Category Archives: Featured

Five unique Branson attractions you might not know about

Just a few of the things at Branson Attractions that you might not know about.

“The quality and quantity of Branson’s live shows, its spectacular Ozarks beauty, pristine lakes and major attractions, such as the 1880s styled theme park, Silver Dollar City, the Branson Titanic Museum Attraction and major national attractions like the Hollywood Wax Museum and Ripley’s Believe It or Not,” are well known,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “It has dozens of other attractions, that while perhaps not as well known, add to the excitement, fun and adventure that is available for Branson visitors to enjoy on a daily basis,” she added.

Here’s a list of five of those attractions, most of which are unique to Branson, that you might not have heard about:

1. Branson’s Wild World: Bull Sharks, crocodiles, alligators, wolves and snakes in the middle of the Branson Strip? Well the location of this incredible interactive animal attraction, unlike any most have ever seen, certainly is. Its “aquarium is filled with all sorts of exotic sea creatures; including eels, a full reef tank, and of course, Sharks. Branson’s Wild World is one of a very few places in the USA to display bull sharks” along with the only Sea Turtle in the Midwest that you can feed and that’s not mentioning the other animals, snakes, opportunities to interact with some of the animals and other activities the attraction offers. It’s worth noting that this attractions, as is the case with the majority of Branson attractions, is not weather dependent and is contained totally within its own environmentally controlled building.

2. Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure:

Another thing Branson visitors do not expect to find in Branson is a tropical experience such as the “Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure.” The unique Butterfly Aviary, located in its own palace overlooking Branson, features hundreds of living, flittering exotic butterflies carefully imported following strict USDA regulations, sharing their forest environment with a unique collection of birds and other botanical specimens. And that’s not all, “you’ll find a Living Rainforest Science Center, an Emerald Forest Mirror Maze, a Rainforest Theater, and the Banyan Tree Bungee Adventure. It’s a unique, beautiful, fun, educational, and challenging experience that the whole family will enjoy.

3. Lake Taneycomo Ozark Natural Beauty Sightseeing Cruise on the Lake Queen

Main Street Lake Cruises’ L”ake Queen” is a riverboat replica reminiscent of the boats and the White River that played such an important part in Branson’s early history. While many destinations offer cruises none offer the blend of boarding at a modern shopping attraction like Branson Landing and witnessing a $7.5 million dollar spectacular water attraction featuring the first-ever merging of water, fire, light and music with water fountains shooting 120-foot geysers into the air and “fire cannons,” all choreographed to lights and music as part of their itinerary. And that’s just the first 15 minutes! From Bald Eagles and the other birds and wildlife abounding on Lake Taneycomo’s shore line, amazing natural bluffs stretching back into the eons of time and the spectacular majesty of Ozark vistas this 1.5 hour cruise is a unique experience not seen by the vast majority of the millions of visitors who come to Branson each year. Produced primarily by Mother Nature it is one of Branson’s most extraordinary shows and will provide memories that will last a lifetime. The Lake Queen offers a full set of modern amenities, is fully handicap accessible, has full sized modern restrooms; a full bar, snack food service and a fully enclosed environmentally conditioned lower deck and open air upper deck.

4. The National Tiger Sanctuary: Most people coming to Branson don’t expect that there will be a chance to meet a lion or tiger up close and personal, but thanks to the National Tiger Sanctuary, a non-for-profit organization established in 2000 to create a safe and protected environment and a safe, stress free, forever home for the big cats such as lions and tigers, that too is a possibility. To limit the stress on the animals under their care, there is a limited number of guided tours conducted Wednesday through Sunday that provide a unique opportunity to meet these large cats and learn how they ended up at the sanctuary as part of this educational experience that is unlike any other. This attraction is weather sensitive.

5. The Track Family Fun Parks: Ok so go-karts and fun parks are not unique to Branson, but having four unique parks and the number of go-kart tracks Branson has creates a choice of go-kart opportunities that some have called a “go-kart paradise.” In addition to the traditional go-karting there’s the steel and concrete, 1,200 foot and four story tall “Heavy Metal High Rise,” the four-story spiral climb of the “Wild Woody” the spirals and “blind peak” of the “Lumber Jack!” And there’s more, everything from Bumper cars, batting cages, laser tag, mini-golf, arcades to the incredible “Skycoaster,” a 100-foot-tall super swing that combines the elements of skydiving and hang-gliding into its 70 mph swinging adventure. “The Track” also has plenty of kid-friendly rides and lots of fun for the little ones.

