Category Archives: General

A Branson show marathon by the numbers

The Brett’s deliver a performance that’s beyond captivating.

It has been my observation over the last 28 years that one of the most popular activities for those visiting Branson is to see one or more Branson shows. That’s really not surprising when one considers the quality, variety and availability of the live shows that make Branson the place some refer to as the “Live Music show capital of the world.”

In fact, one could actually have an entertaining leisurely “Branson Show Marathon” attending shows from morning to night with a great variety of Branson’s most popular shows available for each of the three legs of the marathon “1. Morning,”” 2. Afternoon” and “3. Night.”

Although there are certainly other “marathon itineraries” that could be made up, the following list, powered by the Branson Tourism Center’s Branson Show List, contains three of Branson’s most popular and requested shows for each “leg” of the marathon with links to pictures, videos, schedules and ticketing information on each:

1. Morning:

Ayo, staring the Voices of Glory 10:00 AM
Bretts 10:00 AM
Dublin Irish Tenors and the Celtic Ladies 10:00 AM

2. Afternoon:

Billy Dean Live 2:00 PM
Acrobats of China 3:00 PM
Jonah 3:30 PM

3. Night:

Clay Cooper’s Country Express 7:30 PM
Grand Jubilee 7:30 PM
Shoji Tabuchi 7:30 PM

The Grand Jubilee featuring Branson’s “New South” quartet,and the outrageously funny antics of Jamie Haage, as “Jim Dandy.”

The shows listed above were specifically selected to show the variety of Branson shows available on a daily basis, are some of Branson’s most popular shows and are from the schedule for May 21st. Although there could be variations, depending on scheduling for different dates; one thing will not change, the unrivaled quality and variety of the live entertainment presented by Branson’s live shows on a daily basis.

For questions or tickets on any of the above shows, any of the almost 100 more Branson shows or free help in planning your own Branson itinerary please do not hesitate to 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.

Gary Groman is a freelance writer and columnist who has lived in Branson for 28 years. Currently, outside of his column, he writes exclusively for the Branson Tourism Center and can be reached through his website www.TheOleSeaGull.com.

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.

10 Things that shower Branson with April fun and value

A bit of Ozark Spring splendor on the banks of Lake Taneycomo.

Living in the Ozarks for 28 years has taught me that April is the month where both spring and Branson entertainment bloom and blossom together providing one of the most beautiful, exciting and entertaining experiences of the year. Here’s a list of ten things that can add fun and value to that experience:

1. Beauty of an Ozark’s Spring – With its pristine lakes and natural beauty it’s hard to imagine a place that is more beautiful to experience than the fresh promise of a new spring in the Ozarks.

2. World-Fest – America’s largest International Festival running from April 5 through May 4. Silver Dollar City starts its red white and blue “Celebrate America” 2014 season with the first of its six world class festivals, World-Fest, giving its guests an opportunity to experience a bit of the colorful traditions and heritages from other countries that have helped build our Nation in addition to enjoying everything else the 1880s styled world class theme park offers.

3. See The World In Branson – Local theaters, hotels, restaurants, and retail venues will be representing countries from all around the world during this International Festival running April 1 – May 5 allowing Branson visitors the opportunity to enjoy multiple cultural, traditional and international experiences while visiting Branson with “No pass port required.”

4 U. S. Army Corps of Engineers Opens Table Rock Lake Campgrounds – On April 1 the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers is scheduled to open six of its Branson area Table Rock Lake camp grounds and parks including Campbell Point, Cape Fair, Cricket Creek, Mill Creek, Old Highway 86, and Indian Point. On May 1 four additional areas will be added to the list, Aunts Creek, Baxter, Big M, Eagle Rock, and Viola. To make reservations for camping at any of the Corps parks or for additional information call 877-444-6777.

The biblical spectacular “Jonah” has just premiered in Branson and is thrilling audiences.

5. Popular Branson Shows Open for 2014 Season – The vast majority of Branson’s most popular shows have opened for their 2014 Branson season including:

Acrobats of China

Clay Coopers Country Express

Dancing Queen Abba’s Greatest Hits

Dixie Stampede

Dublin’s Irish Tenors and the Celtic Ladies

The Haygoods

Jonah – This Sight and Sound Production premiered in Branson in late March to rave reviews. Kids and adults alike are just amazed by this spectacular production.

