whole family laughing until you are “in stitches.”

Although still following that basic paradigm, some of today’s Branson shows do so with music that is not based primarily on country but crosses many different musical genres and comedy that is not remotely related, costuming or otherwise, to any hillbilly heritage. These would include shows such as the Grand Jubilee, Pierce Arrow, Duttons, it at the Hughes Brothers Theatre and others.

Interestingly, the very thing that served as the basis for the paradigm that started and nurtured Branson’s live entertainment industry in its infancy is the new paradigm of today’s Branson shows, “what their audiences enjoy.” That paradigm is the basis for almost 100 live shows being offered on a daily basis during the season giving Branson visitors new and constantly evolving shows providing and a choice of live family friendly entertainment that is unrivaled by any travel destination near Branson’s size and perhaps anywhere.