For information on the attractions in this article or any of Branson’s attractions, shows or lodging feel free to contact the Branson Tourism Center by calling 1-800-785-1550.

Three ways to a great value vacation in Branson

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

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

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

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

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

Adventures of Marco Polo

Amazing Pets

Ayo Starring Voices of Glory

Bretts

Clay Cooper’s Country Express

Doug Gabriel’s #1 Hits Tribute Show

Presleys’ Country Jubilee

Rankin Brothers

Shoji Tabuchi

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

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

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

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

Jarett Dougherty joins country great Billy Dean

Jarrett Dougherty and Billy, a wonderful combination of the best in country music and comedy

If you want some great country music and zany comedy while in Branson here’s some great news. In announcing that one of Branson’s favorite comedians, Jarrett Dougherty, will be joining his Billy Dean Live show at Branson’s Starlite Theatre; Grammy Award winner Billy Dean said that he has had a great time and a lot of fun performing his shows at the Starlite this Spring, but “It’s going to be even more fun, and definitely sometimes crazy, adding Jarrett to the mix of entertainment we offer.” Dougherty will join the show starting May 13 and will be “creating a whole new cast of zany characters for the show.”

A native of the Ozarks, Jarrett has been “performing in Branson since 1995 and “his side-splitting humor has rightfully earned him recognition as one of Branson’s funniest comedians! While seeking a work-life balance Jarrett could not resist the opportunity to perform with country music great Billy Dean. Dougherty said, ‘I feel privileged to be given the chance to showcase my comedy alongside such great musical talents at the Starlite Theatre. It is definitely the hottest place for the coolest show in town!'”

General Manager Linda Merkling says, “Jarrett is a true pro and an excellent addition to our team! We are excited about his talent! Life is stressful and Jarrett is guaranteed to make you laugh and put a smile in your day!”

Country music superstar Billy Dean has been performing is currently performing the Billy Dean Live show with his hot band, “Steel Horses,” at the Starlite Theatre in Branson. They perform a dynamic mix of country rock plus all the hits you remember from the ACM Male Vocalist of the Year and Grammy-Winner Billy Dean, who owns over 20 hit singles, 11 Top Ten hits and 4 Gold Albums!

For additional information or tickets for the Billy Dean Live show or information 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 its website, www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Seven Branson Insider Tips for May 2014

Launch capsule being lifted into place on top of White Water’s “KaPau Plummet.”

“Branson Insider Tips” is based on information gathered personally from local Branson contacts, the “Branson experts” at the Branson Tourism Center, the Branson CVB, social media sites and other sources. They are offered in the spirit of providing Branson visitors with some tips and highlights of what will be happening in Branson during the month of May that they can use in planning a trip to Branson.

1. Featured Show: Clay Cooper’s Country Express is perennially one of Branson’s most popular shows. “This show is chock full of variety, including New York’s number one cowboy, the trick roping and gun slinging Johnny Lonestar, and a fantastic live, seven piece band. Clay’s multi-talented wife, Tina, leads a dazzling group of dancers, and other featured performers including Colt Cooper, and Oklahoma’s little sweetheart, Ezrah Noell. Of course the show stars and is hosted by one of Branson’s most talented and engaging performers, the incomparable Clay Cooper!”

2. Special Dining Tips: Recently, on their Facebook Page, the Branson Tourism Center asked the question, “Where is the one restaurant / cafe you have to eat at when you come to Branson?” With 95 people responding “Danna’s BBQ” was recommended the most, but the majority of comments provide some neat information on a variety of Branson’s top restaurants not available anywhere else. Click here to view the post and comments.

3. Limited Engagement Performances:

Gene Watson Appearing At Larry’s Country Diner

Jimmy Fortune Appearing At Larry’s Country Diner

4. White Water debuts its new $1.7 million KaPau Plummet thrill ride: When White water opens for its 2014 season on May 17, it will debut its new four story high thrill ride KaPau Plummet. It starts with you standing on a clear acrylic floor looking down at where you are about to fall, waiting, anticipating the time at which that floor drops out underneath you and you fall at an angle of 70 degrees, reaching speeds of 26 feet per second as you traverse the 240 feet of the slide down four stories through a translucent tube.

