Author Archives: Gary Groman

Limited Engagements add to Branson show choices

Sawyer Brown

BRANSON, Mo., July 9, 2012 — “On a daily basis, Branson has live shows presenting a variety and quality of entertainment which rivals that of any destination city in the world,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. She explains that the foundation of Branson’s reputation as the “Music show capital of the world,” is the host of regular Branson shows that perform on just about a daily basis throughout the season. A current show schedule along with limited engagements can be found on the Official Branson.com Show Schedule, powered by Branson Tourism Center.

Johnson points out that the available live show choices for Branson visitors is enhanced even more throughout the season by nationally known performers, acts or shows performing limited engagements in Branson for a specific period of time. This may be as short as one performance or multiple performances over a period of time.

Although subject to change, the following list of limited engagement performances in Branson for the remainder of 2012 is based on information contained in the Official Branson.com Show Schedule. For ease of use , it is sorted by date and includes the name of the performer, act or show followed by the month and date of their performance. If only one date is shown there is only one performance if more than one date is shown, the second date is the last date they are scheduled to perform during 2012:

Three Dog Night, 7, 14
Neal McCoy, 7, 19*
Cinderella with special guests Sebastian Bach and Quiet Riot, 7, 20
Neal McCoy, 8, 24 – 8, 25*
Petra, 8, 25
Jimmy Sturr, 8, 26
Def Leppard, Poison, and Lita Ford, 8, 29
Mel Tillis, 9, 6 – 12, 8
Air Supply and Maxine Nightingale, 9, 15

Oak Ridge Boys

Oak Ridge Boys, 9, 18 – 9, 20*
Bill Anderson – A Night With A Legend, 9, 21
Neal McCoy, 9, 21 – 9, 22*
Restless Heart, 9, 22
Brule appearing with Roy Rogers Jr, 9, 24 – 11, 2
Teen Idols, 9, 29
Brule appearing with Roy Rogers Jr, 10, 1 – 11, 2
Dudu Fisher, 10, 1 – 10, 21
Mel Tillis, 10, 1 – 12, 8
Neal McCoy, 10, 5*
Don Williams, 10, 6
Oak Ridge Boys, 10, 9 – 10, 25*
George Jones, 10, 12*
Bill Cosby, 10, 13
David Frizzell & Shelly West, 10, 13
Down From His Glory, 10, 16 – 10, 18
Lone Star, 10, 19
Marty Stuart, 10, 19 – 10, 20
Sawyer Brown, 10, 19
Tim Conway and Friends, 10, 19 – 10, 20*
Jim Ed Brown & Helen Cornelius, 10, 20
Midwest Country Stars, 10, 26
Janie Fricke and John Conlee, 10, 27
John Conlee and Janie Fricke, 10, 27
Brule appearing with Roy Rogers Jr.1,11 – 11, 2
Daniel O’Donnell, 11, 1 – 12, 8

Johnny Mathis in Branson November 16 and 17.

Andy Williams Christmas Show, 11, 1 – 12, 12#
A Christmas Snow, 11, 1 – 12, 29#
Christmas in Hollywood, 11, 1 – 12, 31#
Christmas on the Trail, 11, 1 – 12, 31#
Gatlin Brothers & Debby Boone Together, 11, 1 – 12, 8
Mel Tillis, 11, 1 – 12, 8
Oak Ridge Boys, 11, 1 – 11, 15
Tony Orlando Christmas, 11, 1 – 12, 8#
Dino Kartsonakis Sounds of the Season, 11, 2 – 11, 30#
Tim Zimmerman and The Kings Brass, 11, 6, – 11, 16
George Jones, 11, 9
Crystal Gayle, 11, 10
Neal McCoy, 11, 10*
Tim Conway and Friends, 11, 10 – 11, 11
Mollie B Christmas Show, 11, 11 – 11, 12#
Johnny Mathis Christmas Show, 11, 16 & 11, 17#
Neal McCoy, 11, 16 & 11, 17
Classic Country Super Show, 11, 23
A Christmas Snow, 12, 1 – 12, 29#
Andy Williams Christmas Show, 12, 1 – 12, 12#
Christmas in Hollywood, 12, 1 – 12, 31#
Christmas on the Trail, 12, 1 – 12, 31#
Daniel O’Donnell, 12, 1 – 12, 8
Gatlin Brothers & Debby Boone Together, 12, 1 – 12, 8
Mel Tillis, 12, 1 – 12, 8
Tony Orlando Christmas, 12, 1 – 12, 8#

*Indicates that there are other performances scheduled at a later date during the remainder of 2012.
# Although the vast majority of Branson’s shows have a Christmas segment in their show after November 1 that generally encompasses the second half of the show, these shows are specifically produced and presented as Christmas Shows.