Legends in Concert

New Jersey Nights

Paul Harris & The Cleverlys

Pierce Arrow

Presleys’ Country Jubilee

SIX

6. Branson Shows Starting 2014 Season in April – Four of Branson’s most popular shows will open their 2014 season during April on the date indicated:

George Dyer – April 8

Duttons – April 10

Adventures of Marco Polo – April 20.

Shoji Tabuchi – April 22

For more information on Branson shows or attractions or for lodging information please feel free to 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.

7. Branson Collector Car Auction – Showcasing hundreds of beautiful motor vehicles, the Branson Collector Car Auction, celebrating its 35th year in Branson will be held on April 11 – 12 in the Branson Convention Center.

8. Easter Dinner Cruise on Landing Princess – Celebrate Easter with your family by enjoying a leisurely “Easter Dinner Cruise” on the 100 foot long luxury yacht Landing Princess with a special Easter Menu on April 20. Cruises will depart at 12:00 PM or 4:45 PM. Call 1-800-785-1550 for tickets or information.

Branson’s Titanic Museum Attraction takes passengers on an exciting voyage no matter what the season.

9. April Savings and Discounts –From the “Family Springtime Getaway” to the “Easter Celebration Packages” and more, there is a variety of packages, with April pricing, offering substantial savings and discounts. And the savings just keep growing because the majority of Branson Tourism Center’s packages include the “Branson Guest Card,” full of discounts to Branson shops and restaurants and more.

10. Titanic Museum Attraction – In addition to its yearlong special exhibit honoring the eight musicians aboard the ship when she sank; the Titanic Museum Attraction will feature a visit and book signing on April 4 – 5 by Susie Millar. She was a longtime television reporter in Ireland, a famous author, and is the great granddaughter of Thomas Millar, an engineer of Harland & Wolff, the company that designed and built the Titanic, who died in the Titanic disaster.

Three things to consider for a Relaxing Branson Vacation

The scenic relaxing setting of the Welk Resort.

One of the things that I look forward to on vacation is simply relaxing. Oh sure, I enjoy seeing and doing many of the things there are to do at vacation destinations like Branson, but I don’t want my vacation to be driven by the feeling that I have to constantly be doing something or going somewhere. That might not be too unusual because the information conveyed to Branson Tourism Center personnel attending a marketing conference last week pointed out that more and more people are emphasizing “relaxation” as an important element of their vacation.

The good news is that, although it has almost 100 live entrainment shows; dozens of attractions as well as Silver Dollar City, an award winning 1880s styled theme park; “White Water,” southwest Missouri’s largest water park and enough shopping and other activities to keep most people going constantly while on vacation, Branson also provides plenty of opportunity for relaxation. Here are three suggestions for having a relaxing vacation in Branson:

1. Plan to Relax – I have found that the most important part of enjoying a vacation is also the most important part of relaxing while on vacation and that is to plan. Just like you are going to plan where to stay and a large part of what you will be doing, plan time to relax and what you are going to do to relax in advance. So often our advance vacation planning is filled with planning things to do, but does not involve time to relax. I love to read while on vacation, so I work in time for that while planning the “things” we are going to do and see.

2. Stay at a Relaxing Hotel or Resort – So often lodging is just that, a place to stay in between doing things and going places. How much more relaxing would it be to stay at a hotel or resort that offers seclusion and serenity from the hustle and bustle along with an environment and amenities you find relaxing yet, is only minutes away from all that Branson has to offer. It might be a full service resort such as the Welk Resort or Still Waters, a golf course condo at Thousand Hills, a lake view condo like the Tree House Condominiums, or anyone of dozens of other Branson lodging establishments, but the important thing is that it provides a relaxing atmosphere and environment for you and your family.

Main Street Lake Cruises' Lake Queen coming through the early morning mist on Lake Taneycomo.

3. Chose some relaxing things to do – In a sense, the majority of vacation activities, whether in Branson or elsewhere, could be considered “relaxing” as compared to our normal non-vacation activities and routine, but some things are more relaxing than others. In terms of relaxing it’s hard to imagine anything more relaxing than a sightseeing cruise on Lake Taneycomo aboard Main Street Lake Cruises’ Lake Queen; a walk along the nature trail at the Shepherd of the Hills Trout Hatchery; a few hours in the sand and water at Table Rock Lake’s Moonshine Beach; a couple of hours enjoying a relaxing, exciting and informative “voyage” aboard Branson’s Titanic Museum Attraction, a leisurely walk down the Branson Landing Boardwalk or anyone of the many other activities available in Branson, many of which do not cost a dime.

