Bill Cosby

BRANSON, Mo., September 9, 2013 – “On a daily basis Branson is blessed with some of the finest entertainers anywhere presenting almost 100 live shows per day offering a quality and variety of live entertainment that is absolutely amazing,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. She explained that it is these “resident” Branson Shows that form the foundation upon which Branson’s live entertainment reputation is based.

Supplementing that foundation and giving Branson visitors more exciting live entertainment choices are the periodic limited engagement performances of nationally known performers and acts. These performances are for a limited specific period of time and are typically for short periods of time, some as short as one performance.

In addition to the Fall foliage and everything else Branson has to offer a number of nationally known stars and acts will be performing limited engagements in Branson this Fall. The following list, obtained from the Official Branson.Com Show Schedule, powered by the Branson Tourism Center, is sorted alphabetically with a link for each to scheduling, ticket pricing and other information:

A Wartime Romance

Lee Greenwood

Bill Cosby

Charlie Daniels Band

Charley Pride

Clint Black

Crystal Gayle, T.G. Sheppard and Janie Fricke

Daniel O'Donnell

Daniel O’Donnell

David Frizzell & Shelly West

Diamond Rio

Don Williams

Gatlin Brothers

Dinner with Yakov

Grits and Glamour Tour

Starring Pam Tillis and Lorrie Morgan

Happy Together

Featuring Flo and Eddie, Mickey Dolenz, Gary Puckett & Union Band, and Mark Lindsay

Jim Belushi & The Chicago Board of Comedy

John Anderson

John Conlee & Bobby Bare

John Michael Montgomery

Kenny Rogers

Kenny Rogers

Lynn Anderson

Marty Stuart

Mel Tillis

Midwest Country Stars

Neal McCoy

Oak Ridge Boys

Rich Little

Ronnie Milsap & Connie Smith

Ronnie McDowell and the Sweethearts of the Rodeo

Sawyer Brown

Steve Wariner and Jeannie Seely

The Grascals Appearing At Larry’s Country Diner

Wilson and Fairchild Appearing At Larry’s Country Diner

Although not limited engagement shows it should be pointed out that the last scheduled performance of the Roy Rogers Jr. Show will be November 27 and that October 18th will be the last opportunity to see tthe spectacular production of Joseph at the Sight and Sound Theatre. Starting on November 2^nd the Sight and Sound will be featuring another amazing production the Miracle of Christmas until December 28^th. Joseph will be replaced by another spectacular biblical epic Jonah starting with the 2014 season.

For additional information on any of the shows mentioned in this article or for 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, and talk with one of their local Branson based Travel Planners by calling 1-800-785-1550.

The Hughes Brothers Marty, left, Adam, Andy, Ryan and Jason.

BRANSON, Mo., September 6, 2013 – In terms of sport gear and footwear Nike advises “Just Do It” and in terms of fast food McDonalds says “I’m lovin it ,” but based on what this writer saw this week he would suggest that in terms of Branson shows it could be said “it is huge entertainment for the whole family.” Some may ask, “Shouldn’t the word ‘it’ be changed to ‘they’ to reflect that Branson shows are huge entertainment for the whole family?”

The answer would be “Yes” as applied to all Branson shows, but “No” as used in this context because we are talking about just one of Branson’s shows, it! Its billing as a “little word BIG show” relates to more than size and goes to the very essence of the show in terms of the total outstanding entertainment experience this show provides.

From beginning to end this production show is a fast paced cornucopia of music, comedy, dancing and color staring a cast of over 50 vocalists, dancers and musicians and featuring the Hughes Brothers and their incredibly talented families. Taken in total, the Hughes family is considered the largest family performing together in a live stage production, but that’s just the beginning.

Part of the colorful beginning to the shows patriotic segment.

From the opening to the final curtain, whether it is a segment with the Hughes Brothers themselves, their extremely talented wives, small kids or teens each segment is quality entertainment presented in an extremely professional, personable and entertaining manner. Although the Hughes Brothers themselves are featured, let there be no doubt about the fact that the “family” is the star of it and what makes it one of very few Branson shows with the ability to simultaneously entertain children and adults at the same time. What a joy it was to watch the kids in the audience react as they watched their “peers” perform on stage at the same time the adults they were with were clapping and appeared to be enjoying themselves too.