For additional information or tickets for any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please feel free to contact the Branson Tourism Center by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

A Branson “board” reviews Acrobats of China

The synchronized unicyclists are just one of the many exciting and colorful acts in the Acrobats of China.

BRANSON, Mo., July 6, 2012 — “Referred to by many as ‘Branson’s biggest message board,’ the 1Branson.com’s Show Forum is an excellent place to get information on Branson’s shows, attractions, lodging, shopping and many other areas,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Although it is operated as a service by the Branson Tourism Center and is moderated, it is a “free range board” with the vast majority of its content coming from locals, those who love Branson and people wanting information on Branson,” she added.

Johnson points out that although specific inquiries and questions are normally answered quickly that a lot of information about Branson can be obtained from simply looking through the posts. As an example, she points out an inquiry on the www.1Branson.Com Shows Forum where a poster named, amy129, made a specific inquiry about one of Branson’s 100 shows saying, “We are planning an August trip to Branson and have always wanted to see the Acrobats of China. Now that our kids are 6 and 8, we are thinking this may be the year we go. Do you think young kids would enjoy this show? It looks entertaining.”

Among others, the following posts in the thread were made by people who have seen the show and responded:

thesaint – “Your kids will be amazed at the Shanghai Acrobats…they have a very colorful, fast-moving show with lots of incredible acts that we had personally never seen anywhere before. It is one of the best shows in town…our family sure loved it! I’d say….DON’T MISS IT!…Have a great time with your kids here!”

Cooper78 – “That show will BLOW YOUR MIND! It is phenomenal! I’m sure your kids would enjoy it tremendously, we plan on taking our kids (ages 9 and 4) this fall.”

mkirt – “We just saw the show Sunday night. They have added some additional elements since we saw it a few years ago, so it felt like seeing it for the first time. Very enjoyable and the young kids in the audience seemed to stay interested throughout. I was amazed how many young kids were at the 8pm show and still going strong when it ended.  The performers all come out to greet the audience in the lobby after the show, which was fun.”

SHOW GAL – “This is a show we recommend to visitors when they want a change of pace show. It seems to appeal to all age groups and, as of yet, everybody we have suggested see the show has said they thoroughly enjoyed the show. I am always amazed at their various acts and acknowledge how much practice had to go into each one.”

In addition to being able to specifically ask a question about Branson on 1Branson.com, the board is set up for easy interaction between posters. Simply by selecting the “Quote” button ,any post can be automatically copied into another post. This facilitates refining responses to get the specific information needed and provides a way for a show or other entity to respond and provide feedback and information.

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson also points out that the Branson Tourism Center maintains a full time staff of Branson based Travel Planners who, free of charge and through a toll free number, 1-800-785-1550, would be happy to answer any questions prospective Branson visitors might have about Branson’s shows, attractions, lodging, shopping or other activities.

Branson Centennial Museum shares 100 years of Branson history

This display emphasizes that the outdoors has been a part of Branson tourism since its earliest days.

BRANSON, Mo., June 28, 2012 — “The ‘Branson Centennial Museum’ offers a unique glimpse into Branson’s past,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. The Museum, located on the corner of State Highway 76 and Business Route 65 in historic downtown Branson was established as part of the celebration of Branson’s Centennial, is free to the public and open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Monday through Saturday and from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Sunday.

During a visit to the Museum today, Mary Ann Sharp, Museum Manger, said that its exhibits are themed to include many different aspects of Branson’s History from “School Days,” “The White River/ Flooding,” “The Branson Fire,” “Conflict” and its current exhibit, “The Roots of Tourism” which will be on display until the latter part of July when “Fire and Flood” will replace it. The current exhibit has displays relating to early figures involved with the development of tourism in Branson such as Harold Bell Wright, Lizzie McDaniel, Jim Owen, the Baldknobbers, Presleys and others. It includes pictures and memorabilia and items from Branson’s early tourist activity involving shows, float trips, attractions, nightclubbing and fishing including the 1970s era costume of Steve Presley.