5. Unique Mother’s Day Dinner Cruise: Treat Mom to a very special and unique Mother’s Day Dinner by taking her on a special dinner cruise aboard Main Street Lakes Cruises’ 100 foot luxury yacht the Landing Princess. In addition to a special Mother’s Day Menu and complimentary Champagne, Mom can relax while leisurely cruising on beautiful Lake Taneycomo amid the beauty of the Ozarks with those she cherishes.

6. Silver Dollar City Bluegrass & Barbeque Festival: This festival, held from May 8 through June 1, features some of the top names in Bluegrass music such as Rhonda Vincent and Rage, the James King Band and dozens more along with mouthwatering BBQ. Of course all this is in addition to everything else the international award winning theme park offers on a daily basis.

7. The Shindig Shuffle: As part of the Ozark Mountain Shindig, Branson shows and entertainers, with the cooperation of Branson visitors, will attempt to perform the world’s longest line dance on Saturday, May 31, 2014 between 10:30 PM and 11:30 PM.

For information on these and the many other shows, attractions, events and shopping that Branson has to offer please feel free to contact the “Branson experts” at the Branson Tourism Center by calling 1-800-875-1550 daily from 8:00 AM to 9:30 PM CST.

What you should know about Branson’s newest fine dining experience, La Piazza Ristorante Italiano

A portion of La Piazza’s warm intimate dining room.

Seven of us, friends who love a “fine dining” experience and have eaten at a number of Branson’s restaurants over the years and virtually all of its “fine dining” restaurants at one time or the other, enjoyed one of the finest dining experiences we have ever had in Branson. What is amazing is that La Pizza just opened, at 2900 Green Mountain Drive, in the old “Cosmopolitan Grill” location, on Friday April 11, was in the process of a soft opening and still provided such a wonderful experience.

The ambiance, lighting and size of the L shaped room was very comfortable and inviting with a full service bar tastefully integrated into one end of the room. Our server Johnathan did a wonderful job and provided a quality of service that contributed immeasurably to our enjoyment of the evening.

There were seven of us and we started off from the “Antipasti” section of the menu with two orders of “Portobello Rimini” which we split. The dish is a huge stuffed Portobello Mushroom baked with fresh tomato, mozzarella and basil served on a bed of polenta with Marinara sauce. One order would be perfect for two to split and it was delicious. Fresh sliced Italian bread, made “in house,” was served with a delightful garlic flavored butter.

The entrees of our party ranged from their daily special, “Wild Alaskan Salmon,” to a variety of pastas and their “Bisteccalla Florentina,” LaPiazza’s grilled rib eye steak. To a person, everyone said that what they had was excellent.

One of the ladies with us said, her “Linguini Al Vongole,” a delightful combination of linguini noodles with clams, shrimp, white wine, garlic, chili flakes, basil and parsley was one of the best pasta dishes she has ever eaten. The “Wild Alaskan Salmon” special, was lightly smoked just prior to serving under a Plexiglas dome that was removed as it was served. What a beautiful presentation in terms of sight and smell and all who ordered it said it was wonderful.

Those of us who got the “Bisteccalla Florentina, were delighted. The large grilled rib eye steak, topped with a red wine demi-glaze, was served with seasonal vegetables and some of the best garlic mashed potatoes I have ever eaten. One of us ordered their steak medium rare and the other rare. Both were cooked to perfection and were delicious.

There really wasn’t room for desert, but a couple of the girls each ordered one, “Tiramisu.” Like everything else, it was delicious. I know that the word “delicious” is used a lot in describing our experience at LaPiazza, but that’s the way it was.

Executive Chef Donny Jay Cummings had previously worked at the “Table 22 Restaurant” and is really excited about the menu, quality of the ingredients used and providing diners with one of the best fine dining experiences in Branson. Owner Fidel Gomez, said that in addition to providing his guests with great food he wanted the restaurant to provide a comfortable, warm and hospitable atmosphere for his guests. If our experience is any indication he has succeeded. It is a place that we will visit again and often.

All meals are served ala carte and are priced very reasonably considering the size of the portions, quality the food, the service and wonderful fine dining experience provided. “LaPiazza Ristorante Italiano” opens at three daily, is open seven days a week, accepts reservations and can be reached by phone at 417-334-2562.

Branson earns Traveler’s Choice for Top 25 U. S. Destinations

Main Street Cruise’s Landing Princess and Lake Queen viewing Branson Landing’s spectacular Water and Fire Show.