I would typically try to list all the cast members of the show, but for this one, based on the total number of cast members and the emphasis of the show on the participation of the whole family I will not do it this time. The musical breadth of this show is amazing and covers everything from country, to classical, gospel, rock pop and more. Factor in the vocal and instrumental talents of the Hughes Brothers and their families in presenting that music, colorful costuming, their energy, the ability of the entire cast to relate to the audience, a great live band and the result is a show filled with great music, fun, energy and excitement from beginning to end for everyone.

The Hughes children presenting an absolutely beautiful and inspirational performance of "I Am A Child of God.."

This is one fast paced show that transitions from one exciting, colorful and entertaining segment to another. Realizing the subjectivity involved I typically mention three segments or moments in a show that were my favorites. Among many for this show it would be “The Hughes Brothers” dynamite opening segment displaying their great talent and vocal range on music from rock and pop to classical; the Hughes kids as they beautifully sang an inspiring rendition of “I Am A Child of God” and the violin/fiddle medley presented by the Hughes’ children of a variety of music from “Simple Gifts,” played by Kristina Hughes to the “Barber of Seville Theme” with about six other numbers in between. It was a joy to see and hear.

The shows fantastic energetic opening established the tenor for the whole show and starts with the number “Can You Feel It.” That’s one of the beauties of this show, from beginning to end you will feel it; that feeling of being thoroughly entertained as the Hughes family shares their talent and family with yours drawing you into a very special and unique entertainment experience. This a unique Branson “gem” that truly entertains adults and children simultaneously at virtually the same high level throughout the whole show and should be considered for everyone’s “Branson Show’s Bucket List.”

For additional information or tickets on it or for 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.

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The cute uniqueness of its opening number with "usherette" Tiffany Sassanell auditioning for a part in the show.

BRANSON, Mo., September 1, 2013 — What do you get when you have some of the greatest music from Hollywood films being performed live on stage by four extraordinary vocalists, a superb cast of dancers in a spectacular, colorful, entertaining and beautifully choreographed production? In this writer’s opinion it would be two hours of the most entertaining vocal and dancing performances on any Branson stage while watching the extremely entertaining production show Hooray For Hollywood.

From the 1952 musical comedy Singing in the Rain to the 2012 epic musical drama Les Miserables, Hooray For Hollywood  is a non-stop extravaganza of some of the greatest musical moments from the last 50 years of Hollywood film making presented live on stage. That’s “what” is being done, but it’s “how” it is done that makes this show such a wonderful entertainment experience.

When one considers that the performers in this show are performing some of the greatest musical moments in film making history the performance of the show’s singers and dancers is of critical importance. The vocal and dancing skills of this cast, in number after number, displays a level of talent that is absolutely amazing. The vocals are performed by Tony Turner, Cory Seay, Tiffany Sassanella, and Heather Petersen. The shows dancers are Becca Jennings, Amy Morlang, Shelley Tees, Kelly Weigand, Ruth Robertson, Tom Gray, Martin Bennett, Aaron LeMoine, Ollie Barrow, Clark Roberts and Charles Redding.

The way that the costuming, special effects and film clips are seamlessly integrated into each number with the vocals and dancing results in a different “mini production” for each different film and helps make this show the great entertainment experience it is. In the case of the film Titanic, it was a simple elegant “production” consisting of Tiffany Sassanella’s beautiful rendition of My Heart Will Go On,” accented by a beautiful gown, lighting effects and a video clip from the movie that created a unique and touching performance.

On the other hand, the “production” of “Less Miserables” involved three vocal solos, each with its own “mini set,” and the entire cast in its “finale.” The vocals, I Dreamed A Dream, by Tiffany Sassanella; On My Own, by Heather Petersen and Stars by Cory Seay, combined with the full cast performance of Do You Hear the People Sing, in this writer’s opinion, is one of the most powerful, moving and inspirational performances he has seen performed in a Branson show.

The "high flying" Heather Petersen performing "Feed The Birds" from Mary Poppins

And that’s just two of the many performances that follow, seamlessly one after the other. From many and realizing his opinion is subjective, this writers favorite three would be the “Usherette” opening to the show because it illustrates, very dramatically, the talent in this show the unique entertaining manner that will showcase that talent. Heather Peterson’s “hi flying” performance of Feed The Birds from Mary Poppins was as was another example of great vocal talent combined with “high flying special effects” and of course, as mentioned above, Less Miserables.