Steve Presley's 1970 era show costume.

Although the vast majority of the displays will change with the next exhibit. Sharp said that a constant is the six minute historical CD, produced and provided courtesy of Branson Visitor TV that is continually “looping” and may be watched while sitting on a wooden pew from the “Old Stone Church” that predates the incorporation of Branson on April 1, 1912. I would estimate that a trip through the Museum would take an average of 20 minutes to an hour, including watching the CD, depending on how much time one spends reading documents and looking at pictures.

The Museum is extremely accessible, on the Highway 76 Main Street route to Branson Landing; is conveniently located on the ground floor of the multi story building, is air conditioned and has parking located just outside its main entrance. It may be contacted directly by calling.at 417-239-1912,

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson points out that the Museum is only one of many interesting things to see while in historic downtown Branson including Dick’s 5 & 10, the grave of the man Branson is named after, Ruben S. Branson, the historic Owen Theatre, riding the free Downtown Trolley and much more. “And that’s just one small part of all that Branson has to offer,” she continued. For more information on the Museum, historic downtown Branson or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please feel free to contact the Branson Tourism Center through their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 to talk with one of their Branson located full service Vacation Planners.
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Five cool ways to stay cool and have fun in Branson

White Water's iconic 7-story multiple slide "Kalani Towers."

BRANSON, Mo., June 26, 2012 — Branson is one of the “hottest” travel destinations in America in terms of the family fun, adventure, entertainment, shopping, excitement and things to do. Outside of the temperature, one of the “hottest” things in Branson this summer is the variety of fun filled “cool” options Branson offers to “beat the heat and stay cool.”

Here are five of my favorite ways to beat the heat and the  reasons why:

1. Spending a day at White Water Branson’s only outdoor water park. From its iconic seven story multislide thrill ride “Kalani Towers” to the “Aloha River at Hula Hula Bay” and much more, including it’s millions of gallons of cool tropically themed relief from the heat.

2. Take a cruise or boat ride on Lake Taneycomo – Lake Taneycomo, flows 22 miles from the foot of “Table Rock Dam” to the “Power Site Dam.” It’s waters average a temperature of about 48 degrees near its source at the dam providing cooling relief for those cruising or boating on her waters. Main Street Lake Cruises’ Lake Queen and Branson Princess, located in the Main Street Marina at Branson Landing, offers sightseeing and dinner cruises and peddle boat rentals. Scotty’s Trout Dock and Marina, located at the south end of the City of Branson’s “Lake Side RV Park” offers pontoon and other boats rentals as does “Lilly’s Landing” located off of Fall Creek Road.

The sands of Moonshine Beach on Table Rock Lake.

3. Activities or Swimming in Table Rock Lake or Moonshine Beach – The 43,000 surface acre Table Rock Lake, operated by the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, offers a variety of ways to beat the summer heat including swimming, boating, fishing or just about any water sport or activity anyone would want to enjoy. The Corps also operates Moonshine Beach, on Table Rock Lake, near the north end of Table Rock Dam on State Highway 165/265. It’s the largest sand beach in southwest Missouri, has many amenities and is conveniently located within minutes of the famed Branson Strip.

4. Silver Dollar City – From its guaranteed to get wet water rides such as “American Plunge,” “Lost River of the Ozarks” and “RiverBlast,” to exhilarating, exciting and cooling rides on coasters such a “PowderKeg” and “Wildfire;” the depths of “Marvel Cave” and the cooling shade of its tree lined streets, the fun filled 1880’s styled theme park has to be one of the “coolest” theme parks in America.

5. Going to any of Branson’s over 100 live shows or indoor attractions – The shows are “cool” not only in terms of their air conditioned climate controlled environment, but in terms of the entertainment they provide. Like the Titanic Museum Attraction, with its opportunity to touch an iceberg and feel the icy cold temperature of the water into which the mighty ship sank over 100 years ago; the vast majority of Branson’s indoor attractions also offer their fun and excitement under cool climate controlled conditions.

American Idol® Finalists In The Finalists Live just keep the excitement “rollin” on in Branson

Scott Savol, left, Alexis Grace, Sioban Magnus, Diana DeGarmo and Ace Young .