“Branson visitors are just amazing,” said Annette Wood, director of sales and marketing, for the Branson Tourism Center. “What a humbling experience that so many of them would take the time to comment on TripAdvisor® that Branson, a little town in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, would, for the first time, make the top 25 List of U.S. Destinations in ‘TripAdvisors® 6^th Annual Traveler’s Choice Destination Awards’ along with cities such as New York, Orlando, and New Orleans,” she added. Joining Branson, who was number 19 on the list, as “newbies to the top 25 was San Diego (7), Austin (18), Atlanta (20), Phoenix (21), St. Louis (23) and Nashville (24).

In announcing the awards, Barbara Messing, chief marketing officer for TripAdvisor said, “If you’re looking for trip inspiration, look no further than the Travelers’ Choice Destinations.” The award is based on the “quantity and quality of reviews and ratings for hotels, attractions and restaurants in destinations” that are “gathered over a 12-month period.” The description accompanying the award listing highlighted the number and variety of Branson shows, the natural beauty of the Ozarks and the “great fishing, hiking, biking and water sports” available in Branson.

Larry Milton, owner of Main Street Lake Cruises whose two boats, the Lake Queen and the Landing Princess, are featured in the illustration of the description accompanying the award listing said, “How neat is that, Branson is featured in the top 25 of this award list because of the efforts that travelers to Branson have made based on their own great Branson experiences. What a testimony to the efforts of our entertainers, shows, attractions, lodging providers and everyone else in Branson’s tourism industry who help provide our guests with that great experience.”

Branson Tourism Center’s Wood invites everyone to visit Branson and experience firsthand why this special little town nestled in the Ozarks is listed as one of the top 25 destinations in the U.S. For information on Branson shows, attractions, lodging and everything else that Branson offers please feel free to call the Branson Tourism Center toll free at 1-800-875-1550 or through its website, www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Acrobats of China is an amazing Branson experience

Amazing high speed roller skating feat with one skater hanging by a “thread.”

Having seen the Acrobats of China Show featuring the New Shanghai Circus perform in Branson many times over the past 12 years, most recently on March 24, 2014, it is easy to see why the title for this show is commonly prefaced with either of the adjectives, “amazing” or “incredible” when mentioned. In a town known for its music shows, it stands alone for its uniqueness, acrobatics, color, action, excitement and broad audience appeal. It is one of only a handful of Branson’s excellent shows that is designed to simultaneously hold the interest of children and adults from the time the curtain raises until the final cast call.

The show’s action packed opening, featuring most of the cast members, has everything from tumbling and acrobatics to a Chinese Dragon and is one of the most colorful, exciting and fast paced openings I have ever seen and sets the stage for what is to come. And what comes is one act after another, each with its own introduction, choreography, colorful costuming and performers doing amazing things at a level of skill that is simply incredible.

I know that moving from one act to another is not an exciting thing, but with the number of different acts in this show it could have been a drag especially for children. Fortunately, not in this case. In fact, the way each act seamlessly transitions from one to the other, with no dead time in between, is handled with the same skill and precision that the performers demonstrate in their individual acts.

High flying Hoop acrobatics.

Acrobats of China includes many acts that most people have never seen before as well as acts such as high flying silks, juggling, hoop diving, contortion, human strength and chair stacking, but the Acrobats of China perform them in their own unique manner with a skill set so amazing that it is new and exciting and like you are experiencing it for the first time. I am amazed as I watch them perform each year, recognize the same skill in the act, but am seeing it presented in a different, fresh and innovative way that has me thoroughly invested in the performance.

Many of us have witnessed “Chair Stacking” acts, but how often have you witnessed one where the chairs were stacked about 30 feet high and the performer puts a bench on top, makes two stacks of “coke” sized cans, four cans tall and does a hand stand on top of them. Oh, and did I mention, he then does a “hand drop” from the top of the cans down to the bench on top of the stacked chairs.

As unexciting as they might appear when simply named, three of my favorite acts the Diabolo, Duo Table Skating and Bowel Flipping are incredibly exciting and unbelievable as they are performed in this show. The Diabolo is the Chinese yoyo. It seems like it would be hard enough to keep one of them moving on the string let alone having a troupe of acrobats dancing as they work them in synchronization throwing them back and forth, high into the air and doing other amazing things. It is truly an beautiful thing to see.

The audience just loved the Roller Skating act performed within a six foot diameter raised circle by two ladies. From the delicate intricate toe “candle skate” to high speed drama, with one hanging by her neck from the neck of the other, twisting horizontally to the ground as she was twirled around at high speed. As is the case with so many acts in this show, it was as breathtaking as it was beautiful, exciting and dangerous.

