Category Archives: Featured

Virtually “new” Branson Hilton Convention Center Hotel reopens

Entrance of Branson Hilton Convention Center Hotel on September 19, 2012.

BRANSON, Mo., September 19, 2012 — The tornado that hit the iconic 12 story Branson Hilton Convention Center Hotel in the early morning hours of Feb. 29 took only seconds to do its devastating work. It has taken six and a half months of hard work, effort and planning and millions of dollars, but it is now reopened and welcoming guests to a virtually ‘new’ facility. “We’re pleased that we are able to open the first eight floors of the hotel a couple of weeks early and will have the entire hotel open by the end of the month,” said Bill Derbins, General Manager of the hotel.

Derbins estimates that the total damage to the hotel from the EF2 tornado was approximately $20 million dollars. In addition to other damage, shards of glass, driven by the twister’s winds, permeated every foot of carpeting, beds, furniture, furnishings, drapes and just about everything else they came in contact with requiring replacement. Along with other repairs, the hotel’s roof had to be replaced as well as 3,400 windows.

Derbins points out that not only were repairs made, but, as they were made, many improvements were added such as high energy efficient window replacements for each of the 3,400 windows blown out in the storm and new thermostats in each room that sense when the room is no longer occupied and returns it to a pre-set level to save energy. He is particularly pleased with the guest rooms in the hotel. He said that 220 of them are completely new and that all of them, as would be expected in a Hilton property, are extremely comfortable and beautifully decorated.

He said that the hotel’s restaurant, the “Level 2 Steak House,” noted for its fine dining, has reopened in its former location. It had been temporarily relocated to the Hilton Promenade Hotel at Branson Landing while the hotel was closed for repairs.

Derbins said, “It’s great to see our award winning staff back at work and serving our guests.” He says that in Group Nights alone, the hotel has 4,500 room nights booked in October and that doesn’t include “transient,” walk-in,guests. He summed it up by saying, “We’re glad to be back, doing what we do best, serving our guests and giving them the best lodging experience possible.”

“The ‘AAA Four Diamond Ranking’ of the Branson Hilton Convention Center Hotel, achieved by only ‘4.8 percent of the 31,000 lodgings approved by AAA,’ and which only one other Branson hotel has, indicates the quality and level of service guests can expect at the hotel,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “We congratulate the staff and all those involved for their efforts in getting the hotel reopened as quickly as they did and are delighted that they are again open providing Branson visitors with the premium lodging experience “Hilton” is famous for.”

USS Point Cruz Reunion remembers “The Navy’s Baby”

Daniel Keenan, left, Clay Cooper, and Shirley Keenan.

BRANSON, Mo., September 17, 2012 — What does the reunion of the USS Point Cruz in Branson, September 10 – 14 of 2012 have to do the with an emaciated near death two month old Korean Caucasian baby in a Korean orphanage in 1953? Actually, quite a bit according to Daniel Edward Keenan, who was that dying baby. “If not for the intervention of the Point Cruz, I would not be here today. They literally saved my life,” he said.

Keenan and the Point Cruz first “met” in September of 1953 when the carrier escort docked at Inchon Harbor, in South Korean. Its Chaplain, LTJG Edward O. Riley, while responding to a request for assistance from Sister Philomena de la Croix, the head of the French Catholic Orphanage caring for 400 babies, discovered an emaciated, near death, blue eyed, fair skinned, baby with blond hair, called “George,”  amid all the Korean babies. Knowing that the chances of survival for a half blood Caucasian baby were slim Riley went back to the ship and explained the situation to its “Skipper,” Captain John T. Hayward, who instructed him to go back to the orphanage and to not return to the ship without the baby.

Although it was against all military regulations, not a “one trip” to the orphanage situation and took the intervention of visiting Vice President Richard Nixon, the “Baby George” not only came to the ship, but the necessary Korean Pass Port and U.S. Visa paper work was completed for him to come to the United States within mere weeks. As unlikely as this seems in this day and age Baby George went aboard a U.S. Naval vessel and into the welcoming arms of its 1,000 plus man crew, who treated him as a “member” of the families they were so far away from and to whom they longed to return.

