You’ll absolutely love the Duttons!

The Duttons, Benjamin, Timothy, Amy, Jonathon,Shelia, Abigail, and Dean

As I watched the Duttons show last week, I was again reminded why they have been so popular for so long and made it to the top ten on the NBC prime time hit show, “America’s Got Talent.” From their opening number, a medley, including the Fall Out Boys hit “Centuries,” “We Will Rock You,” and “Radioactive,” to their famed Finale, “Boil Them Cabbage Down,” it is a wonderful entertainment experience, filled with fun, great music, humor, inspiration, and that special Dutton warmth that simultaneously entertains and inspires the whole family.

The stars of the show, and the center around which it revolves, are the Dutton siblings Timothy, Benjamin, Jonathan, Abigail, and Amy, along with Tim’s wife Judith. Whether its vocal, instrumental, dancing or comedy, their talents alone are remarkable, but when the talents of drummer Rob Wilson, and other members of the Dutton family, are seamlessly integrated into the performance, the result is two hours of outstanding non-stop entertainment that simultaneously entertains adults as well as children.

The Dutton grand-kids, Benjamin Jr, Rachel, Isaac, Selina and Timmy doing a great job with “Jump, Jive and Wail.”

I am not aware of a music show in Branson that is not suitable for children in terms of its content but, based on my personal experience, I can say that, with very few exceptions, such as it Starring the Hughes Brothers, the vast majority of Branson’s music shows have not been designed with a consistent flow of material and performers, strategically placed throughout the show, that will appeal to the children in the audience and hold their interest throughout. The Duttons does that “and then some!”

A perfect example, and one of my favorite numbers in the show, was their performance of “Cotton Eyed Joe.” The combination of their remarkable instrumental skills, with a neat “black light” performance featuring other members of the family, along with a demonstration of Benjamin’s superb dancing skills entertains both adults and children, throughout at the same high level.

From among many here are a few of my favorite highlights. Timothy Dutton demonstrated why he’s considered one of the most accomplished instrumentalists when he played a short segment of “Pachelbel’s Canon in D major” on a variety of instruments, from the violin and guitar to the mandolin and used a “looper” to combine them into “an orchestra.” WOW, was it ever something to see and hear; it was unbelievable. It’s hard to imagine a more entertaining, dramatic, or energetic performance of “The Orange Blossom Special” or “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” than the “Duttonized” version of these classics.

Amy’s performance of Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons Summer Movement;” Tim and Judith’s duet of “You Say It Best When You Say Nothing At All,” accented with the dancing of Shelia and Dean was as beautifully performed as it was touching; one of the most personal and sincere Veteran’s segments of any show in Branson; and their spectacular “patented” finale of “Boil Them Cabbage Down” were also favorites. “You Can Count On Me,” an inspiring and beautifully performed all family number, touched my heart because, to me, it captures what makes the Duttons so special; their commitment to each other, their craft, and entertaining their audience.

Cousin Julio “horning” in on Jonathan’s banjo act.

Ok, I just have to mention cousin Julio, who, along with his straight man Jonathan, adds a large dose of humor to the show as he tries to “horn” in. It’s not only funny, but you won’t believe what he can do with those horns.

Some of you are probably asking, “Is there nothing in this show that you didn’t like?” The simple answer is, “Not much, not much at all.”

Previously I wrote, “From rock and roll to blue grass and country this show has a variety of music with something for everyone. It’s not the shows content alone however, that makes it so special. It’s how the Duttons present it! It’s that fabulous Dutton talent, instrumentality, flair, showmanship and their innate ability to instill that warm directly ‘from our family to you and your family’ feeling into its audience, that makes this show the unique, special and wonderful Branson entertainment experience that it is.” All I can say after seeing their show last week, is, “Ditto.”

For tickets or information for the Duttons show or for any of Branson’s other 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.

Plan to cruise into the splendor of Mother Nature’s spectacular Ozarks fall foliage show!

View of the first “blush” of Fall foliage from the bow of the “Landing Princess.”

“The rains we have experienced thus far this summer are setting Branson up to have a great fall foliage season,” said Melissa McGowan, Marketing/Groups and Special Events Manager for Main Street Lake Cruises. “It’s a once a year spectacular show put on by Mother Nature and, cruising aboard one of Main Street Lake Cruises’ boats, provides ‘premium seating’ to see it, in all of its vivid color and wonder,” she added.

Starting gradually in September, the foliage changes color in conjunction with cold nights and sunny days, turning panoramic Ozark vistas into magnificent colorful “masterpieces” that have to be seen to be believed. Lake Taneycomo, a long narrow impoundment of the White River, with shorelines that are much closer together than those of Table Rock and Bull Shoals Lakes, provides the ideal “theatre” from which to view this unique annual show, close-up and in all its wonder and brilliance.

Main Street Lake Cruises “Landing Princess.”

And what better seats to have to see “the show” than aboard the only cruise boats on Lake Taneycomo. Whether cruising on a sightseeing cruise aboard Main Street Lake Cruises’ Lake Queen, a modern day replica of the grand riverboats which used to ply the White River, or enjoying a dinner cruise aboard its 100 foot luxury yacht Landing Princess, you will have an unparalleled view of not only the magnificent beauty of the changing Ozark’s foliage, but of Lake Taneycomo and its natural scenic wonders.

