Author Archives: Gary Groman

Track Family Fun Parks Gift of Hope Benefit this Saturday

Gift of Hope benefit.

BRANSON, Mo (04/25/12) The Track Family Fun Park #3, located at 2505 W. Hwy 76, Branson, directly across Highway 76 from the Andy Williams Moon River Grill, will host a benefit  for the Gift of Hope and its Backpack Club and Christmas Share programs on Saturday, April 28, 2012 between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Those attending will enjoy reduced rates with “$5.00 per 1 pass ride including Classic go-karts, bumper boats and mini golf.

The Gift of Hope’s mission is “Providing essentials and pathways to independence for Taney County Families.” One of the ways it does that is through “The Backpack Club” which provides a backpack of nutritious food for children who have shown signs of hunger outside of the school meal program.  Children receive the food each weekend during the school year. The Christmas Share program will provide customized assistance to approximately 30 families in need during the winter months.

“Branson visitors as well as locals can have a great afternoon of fun, save money and help a great cause,” said Stephanie Milton, Director of Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. For information on the Benefit or the Gift of Hope please call 417-546-8062.For information on the Benefit or the Gift of Hope please call 417-546-8062.

Few April showers leave Branson a “whirlwind” of fun, excitement and adventure

Branson Scenic Railway returning to the station on Apr. 19 with the Branson Convention Center and Hilton Hotel in back ground.

BRANSON, Mo (4/21/12) “Our ‘Branson Vacation Planners,’ each of whom proudly lives and works in the Branson area, are extremely knowledgeable about all that is going on in Branson and, on a weekly basis, answer dozens of questions about all the fun and excitement it offers as they help potential visitors plan their trip to Branson,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “One of the topics of a number of those questions relates to the tornado Branson experienced earlier in the year,” she continued, saying that the following are typical of the questions asked. “Is there much damage left from the tornado?” “I am bringing my family to Branson later this year. I know it got hit by the tornado. Is everything open and is the strip ok?” ” How is rebuilding coming along, i.e. Branson Landing?”

In terms of the tourism aspect of those question, a general answer would be to point out that Branson’s Mayor, Raeanne Presley, was absolutely right when, on the day of the tornado, she said that the vast majority of Branson’s major attractions, shows and other activities, that millions of visitors come to Branson every year to enjoy, were not damaged. As this is being written, Branson Landing and all of Branson’s major shopping venues are 100 percent open as are all of Branson’s major attractions and other activities. Although two of the “Branson Strip” theaters damaged are still under repair, the vast majority of Branson’s shows are performing as usual.

During the early morning hours of February 29, the Branson area was hit by an EF-2 Tornado severely damaging some of its businesses and residences as its “touchdowns” skipped from place to place as it passed through Branson. However, national and regional media reports to the contrary, and without minimizing the effect of the tornado on those directly impacted, there were limited injuries and no fatalities. The vast majority of businesses and residences were not damaged as was the case with Branson’s tourism infrastructure; its lakes, shopping, lodging, shows, attractions and other tourist activities, receiving no, or extremely minimal, damage.

Branson’s 2012 season kicked off as scheduled. Starting with the hosting of an estimated 16,000 to 20,000 people who attended the 21st NAIA Division II Men’s Basketball Championships at the College of the Ozarks about a week after the storm; the opening of Silver Dollar City, currently conducting the country’s largest international festival, World-Fest, as it joined the vast majority of Branson’s other attractions, such as the Titanic Museum Attraction, that were already open and the blossoming of Branson’s 2012 show scene as the majority of its live shows opened, Branson has been a whirlwind of fun, excitement and adventure. Add in  Branson Centennial activities; championship fishing events; shoppers enjoying the shopping experiences provided by Branson Landing, Historic Downtown Branson, the Tanger Mall and Branson’s many specialty shops and it becomes apparent that Branson is providing visitors with the same great magical exciting experience it always has.