BRANSON, Mo., June, 25, 2012 — In my story on the first of three groups of American Idol® Finalists, who will perform in the show American Idol® Finalists In The Finalists Live, I said, “‘The Finalists Live ‘ provides those who have said, ‘Branson needs a show that will appeal to a younger demographic’ with an answer to their prayer.” After seeing the second group of Finalists perform on the afternoon of June 22, a paraphrase of the lyrics of a song sung by Alexis Grace in the show, “Proud Mary,” seems appropriate to describe the show; “Rollin’, rollin’, rollin’ on in Branson,” as these extremely diverse and talented performers continue to provide a wonderful entertainment experience demonstrating why they are “American Idol® Finalists.”

While the shows format remains basically the same as it was for the first group, the performers in this group Alexis Grace, Scott Savol, Siobhan Magnus, Ace Young and Diana DeGarmo provide an entirely different dynamic, style and variety of music. It’s just about a totally new show with five different concerts, each with its own style of music and performer personality.

The constant that helps transition from one performer and style of music to another, is the band and back ground vocalists who so beautifully and seamlessly add their instrumentality and vocal skills to this wonderfully entertaining production. The band is composed of Ricki Holmes, Music Director, Keyboards; Doug Clifford, Drums; Matt Skates, Bass; Adam Johnston, Guitar and Will Clark, Keyboards. The background vocalists are Shelia Davis, Jerry Pollock and Heather Peterson with the vocal coordination and arrangement done by Jana King Evans.

The opening act is Pete Peterkin, who was a finalist on “America’s Got Talent ®.” He does a variety of impressions from both a comedy and musical aspect. I particularly enjoyed his impression of President Obama, Ray Charles and Michael Jackson. Trust me on this, when this multitalented performer asks, “Do you want to see me do Michael Jackson, ” the answer is “Yes.”

Siobhan Magnus performing orgiginal songs from her album "MoonBaby."

All five finalists got an opportunity to be featured as they participated in the opening numbers, “I Gotta Feeling” and “Get The Party Started.” Season 8 Finalist, the talented and personable Alexis Grace, from Memphis TN, started the party with a high energy four song set including hits by Aretha Franklin, Peggy Lee, Jackson 5 and Ike and Tina Turner. My favorite was the Jackson 5 hit, “I Want You Back.”. Establishing the paradigm that would be followed by all the following acts, between some of her numbers, she shared interesting facts about her experiences on American Idol® and what has happened since.

Next up is Scott Savol, a fifth place Season 5 Finalist singing a four number set. He has a great voice and his song choice tied in perfectly with his laid back mesmerizing style of presentation. Although he did songs by The Temptations, Four Tops and Phil Collins; a song he wrote “What Can I Do,” and his emotional performance of it, was special.

The second half of the show starts off on a really high plane, the “MoonBaby!” Siobhan Magnus, a sixth place Season 9 Finalist did superb job performing her own unique style of music in a four number set including three original numbers from her new album “MoonBaby.” The costuming and high healed space boots coupled with her original songs and distinctive vocal style brings a new, unique, and exciting element to the Branson stage. Her original song, “Pure Inspiration” was my favorite number from her set.

Diana DeGarmo and Ace Young performing their duet, "Us Against the World."

The last act combined two Finalists, the recently engaged Ace Young from Season 5 and Diana DeGarmo, Runner Up in Season 3. Although each performed a couple of numbers separately and did a great job, the energy, passion and synergy that they conveyed while performing together was a defining  moment in the show.

Interestingly, they did not meet on American Idol®, but later while performing together in the musical “Hair,” from which they performed a medley. Overall they performed more than 10 numbers during their set, but it was their duet of their original song “Us Against The World” that especially touched the heart of this old man and gave him, even if just a perception and for only a moment, a glimpse into what it is they feel for each other.

A wonderful entertainment experience closes with the all five Finalists joining together to sing “Life In A Northern Town” and ““R-O-C-K In The USA.” Branson Mayor Raeanne Presley saw the show at the same time I did. After seeing the show she said “It’s an amazing show.” That it is and then some; don’t miss the opportunity to see this unique and amazing show while in Branson.