Not only was George piped aboard the ship like a visiting dignitary, he went into a “nursery ” the crew had prepared with a crib and playpen, handmade toys and an environment under which “George,” or “Baby-san” as he was sometimes called, flourished. The stories tell how sheets were cutup into diapers, the crew took turns changing his diapers, anxiously awaited the daily reports on his improving condition and gathered to see him whenever the PA Announcement was made that the baby “would be on the hanger deck” or was wheeled around the ship in a modified “bomb carrier” baby carriage. Imagine, a U.S. Navy ship with diapers hanging from the “yard arm.” So unique and touching was the story that it was made into a TV movie entitled, “A Thousand Men and a Baby,” which aired on CBS in 1997.

During the process, a doctor from the hospital ship USS Consolation, Lt. Hugh C. Keenan, who had treated him and examined him for his Visa indicated a desire to adopt him and obtained the enthusiastic long distance sight unseen agreement of his wife to do so. When the USS Point Cruz arrived in Japan, “Baby George” was “piped” off the ship and, with Chaplain Riley, boarded the USNS General Hugh J. Gaffey, a transport ship for transportation to the United States. When “George” disembarked from the ship in Seattle, Washington, December 12, 1953 in the arms of a Navy Nurse he was transferred directly into the waiting arms of his “mother” Genevieve Keenan.

“George,” was renamed Daniel Edward Keenan, “Daniel” being his dad’s father’s name and “Edward” after Chaplain Riley. It was over 40 years before “The Baby” and crew of the Point Cruz” met again. That was in a tearful celebration at the ships second reunion in 1993. Keenan has attended the vast majority of them since, including the one just completed in Branson, Missouri.

Julie Peters, Group Sales Manager with Branson Tourism Center’s Group Sales, worked closely with the USS Point Cruz in planning and holding their reunion., She said that in addition to participating in the fellowship and camaraderie of a military reunion, they also went to see Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express, SIX and The Yakov Smirnoff Show. Peters points out that while the group was at Clay Cooper’s Show he recognized them and asked Keenan to share the story with the audience. Peters said that  it’s always a special pleasure to work on Military Reunions and getting to hear the story behind “A Thousand Men and a Baby” was a special personal highlight.

What are the odds on that, Keenan and his wife Shirley would, on their own, elect to go to see the Branson production of the Price Is Right, Live Show, be selected at random as one of the contestants and win $2,500? Insignificant as compared to the odds involved with what happened to a near death baby named “George” more than half a century ago, but wonderful nevertheless.

Nature’s panoramic colorful Fall show premiering soon in Branson

The first blush of 2011's Fall colors as viewed from Point Lookout at the College of the Ozarks.

BRANSON, Mo., September 15, 2012 –From the first tint of color to “leaf fall,” the foliage of the Ozark Mountains in Branson provides a beautiful canvass for the colorful show that takes place each Fall as it changes color. Greg Cassell, Resource Forester, for the Missouri Department of Conservation said that the foliage color typically comes with warm days and cool nights and, in the Branson area, peaks during the third week in October.

“Even during this hot dry summer, the Branson area was blessed with key rains, and although the Fall foliage will not be as spectacular as it has been during some years, it will still be a one of a kind sight to behold and a Branson show not to miss,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “One of our most asked questions is, ‘What’s the best way to see the foliage?'” Johnson responds that there really is not just one best way and points out that the neat thing about the Fall foliage in Branson is that it’s simply there at just about every turn.

That said however, Johnson suggests that the following should be near the top of anyone’s list in terms of a “unique panoramic” view of the Fall foliage. It would be hard to get a more unique, up close or better a panoramic view of the Ozark’s foliage than from the decks of Main Street Cruise Lines’ Lake Queen. At first blush it might seem inconsistent to use the terms “up close” and “panoramic” together, but in the case of the Lake Queen it is an accurate depiction.

As seen from the bow of the Lake Queen, one can only imagine what this scene will look like over the next month as the foliage changes color.