Will visitors see damage from the storm, “Absolutely, but it will be a parcel here and a parcel there not the complete devastation of Joplin. The picture of the Branson Convention Center Hilton, with its blown out windows, became an iconic picture of the tornado, but historic downtown Branson, Branson Landing and the Branson Scenic Railway, virtually in its shadow, are open for business. Bill Derbins, General Manager of the Branson Hilton Hotels and the Branson Convention Center, said that although the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel will be closed until October 1, that, even as its repairs continue, the Branson Convention Center is open for business with the Branson Car Auction being conducted there on April 20 and 21.

With the reopening of “Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theatre” last week and the resumption of performances by the “Legends in Concert” and “The Bretts” only two of Branson’s theatres remain closed because of storm damage. Timothy Haygood, spokesmen for the Americana Theatre said that the “remodeling” of the theatre is going well and that they expect to reopen no later than the end of May. Haygood also said that the theatres shows, “Cassandre Haygood and Friends,” “Joseph Hall Elvis Rock N Remember Tribute,” “The 3 Red Neck Tenors” and “Todd Oliver and Friends” are ready to go as soon as it opens.

The Branson Variety Theatre, home of “Hooray for Hollywood,” “Shake Rattle & Roll,” “Tribute to The Four Seasons and The Beach Boys,” “The Twelve Irish Tenors” and “Christmas in Hollywood” was the first theatre hit by the storm and the one it affected the most. Information received from the theatre indicates that it will not reopen prior to September 1.

For those asking the question, “Why should I plan to visit or vacation in Branson?” the answer is simple. For the same reason that you would have come to Branson before the tornado, to enjoy the unique exciting experience that only Branson can provide.” For the latest tornado updates 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.

A history making weekend of Branson fun and excitement

Shohi Tabuchi and his daughter Christina are just two of the many Branson stars, present and past, scheduled to perform in "Branson's Birthday Spectacular - The Show of the Century.

Branson, Mo (4/12/12) “This weekend will truly be a weekend to remember,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “She emphasizes that not only is it the first weekend of Silver Dollar City’s World-Fest, but it is the time that Branson will remember the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the R.M.S. Titanic and Branson’s Centennial with separate history making once in a lifetime events.

Running from April 12 through May 6, Silver Dollar City’s World-Fest, America’s largest international festival, provides a unique opportunity for visitors to Branson and Silver Dollar City to experience the heritage, excitement, culture, dancing and music of countries throughout the world right in the midst of the beautiful Ozarks during one of its most beautiful times of the year. And World-Fest is in addition to all the fun and excitement the award winning 1880s styled theme park provides on a daily  basis. This includes 30 rides and attractions from “Wildfire,” a world class multi-looping roller coaster that reaches speeds up to 66 miles per hour to the park’s new $1 million “Half Dollar Holler” designed for kids through age 7; dozens of demonstrating craftsmen; some of the best entertainment and live shows available in Branson and much more all seamlessly integrated into the natural wonder of the Ozarks.

Titanic Museum Attraction hosts a special once in a lifetime experience in remembrance the 100th anniversary of the Titanic's sinking.

This weekend will be the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the “R.M.S. Titanic.” While on her maiden voyage she hit an iceberg at about “11:40 p.m. on April 14, 1912 and sank into the depths of the frigid North Atlantic, and into the pages of history, at approximately 2:20 a.m. on April 15, 1912.”

On April 14, the 100th Anniversary of when the Titanic struck the iceberg initiating the tragic sequence of events that would soon lead to her sinking, visitors to the Branson Titanic Museum Attraction will have a unique and once in a lifetime opportunity to become a part of history as the museum hosts a unique special day of tributes, musical performances, historic ceremonies and appearances by actual descendants of the Titanic’s passengers;  the lighting of the “Titanic Eternal Flame” and the launching of “distress fire rockets” to bring the event to a “solemn end.” One of the highlights of the ceremony will be the presentation of “A Night to Remember: An Original Musical Tribute to Titanic” with the participation of the Springfield Symphony and massed combined choirs.

The celebration of Branson’s Centennial offers Branson visitors yet another opportunity to experience a once in a lifetime event on April 15 with a one time performance of the show Branson’s Birthday Spectacular – The Show of the Century. Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson said, “It might very well be the most unique and entertaining show ever presented in Branson.” Bill Lennon, the show’s producer concurred adding, “It’s a show that will be full of history, nostalgia and entertainment, but most of all fun. After all, it’s a birthday celebration!” He said that, “from the show’s original overture, incorporating 100 years of Branson history and music, to its historical elements, entertainers and the way it is all woven together, it is truly a once in a hundred year event of special significance.”