A cruise aboard one of Main Street Lake Cruises’ boats is a spectacular experience any time of the year offering an up close chance to view Bald Eagles, Great Blue Herons, other birds, deer, other wildlife, panoramic vistas and bluffs not available through any other means except by boat on Lake Taneycomo. They are seen by very few of the millions who visit Branson each year. The amazing wonder of Ozarks’ fall foliage takes an already special Branson experience and memory and makes it even more so.

Main Street Lake Cruises’ McGowan said that, depending on the weather, the first blush of color is generally toward the second half of September with its peak at about the third week of October. She also points out that Main Street Lake Cruises has moved to a new more convenient location at 9 South Boardwalk, located along the shoreline of the Bass Pro Parking lot, that is easy to find and provides close, drive-up parking, and immediate access to its main entrance from a flat parking lot

Because of the popularity of these cruises McGowan suggests making advance reservations. For additional information on Branson’s fall foliage season or cruises on either Lake Queen, or dinner cruises on the Landing Princess, or any of Branson’s other 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; call 1-800-785-1550 or visit www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

The Best of Branson Insider Highlights for September 2016

One of the over 115 craftsmen who will be demonstrating at Silver Dollar City's National Harvest & Cowboy Festival; Clay & Tina Cooper performing in "Clay Cooper's Country Express;" and the Oak Ridge Boys.

One of the 125 craftsmen who will be demonstrating at Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest & Cowboy Festival; Clay & Tina Cooper performing in “Clay Cooper’s Country Express;” and the Oak Ridge Boys.

“September is a wonderful time in the Ozarks, as Branson transitions from summer into fall mode, with moderating temperatures and our Ozarks’ Foliage gradually beginning to display its spectacular autumn colors,” said Annette Wood, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “Add in the number, variety, and quality of the exciting attractions, shows, shopping, and other things that Branson offers, and it’s easy to understand why a visit to Branson in the fall has become a popular tradition with so many people,” she continued.

Here’s our Insider Highlight list of some of the unique and exciting special events that Branson visitors will be able to enjoy during September, including our Featured Show, Limited Engagement, and Event of the Month:

Featured Show of the Month: Clay Cooper’s Country Express combines the vocal talent and audience charisma of Clay Cooper, with the best dancers and choreography on any Branson stage, the vocal talents of featured female vocalist Kari Garrison, the talent and comedy of Matt Gumm, the rope and gun handling performance of Johnny Lonestar, one of the most talented live bands in Branson, and so much more. It’s two hours of great music, dancing, fun, laughter, and variety that whisks adults and children alike, “down the tracks” on a delightful entertainment journey.

Featured Limited Engagement of the Month: Country music legends, the Oak Ridge Boys return to Branson, with their phenomenal harmonies and an amazing career spanning several decades that includes five Grammy Awards, the Song of the Year, from both the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music, for their hit Elvira, which also crossed over to the pop charts, and many others. Their hits include Touch a Hand, Make a Friend; Make My Life with You; American Made; (I’m Settin’) Fancy Free; It Takes a Little Rain (To Make Love Grow); Bobbie Sue; and many more.

Featured Event of the Month: Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest & Cowboy Festival showcasing the largest gathering of demonstrating craftsmen in the country; the Wild West Show; Western Musicians; chuck wagon cooking by Kent Rollins; Extreme Mustang Makeovers as expert horse trainer Fred Woehl tames beautiful wild mustangs; Silver Dollar City’s Barn Dance, returning for 2016 by popular demand; and much more.

LIMITED ENGAGEMENT PERFORMANCES (Sorted by starting date)

Sep 14: Restless Heart
Sep 18: Big Daddy Weave
Sep 19: Larry’s Country Diner-Rhonda Vincent
Sep 20 – 29: Oak Ridge Boys*
Sep 20: Larry’s Country Diner-Gene Watson
Sep 21: Larry’s Country Diner-Jimmy Fortune
Sep 22: Larry’s Country Diner-Mo and Holly Pitney
Sep 23: Larry’s Country Diner-T. Graham Brown
Sep 24: Larry’s Country Diner-Mark Lowry
Sep 24: MJ LIVE
Sep 25 – 27: Boot Daddy Presents Dailey & Vincent**
Sep 29 – 30: Boot Daddy Presents Suzy Bogguss
Sep 30: Jay Leno

* Also appearing select dates in October and November
** Also appearing 27-29 November

SPECIAL EVENT HIGHLIGHTS (Sorted by starting date.)