Lake Taneycomo, is a long narrow impoundment of the White River, with its shorelines being much closer together than Table Rock Lake. A typical sightseeing cruise on the Lake Queen provides an up close chance to view the Eagles, Great Blue Herons, other birds, deer and see panoramic vistas not available through any other means except water. As the foliage changes color, these panoramic vistas turn into a a magnificent “canvas” of natures painting that has to be seen to be believed.

Another unique view comes from the lofty heights of the 230 foot tall Inspiration Tower located on top of Inspiration Point, one of the highest points in southwest Missouri, at The Shepherd of the Hills Homestead provides an unparalleled panoramic view of the Ozark’s foliage from a different, but unique perspective. Glass elevators transport guests up to the enclosed Observation Deck from which, on a clear day, they can see over 90 miles and hundreds of square miles of foliage presenting a spectacular view of the Fall foliage that is not available anywhere else.

There are a number of “Scenic Lookouts” that provide a superb panoramic view of the Ozark’s Fall foliage. These include the Lookouts on State Route 165, about a mile south of its intersection with State Route 265; the Table Rock Dam Overlook, located on the south end of Table Rock Dam across the road from the Visitors Center and the Henning Conservation Area Lookout located about a mile west of the junction of State Route 76 and State Route 376 on the north side of the road.

Another excellent panoramic view is provided at “Point Lookout” on the campus of the College of the Ozarks. Located on top of a bluff overlooking Lake Taneycomo it provides a unique view of Branson’s Fall foliage not available anywhere else with Lake Taneycomo winding through it. It is simply breath taking. While at the college you might want to plan to eat at the Keeter Center and visit the “Edwards Grist Mill” and the “Ralph Foster Museum,” called the “Smithsonian of the Ozarks.”

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson also points out that a cruise on the Showboat Branson Belle, on Table Rock Lake, or ride on the Branson Scenic Railway also provide unique panoramic views of Branson’s Fall foliage.

Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest Festival salutes “The Great American Cowboy”

One of the largest gatherings of demonstrating craftsmen and artists in America.

BRANSON, Mo., September 11, 2012 — “The U.S. Congress has proclaimed Silver Dollar City as ‘The Home of American Craftsmanship’ and its National Harvest Festival, running from September 13 – October 27, illustrates why,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Featuring one of the largest gatherings of demonstrating artisans and craftsmen from all over the country, The National Harvest Festival is one of America’s most recognized craft festivals.”

“A major ‘focus’ during the National Harvest Festival is craftsmanship, as the park features 125 top craftsmen from around the country, with more new crafters this year than ever before.” This provides a unique opportunity to see demonstrating craftsmen demonstrating their craftsmanship on American crafts at one of the largest gatherings of demonstrating craftsmen and artists in America. See crafts such as weaving, glass blowing, knife making, Native American flutes and dozens of others as well as Best of Missouri Hands juried artists and the Made in Missouri Art Faire show and competition.

The Festival will feature the “Salute to the Great American Cowboy” featuring “The Pinkerton Man,” an original  brand new Western stunt show production. The action filled show will follow the ” classic defender-versus-villain story, including hero fights, 3-story falls, high-flying stunts and rapid-slide rappels, explosions and more, with professional stunt men and women leading a cast of 14, plus live animals. The production, presented within the 4,000-seat Echo Hollow Amphitheatre — the only venue big enough for all the action, also features comedy and original live music performed by the Sons of the Silver Dollar.” Marty Schmitt, Festival Coordinator, said, “The amphitheater explodes with action, energy, pyrotechnics and, at times, chaos — a live demonstration of how action stunts put thrills in entertainment!”

“The Pinkerton Man,” an original brand new Western stunt show production, is filled with action and excitement.

The Salute’s entertainment also includes Western musicians such as “double-Grammy-winning musicians and 7-time Western Music Association’s (WMA)  ‘Entertainers Of the Year’ Riders in the Sky, multiple WMA Award winners The Sons of the San Joaquin, singer-songwriter and Texas poet laureate Red Steagall, three-part-harmony and violin trio The Quebe Sisters Band, and others. Throughout September guests can join in Missouri’s Biggest Barn Dance “with live music by Les Gilliam & his Silver Lake Band.