Johnson offers the services of the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, to answer any questions about, or provide ticketing to, any of the events or attractions mentioned in this article by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Bretts experience a “whirlwind” of 2012 excitement

The Bretts Brydon, left, Briahna, Tom, Andrea and Garon who will be joining the show later in the year.

BRANSON, Mo. (April 9, 2012) You know it’s not going to be your typical “leap year” day when you get a call from the theatre your show is in, at about 3:45 AM telling you it has been hit by a tornado. That’s the way the Brett family started their day on the morning of February 29 and something that they, along with the Legends in Concert Show and the staff of the Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theatre has been dealing with, on a daily basis, since.

During an interview with Brydon Brett on March 29, he said that checking on and taking care of church member’s needs and the necessary emergency administrative actions in connection with their show delayed their actual arrival at the theatre until about 10:00 AM. Brydon said, “Viewing the situation at the theatre for the first time was so emotional. Knowing how much work had been put into the brand new stage and that Legends had just opened for the 2012 season, just made you want to cry.” He went on to share that the impact them personally was compounded because they were leaving the very next day to tour Illinois and Pennsylvania.

He said that the damage people saw outside the building was just a small part of the challenges the theatre has faced and that getting the theatre up and running was a major undertaking. “I can’t tell you how grateful we are to the management and staff of the theatre and the team that was brought together. They have been unbelievable , from the very first day, working virtually around the clock to get the theatre open again as soon as possible,” he continued.

Brydon said that  being without the theatre has presented some challenges as they put the finishing touches on their new 2012 show, but they are ready for their April 16 opening and are really excited about this season. He shared that the Branson tornado will be the basis of a new unique, exciting and emotional interactive segment in the show featuring a new song that his mom, Andrea, has written called “I Will Stand.” The beautiful country ballad had its geneses during the Joplin Tornado and was completed after the Branson storm.

On April 6, the Dick Clark’s American Band Stand theatre officially announced that the theatre would be open by April 14 for the resumption of shows by the “celebrated tribute artist production Legends in Concert, who resume their six day a week schedule through the rest of the year.” The Bretts show opens April 16. “That’s great news, not only for the Dick Clark’s Bandstand Theatre, the Legends in Concert and The Bretts show, but for Branson visitors too,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center.

Central Pro-Am Associations Pro Champion to win $40,000 Ranger-Mercury Package

The CPAA Pro Champion will win a $40K Ranger, Mercury Motor and Trailer Package.

BRANSON, Mo (April 7, 2012)  “Even at this point, it’s the best opportunity most fishermen are going have to win a Ranger Bass Boat,”  said Jim Thompson, the owner of the Central Pro-Am Association (CPAA). Thompson was referring to the fact that the winner of the CPAA’s Pro Division, at the end of its seven tournament series will, in addition to the prize money won for each tournament and being the CPAA Champion, also wins a 19 foot Ranger Bass Boat, 200 horse power Mercury Engine and trailer package valued at over $40,000.00.”

To be eligible to win the Ranger, the fisherman must be a member of the CPAA and have fished five out the seven of the 2012 CPAA Pro-Am Tournaments, all of which are being held on Table Rock Lake. Thompson said, “Although two of the seven tournaments have already been held, fisherman who fish all of the remaining five CPAA Pro-Am Tournaments, the first of which will be held next Saturday, April 21 out of Mill Creek on Table Rock Lake, are eligible to win the boat. The other four tournaments will be held on May 5, June 9, June 30 and September 15.

Thompson mentions that out that the total Championship scores for the 50 fishermen who fished the first two events range from a low of 25 to the high of 376.09. When asked if someone who started fishing next week could win the tournament Thompson chuckled and said, “Absolutely, this is after all bass fishing and anything can happen.” He clarified by explaining how the scoring system works.