Alexis Grace, Scott Savol, Siobhan Magnus, Ace Young and Diana DeGarmo will be performing in the American Idol® Finalists In The Finalists Live! show through July 21. For additional information or tickets on this show or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center ,one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com. (Twitter: #FinalistsLiveBranson)

Voyage on Main Street Cruises’ Lake Queen is an entertaining adventure

Main Street Marinas' Lake Queen

BRANSON, Mo., June 19, 2012 —  As Main Street Lake Cruises’ Lake Queen glided from her mooring facilities at the Main Street Marina in Branson Landing, with a blast from her horn, at 11:45 AM today, with Captain Brian “Bubba” Ayers at the helm, everyone on board expected to have a peaceful and relaxing sightseeing cruise on beautiful Lake Taneycomo. Well, we got that and then some as we floated along on our nostalgic, relaxing and fun filled 90 minute cruise.

After leaving the marina, the Lake Queen headed upstream before making a slow turn, by the Branson Landing Fountains, for its downstream leg. As she silently glided along, Captain “Bubba,”  as he asked to be called, pointed out things of interest including birds and wildlife. Among others, of particular note on this cruise were the former residence of the renowned romance novelist Janet Daily, Blue Herons, Bald Eagles, and a unique situation where two mother Mallards, swimming with their ducklings toward the bow of the ship, split and swam down either side as we went by. Captain Bubba said that’s one of the greatest things about his job, you never know what you will see from cruise to cruise.

Yet, it is much more than simply a cruise as Captain Bubba turns it into a wonderful entertainment event. He combines information about the Lake Queen; history of the White River, Lake Taneycomo and Branson as he points out items of interest during the cruise combining personality, his knowledge of the local area and humor to create a vivid living entertainment mosaic as he strategically adds each piece during the cruise.

A unique view of Branson Landing from the Lake Queen.

The Lake Queen is a paddle boat replica, 90 feet long with a 20 foot beam and is rated for 149 passengers. It has two decks, the lower of which is climate controlled and the upper which is open air. Drinks, snacks and sandwiches, located on the lower deck, were also available with table service provided on the upper deck by one of the two U. S. Coast Guard qualified crew members.

Basically, all one had to do was sit back, relax and enjoy the cruise and timely interesting narrations of Captain Ayers. As an added treat, each cruise, departing after 11:45 AM, ends with an opportunity to witness the Branson Landing Fire and Water Spectacular from a unique vantage point out in Lake Taneycomo.

Jane Broezkling, a grandmother from Springfield, IL was sharing the cruise with three of her grandchildren, age 8 to 13 from Breese, IL. When asked how they liked the cruise and if they would recommend it for other kids their age they enthusiastically answered “Yes” to both questions. When asked if she enjoyed the cruise, “Grandma” said that she had been on it a couple of weeks ago with a two of her grandsons and enjoyed it so much she came back today to share it with more of her grandchildren.

The Lake Queen provide a unique Branson experience and, along with her sister ship, Main Street Lake Cruises’ Branson Princess, is the only cruise ship to ply the historic path of the “White River,” along Branson’s waterfront, as it flows beneath Lake Taneycomo. For more information on the Lake Queen 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 by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Tina Cooper introduces dance’s elegance, grace and beauty to Branson “country”

Clay and Tina Cooper as they finish their beautiful singing and dancing duet , "To Make You Feel My Love."

BRANSON, Mo., June 16, 2012 — “There are almost 100 exciting live shows to see in Branson on a daily basis,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center “Those shows present a tremendous variety of music, representing just about every musical genre including ‘country,’ but it is safe to say that there is no other show in Branson, or as far as we know, country music show anywhere, that has integrated the art form of dancing, as elegantly and beautifully into their production as has been done in ‘Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express.'”

Based on seeing “Clay Cooper’s Country Express Show” on many occasions, as recently as Wednesday of this week, this writer would say “ditto” in terms of Johnson’s comments. Although, on a good day he could recognize the difference between a “Four Step” and a “Pirouette,” from a technical point of view he couldn’t say for sure what a “lift,” or any of a variety of other dancing moves are called. The good news is that he doesn’t have to. All, he and anyone else attending the show, has to do is sit back and enjoy the beauty, grace and elegance of the way Tina Cooper has seamlessly integrated dance into one of the most entertaining shows in Branson.

Tina Cooper, Clay’s wife, has been dancing since she was three years old, when she started training with her mom in her dancing studio, and singing since the age of 10. She started dancing professionally at Frontier City, in Oklahoma City in 1989 while attending the University of Oklahoma from which she received a “Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Music Theatre with a Minor in Dance.”