The Great American Cowboy Salute theme continues including Buck Taylor a legendary Western star and water color artist hosting “Buck Taylor’s Cowboy Emporium,” September 19 – October 27; meet and greets with Western celebrities from movies and TV shows including “The Rifleman,” “The Lawman” and “McLintock,” including Edward Faulkner, Johnny Washbrook, Mark Goddard, Lee Aaker, James Hampton and Peter Brown; Chuck wagon cooks and historians, historians and chefs, including Kent Rollins, a cattle rancher and chuck wagon cook ,whose talents have landed him on the Food Network’s “Chopped” and  “Throwdown with Bobby Flay,” demonstrating  trail-side cooking ; “‘Extreme Mustang Makeovers’ where mustang expert Fred Woehl tames and trains three wild mustangs during the festival; trick horse stunts, trick roping; bullwhip demonstrations and “Cowboy Poets including Waddie Mitchell.”

The Harvest Festival will be replete with the aromas and tastes of the “Fall.” This will include favorites ” such as homemade soups and stews, smoked turkey legs and hearty skillet meals cooked on open grills.” as well as the other wonderful foods served through the park on a day to day basis.

“All of the activities involved with the Festival are in addition to everything else Silver Dollar City offers on a daily basis,” said . Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson. The 1880’s international award winning theme park features 30 rides and attractions encompassing everything from “Wildfire,” a world class multi-looping roller coaster that reaches speeds up to 66 miles per hour to their new $1 million “Half Dollar Holler” designed for kids through age 7 and so much more.

In term of value and being able to enjoy all that Silver Dollar City has to offer at your leisure, she points out that the Branson Tourism Center (BTC) has two day Silver Dollar City tickets for the price of a one day ticket. For additional information or tickets for Silver Dollar City, the National Harvest Festival or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact BTC by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Branson celebrates Christmas with the “Andy Williams Christmas Show”

BRANSON, Mo., September 8, 2012 — Lynn Meredith, General Manager, of the Andy Williams Moon River Theatre said that “the Andy Williams Christmas Show in Branson this year will be even bigger and more spectacular. Andy Williams has been involved in all phases of his 21st Christmas show in Branson, including production, its music and the selection of the acts that will be in the show. Andy’s participation in the show will be determined by the progress of his recuperation.

“The full production show has spectacular sets, dancers, a full orchestra, lots of variety acts and   the beautiful music and sounds of Christmas all presented in the spectacularly decorated Andy Williams Moon River Theatre. It will feature new performers, as well as the most popular acts from last year’s show, such as the adagio dance team and quick change artists, ‘Pasha and Aliona.’ Additional acts will be announced soon.

“The Andy Williams Christmas Show will perform from November 1 through December 12, 2012.” For additional information or tickets for the Andy Williams Christmas Show or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Pedal your way to fun on Lake Taneycomo

"Rent Me!" for a unique fun filled experience on Lake Taneycomo.

The information below is for archival purposes. Pedal Boats are no longer available. Also the Harley Shop & convenience store have been closed for a few years now. However, the Main Street Lake Queen and Lake Princess are still there for your enjoyment.

BRANSON, Mo., September 4, 2012 — For people walking along the Lake Taneycomo Lakefront on the Branson Landing Boardwalk Main Street Marina, the “home port” for Main Street Lake Cruises two boats, the riverboat paddle wheel replica the Lake Queen and the 100 foot luxury yacht the Landing Princess, is a prominent feature. If its sheer size out on the lake doesn’t catch your attention its unique “Canada Geese” fountains, Harley Davidson Store or Convenience Store just might.

Perhaps not so noticeable are the pedal boats displayed on the dock with the large “Rent Me!” signs on them. They just might be one of the best attraction values in Branson and provides a unique way to experience Lake Taneycomo up-close and personal; sightsee; have fun; get exercise, and view Branson Landing from a unique lake side perspective

Each of the pedal boats has a capacity of 825 pounds and, although designed for up to five passengers, for safety and to enhance the enjoyment of the experience, is limited to two passengers. The boats have amenities such as coolers, a canopy, adjustable seating that is not only self draining, but fully recline to create an on the water sun lounge for two and provides two methods of propulsion.