I have never witnessed anything as amazing as the “Bowl Flipping” act in this show. The performer is balancing on a rolling teeterboard on top of a table as he flips bowels to the top of his head using the board. When he was going for the fourth bowel I thought, “He’ll never make it, but he did.” I know is sounds simple and unexciting, but trust me on this one, it is about as exciting as it gets and it is anything, but simple.

In terms of precision, skill, color, pageantry, action, costuming, grace, beauty and elegance throughout its entirety, this is a show that is unique in Branson and will simultaneously entertain every member of the family. For additional information or tickets for the Acrobats of China or any of Branson’s other shows, attractions and activities or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. BTC may be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Material Connection

Shoji Tabuchi preparing for 26th Branson season after successful off season tour

Interesting shot of Shoji Tabuchi performing at Florida Strawberry Festival.

“The off season this year was a whirlwind of activity for our show,” said Shoji Tabuchi. “We toured and played in Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, South Carolina and Florida to the excitement and enthusiasm of many sold out shows and, of course, everywhere we went we shared Branson,” he continued.”

Tabuchi said that the Florida Strawberry Festival in Plant City, Florida was one of the special highlights of the tour where he was featured with the likes of the Oak Ridge Boys, Styx, Rascal Flats, Charlie Pride and many more as well as the cover of the February issue of “Lifestyles After 50” magazine “which was seen by almost 250,000 people.” While performing at the Strand Theatre in Shreveport, LA Tabuchi was presented with the keys to Bossier City, LA and a proclamation by Mayor Lorenz Walker proclaiming Dec. 13 as Shoji Tabuchi Day.

Tabuchi said, “I am really excited about beginning our 26th season in Branson on April 22nd.” He said the show will contain exciting new sets, new special effects, lighting and dazzling new costuming along with new choreography, new music and “as always” a surprise or two.

“It’s great to have Shoji back home in Branson and we congratulate him on the start of the 26th Branson season of the incomparable Shoji Tabuchi Show,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center.

8th Annual Elvis Festival Will Rock Branson

2013 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest Finale.

BRANSON, MO, March 30, 2014 – “The Branson Elvis® Festival is a wonderful event for Elvis fans, but also offers another unique and exciting activity for Branson visitors,” said, Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. The 8th Annual Branson Elvis® Festival will take place April 4 – 6, 2014, at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater, the home of Branson’s Legends in Concert Show located on the world famous “Branson Strip.”

The Festival includes an “Elvis Meet & Greet Dinner, The Legends in Concert Show and Elvis Contestant Karaoke on April 4; the Elvis Vendor Village, featuring “Vendors from across the country selling unique Elvis merchandise,” the Hound Dog Contest, and the Ultimate Elvis® Tribute Artist Contest™ on April 5 and “Branson Gospel Sunday” at 10 a.m. on April 6 at the Hamner Variety Theater featuring “some of Elvis’ favorite gospel numbers.” The highlight of the festival, the Ultimate Elvis® Tribute Artist Contest™ is scheduled to take place at 7 p.m. on Saturday, April 5.

The Branson contest is one of a select few tribute competitions sanctioned by Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. and “the winner of the Branson contest “will receive a prize package and the opportunity to compete in the 2014 Ultimate Elvis® Tribute Artist Contest™ finals presented by Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. in Memphis, Tennessee during Elvis Week.”

From a Branson show perspective, Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson suggests that the following shows might be of particular interest to Elvis fans Joseph Hall’s Elvis Rock N Remember Tribute, 100 percent Elvis; Legends in Concert with a major portion of the show as an Elvis tribute or the Rankin Brothers, with a “set” dedicated to Elvis fans. She also points out that at the time of the Festival the vast majority of all Branson’s shows and attractions, including Silver Dollar City, will be open for Festival attendees to enjoy as well as the spectacular beauty of an Ozark spring.

For additional information or tickets for the Ultimate Elvis® Tribute Artist Contest,™ 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 by calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through its web site www.BransontTourismCenter.com.

Nadia Cole A Voice of Glory

Nadia Cole

Millions have seen the Voices of Glory, Nadia, Avery and Michael Cole they become finalists on the hit NBC prime time show “America’s Got Talent” and were touched not only by the inspiring story of how they started singing together, but the beauty of their voices. Now Branson visitors have the opportunity to hear them sing in their own Branson show, Ayo Starring the Voices of Glory.