In 1996 Tina came to Branson as a member of the “Red,Hot and Blue” show and, shortly thereafter, also became a member of the “Country Tonite” show. It was as a member of the Country Tonite cast that she met Clay. Tina worked for both shows, dancing, singing and doing choreography until 2005 when she and Clay started their own show, “Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express.”

Dancers participating in the whole cast number "Footloose."

Although dancing was part of the Country Tonite Show, for the most part, it was only western style dancing. When they started their own show Tina wanted to use all forms of dance in their show. With her experience as a dancer and choreographer, and having a little pull with the show’s star, that became not only a reality, but one of the many exciting and different elements of one of Branson’s most popular shows.

Tina not only does all the choreography for the show, except for the clogging portion, but she sings and dances as well as handling a multitude of administrative responsibilities in connection with the show. When the show originally started there were four dancers. As more and different styles of dancing have developed been integrated into the show that number has grown to ten. this year.

She points out that whether it’s a seemingly  “simple” line dance or a full scale production, that the dancing components of the show requires commitment, work, training and dedication on the part of their dancers on a daily basis. As this writer sat in the show this week he was again amazed, with the dancing, its choreography, costuming and the way it just seamlessly blended in with the total production. Whether it was a full cast production number like the “Footloose” segment or the beautifully haunting duet “To Make You Feel My Love” sung by Clay as Tina gracefully danced about him, the dance segment of the show adds its own element of excitement, action, and elegance to one of the most entertaining shows in town.

Here’s the amazing thing, although this article has stressed the dancing aspect of the show, every element of the show, from vocals, band and comedy to the interaction with the audience by the show’s star, Clay Cooper is as “top notch” as its dancing is. The result is one of the most entertaining and unique shows in Branson and a show that truly has something for everyone “and then some.”

For additional information or tickets for Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express  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.

Branson, families, fun and KidsFest – a perfect combination

Just one of the many ways KidsFest helps families create special memories.

BRANSON, Mo., June 12, 2012 —  Families having fun is a given during any visit to Branson’s oldest and most popular attraction, the award winning 1880s styled theme park, Silver Dollar City. During the park’s “National KidsFest,” “America’s largest KidsFest,” running through July 22 the park combines the additional excitement and events of KidsFest, with the 30 attractions, rides and the other activities it offers on a daily basis, to provide an unrivaled exciting and fun filled adventure for the whole family.

On a daily basis Silver Dollar City’s exciting rides and attractions are an exciting part of any  day at Silver Dollar City. They  provide something for every member of the family from the exhilarating adventure of “Wildfire,” a world class multi-looping roller coaster that reaches speeds up to 66 miles per hour to the more sedate and relaxing “Grand Exposition,” where all the members of the family, from the youngest to the oldest, can share a fun filled ride together or relief from the Summer heat with water rides such as RiverBlast, Lost River of the Ozarks and many other exciting rides and attractions. They just seem to naturally fit into the other activities, fun and excitment of KidsFest.

KidsFest is again featuring The “Fabulous Wallendas! Famous Family Circus,” staring members of the legendary high wire “Wellenda” family including Guinness World Record high-wire walker and international newsmaker Nik Wallenda. Nik will be away from the show for a couple of days around June 15 while he attempts to walk across Niagara Falls on a custom made, two inch wire stretching 1,800 feet across the Falls. It will be the first time such an attempt has been made in over 100 years and required the approval of both Ontario and state of New York authorities.

New this year will be the “‘Gazillion Bubbles,” an interactive show taking bubble artistry to amazing levels, with lasers, lighting effects and sheer bubble mastery — producing giant bubbles and colorful bubble effects.” Also new this year “is the three-dimensional light show LUMA, bringing to life an original story centered on the park’s famed Marvel Cave through the use of “high-tech illumination techniques creating a dazzling and exciting show of light, color and motion.”

KidsFest includes many other activities such as an opportunity “for meet-and-greets with cartoon
superstars, including SpongeBob & Patrick, Dexter & Deedee, Tom & Jerry, the Backyardigans and more, with character breakfasts” on select days and a special Independence Day Celebration on July 4th. There will be a “special opening ceremony, an old-fashioned ice cream social and a fireworks show finale” as Silver Dollar City stays open until 10:00 PM.

Silver Dollar City is legendary for being a place that creates “memories worth repeating.”  KidsFest adds to that legend by providing additional ways for families to create those memories together.

