Janice Martin performing the aerial fiddling segment of her act.
“When the Showboat Branson Belle launches its 2011 season it will be with a new show and a new menu,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. Johnson’s comments were based on a recent press release from Silver Dollar City announcing some of the changes that will be taking place in 2011 with their Branson attractions.
A completely new show for the 4:00 and 8:00 p.m. cruises aboard the Showboat Branson Belle will be called “ENCORE.” It is billed as “an unforgettable musical journey” featuring two new headline acts to the Branson entertainment scene.
Janice Martin, is the only fiddling aerialist in the world. Martin, is heralded worldwide for her artistry as a world-class violinist, pianist and vocalist; has been dubbed by “The New York Times” as “A violinist with a strong personality” and “The Miami Herald” called her a “A stunning talent.” Those who attended Silver Dollar City’s World-Fest in 2010 saw her mesmerizing and exciting performance as part of the featured show, “Fiery Fiddles.”
“ENCORE!” will also feature “The Showmen, a new male vocal group. The Showmen are “a six-piece all male vocal group” who will be performing a broad variety of musical selections from the 60’s to today and electrify audiences with “a contrast of raw power and their amazing vocal range.” Comedian and magician Christopher James will be the master of ceremonies, the Showboats “signature live orchestra will provide the music and there will be exciting new “staging components” and costuming.
To complete the biggest changes the Showboat has undergone in her 15 year history, her chefs are putting the finishing touches on the new menu that will be used. “As wonderful as the entertainment experience has always been on The Showboat Branson Belle, in 2011 passengers will have a completely new experience,” said Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson.
She also points out that the 4:00 p.m. cruises December 26 through December 30 will be the last chance to see Todd Oliver and his famous “talking dogs” or the “Showstoppers Show” aboard the Showboat Branson Belle. Starting in 2011 Oliver will be performing at the Jim Stafford Theatre. Johnson anticipates that tickets for the last performances of Oliver will be in high demand and recommends advance reservations.
For additional information or tickets for the Showboat Branson Belle or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions 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.
*Photo courtesy of www.janicemartin.com