Sep 1 – 5: 2016 World Exclusive Exhibit – Titanic Museum Attraction
Sep 1 – 5: Silver Dollar City Southern Gospel Picnic Festival
Sep 1 – 4: Southern Gospel Cruises on the Showboat Branson Belle
Sep 1 – 30: Tanger Outlets Thanks Teachers Month
Sep 2: Boogie Wonderland – A Tribute to Disco Live in Concert
Sep 2 – 4: CAF Air Power History Tour
Sep 2 – 5: Labor Day Weekend Sale at Tanger Outlets
Sep 3: K-Life Taney County Stars & Stripes Run-Walk
Sep 4: Labor Day Picnic and Fireworks at Big Cedar
Sep 4: Chateau on the Lake Celebrates Labor Day
Sep 9 – 11: Country Music Weekend at Silver Dollar City
Sep 10: Walk to End Alzheimer’s
Sep 13: Foraging in the Ozarks: Wild Edible-Medicinal Plant and Bird ID Mosey
Sep 14 – Oct 29: National Harvest & Cowboy Festival at Silver Dollar City
Sep 15 – 17: Autumn Daze Arts & Crafts Festival
Sep 23 – 25: Baseball Youth Future Games
Sep 24: Encounter Ministry – Encounter Celebration
Sep 26 – 27: Branson Hammer In & Knife Show

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

Why Branson’s Radisson Hotel provides a superior lodging experience

The beautiful Radisson Hotel.

“Visitors coming to Branson have a wide variety of lodging to pick from offering great choices for just about every need and budget,” said Annette Wood, Director of Group Sales for the Branson Tourism Center. “The Radisson Hotel, ideally located in the center of the famed Branson Strip, is known for its outstanding hospitality, customer service, cleanliness, and the capability to host, not only individuals and families, but large groups, conventions, and other, events,” she added.

Yvonne Costales, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Radisson, said that the hotel was built originally in 1994 and was completely renovated from top to bottom between 2012 and 2014. “Everything is ‘brand new’ including our 472 rooms and suites, common areas, the lobby, the ‘Wildwood Bistro Restaurant’ and our updated sports bar, the ‘Time Out Sports Lounge,’” She added.

When asked what the number one reason would be for Branson visitors to select the Radisson she, without hesitation, said, “Guest services is a priority for us. We have a motto called, ‘Yes I can’ designed to make sure that we do everything we can to make the stay of our guests as pleasurable as possible. This empowers many of our employees with the authority to make on the spot decisions to ensure sure that happens without delay.” She also points out that this service starts with a great selection of guest rooms to meet just about every need, a full set of amenities, both in and out of the room, and one of the best locations of any hotel in Branson.

The hotel has 472 rooms with 322 standard double bedded rooms, 123 king rooms, 22 king leisure suites, 4 Presidential Suites, and a Penthouse. Costales said that with the number and variety of rooms they have, and that many of the rooms and suites are adjoining and or connected, that the hotel has the flexibility to meet just about any lodging need from a basic room, to suites for the family or business traveler.

Each room comes with a complete set of amenities. This includes a refrigerator, 37″ flat-screen TVs; complimentary high-speed, wireless Internet access; work desk with ergonomic chair; two-line telephones with voicemail and data ports; easy chair with ottoman; hair dryer; iron/ironing board; coffee makers, and much more.

The Radisson has free parking; a heated indoor/outdoor pool; a Fitness Center, set up and outfitted by Precor; a whirlpool and sauna, and a business center. It also offers a separate on-site restaurant and lounge; a full service concierge desk to assist with transportation, tickets for local events and more.

Although not thought of by most people in selecting a hotel, its location, only a block off the center of the famed Branson Strip, on Wildwood Drive is ideal. By simply turning left, south, when exiting the hotels main entrance and going one block guests have immediate access to Branson’s Alternate Colored Yellow Route which permits a lot of flexibility in avoiding Highway 76’s traffic.

It’s a ten-minute or less walk from Walmart; Grand Village Shoppes; Andy Williams Performing Arts Centre and Theatre, Kings Castle Theatre, three different Go Kart Tacks, Ride the Ducks, two miniature golf courses, the Thousand Hills Golf Course, and many other activities.

In terms of eating conveniently and restaurants, it would be hard to image a better location. In addition to the hotels in house “Wildwood Bistro” and the “Time Out Sports Lounge” there are over a dozen eating establishments within a 10-minute walk of the hotel including Dairy Queen, Panera Bread, Shorty Smalls, Lone Star Steak House, Florentina’s Ristorante Italiano, McDonalds, Mel’s Hard Luck Diner, Subway, and many others.

The Radisson Hotel is also a participant in the Branson Tourism Center’s (BTC) Lowest Rate Lock Guarantee Program. If you book your stay at the Radisson through BTC, subject to the programs minimal conditions, the price you pay is guaranteed to be the lowest rate available. If you find a lower price offered for the same room on the same dates anytime between when you book your room and when you arrive in Branson, BTC will match the lower rate.

The Ball Room set up, in one of its many possible configurations, for a dinner event.

The Radisson has over 17,000 square feet of meeting and event space under “one roof;” those attending meetings or events do not have to go outside at all or be otherwise be concerned about the weather in getting from their rooms to their conferences or events. It’s the only Branson Strip hotel, and one of only three hotels in Branson, capable of providing this type of service for such large conferences and events.

Costales points out that those 17,000 plus square feet are configurable to meet the needs of large conferences and events to the smallest, providing group and meeting planners with the utmost flexibility in planning their event. She said that it can be divided up into 17 rooms, the largest of which would the Ball Room with 6,058 square feet and the smallest which would be Sky View room with about 650 square feet, with a large variety in between.