There are three types of points, “Show Up,” “Weight” and “Placement.” Every fisherman in the tournament gets 25 Show Up Points just for showing up and fishing. The second element of the score is Weight Points, the total weight of the fish each weighs in. Placement Points are awarded based on the placement of the fisherman in the tournament with 150 points for First Place and a one point reduction for each place under that, i.e. 2nd Place 149, 3rd 148 etc. Fishermen must weigh in at least one qualifying fish to get any Placement Points.

Thompson points out that it’s every bit a possibility that a fisherman starting next weekend could win the Championship and the Ranger Mercury Boat Package. If the new fisherman caught 15.50 pounds and placed 15th in the tournament their score would be 25 Show Up Points, 15.50 Weight Points, and 135 Placement Points for a total of 175.50 Championship Points “With five tournaments to go and fishing being the sport that it is, although obviously the person with a 376.09 point lead at this point has an advantage, anything can, and probably will, happen.

The Championship and competition for the boat package is in addition to, based on 60 boats per tournament, up to $2,000 in the prize money that can be won at each of the five tournaments. The winner of each of the individual CPAA Tournaments in the series is based strictly on the total weight of the qualifying fish caught and weighed in. The total weight for each tournament is included in the Weight Points awarded towards the Championship and the Placement within each tournament based on that weight determines the number of Placement Points awarded.

Anyone wanting to enter next week’s tournament or more information on the CPAA can do so in person at the CPAA Office, located in the at 220 Branson Hills Parkway, Ste B, on the east end of the same building that Branson 1st Stop and the Branson Tourism Center are located in or by calling 417-335-5075.

Championship wakeboarding event makes first Branson appearance

MasterCraft Pro Wakeboard Tour coming to Branson

BRANSON, Mo. The terms “Krypt,” “Tantrum,” “911,” “Tweety Bird” and “Tootsie Roll,” just to mention a few, all have different meanings and connotations to many people, but not to the athletes and who will be competing in Branson on June 8 and 9, 2012 in the MasterCraft Pro Wakeboard Tour.  “What a testimony to Table Rock Lake and the Branson area that it is able to host championship water events as diversified as the FLW and Bass Masters fishing tournaments and the  Pro Wakeboard Tour,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “The competitors, fans and spectators will experience an action filled exciting event and be just minutes away from Branson shows, attractions, shopping, value priced lodging and all the other fun things Branson has to offer.

“Wakeboarding” is an exciting action filled sporting event involving a rider on a wakeboard being pulled behind of motorboat at speeds of up to 25 miles an hour. Just how fast depends on the skill of the rider, water conditions, the tricks they will be performing and other factors. The terms “Krypt,” “Tantrum,” “911,” “Tweety Bird” and “Tootsie Roll,” are all names from the “trick lexicon of these championship athletes, competing in a sport that combines the excitement of water skiing, surfing and snowboarding into one action filled event.

Ross Summers, CEO of the Branson Lakes Chamber of Commerce and CVB, one of the events sponsors, along with,Ozarks Rivers Heritage Foundation, said, “The MasterCraft Pro Wakeboard Tour is one of the premier wakeboarding events in the country.” He also pointed out that this is the first time that the event has been held in Branson and is a new stop for the tour.

The Branson stop is the third stop on the MasterCraft Pro Wakeboard Tour and an integral part of winning the Pro Tour Title. Tour competitors accumulate points during every stop on the Tour based on their placement in each contest. The one earning the highest total number of points at the end of the five stop Tour is  crowned the “Pro Tour Champion.”

The event will be held at Table Rock Lake’s Moonshine Beach on June 8 and 9, 2012. The Pro Men’s Qualifying, Junior Pro Men’s Quarterfinals and Pro Women’s Semifinals will be held on Friday, June 8. The Pro Men’s Quarterfinals, Junior Pro Men’s Semifinals, Pro Men’s Semifinals and Junior Pro Men’s and Women’s Finals will be held Saturday June 9, prior to the Pro Men’s Finals and the “Big Air Kicker Contest”  which will conclude the days competition.