“It’s a tough act to follow,” comes into play when a show is presenting, live on stage, some of the most spectacular, memorable and beloved musical moments from over 50 years of Hollywood films. Hooray For Hollywood not only meets that challenge, but with its talented performers and great production makes those moments “its own.”

For additional information on Hooray For Hollywood please contact the Branson Tourism Center by calling 1-800-785-1550 or through its website, www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Material Connection

Buck Trent and his marker on the Spartanburg Music Trail.

BRANSON, Mo., August 28, 2013 – “Recently, three Branson entertainers, Buck Trent, Mickey Gilley and Dean Z were each honored in separate and unique events,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Although each recognition was unique, the common thread between them was honoring and acknowledging the talent, accomplishments, and professionalism of each” she continued.

“Oh Yeah”, thumbs up and “Uh Huh!” as Spartanburg, SC, honored its native son, internationally acclaimed banjo picker and entertainer Buck Trent, for a distinguished entertainment career that has spanned over half a century. The city declared August 26^th as “Buck Trent Day” and unveiled the “Buck Trent Marker” on the “Spartanburg Music Trail.”

Although, throughout his career Trent has received numerous honors and awards including twice being named the “Country Music Association Instrumentalist of the Year” he said that being honored by his hometown was really something special. Visitors to Branson can experience this amazing entertainer in the Buck Trent Show throughout the season.

The legendary Mickey Gilley will be inducted into the National Traditional Country Music Hall of Fame on August 31^st in Le Mars, Iowa as part of its 38th Annual National Old-Time Country & Bluegrass Festival. Gilley who has earned numerous awards including the Academy of Country Music’s Entertainer of the Year said that he was “surprised and honored to be nominated for this prestigious award.”

Although many thought his career was over after receiving a paralyzing injury in 2009 Gilley is currently performing his Mickey Gilley show at his Branson theatre, Sunday through Wednesday. In addition he will be the guest host for Branson Tourism Center’s next exclusive Cruise With The Stars event at 11:45 AM on September 19 providing his fans with an unparalleled up close and personal experience with Gilley including opportunities for photos and autographs.

Dean Z, who has been performing as the Elvis Tribute Artist in the Branson edition of the Legends in Concert Show since 2007, won the national “Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest,” in front of a full house at the Cannon Center for the Performing Arts in Memphis, TN on August 27. Sanctioned by Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. the Ultimate Elvis® Tribute Artist Contest™ involved hundreds of Elvis tribute artists competing in 28 preliminary Ultimate Elvis® Tribute Artist Contest™ events all over the United States for cash and an invitation to the Ultimate Elvis® Tribute Artist Contest™ Semi-Finals in Memphis during Elvis Week. “At Legends in Concert we take great pride that our tribute artists are the best of the best,” said Jeannie Horton, General Manager, of the Branson Legends in Concert Theatre. “We have always known that Dean Z was one of the best Elvis Tribute Artists out there and we are just thrilled that now the whole world knows,” she continued.

Scene from the shows colorful and exciting Opening.

BRANSON, Mo., August 20, 2013 – For those who might not want to read a detailed story about a really great show, let’s summarize it in one sentence. Having seen the Incredible Acrobats of China Show featuring the New Shanghai Circus, yesterday, this writer can again say, without a doubt, it is a one of a kind cornucopia of color, excitement, grace, action, and danger that entertains all ages, from its exciting and colorful opening until the curtain falls.

In a town with over 100 shows on any given day, this show stands alone in terms of its uniqueness and ability to simultaneously entertain both children and adults throughout its entire length with a caliber of entertainment that is truly incredible. A family from Flower Mound Texas* consisting of mom and dad and their two lovely daughters aged four and six are an excellent example.

At intermission, when asked how they were enjoying the show the adults answer was, “We are enjoying the show a lot.” Their four and six year old daughters both said that they liked it and when asked if they had a favorite act they both, in their own way, said that they liked the whole show and would not pick a favorite act. Their six year old daughter said that she thought that other kids her age would enjoy the show as much as she did. The telling of the story doesn’t do it justice because you can’t see the excitement in the eyes of the girls or sense the happiness of the parents that their daughters were enjoying themselves so much.

The show’s exciting Opening features most of the cast members, is a harbinger of what is to come and raises the bar in terms of audience expectation. The 14 acts that follow do not disappoint with each unique act having its own choreography, music and colorful costuming, but more importantly, being performed by people with a skill level that simply has to be experienced to be believed.

The most thrilling Chair Stacking act most people will ever see.