As would be expected in a pedal boat, pedaling, which can be done from either of the two seats, is a great way to propel the boat for those looking for exercise or who want the fun and adventure of propelling themselves through the water. With a flip of a switch, the boat can go from its pedal power to electric power, using its 30 pound built-in electric motor to move effortlessly and noiselessly through the water.

The boats cost $15.00 per hour and may be rented at the Main Street Lake Cruises Ticket Office at the Main Street Marina on Branson Landing. For additional information on pedal boat rentals, sightseeing cruises on Main Street Lake Cruises Lake Queen or a dinner cruise on the luxury yacht Landing Princess please call 1-417-239-3980.

Acrobats of China – incredible feats amazingly performed

One scene from Prelude to "Acrobats of China."

BRANSON, Mo., September 3, 2012 — On any given day, Branson audiences have a choice of almost 100 live entertainment shows to pick from, including just about every genera of music one can think of, comedy, outdoor drama, tribute shows, talking dogs, magic and spectacular production shows. That said, after seeing the Acrobats of China, featuring the New Shanghai Circus on August 31, this writer can say. without a doubt, that it is a one of a kind cornucopia of color, excitement, grace, action, and danger that entertains all ages, from its exciting and colorful Prelude to its Finale.

This show is a circus of entertainment in terms of excitement, variety and color and, for sure, it has some great acrobats, but it is the talent, skill, elegance, grace and precision of all of its performers in act after incredible act that makes this show so special. Factor in colorful and elegant costuming, great choreography, lighting, sound, the sets used in each of the shows 15 separate acts along with the seamless transition from one act to the other and the result is not only a spectacular production, but an amazing entertainment experience.

The show starts its entertainment adventure with a colorful action filled Prelude that seemingly blends into the shows first act. Not to be repetitious, but it’s important to stress that each of the acts in the show has its own beautiful costuming, choreography and is presented by the performers with a skill level that simply has to be seen to believed. The acts include the Steel Wire, Hoop Diving, Juggling, Magic, soaring Silks, high flying precision Teeter Boards and many more. As amazing as the variety and uniqueness of the acts in this show are, their combination into a wonderful seamless two hours of nonstop color, excitement and precision performances is even more amazing.

One of the amazing feats performed by the Plate Spinners.

Many have seen a “Plate Spinning” act before, but have they seen seven performers spinning up to eight plates each while performing acrobatics? How about a Steel Wire act where the person walking the wire, among other things, also spins a dozen or so Hula Hoops. Speaking of hoops it’s hard to imagine more energy or danger than the shows Hoop Diving. Just picture running at full speed and launching yourself into the air through a hoop ,while performing acrobatics and then falling back to the ground.

There's "en pointe" and then there is "en pointe!"

When I first saw “The Human Ballet,” where a Ballet Dancer gracefully performs a ballet on the head and shoulders of her partner, ” I wrote, “It is one of the most unique, incredible and beautiful things I have ever seen performed on a stage.” Its performance in the 2012 show was a delight and reinforces that opinion. Another remarkable thing about this show is that it is constantly changing, adding different acts and changing acts from season to season to provide their audience with a fresh and even more exciting entertainment experience. A new act this year, the “Mouth Flower,” combines synchronized balancing and acrobatics with strength into an amazing and beautiful spectacle.

The Acrobats of China is truly a show that excites and entertains children as well as adults equally. I interviewed two families, or more appropriately, with the parent’s permission, the children in the families and without exception they really liked the show and thought that “other kids would too.”

They all had their favorite acts, but one real young boy really had a favorite act! I had asked the older kids in his family what act they liked and they had responded. Their younger brother, who I estimate was five years old or younger and whom I had not asked for his favorite act because I had not noticed him standing beside his dad, indicated to his mother that he had a favorite. Although I could not understand what he said, his mom said it was “the boys” and explained it was the “Human Strength” act. What a wonderful way to illustrate the fact that this show truly has something for every age.

The Acrobats of China is a unique, exciting and colorful one of a kind entertainment experience performed by athletic, skilled, energetic and graceful performers to perfection. For additional information or tickets for the Acrobats of China 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.