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson said the Moonshine Beach area of Table Rock Lake will provide excellent viewing for spectators, both from land and the lake, and is only minutes south of the Branson Strip on State Route 165. It should be noted that although the Wakeboard Tour will span two days, June 8 and 9, Sunshine Beach will be open to the public both days with standard Day Use Rates applying on June 8 and the Wakeboard Tour rate on Saturday June 9.

She points out that Branson’s summer season will be fully underway and suggests that those planning to attend the MasterCraft Pro Wakeboard Tour or visit Branson that weekend give consideration to making advance arrangements for lodging and shows. Please feel free to contact the Branson Tourism Center, for information or tickets for any of Branson’s shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements by calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Canadian Titanic article features Branson Titanic Museum Attraction

The Titanic Museum Attraction's spectacular "Grand Staircase" is a precise replica of the original.

BRANSON, Mo.  The R.M.S. Titanic, which thought by some to be unsinkable, hit an iceberg, while on her maiden voyage, at approximately 11:40 p.m. on April 14, 1912 and sank into the depths of the frigid North Atlantic, and into the pages of history, at approximately 2:20 a.m. on April 15, 1912. As the 100th anniversary of its sinking approaches there is a rekindling of the ever smoldering fire of interest in the Titanic and a series of events all over the world remembering the tragic events of that voyage.

A recent article entitled, Where to immerse yourself in Titanic history on the 100th anniversary of its sinking, was published on line by Canada’s National Post. While pointing out the memorial events and availability of Titanic information at the “Maritime Museum of the Atlantic,” in Halifax, Nova Scotia and “The Titanic Belfast Festival,” in Belfast, Ireland, where the Titanic was built, the article also featured Branson’s Titanic Museum Attraction .

While expressing that the Branson Titanic Museum Attraction, and its sister attraction in Pigeon Forge, TN, are the “the largest permanent monuments in the world” memorializing the Titanic, the article indicated that guests on the Titanic “can experience what it was like to walk the hallways, parlours, cabins and grand staircase of the Titanic while surrounded by artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the ship’s history and fate.” It also pointed out that there will be special events on April 14 in remembrance of what happened 100 years ago.

On April 14, the 100th Anniversary of when the Titanic struck the iceberg, the Titanic Museum Attraction in Branson is hosting A Night to Remember: An Original Musical Tribute to Titanic, starting at 12:00 p.m. (Noon). It will include a special day full of tributes, musical performances, historic ceremonies, appearances by actual descendants of the Titanic’s passengers, the lighting of the “Titanic Eternal Flame” and the launching of “distress fire rockets” to bring the event to a “solemn end.”

Stephanie Milton, Director of Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center, said that there are still a limited number of VIP admissions to the event, including a special ticket price and a Titanic Coal Coin and money saving packages bundling the VIP Admissions with lodging, the Titanic Coal Coin, a Special 3D viewing of James Cameron’s “Titanic” at the IMAX Entertainment Complex and more. For additional information on the Titanic Museum Attraction or the special Titanic event on April 14, please call 1-800-785-1550.

Limited engagements add even more choice and excitement to Branson show scene

Oak Ridge Boys

BRANSON, Mo.  “It’s hard to imagine that any other city anywhere near the size of Branson could offer it visitors the number and variety of live entertainment shows that Branson does, “said Stephanie Milton, Director of Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “On a day to day basis, ‘The Official Branson.Com Show Schedule,’ powered by the Branson Tourism Center, shows a schedule of regularly scheduled shows encompassing just about every genre of music and type of live entertainment show from comedy, to magic, outdoor drama, biblical spectaculars and much more,” she continued.

In addition to Branson’s regularly scheduled shows there are a number of national stars and other acts or shows that perform limited engagements in Branson throughout the year. When factored in with Branson’s regularly scheduled shows it’s easy to see why some call Branson, “The live music show capital of the world.”While subject to change, the following list of limited engagement shows, sorted by starting date, is provided. If, as is the case with many, there is only one date shown, the performance is a one day limited engagement.