For additional information or tickets for Silver Dollar City and KidsFest or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please feel free to contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. Every purchase of a Silver Dollar City ticket BTC provides two days admission to the park for the price of one. BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Fireworks soar as Branson celebrates 4th of July

Fireworks soar and burst over Branson.

BRANSON, Mo., June 6, 2012 —  From picnics and BBQ, to concerts with fireworks and other magnificent firework displays, fireworks will be soaring into the skies around Branson in celebration of America’s Birthday. Stephanie Milton, Director of Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center points out that although the majority of the firework displays will be on the 4th of July that Branson’s celebration of America’s Independence will start with a picnic, concert and an exciting fireworks display with the College of the Ozark’s “Honor America” celebration on June 26 and continue with events through July 4.”

Listed below, sorted by date, is a list of the major Branson area events celebrating America’s Independence and the 4th of July. Each also includes a contact number for the event:

Name: Honor America
Place: College of the Ozarks by Lake Honor
Phone: College of the Ozarks – 417-690-2212
Date/Time(s)/Comment(s): June 24, Picnic 4:30 p.m., Entertainment 5:00 p.m., Patriotic Program & Concert 8:00 p.m. with entertainment provided by the cast of Red, Hot and Blue and others. The program and concert will be followed by Fireworks. Please bring your own chairs and come early.

Name: 25th Annual Fireburst Fireworks Display
Place: Kimberling City
Phone: Kimberling City Table Rock Chamber of Commerce – 1-800-595-0393 or 417-739-2564
Date/Time/Comment(s): June 30 at dusk. Good Viewing Area: Right on Route 13 in downtown Kimberling City, near Kimberling City Shopping Mall, about 6 miles south of Branson West. It can also be viewed very well from Table Rock Lake near the north end of the bridge.

Name: Treasure Lake Resort
Place: Treasure Lake Resort behind the IMAX
Phone: Treasure Lake Resort 417-334-1040
Date/Time/Comment(s): June 30 at dusk. Advice is come early and bring a chair.

Name: Branson Landing 5th Annual Liberty Light Up
Place: Branson Landing Town Square by Fountains
Phone: Branson Landing – 417-239-3002
Date/Time(s) /Comment(s):July 3, Concert featuring “CHAIN REACTION A Tribute to Journey,” at 8:00 p.m. followed by an “amazing choreographed Fireworks Display Show, produced by Gateway Fireworks Displays, over lake Taneycomo.

Aerial burst from previous Branson fireworks display.

Name: Main Street Cruises’ Lake Queen or Landing Princess
Place: Branson Landing
Phone: Tickets and info through Branson Tourism Center 800-785-1550
Date/Time(s) /Comment(s): This is a unique and exciting way to see the Branson Landing fireworks display while cruising on either the Lake Queen or Landing Princess on Lake Taneycomo. On July 3rd these cruises will depart at 9:00 PM and be positioned to provide a spectacular and unique view of the Branson Landing fireworks display. Both cruises will offer snack refreshments(available for purchase). A Cash bar will be available on these memorable cruises. Although there is still availability, it is advisable to make reservations as early as possible in advance by calling the Branson Tourism Center at 800-785-1550. (It should be noted that the 4th of July Cruises to the Rockaway Beach Fireworks display on the 4th is sold out.)

Name: Silver Dollar City’s Independence Day Celebration
Place: Silver Dollar City
Phone: Branson Tourism Center 1-800-785-1550
Date and Time: July 4, 9:30 AM to 10:00 PM. From a special ceremony at its opening to an ice cream social, fireworks display and street dance, in addition to everything else one would expect from an award winning theme park, the park will celebrate our Nation’s Birthday in spectacular Silver Dollar City style. Silver Dollar City requires a paid admission. Those purchasing their tickets through the Branson Tourism Center will get two days admission to the park for the price of one.

Name: Hollister’s 59th Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration
Place: Historic Downing Street in Hollister
Phone: Hollister Chamber of Commerce – 417-334-3050
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4 at dusk. Good Viewing Area: Along Business Hwy 65 in Historic downtown Hollister.