Rain or sun Branson means fun

The Titanic Museum Attraction is just one of many non weather dependent Branson Attractions open year round for Branson visitors to enjoy.

BRANSON, Mo., August 30, 2012 — “Branson is blessed in that the majority of its attractions and shows are not weather dependent,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Heat, cold, snow, rain or sun, there is always fun to be had in Branson,” she continued.

The forecast rain from “Hurricane Isaac” scheduled to impact the Branson area, primarily on Friday, with some lingering showers on Saturday, will definitely impact outdoor related activities such as golf, lake activities and certain outdoor attractions. Johnson points out that regardless of the weather there is always something that’s exciting and fun to do in Branson.

The majority of Bransons attraction’s are open regardless of the weather. Take a voyage aboard the Titanic Museum Attraction, visit the Hollywood Wax Museum, Ripley’s Believe It or Not, or the Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure. How about visiting the “Smithsonian of the Ozarks,” the “Ralph Foster Museum” at the College of the Ozarks, indoor miniature golf at Grand Country or one of the many other fun filled non weather dependent activities Branson offers?

With the exception of the Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Drama, Branson’s full slate of outstanding and entertaining live shows is not weather dependent. With Branson shows covering the gamut from Presleys’ Country Jubilee, Yakov Smirnoff, Jim Stafford, Shoji Tabuchi, Rankin Brothers, Clay Cooper Country Express, Duttons, Acrobats of China, Legend of Kung Fu, Dixie Stampede, Yakov’s Dinner Adventure, SIX, Pierce Arrow, George Dyer, Dixie Stampede, the Haygoods, Showboat Branson Belle, Todd Oliver and Friends, Hamner and Barber Variety Show and dozens of other there is a show available for every entertainment interest.

Although weather certainly has some impact on shopping, as is the case with its attractions and shows, the vast majority of Branson’s famous shopping is not weather dependent and is open “rain or shine” year round. This includes Tanger Mall, The Shoppes at Branson Meadows, Branson Landing with its 100 retail shops, eateries and other activities, the Branson’s Historic Downtown Shopping District and the  many famed specialty, craft and gift shops located throughout the Branson area.

For additional information Branson’s activities or tickets for the any of Branson’s 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.

“Sparky” lights up unique Branson shopping experience

"Sparky" is on the signs marking each of the Trolley Stops.

BRANSON, Mo., August 29, 2012  “‘Sparky,’ just might be Branson’s best kept shopping secret,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Sparky, is the cute mascot representing the free trolley service that connects two of Branson’s most unique, exciting and entertaining shopping opportunities, Historic Downtown Branson and Branson Landing, into an incredible shopping experience not available anywhere else in the world.”

The 38 passenger “trolley” styled buses run about every 15 minutes, 10 AM to 6 PM daily, from March through December between Historic Downtown Branson and the Branson Landing. There is a total of seven stops with five stops, 2 through 6, in Historic Downtown Branson and two, at Branson Landing, Stop 1 at the Belk end of the promenade and Stop 7 at the Bass Pro Shop end.

Regardless of where one boards the trolley, it will take about 15 minutes to make the loop back to the initial boarding point. In addition to being a free and convenient connection between the Branson Historic District and Branson Landing, the trolley ride itself is a wonderful free attraction providing an excellent overview and perspective of the historic downtown area, the Branson Convention Center, the Lake Taneycomo Lakefront and Branson Landing. Along the way you will pass Branson’s first theatre, the Owens Theatre and the spot where the “ “Baldknobbers” performed Branson’s first live music show, Dick’s 5 & 10, the grave of the man the city of Branson is named after, Ruben S. Branson, and many other points of interest.

It makes no difference where one parks if they are just going to take a “one loop” ride on the trolley, but if one is going to spend any time at either Branson Landing or shopping in Historic Downtown Branson, it might be advisable to board at either Stop 1 or Stop 7 at Branson Landing because of parking. There is a two hour parking limit throughout the majority of Historic Downtown Branson, but no limit at Branson Landing.