Dino & Cheryl in Concert, 4-11
Branson’s Birthday Spectacular – The Show of the Century, 4-15
Oak Ridge Boys, 4-17 through 4-19
Sawyer Brown, 4-20
Ultimate Elvis Tribute Contest, 4-21
See The World in Branson, 4-25 and 4-26
Heaven or Hell Conference, 4-26 through 4-28

Sawyer Brown

Dudu Fisher, 5-1 through 5-20
Ray Price and BJ Thomas, 5-5
Dino & Cheryl in Concert, 5-7 through 5-16
John Conlee & Bobby Bare, 5-12
Ronnie Milsap, 6-2
The Thorn, 6-2 through 6-16
Oak Ridge Boys, 6-12 through 6-14
Veggi Tales, 6-20 through 7-7
Merle Haggard, 6-23
A Festival of Praise, 7-2
Three Dog Night, 7-14
Neal McCoy, 7-19
Neal McCoy, 8-24 and 8-25

Veggi Tales

Air Supply and Maxine Nightingale, 9-15
Oak Ridge Boys, 9-18 through 9-20
Bill Anderson – A Night With A Legend, 9-21
Neal McCoy, 9-21 and 9-22
Restless Heart, 9-22
Teen Idols, 9-29
Dudu Fisher, 10-1 through 10-21
Neal McCoy, 10-5
Don Williams, 10-6
Oak Ridge Boys, 10-9 through 10-25
George Jones, 10-12
Bill Cosby, 10-13
David Frizzell & Shelly West, 10-13
Down From His Glory, 10-16 through 10-18
Lone Star, 10-18
Marty Stuart, 10-19 and 10-20

George Jones

Sawyer Brown, 10-19
Tim Conway and Friends, 10-19 and 10-20
Jim Ed Brown & Helen Cornelius, 10-20
Midwest Country Stars, 10-26
Janie Frickie, 10-27
Gatlin Brothers & Debby Boone Together,11-1 through 12-8
Oak Ridge Boys, 11-1 through 11-15
Daniel O’Donnell, 11-2 through 12-8
Tim Zimmerman and The Kings Brass, 11-6 through 11-16
George Jones, 11-9
Crystal Gayle, 11-10
Neal McCoy, 11-10
Tim Conway and Friends, 11-10 and 11-11
Mollie B Christmas Show, 11-11 and 11-12
Johnny Mathis Christmas Show, 11-16 and 11-17
Neal McCoy, 11-16, and 11-17
Classic Country Super Show, 11-23

Branson Tourism Center’s Milton also points out that additional information, specific scheduling information, prices and tickets for each of these limited engagement shows, as well as Branson’s regularly scheduled shows, can be obtained through 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’s Centennial Concert just might be “The Branson Show of the Century!”

Presleys' Country Jubilee comedian "Herkimer," Gary Presley, in the red shirt and drummer, Steve Presley, have been performing on a continuous basis since the show first opened on the Branson Strip in 1967.

BRANSON, Mo. “Although there will be other special events in connection with Branson’s Centennial celebration, the show billed as ‘Branson’s Birthday Spectacular – The Show of the Century’ will truly be one of the most popular highlights of the Centennial,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “It might very well be the most unique and entertaining show ever presented in Branson,” she added.

Bill Lennon, the show’s producer concurred adding, “It’s a show that will be full of history, nostalgia and entertainment, but most of all fun. After all, it’s a birthday celebration!” From the show’s original overture, incorporating 100 years of Branson history and music, to its historical elements, entertainers and the way it is all woven together, it is truly a once in a hundred year event of special significance.

There will be some special and unique performances. How often have the Baldknobbers Jamboree, acknowledged as Branson’s first show, and the Presleys’ Country Jubilee, Branson’s first show on the Branson Strip, performed together? How about a jam session with Jim Stafford and Ronnie Prophet and perhaps another special guest performer? Is there a possibility that the “Foggy River Boys” might be singing with “New South?” The unique possibilities and potential surprises for this once in a lifetime show are as endless as they are exciting.

Shoji Tabuchi and his daughter Christina are just two of the many Branson stars, present and past, scheduled to perform in the show.