The Branson Tourism Center (BTC), through the use of their free unique personal concierge type service, has helped tens of thousands of families plan for and have a relaxing and wonderful Branson vacation. BTC can be reached by calling 1-800-785-1550 or through their website, https://www.bransontourismcenter.com/.

Behind the Curtain – Branson personalities share a Tony Orlando moment

Mickey Gilley and Tony Orlando sharing some memories at the event.

When Main Street Lake Cruises’ 100 foot luxury yacht the “Landing Princess” left her moorings at the Main Street Marina on the evening of November 10 it was on a special cruise to honor Tony Orlando and his service to Branson and Veterans. It was an evening filled with elegant dining, fellowship and memories of Tony’s 20 years in Branson.

While on the cruise, and exclusively for this “Behind the Curtain” article, various friends and associates of Tony were asked, “impromptu,” to share one moment in their association with Tony that stood out in their minds. The underlined portion following the bold type names is a summary of that moment followed by a more complete explanation:

Jack Herschend – He kissed me. I have lived here for 63 years and never have I met a man like Tony Orlando. The first time I met him he gave me a great big hug and kissed me on the cheek and you know, in the normal course of events, we men from the Ozarks don’t know how to deal with men kissing us on the cheek. He’s still kissing folks on the cheek and it comes from his heart. He is a heart driven guy, the most loving man I have ever known. (Co-owner of Silver Dollar City.)

Chris Cathcart – His graciousness. We were doing the “Santa and Me Show” which has a scene in it in Tony’s living room that involves a sofa that Tony and Santa sit on for a major part of the act. Between acts, somehow the sofa had not been placed on the stage. Tony comes down the stairs and Santa comes from the wings with neither realizing the couch wasn’t there until they went to sit down. Tony realizing that the couch wasn’t there said, “Well my couch used to be here.” We rushed around and got the couch out there and Tony used the situation to adlib a funny thing out of it and entertain the audience. After the show when he came off stage, I apologized to him because it was a mistake that could have ruined the flow of a major part of the show, but Tony, being the gracious man he is smiled and said”It’s fine, I never sweat the big stuff, it just happens, mistakes happen.” (Branson entertainer who performed with Tony.

Kathy Lennon – The first time we sang the “Christmas Song.” As we, the Lennon Sisters, sang the “Christmas Song” with Tony at the Welk Theatre for the first time we just looked at each other and there were tears in everyone’s eyes as a special instant bonding took place right there on the stage. We worked with him for three years and he was and is nothing but family to us.

Steve Presley – Tony’s first Veteran’s show. I went to the very first Veterans show Tony did at the Yellow Ribbon Theatre. What Tony has done for Branson and for the Veterans over the last 20 years has been amazing. (Founding member of Presleys’ Country Jubilee, the first show on the Branson strip.)

Larry Milton – He introduced me to the term “Visual Pollution.” During one of my first meetings with Tony he used the term “Visual Pollution” to describe how the billboards leading into Branson cover up the natural beauty of the Ozarks. (Co-owner of the Branson Tourism Center, Branson.Com and Main Street Lake Cruises with his wife Lianne.)

Ross Summers – His willingness to do whatever he could to help Branson. We do a show at the American Bus Association Convention to support a charity. About three years ago the charity was the “Yellow Ribbon Fund” and we thought it would be great if Tony could do the show. I went to Tony and before I could even tell him what we needed he said, “The answer is’ Yes,’ what can I do for you?” (CEO Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce & CVB)

Mickey Gilley – He mesmerized me. The first time I saw him perform the “Santa and Me Show” I was memorized. (Country Super, star as he was departing the boat before departure to go do a show.)

Susan Smith – His ornate ability to make everyone the star. I have worked with him for many years and he has an unselfishness about him and a willingness to give others the credit and make them feel like they are the most special individuals in the world.

Although Tony will continue to live in Branson this will be his last year performing in Branson. Tony Orlando’s Great American Christmas show will be have its final performance in Branson on November 18.