She believes that the Radisson is ideal, for not only the large groups, but for those planning smaller events such as reunions, weddings, and similar gatherings. “Our location, dedicated Groups Department, the range of services, including catering, that we offer, and the flexibility of our meeting space make the Radisson an ideal place for both large and small meetings, conferences, or other events,” Costales added.

Branson Tourism Center’s Wood said, “We have worked very closely with the Radisson for many years and our customers have continually had great experiences there. It is a beautiful property, ideally located with meeting room space that is an easy fit for different sized groups and their individual needs, and a staff is a joy to work with.” For more information on using the Radisson for your group or any other Branson Group travel needs please feel free to call us at 1-800-268-4014.”

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

Three powerful words inspiring people to choose Branson

Just a few of the many exciting ways to have family friendly fun in Branson, Presleys' Country Jubilee, Ride the Ducks, Branson Scenic Railway, Lake Queen, and interactive fun aboard the Titanic Museum Attraction.

Just a few of the many exciting ways to relax and have family friendly fun in Branson, “Presleys’ Country Jubilee,” “Ride the Ducks,” “Branson Scenic Railway”, “Main Street Lake Cruises’ Lake Queen,” and interactive fun aboard the “Titanic Museum Attraction.”

“We love the input that we receive from the tens of thousands who interact with us on our Facebook page. It provides us with invaluable information that better enables us to help them have a great Branson experience and promote Branson’s amazing live shows and attractions,” said Annette Wood, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center.

Wood said that although people write articles that are hundreds and thousands of words long, describing why people should come to Branson we thought it would be a fun challenge for our Facebook readers to see what they could do with three words. So we asked the question, “Can you say in 3 words or less, what is the #1 thing that most caused, or would most cause, you to choose Branson as a vacation destination?”

The three words used most often, either directly or indirectly were “Fun,” “Family” and “Friendly.” Here’s some of our favorite responses, with the handle the Commenter uses on Facebook and our comments, following in brackets, where appropriate.

In our opinion, the first five do an excellent job of summing up the awesome totality of the Branson experience in only three words:

Denise York: BEST PLACE EVER!
Donna Glass: Consistently great time
Kayla Graves: Excited to go!
Debbie Sellen Artindale: I’m coming back!
Jena Maree Vaughn: So much to do. [Here’s a link to Branson’s major Shows and Attractions.

These next five are selections from the direct “Fun,” “Family” and “Friendly” answers:

Linda Mccoy: Fun, fun, fun
Jaime Johnson: Very Family Friendly
Jacob Russell: Family, Nostalgia, Fun
Linda DuPre: Clean family fun
CE Martin: Beautiful, family fun

These last five speak to specific reasons or things:

Suzanne Drennon: God, country, family [Things of the heart and spirit were seemingly as important as “things” in deciding to choose Branson for a vacation.]
Ashley Rucker: Silver Dollar City [Not surprisingly it was the attraction named most, but then it is Branson’s oldest and most popular Attraction.]
Jim Fine: The Awesome SHOWS!! [One of the biggest attractors was Branson’s Shows]
George Wilbur Jeter Jr.: BEAUTIFUL & RELAXING [A common theme throughout]
Kristie Stanley-Gatewood: Close to home [Branson is located within an eight hour or less drive for about one third of the U.S. Population.]

Whether described using words such as fun, family, friendly, value, relaxing, variety, entertainment, natural beauty, pristine lakes, closeness, excitement, adventure, or any one of dozens of other words, Branson is a unique one of a kind destination. Scott DeCamp sums it all up beautifully saying, “Best vacation ever” and isn’t that what we all want for our families?

You don’t want to miss the sensational Clay Cooper’s Country Express

Clay and Tina Cooper performing “Squeeze Me.”

What do you get when you combine an entertainer with the vocal talent and audience charisma of Clay Cooper, with the best dancers and choreography on any Branson stage, the vocal talents of featured female vocalist Kari Garrison, the talent and comedy of Matt Gumm, the rope and gun handling performance of Johnny Lonestar, one of the most talented live bands in Branson, and so much more? Two hours of great music, dancing, fun, laughter, and variety called the Clay Cooper’s Country Express Show that whisks adults and children alike, “down the tracks” on a delightful entertainment journey.

The musical talent and personality of the show’s star, Clay Cooper, are the “tracks” upon which this express speeds along. From his dramatic and exciting entry onto the stage and the show’s full cast opening number, “Fever” until his performance of the original song, ” America Stand Strong” during the show’s patriotic finale, Clay’s performance effortlessly demonstrates, why he has won so many Branson entertainment awards.

It should be noted that although the show emphasizes country music, it covers everything from country to gospel, pop, “funk,” and more. From among many sung by Clay, three of my personal favorites were the duet of “Squeeze Me,” sung by him and his wife Tina, the Hank Williams’ hit “Kaw-Liga,” and his performance of the Roy Orbison hit “Crying” which was another demonstration of Clay’s vocal range and talent.

As remarkable as his singing is, it is certainly equaled by his ability to not only relate to the crowd, but interact with them in a way that entertains the whole audience and draws them into their own entertainment experience. He goes out into the audience and triggers responses from them, with a warm comfortable humor, that has everyone laughing, having fun and wondering what is coming next.

Kari Garrison performing “Landslide.”