That’s even more so when performances by the incredible Shoji Tabuchi and his daughter Christina; the Lennon Sisters; Yakov Smirnoff and a host of other Branson entertainers including “local songstress and portrayer of Aretha Franklin at the Legends in Concert, Nedgra Culp…; The Haygoods; Roy Rogers, Jr. and the High Riders; a special pre-show welcome from noted ventriloquist Jim Barber; a Happy Birthday sing-along with ‘Marilyn Monroe’, who also appears at Legends in Concert” and other surprises are factored in. It is easily one of most star studded shows Branson has seen in its 100 year existence.

To add to the enjoyment and fun, the live performances, Carrie April Tillis will act as the mistress of ceremonies and there will be a live 11 piece house band. Other special events and surprises will be incorporated into the show highlighted by an interactive performance of historical pictures and videos, music and a live narration presented by an “Original Ozark’s Mountain Gem,” Greg Pyron.

“In a sense, it has taken 100 years for this show to come to fruition and it’s not something most of us will see again in our lifetimes,” said Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson. She points out that there will only be one performance of this show, starting at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday April 15, tickets are selling fast and suggests that those wanting tickets get them as soon as possible. She expects large crowds in Branson that weekend because of the combination of Silver Dollar City’s WorldFest and the Titanic Museum Attraction’s “A Night to Remember” on April 14 in addition to Branson’s Birthday Spectacular – The Show of the Century and all the fun and excitement Branson offers on a regular basis. For additional information or tickets for any of Branson’s shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center either by calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

“Speech, Song and Celebration” to start Branson Centennial

Branson Centennial Logo

BRANSON, Mo. It is not an April fool’s joke, the City of Branson was incorporated as a city on April 1, 1912 and will be celebrating “100 years of Heritage, Harmony, and Hospitality” with special events throughout 2012, starting with the kick off of its “Centennial Celebration” (Centennial) on April 1, 2012. Although many events will be tied into the Centennial such as the Titanic Museum Attraction’s, “A Night to Remember” on April 14, the “The 52nd Annual Plumb Nellie Days” May 17-19 and others; the primary Centennial events will be the “Centennial History Museum Grand Opening and Celebration,” in Historic Downtown Branson on Sunday, April 1; “Branson’s Birthday Spectacular – The Show of the Century,” on Sunday April 15 and “Branson’s 100th Fest and Street Dance,” at a place TBD, on Saturday, July 7.

The first official event of the Centennial will be the “Centennial History Museum Grand Opening and Celebration,” which will be held at the Museum, located at the corner of Main Street and Veterans Boulevard, Business Highway 65, in the heart of Historic Downtown Branson, on Sunday, April 1, with the actual ceremony starting at 2:00 p.m. The short ceremony will include “a blessing of the crowd by Bob Hubbard, the National Anthem, performed by renowned tenor George Dyer, and a Color Guard presentation by local Veterans will set the tone for an earnest, but uplifting celebration for its citizens. Celebrity Ventriloquist Jim Barber will serve as Emcee, and featured Speakers in addition to Mayor Presley include Museum Supporter Leon Combs and Katie Danner, Department of Missouri Tourism.”

After the ceremony the crowd can follow a Dixieland band into Historic Downtown Branson for more music, fun and festivities until 5pm. This will include an afternoon of street musicians, walking tours, and story tellers and other entertainment.

The Branson Centennial Museum will remain open throughout 1912 and is made possible through the combined efforts of “The Downtown Branson Main Street Association,” The White River Valley Historical Society, the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce (BLACC) and the City of Branson. It will be located at 101 Veterans Boulevard in a building formerly housing the Morris Oil Company and donated for the Centennial by Jim D. Morris, philanthropist and local merchant.

Some of the Museums initial exhibits are planned to include “Early Branson, prior to its 1912 incorporation,” “The White River,” “The Roots of Tourism” “School Days” and others. With its prime visibility, visitors and locals alike will find the museum attractive and engaging. To keep the exhibits fresh, interesting and exciting many will be rotated “on a six-eight week basis.”

Stephanie Milton, Director of Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, said, “The Centennial Celebration activities and events will be another unique and exciting thing for Branson visitors to experience in Branson during 2012.” For additional information on Branson’s Centennial Celebration or for information or tickets for 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.