Hat at auction reunites two Navy Veterans after 61 years

USS Taussig shipmates Waynolin Wood, left, and Darrell Mann are reunited during Branson's Veteran's Week after 61 years.

BRANSON, Mo., November 10, 2013 – Branson’s Veterans Week is a time for Veterans to relax, have fun, be honored and there might very well be hundreds of individuals being reunited with someone they haven’t seen in decades. It is highly unlikely however, that many such reunions will reunite two shipmates who served together for four years, have been separated for 61 years and are together this week as the result of a hat and a chance meeting at an auction.

When Eric Prey, a Vacation Planning Specialist for the Branson Tourism Center, first mentioned that one of his customers, Gene Gummersheimer, was coming to Branson with a small group of crewmembers that had served on the USS Taussig, he explained that among those crew members were two who had not seen each other in 61 years. Beyond the 61 years the story of how the reunion occurred defies all odds indicating that it was destiny’s plan for these old shipmates to meet again.

2^nd Class Pipefitter Waynolin Wood and 3^rd Class Engineman Darrell Mann served together aboard the USS Taussig DD 746, a destroyer with 20 Battle Stars, from 1948 until 1952 and two tours in Korean waters during the Korean War. In 1952 Wood left the Navy and Mann made the Navy his career serving for 20 years.

About three years ago, Gene Gummersheimer, who served aboard the Taussing ten years after Wood and Mann had left, was at an auction wearing a USS Taussig hat and a woman, Sandy Wood, came up and told him that her husband had also served on the Taussig. They exchanged contact information and Gummersheimer called Wood and sent him a roster with the contact information of the crew members that were still alive. Wood saw Mann’s name and the result, thanks to the efforts of Gummersheimer, was the reunion in Branson this week of Mann from Connecticut and Wood from Illinois after a 61 year separation.

There’s probably a lot that could be written, but the words of Wood himself seem especially appropriate when he said, “This has been one of the most enjoyable weeks of my life.”

Three “free” Branson activities for families to enjoy

The free downtown trolley at Stop #4 just accross from Dicks 5 & 10.

BRANSON, MO, June 11, 2013 — “One of the reasons Branson is known as a value travel destination is because of the reasonableness of the prices for its lodging, attractions and shows,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “That value and the fun that families can have is enhanced by activities they can enjoy for free,” she added.

From the many free activities that are available I n Branson here is a list of three varied things that families can enjoy and have fun sharing together and not have to spend a penny:

1. Historic Downtown Branson’s “Discovery Trolley” – A good place to board the Trolley is at Stop #2 on Commercial Street in historic downtown Branson. Free three hour parking is available in the public parking lot at the southwest corner of Commercial and Atlantic Street and Stop #2 is at the “Commercial Street” end of the lot.

The Trolley ride is a great way to get an overview and perspective of the historic downtown area, the Branson Convention Center and Branson Landing. Along the way you will pass a number of Branson landmarks including the grave site of the man the city of Branson is named after Ruben S. Branson; the Owens Theatre, Branson’s first theatre, the Branson Convention Center, Branson Landing and the spot where the “Baldknobbers” performed Branson’s first live music show over 53 years ago. About 15 to 20 minutes after boarding the trolley it will complete its loop and drop you back at Stop #2.

2. Feed the Lake Taneycomo Ducks and Geese – Nestled near Branson Landing in the shadow of Scotty’s Trout Dock, near the public boat loading ramp on the southeastern corner of the City of Branson’s Camp Ground, is the “unofficial “duck feeding area that most people coming to Branson never see. The owner of Scotty’s, Lamar Patton, said that on any given day, depending on the season, there are about 50 to 200 Canada Geese, pigeons, Mallard ducks and other water fowl swimming around between his dock and the shoreline waiting to be fed. Scotty’s sells bags of corn to feed them with, but Patton points out that they will also eat crackers and bread, etc. The unofficial duck feeding area provides what in the old days was called “a Kodak moment” and can provide some great pictures of the family feeding the ducks.