In addition to Clay, the show features a number of other vocal performances. From among many, I have chosen to highlight two, Kari Garrison’s great job on the Fleetwood Mac hit, “Landslide,” and RP Harrell’s inspiring performance of “America,” as part of the Patriotic Finale.

This is an excellent time to mention my belief in this show’s ability to simultaneously entertain both kids and adults throughout the show. From a vocal perspective, the show features quality “peer to peer” performances and appearances by Colton Cooper, Ezrah Noelle, Caden Cooper, and Rosie Dale. Just loved the total production number of the 1957 Thurston Harris hit, “Itty Bitty Pretty One” featuring Colton and the shows dancers. It was a WOW! Ezrah’s performance of “Cowboy Sweetheart” with her great yodeling did Patsy Montana proud!

Kids will relate to this show as they see "peer" performances by Colt Cooper with his dad, Cadin Cooper and Rosie Dale, and Ezrah Noelle

Kids will relate to this show as they see “peer” performances by Colton Cooper with his dad, Caden Cooper and Rosie Dale, and Ezrah Noelle.

In addition to the peer to peer vocals however, the show has two other acts that will equally appeal to both adults and kids. Johnny Lonestar’s trick “gun slinging,” whip, and rope act, as seen on the NBC primetime show, “America’s Got Talent” is amazing and, the multi-talented Matt Gumm does everything from comedy, to playing the Hammered Dulcimer, and Donald Trump. His “air horn” routine is as amazing as it is funny.

A unique aspect of this show is its dancers. Tina Cooper, the show’s choreographer, and one of the dancers herself, is to dance choreography on the Branson stage, what her alma mater, the “University of Oklahoma,” from which she received a “Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Music Theatre with a Minor in Dance” is to football. The masterful way she has woven the talents of her extremely talented dancers into the show, is a thing of exquisite beauty that is unique and easily sets it apart from any other country music show that I have ever seen.

No matter what style, the Country Express Dancers do it with an energy, grace, and precision that demonstrates why they are one of, if not “the,” top dancing troupe(s) in Branson. Their performance during the show’s opening number, “Fever” sets the stage for what is to come. The beautiful dance feature performed by Jenn Turner and Nathan Applegate as Clay sang Garth Brooks “Thunder Road” was breath taking, not only in terms of the dancing, but the story it told as Clay sang. To me it was another WOW moment. In addition to Tina Cooper, the Country Express Dancers include Nathan Applegate, Nate Bittner, Sarah Blackerby, Kristen Chandler, Hailey Denton, Jeremiah Eugenio, Kelly Smith, Elizabeth Sparks, Jenn Turner, and Colton Williams.

The Country Express Band consists of RP Harrell, piano and Musical Producer; Barry Bales guitar and vocals; Dave Clark, bass guitar; Jimmy Hyde, Drums; Greg Moody, guitar; and Robby Springfield, string guitar. Although their talent is obvious throughout the whole show, it is highlighted, both in total and individually, in their performance of the Eagles hit, “Already Gone,” which also featured Matt Gumm on the Hammered Dulcimer

In a previous “review” of this show I wrote, “From before the curtain goes up until it drops, this show is an “express” ride through two plus hours of the most engaging, energetic and talented entertainment available in Branson hosted by a performer who can work an audience as beautifully as he sings and his wife choreographs and dances.” After seeing the 2016 edition of this outstanding show all I can say is, “Ditto,” and add, “Don’t miss it!”

For additional information on the Clay Cooper’s Country Express Show 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 www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Branson Up-Close and Personal with the “M & M” of the Hughes Brothers Family

Lena Hughes, the blessed and proud Mother of the Hughes Brothers and their families.

Lena Hughes, the blessed and proud Mom, Mother-in-Law, and Grandmother of the Hughes family.

It is certainly no exaggeration to say that the “M & M” of the Hughes brothers, first, and still, as their Mother and, for over two decades as their Manger, Lena Hughes has been with them, on their inspired journey, since the very beginning. Lena’s five extremely talented sons, their talented wives, and children, make up the “world’s largest performing family,” and star in two of Branson’s most popular shows, it starring the Hughes Brothers and the Hughes Brothers Christmas Show, Branson’s longest running totally Christmas show.

“Branson-Up Close and Personal,” is a service of the Branson Tourism Center (BTC) and is intended to provide readers with an unprecedented look at a Branson celebrity or personality. The interview with Lena Hughes (LM) was conducted on July 28, 2016 for BTC by Gary J. Groman, a 30 year resident of the Branson area, local columnist and freelance writer, and is presented in a Question and Answer format:

BTC: In what town did you live prior to moving to Branson?
LH: Taylorsville, Utah.

BTC: Is that where the Hughes Brothers were born and raised?
LH: Yes.

BTC: For how many years did you live there?
LH: 26.

BTC: Did you perform with what was to become the “Hughes Brothers,” with your husband Gary, when they first started?
LH: Yes, I sang and played the clarinet; Gary played the accordion and sang

BTC: When was that?
LH: In the late 60’s.

BTC: What was the original name of the act?
LH: Oh, it was very original, “The Hughes Family Show.”

BTC: When did you and Gary stop performing?
LH: Around 1979. It then became the “Hughes Brothers Show.”