Name: BBQ and Fireworks at Chateau on the Lake
Place: Chateau on the Lake – North of Table Rock Dam on State Highway 165/265
Phone: Call the Branson Tourism Center at 800-785-1550 for information on the fireworks or to make reservations at the Chateau on the Lake for the Fourth of July Weekend.
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4 at dusk. A paid BBQ event, complete with live music will be followed by the fireworks display which is free to the public and easily viewed from Table Rock Lake via boat, the “park in loop” just south of new overrun floodgates on Table Rock Dam or the Chateau’s public areas.

Name: Showboat Branson Belle
Place: Showboat Branson Belle
Contact: Tickets and information through Branson Tourism Center 800-785-1550
Date /Time/Comment(s): July 3, 8:00 p.m. dinner cruise. There are no guarantees and you take your chances, but the 8:00 PM Dinner Cruise on the night of the Chateau on the Lake’s Fireworks display has been known to stop and provide passengers with a spectacular view of this fireworks display as part of the cruise. This cruise is generally sold out so the further in advance reservations are made the better.

Name: Shepherd of the Hills
Place: Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Theatre
Phone: Tickets and info through Branson Tourism Center 800-785-1550
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4th immediately after the presentation of the outdoor drama “Shepherd of the Hills.” It will be only for those who viewed the outdoor drama. Milton advises that tickets for “Shepherd of the Hills” are available through the Branson Tourism Center.

Name: Big Cedar Fireworks Display
Place: Big Cedar Lodge
Location: Off State Highway 86 in Ridgedale, MO
Phone: Big Cedar – 417-335-2777
Date/Time/Comment(s): Following a paid “picnic,” there will be entertainment starting at 7:00 PM with the fireworks display starting at dusk. There is good viewing from the area in front of Registration Building or from Table Rock Lake.

Name: Rockaway Beach 4th of July Celebration and Fireworks Display
Place: Downtown Rockaway Beach
Contact: – Rockaway Beach Chamber of Commerce – 417-561-4280
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4 at dusk. Entertainment, games and, kids activities start at 3:00 PM with the Fireworks starting at dusk.

BTC’s Milton said, “One thing’s for sure, in addition to all the other shows, attractions, shopping and other things there are to do in Branson on a daily basis, those wanting to see exciting spectacular firework displays will not be disappointed.” She advises those planning on attending these events to allow plenty of travel time, arrive as early as possible and, except for paid events, to bring their own chairs etc. It should be remembered that the period around the Fourth of July is one of the busiest of the year in Branson and that advance reservations are advisable to ensure not only availability, but the best choice of seats and accommodations.

A Branson Hidden Gem: Silver Dollar City’s “Harvey Water Clock”

Harvey Water Clock display as of 9:53 AM, May 30, 2012.

BRANSON, Mo.( June 1, 2012) — Sometimes things are “hidden” right out in the open. As I was sitting outside the “Guest Services Office” at Silver Dollar City earlier this week, waiting to participate in a video shoot that the Branson Tourism Center and Branson Visitor TV were working on, I watched a constant stream of hundreds of visitors passing not 50 feet away on their way into an exciting day at the park.

As I sat there awaiting the arrival of the rest of the crew, I noticed a water wheel that I had passed by many times over the last 26 years and had paid no attention to because I was on my way into the park. As I looked at it I decided to take pictures and, as I did, noticed a sign pointing out that it was more than a water wheel; it was a clock powered by water.

What’s even more remarkable however, is that according to the sign, the unique “Harvey Water Clock” was patented in 1798.There is no winding, solar, or batteries involved with this clock. It’s  operated as water flows down a trough and through its unique “Fly Ball Governor,” which controls the movement of the hands on its display as the water passes through and goes on to the water wheel.

The clock displays the Year, Month, Day and Hour. The picture of the clock displayed was taken  at 9:53 AM on May 30, 2012. At first glance it appears that the year is wrong because the “Year” display shows the year as “1882” when actually it is “2012.” The clock only displays the last digit of the current year which is the last digit of the year the hand is on, in this case “2,” the last digit in the year displayed “1882” and the current year, “2012.”

This unique clock, located in front of “Guest Services,” is on your right as you enter through the main entrance into the park toward the turn styles. It is an ideal place for a great “photo moment.”

“It’s another wonderful thing to see, share and experience as part of a day of fun, adventure and excitement at Silver Dollar City,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. She reminds potential Branson visitors that one of Silver Dollar City’s biggest festivals of the year, and one of the biggest kids festivals in the nation, National KidsFest, starts June 9 and runs through July 22.