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson also points out that the 15 minute trolley schedule provides an excellent way to get from one end of Branson Landing to the other without having to retrace one’s steps for those who have parked in the Belk parking lot. After traversing Branson Landing, with its 100 retail stores; restaurants; spectacular $7.5 million water fountain show, synchronized to music, sound, light and fire; the board walk or even a cruise on one of Main Street Lake Cruises two boats, the paddle wheel river boat “Lake Queen” or the luxury yacht “Landing Princess” and ending up at Bass Pro Shops, simply board at Stop 7. Its next stop will be Stop 1 at the Belk parking lot.

Sparky, and the trolley it symbolizes, connects the shopping and entertainment of Branson Landing with the dozens of specialized shops, down home cafes, entertainment and nostalgia of Historic Downtown Branson. The result is the combination of all the excitement, fun, entertainment and shopping of each into a unique experience only available in Branson, Missouri.

3 Redneck Tenors is an incredible vocal journey

Billy Billee (L), Billy Bob and Billy Joe, The 3 Tenorinas,performing at the "Masonic Lodge and Catfish Farm

BRANSON, Mo., August 25, 2012 —  After seeing the 3 Redneck Tenors show in each of its last two seasons in Branson and just having seen the 2012 version this week, all that can be said is that the 2012 edition is a completely different experience that takes an already unique and entertaining show and makes it, exponentially, even more so. From the git-go, one thing should be made perfectly clear, although the story line of the first half of the show is based on the entertaining and funny adventures of three loveable Texas Rednecks who have great vocal talent, as they transition from being unknowns in Paris, Texas, to performing on Broadway and in Carnegie Hall in New York City, it is the vocal performance of the shows star’s that is the heart and soul of the show.

The 3 Redneck Tenors is funny; has a very talented live band, composed of David Cassavitis, Musical Director; Paul Houser, Guitar; Tim Pope, Percussion; Matt Skates, Bass and Tom Eckert, Violin; lots of colorful costuming and an amusing funny story line. However, it is all of that in combination with the magnificent vocals of the show’s stars, “Billy Joe,” performed by Tenor Matthew Lord; “Billy Bob,” performed by Tenor Alex Bumpas, and “Billy Billee,” performed by Baritone, Blake Davidson that make this show such a unique and special experience. Each of them has  extensive operatic experience which is displayed over a wide variety of music ranging from their compound version of “Ave Maria” and “Dixie,” “Hound Dog” to “The Impossible Dream” and the inspirational “Nessun Dorma.

The shows Redneck theme is played out during the first half of the show, starting with a Redneck memorial service that adds new meaning to the term, “Chip off the old block;” the discovery of the 3 Redneck Tenors by the “Colonel,” performed by Dinny McGuire and their journey from unknown obscurity to stardom along with the realization of their dreams. The journey is an exciting, fun filled and fast paced “adventure” filled with colorful costuming changes, wonderful humor and absolutely great vocals. This writer’s favorite stops along the journey was when the “3 Tenorinas” performed “You Light Up My Life” a benefit at “The Masonic Lodge & Catfish Farm” and the “3 Village Tenors” performed “YMCA” at “The Mudcat Saloon.”

Blake Davidson (L), Dinny McGuire, Alex Bumpas and Matthew Lord performing the shows finale "Nessun Dorma.."

A major change in the show this year is its second half and WOW what a wonderful change it is. When the curtain closes on the first half it closes on 3 Redneck Tenors. When it rises for the second half, it rises on the shows three stars appearing as themselves, with the red neck persona nowhere evident , as they sing the “Impossible Dream.” They introduce themselves and interact with the audience as they perform a variety of music ranging from Broadway to their powerful rendition of “Lone Prairie and a classical duo including “Figaro” and the shows closing piece, the beautiful, inspirational and powerfully sung “Nessun Dorma.”

The magnificent voices of its stars is showcased with just the right amount of “themed comedy” in the first half and explodes into an entirely different entertainment experience in the second half. What a delightful, personable and entertaining show. If you have never seen this show, don’t miss it and, if you have seen it before, but not this year, you owe it to yourself to see it again.

For additional information or tickets for the 3 Redneck Tenors 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.