BTC: What role did you and Gary play with the show immediately after you stopped performing?
LH: That’s when I assumed the role of “M & M,” Mom and Manager and Gary ran the sound.

BTC: What did the Hughes Brothers do between 1983 and 1994?
LH: Traveled around the country performing from our home in Taylorsville.

BTC: When did you come to Branson?
LH: 1995

BTC: So in general terms, the Hughes Brothers have only lived in two places, Taylorville, UT and Branson, MO.
LH: Yes.

BTC: How big a gamble was it for the Hughes family to move to Branson?
LH: It was a big gamble, but the real story lies in all the things that pushed us to Branson.

BTC: What pushed you to Branson?
LH: It was a power bigger than us that we couldn’t fight. Consistently, over the years, as we performed people would tell us about Branson and suggest that it would be a perfect place for us to perform and, from the magazine in the Doctor’s office with the Osmonds in Branson on the front cover, to the man who finally helped us break into Branson, and much more in between, it just seemed like Branson was the place where we were supposed to be. After much prayer and getting a short contract with Silver Dollar City, the whole family moved to Branson in 1995.

BTC: What did the gamble involve?
LH: Selling our home and business and uprooting our entire family. Up to that time, the Hughes Brothers was not our only source of income because we had other income coming in from our business, but that all changed when we moved to Branson.

BTC: What’s your fondest memory of the time you spent in Taylorsville?
LH: I have two; working in my garden without any rocks in it and just watching the boys develop their talents.

BTC: What did you do between Silver Dollar City and the time you purchased the “Roy Clark Celebrity Theatre?”
LH: Persisted and, in faith, walked through every door that opened, as we developed our own show and were ready when the door opened and presented us with the opportunity to buy our own theatre.

BTC: When and what was that?
LH: In January of 2000 when Jim Thomas offered us the opportunity to buy the “Roy Clark Celebrity Theatre.”

BTC: Was it smooth sailing after that?
LH: Well the opportunity was a blessing, but it involved a miracle to fully bring it to fruition on the very last day, almost five years later.

BTC: When did that happen?
LH: October 4, 2004.

BTC: Did you and Gary decide to add to the family after the boys had grown up?
LH: Yes, we adopted four, two sisters and a brother and sister from Russia in 2003. They were between the ages of 9 and 13.

BTC: When did the Hughes Brothers start incorporating other family members into the act?
LH: Over 20 years ago, when Kristina was about a year and half old and started coming up on stage and performing while we were at Silver Dollar City. Obviously, it has steadily evolved since then, to the point of where we are today.

Lena and her late husband Gary, surrounded by the Hughes family in this 2013 Christmas photo.

BTC: What do you feel when you see your sons performing on stage with their wives and your grandchildren?
LH: I’m so inspired and think to myself, “This is why we do this.”

BTC: What’s your favorite part about this year’s it starring the Hughes Brothers?
LH: I really like the last number where about 20 of the children, ranging in age from 9 to 16, sing Children Will Listen. It’s beautifully arranged and performed and has such an inspirational message.

BTC: If a mother called you up and said, “Why should I bring my family to your show?” what would your response be?
LH: Families just love our show because its great entertainment that connects to all ages throughout the whole show, while reminding them so much of their own family, as they sense how much our family loves each other and being together.

BTC: Is the Hughes Brothers Christmas Show really 100 percent Christmas?
LH: It absolutely is!

BTC: Is there something special and unique about the living Nativity in the Hughes Brothers Christmas show?
LH: Yes, we are the only show in Branson, if not the whole world, that’s been able to produce a live “Baby Jesus,” from within the family, for the past 20 years.

BTC: What’s your fondest memory of the 21 years you have spent in Branson?
LH: My fondest memory is the day we took over total ownership of this theatre on October 4, 2004.

BTC: What one word best describes how you feel about being the “Mom,” “Mother-in-Law,” and “Grandmother” of the Hughes Brothers and their families?
LH: It has to be two words, “Blessed” and “Proud.” “Blessed” speaks for itself, but what I am “Proud” of is simply that they are just such good people.

The Best of Branson Insider Highlights for August 2016

Terry Fator and Friends and Super Summer Cruise are just two of the exciting events happening in Branson during August.

The “Super Summer Cruise” and “Terry Fator,” along with some of his friends, are just two of the exciting events happening in Branson during August.

“It’s doubtful that any other place in America offers the unique variety and choices for having fun and being entertained that Branson does,” said Preston Garrison, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest providers of tourism services and information. In addition to everything else Branson offers, here’s our “insider highlight list” of some of the unique and exciting additional events that Branson visitors will be able to enjoy during August, including our Featured Show and Event of the Month:

“Raiding the Country Vault’s” Colt Prather, right, Melody Hart, and Billy Yates during their spectacular performance of “The Devil Went Down To Georgia.”

Featured Show of the Month: Branson’s newest major show, Raiding the Country Vault, has only been open for a few short weeks. After seeing it, I must agree with many who saw it before me, and said that six words pretty well summed up their experience, “It will blow your socks off!” One person who saw the show wrote, “It is a master production of the highest quality and it is devoted to traditional country music. While staying true to the traditional country sound, the music is presented with enthusiasm and attitude.” As three large screens display the name of artist who made the song famous, their history, and other information about the song itself, the cast reaches into the ‘Vault’ and performs each, turning legendary songs from the past into what is easily one of the most amazing entertainment experiences in Branson.