Recently BTC had an opportunity to interview the youngest member of the group, Nadia Cole, about their career, how they came to Branson and what the future may hold for her and the “Voices of Glory.” Having heard her sing I was already impressed by her voice, but her poise, obvious love of family and God, professionalism and friendliness was just as impressive and far beyond her 14 years.

The following piece is in Q & A format with the Branson Tourism Center (BTC) asking questions that we hope the reader will find informative and entertaining and Nadia’s answers indicated by (NC):

BTC: When and where were you born?
NC: Newburg, New York on Oct. 26, 1999

BTC: How did you get started singing?
NC: In 2005 our mother, Felicia Cole, was involved in a head on collision with a drunk driver and was in a coma for eight months. We [Nadia with brothers Avery and Michael] started singing by her bedside just to get her to respond and from there we went from hospital room to hospital room, nursing home to nursing home and eventually ended up on a show called “America’s Got Talent.”

BTC: What year were you on America’s Got Talent?
NC: 2009.

BTC: How did you do?
NC: We took 5th Place.

BTC: What did you enjoy most about your appearance on America’s Got Talent?
NC: The total experience; being on national TV and getting to know everybody around us.

BTC: Did you go on the America’s Got Talent Road Tour?
NC: No we did not. I believe we were too young at the time.

BTC: How old are you, Michael and Avery?
NC: Michael is 21, Avery just turned 18 and I am 14.

BTC: How long has Voices of Glory been singing?
NC: We have been singing professionally for about 8 years.

BTC: How long have you been performing in Branson?
NC: About four years.

BTC: What brought you to Branson?
NC: In 2010 we got a call from a promoter who brought us to Branson. Things did not work out as promised, but our dad said, “God did not bring us down here for nothing.” We stayed and God has blessed our career tremendously with awards, international tours, TBN, church and other performances as well as performing in the “Andy Williams Christmas Show” in 2012 and now we are performing our own show “Ayo” at the Hughes Brothers Theatre in Branson.

BTC: What do you like best about performing in Branson?
NC: I like the audiences.

BTC: What you enjoy the most about living in Branson?
NC: I love Branson. The Christian environment just gives me peace inside and the people are just so nice to each other.

BTC: What is your all-time favorite song to sing?
NC: That’s hard. I can’t pick just one. My favorites are “Open My Heart,” a gospel song by Yolonda Adams, “Blue Skies” by Ella Fitzgerald and “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston.

BTC: When you’re not working what do you enjoy doing most?
NC: I love spending time with family and friends, go to movies and the landing.

BTC: Do you have a favorite hobby or activity?
NC: I like to dance.

BTC: What do you look forward to the most as you start each new day?
NC: I look for a brand new start. You make a mistake one day, but the next day you get a chance to start fresh.

BTC: What are you the most thankful for?
NC: My family.

BTC: If you could perform with anyone on stage, whether they are alive now or not, who would it be?
NC: Whitney Houston, Ella Fitzgerald and Aretha Franklin.

BTC: Do you have a little known fact about yourself that you think your fans are audience would enjoy hearing about?
NC: Don’t get between me a pepperoni pizza and a mug of root beer.

BTC: Have you ever thought about going back to “America’s Got Talent,” or a competition like “The Voice” or “American Idol” as a solo act?
NC: Not really because I am performing with my brothers. When you are with family you really don’t want to separate what you have between us singing wise.

BTC: That aside, did something recently happen that might cause you to consider trying out for “American Idol?”
NC: Yes, it did. I went to the “Disney American Idol Experience in Florida at Disney World Hollywood Studios. The experience gave me the opportunity to go through the American Idol experience from hair and makeup to judging, coaching and competition. At the final competition I sang “Listen” by “Beyonce” and won. As the winner of the day’s competition I received a “Dream Pass” that entitles me to be escorted to the front of the line of prospective “American Idol” television show contestants and have the opportunity to audition for the producers of the “American Idol.”

BTC: Has a book about the story of the “Voices of Glory” been released recently?
NC: Yes, we are really excited that our book, “Higher Than Me, the story of the Voices of Glory” has just been released.

BTC: Do you have personal goals for yourself and Voices of Glory?
NC: I would love to travel with Voices of Glory on mission trips using our voices to help make this world a better place and change people’s lives.

Nadia, Michael and Avery, “The Voices of Glory” are currently appearing in their own show, Ayo Staring the Voices of Glory in Branson. For additional information on Ayo please feel free to contact the Branson Tourism Center by calling 1-800-785-1550 or through its website, www.BransonTourismCenter.