In addition to acts that it is almost certain most people have never seen before, the show includes acts such hoop diving, juggling, contortion, human strength, chair sticking and Silks that you might have seen before, but it is almost certain that you have never seen them performed like they are in this show. As I sat there watching the show, as I have at least once a year for most of the last decade, I knew I was seeing some of the types of acts that I had seen before, but it was presented in a different and fresh manner making it a new entertainment experience. One thing for sure, the shows juggling act will add new meaning to the term “Hat Trick.”

Chair Stacking acts are not unusual, but how about one where the performer is up about 30 feet in the stack, does a one hand stand on top of some “beer” cans then drops down to the stool they are sitting on. It’s absolutely amazing, but then so was the five ladies performing in synchronization on an eight chair stack during the second half of the show! The Roller Skating act performed at high speed by two ladies within a six foot diameter raised circle was as breathtaking as it was exciting. At one point one of the performers was suspended by her neck as she was twirled around at high speeds. The audience just loved the Hoop Diving as the performers, running at full speed launch themselves into the air and through hoops at varying heights, while performing acrobatics and other feats before falling back to the ground.

It’s hard to imagine anything more beautiful and graceful than the show’s Contortion, high flying Silk and Human Ballet acts. The Silk act is one of the best this writer has ever witnessed and “The Human Ballet,” where a Ballet Dancer gracefully performs a ballet on the head and shoulders of her partner, “is one of the most unique, incredible and beautiful things I have ever seen performed on a stage.”

And these are just a few of the amazing acts presented in the Incredible Acrobats of China Show featuring the New Shanghai Circus. If you want to see a unique, exciting and colorful one of a kind entertainment experience performed by athletic, skilled, energetic and graceful performers to perfection that simultaneously entertains adults and children then you don’t want to miss this show.

For additional information or tickets for the Incredible Acrobats of China Show featuring the New Shanghai Circus please contact the Branson Tourism Center by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com

* Name omitted to protect the privacy of the children.

Material Connection

Dean Z performing his Elvis tribute during a recent performance of the Legends in Concert show.

BRANSON, Mo., August 18, 2013 — “At Legends in Concert we take great pride that our tribute artists are the best of the best,” said Jeannie Horton, General Manager, of the Branson Legends in Concert Theatre. “We have always known that Dean Z was one of the best Elvis Tribute Artists out there and we are just thrilled that now the whole world knows,” she continued.

Horton was referring to the fact that “Dean Z,” who has been performing as the Elvis Tribute Artist in the Branson edition of the Legends in Concert Show since 2007, won the national “Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest,” in front of a full house at the Cannon Center for the Performing Arts in Memphis, TN last night. Sanctioned by Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. the Ultimate Elvis® Tribute Artist Contest™ involved hundreds of Elvis tribute artists competing in 28 preliminary Ultimate Elvis® Tribute Artist Contest™ events all over the United States for cash and an invitation to the Ultimate Elvis® Tribute Artist Contest™ Semi-Finals in Memphis during Elvis Week.

Dean Z won his invitation to the Semi-Finals by winning the Preliminary held during the Rockin’ Elvis Fest” on March 17 at the Pala Casino, in Pala, CA. He and the 27 other semi-finalists competed for the ten spots in the Finals on August 14 with the Finals being held last night.

In a Branson Up Close and Personal Interview for the Branson Tourism Center in February of 2011, Dean Z’s answers to three questions just might indicate why he is enjoying the success he is:

BTC: How did you get started being an Elvis Presley Tribute Artist?

DZ: I started when I saw Elvis on television when I was three years old. I cleared off the coffee table, started dancing and the next thing I knew I was performing at my sister’s talent show singing ‘Jailhouse Rock.’

BTC: How long have you been performing as an Elvis Tribute Artist?

DZ: For the last 24 years and I’m still singing ‘Jail House Rock.’

BTC: You are known for the effort you go through for authenticity

DZ: Elvis was pretty successful so ‘If it ain’t broke I don’t fix it.’ I want my tribute to be as close and accurate to the way Elvis looked and performed as possible. From shoes, to jackets, suits, and the other cloths I wear on stage, everything is custom made to help keep it just the way he did it.

“We too would add our congratulations Dean Z on his well-earned victory. Not only is it a tribute to him, but a testimony as to the caliber of the entertainment to be found every day performing in Branson in the Legends in Concert and other Branson shows,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center.