Featured Event of the Month: The Shepherd of the Hills Super Summer Cruise Weekend with its “Show & Shine” and “Midnight Cruise” is one of Branson’s most popular summer events. The three-day event, to be held at the “Shepherd of the Hills Homestead,” features hundreds of classic cars and trucks on public display during the daily “Show & Shine” and culminates with its famous “Midnight Cruise,” down Shepherd of the Hills Expressway.

LIMITED ENGAGEMENT PERFORMANCES (Sorted by starting date.)

Aug 5: The Happy Together Tour
Aug 6-7: Terry Fator
Aug 7: Bret Michaels

SPECIAL EVENT HIGHLIGHTS (Sorted by starting date.)

Aug 1 – Aug 31: 2016 World Exclusive Exhibit – Titanic Museum Attraction
Aug – Aug 13: Night Water! at White Water
Aug 1 – Aug 7: Silver Dollar City Moonlight Madness
Aug 1 – Aug 5: Ball Parks of America Bring the Lumber Baseball Tournament
Aug 4 – Aug 6: Vintage Camper Event – Branson KOA
Aug 5 – Aug 7: Missouri State Tax-Free Holiday Sale
Aug 5 – Aug 7: Tax Free Holiday Shopping at Tanger Outlets
Aug 5 – Aug 7: “End of Summer Savings” Sidewalk Sale
Aug 6: ROCK THE SPECTRUM
Aug 7: 10th Annual Back to School Bash
Aug 8 – Aug 10: Baseball Youth All Star Challenge
Aug 10 – Aug 13: Shepherd of the Hills Super Summer Cruise Weekend
Aug 11 – Aug 14: Baseball Youth World Championships
Aug 13: Promenade Pop-Up Shop
Aug 13: Outlaw Nation Southern Revival Concert Series
Aug 16: Foraging in the Ozarks: Wild Edible-Medicinal Plant and Bird ID Mosey
Aug 17 – Aug 21: Youth Baseball Network (YBN) National Tournament
Aug 17 – 20 Youth Baseball (YBN) Coaches Convention 417-335-5767
Aug 20: 3rd Annual KidSTYLE Back-to-School Bash at Tanger Outlets
Aug 25 – Sep 5: Silver Dollar City Southern Gospel Picnic Festival
Aug 26 – Aug 28: 28th Annual Fiddle Festival Presented by Grand Country
Aug 28 – Sep 4: Southern Gospel Cruises on the Showboat Branson Belle

Branson shows promise an awesome Thanksgiving weekend

Four of the many Branson shows that will be open over the Thanksgiving Day Weekend, SIX, top left, Clay Cooper's Country Music Express, Presleys' Country Jubilee, and It Starring the Hughes Brothers.

Four of the many Branson shows that will be open over the Thanksgiving Weekend, SIX, top left, Clay Cooper’s Country Express, Presleys’ Country Jubilee, and It Starring the Hughes Brothers.

“Although it’s early, we are getting questions about what shows will be open on Thanksgiving Day and over that weekend,” said, Preston Garrison, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “We are pleased to provide a list of most of the Branson shows scheduled to be open on Thanksgiving Day and over that weekend. It is in alphabetical order with those on Our List of Most Popular Branson Shows listed first. Those that will be open on Thanksgiving Day are indicated with an ^*after their entry; the links will take you to the specific show page with additional information on the show, schedules, ticketing, special discounts, pricing options like VIP seating, videos and more:

Acrobats of China^*

Amazing Pets^*

Andy Williams Christmas Extravaganza^*

Billy Dean in Concert with Jarrett

Branson Country USA

Christmas Wonderland

Clay Cooper’s Country Express

Comedy Jamboree

Dublin’s Irish Tenors and The Celtic Ladies

Grand Jubilee^*

Hughes Brothers Christmas Show^*

Legends in Concert^*Million Dollar Quartet^*

Moses

Moses Behind the Scenes Tour

New Jersey Nights^*

Ozark Mountain Jubilee

Presleys’ Country Jubilee

Puttin’ on the Ritz*

Reza Edge of Illusion^*

Shoji Tabuchi^*

SIX^*

Sunday Gospel Jubilee

The Blackwoods Morning Show

The Haygoods^*

The Lettermen^*

#1 Hits of the 60’s & 50’s too

50s Rock Roll and Reminisce

70’s Music Celebration Starring Barry Williams^*

ABBA Tribute – Thank You for the Music

Alabama Rolls On Tribute

All American Gospel

All Hands on Deck

Amazing Acrobats of Shanghai^*

A Neil Diamond Tribute^*

Art Parties Tonight

A Tribute To George Strait Dinner Show

A Tribute to John Denver^*

A Tribute to Marty Robbins^*

AYO starring Voices of Glory

Beach Boys California Dreamin’

Bee Gees and Beyond

Big Clayton’s Piano Show

Boot Daddy Presents Dailey & Vincent

Branson Murder Mystery Dinner Show

Branson’s Famous Baldknobbers

Bretts

Carpenters Once More^*

Christmas on the Trail Chuckwagon Dinner Show^*

Classic Country’s Patsy Cline & Friends

Comedy Hypnosis Show^*

Conway Remembered

Crazy ’bout Patsy and Other Country Legends^*

Dixie Stampede^*

Doo Wop and the Drifters

Duttons^*

Eagles Tribute Concert

Forever Young

George Jones and Friends Remembered

George Strait Country starring James Garrett^*

Golden Sounds of The Platters with Eddie Stovall^*

Hallmark Presents Maxine’s Christmas Carol^*

Hamners’ Unbelievable Variety Show^*

Hank Williams Revisited

Hot Rods & High Heels

Kelli Grant “The Queen of Swing”

Legend of Kungfu – Return of the Dragon^*

Lynyrd Skynyrd & Suthyrn Fryd Frynds Tribute

Magnficent 7 Show

Motown Downtown^*

Ozark Mountain Opry Show

Pierce Arrow^*

Red, Hot & Blue

Sanders Family Christmas^*

Showboat Branson Belle^*

Smoke on the Mountain

The Hypnolarious Show^*

The Petersen Family Bluegrass Band

The Sons of Britches

TitanicDance^*

Twice Adopted^*

Waylon, Willie & The Good Ol’ Boys

Branson Tourism Center’s Garrison reminds that show schedules are subject to change. For the most current schedules, he suggests checking the link for any show you might be interested that is listed in this article, which will automatically be updated; the BTC Branson Show List, the most current list of Branson shows available anywhere; or calling the Branson Tourism Center, at 1-800-785-1550 and talking with one of its Branson based Travel Planners.

Awesome Dutton quality, value, & customers service make Dutton Inn a special Experience!

Dutton Inn

Millions were introduced to the Duttons’ talent, friendliness, and charisma as they rose to the top ten on Season 2 of the NBC prime time hit “America’s Got Talent.” They discovered what their fans, and Branson audiences, had experienced for years prior, and are still experiencing today at the Duttons show in Branson. What many don’t know however, is that the Dutton family owns the Dutton Inn, located just behind their theatre, which provides the lodging equivalent of what the Duttons show is to the highest quality in Branson entertainment.

During a recent interview with Belle Dutton, the beautiful wife of Jonathan Dutton, and one of the mangers of the Dutton Inn she said, “From check-in to check-out, we are dedicated to one thing, giving our guests a wonderful memorable lodging experience, filled with the friendliness and quality that reflects the Dutton’s values and standards. One that makes us proud to have our name on it.”

One of the Dutton Inn’s tastefully appointed double queen rooms.

The Inn has 76 tastefully appointed rooms, each with two queen sized beds and a full set of amenities. Each also “has a coffee pot, granite counter tops at the sink in bathroom, FREE Wi-Fi connection, flat screen TV, 60 cable channels, nightstand, lamps, dresser, table, chairs, microwave, mini-fridge, and free local calls. Hair dryers, irons, and ironing boards are available, by request, from the front desk at no additional charge.” Although it has no pool or game room the Inn is ideally located within a five to ten minute walk of White Water and just across the parking lot from Cici’s and its large game room.

Belle points out that staying at the Dutton Inn is more than just staying in one of the cleanest rooms in Branson. From that special Dutton family ambiance and spirit, to its excellent location, full family breakfast, unparalleled customer service, and the willingness to do all that is expected, “and then some,” to meet or exceed their guest’s expectations, staying at the Inn is an experience that will become a special part of your Branson visit.

In terms of location, the Dutton Inn is about as good as it gets. Tucked back near Green Mountain Drive, away from the noise and bustle of the Branson Strip, guests can conveniently enter and leave the Inn’s parking lot from either Highway 76 or Green Mountain Drive. This provides a number of ways to avoid the Highway 76 traffic in getting to destinations such as Silver Dollar City, Branson Landing, Historic Downtown Branson, Titanic, Table Rock Lake, and many others. Belle said the front desk personnel will be glad to advise guests on the best way to get where they are going.

Even better is the fact that guests are within a convenient five to ten minute walk from many of Branson’s shows, attractions and restaurants. Among others, these include White Water, the Branson Ferris Wheel, and the Track Family Fun Park, as well as shows such as the Duttons, SIX, AYO, “It” starring the Hughes Brothers, Forever Young, Liverpool Legends, and George Dyer as well as restaurants such as Cicis, Andy’s Frozen Custard, Shindigs, Dutton Deli, and many others.

She also pointed out that the Inn is a participant in the Branson Tourism Center’s (BTC) Lowest Rate Lock Guarantee Program. If you book your stay at the Dutton Inn through BTC, subject to the programs minimal conditions, the price you pay is guaranteed to be the lowest rate available. If you find a lower price offered for the same room on the same dates anytime between when you book your room and when you arrive in Branson, BTC will match the lower rate.

Belle emphasized her belief that when you combine the Dutton Inn quality, cleanliness, price, service, location, and the Lowest Rate Lock Guarantee, that not only is the Inn one of the best lodging values in Branson, but an experience that will become a wonderful part of your Branson memories. For additional information or reservations for the Dutton Inn please contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services by calling 1-800-785-1550 or visiting www.BransonTourismCenter.com.