3. The Dewey Short Regional Visitors Center at Table Rock Dam – The new $7.9 million, 15,000 square foot U.S. Army Corps of Engineers visitor center has been called the “the crown jewel of Table Rock Lake” and for good reason. It is one of only 11 Class A visitor centers in the U.S. and offers an unparalleled view of two of Branson’s lakes, Table Rock Lake and Lake Taneycomo that can be seen from the floor to ceiling glass windows on the Table Rock Lake side of the building. Among other things, the Center features interactive activities, displays on area history nature and the inner workings of Table Rock Dam, movies, a gift shop with unique merchandise and an interesting film on the construction of Table Rock Dam. It also serves as the starting point for tours of the inside of Table Rock Dam for which there is a charge.

And that’s just three. From grist mills, to scenic overlooks, a trout hatchery, a giant bass kids can stand in, a $7.5 million synchronized fire, water and music show, Dicks 5 & 10, nature trails, hiking trails, parks and more Branson has many free activities that visitors can enjoy. For more information on these activities, Branson shows, attractions and lodging please feel free to call the Branson Tourism Center toll free at 1-800-785-1550.

Hospitality and shows bring couple back to Branson for 17 years

George and Sally Kaup during 2011 Branson Trip.*

BRANSON, MO, June 2, 2013 – “The quality and quantity of Branson’s live shows is a major reason many people come to Branson,” said Tiffany Isnard, Director of Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “That’s not surprising, given the reputation Branson has for the variety and quality of its live entertainment, but it is a wonderful testimony to Branson’s shows and how important they are to Branson when people like George and Sally Kaup, from Woodridge, IL, come back to Branson year after year primarily to see them and have seen as many as 32 in one visit.”

The Kaup’s loyalty to Branson and its shows came to light while George and his wife were having a discussion with personnel from Main Street Cruise Lines in connection with a sightseeing cruise on scenic Lake Taneycomo aboard the paddlewheel river boat replica, “Lake Queen.” Although “Branson – Up Close and Personal,” a service of the Branson Tourism Center, normally provides readers with an up close and personal look at a Branson star or personality we thought it would be interesting to interview the Kaups. The interview with George Kaup (GK), with input from Sally, uses a “Question and Answer” format with the interviewing being done for the Branson Tourism Center (BTC) by Gary J. Groman, a 27 year resident of the Branson area, local columnist and freelance writer.

BTC: How long have you been coming to Branson?

GK: Since 1996, at least once a year, sometimes by ourselves and other times, like last Thanksgiving with family members.

BTC: What do you like the most about Branson?

GK: Its shows, friendliness of the people and hospitality.

BTC: What is your favorite thing to do in Branson?

GK: Go to shows.

BTC: When was your last trip to Branson?

GK: We arrived late on May 22 and left on May 29. Our last trip prior to that was the week of Thanksgiving so that we could show our Grandchildren what Christmas was like in Branson.

BTC: How many shows did you see during your May trip?

GK: We saw 14 shows.

BTC: What were your favorite top three shows on this trip?

Rankin Brothers vocal cast performing a beautiful rendition of "Shenandoah," with Lori Kelly, left, Matt Rankin, Mark Rankin and Amy Coffer.

GK: Rankin Brothers, ABBA Tribute – Thank You for the Music and Ozark Murder Mysteries.

BTC: What is the most shows you have seen on one trip?

GK: We had a 13 day trip during which we saw 32 shows.

BTC: With all those trips to Branson do you have a favorite place that you stay?

GK: Over the years we have had the Branson Tourism Center book us into different hotels. This last trip they booked us into the Dutton Inn. We were very impressed with the continental breakfast, how clean their rooms were and their hospitality. I would put them at the top of our list and, over the years, we have stayed at a variety of different Branson lodging establishments. When we come back we are sure going to try to stay there because it really made an impression on us. Again, not only were the rooms extremely clean, but whatever people you dealt with at the hotel seemed to bend over backwards to do anything they could for you. Hospitality goes a long way.

BTC: On your last trip you took a sightseeing trip on Lake Taneycomo aboard the Lake Queen. How did you enjoy the trip?

GK: It was fantastic.

BTC: What did you like most about the trip?

GK: The relaxing ride, beautiful scenery and the narration the Captain gives about Branson history and the sites we were passing on the trip.

BTC: Would you recommend a sightseeing cruise on the Lake Queen to others?

GK: Definitely. As a matter of fact we did already while we were down there.

BTC: What other Branson attractions did you see?

GK: None this trip, but we saw the Titanic Museum Attraction on one of our recent trips and really enjoyed it.

BTC: About how many times have you used the services of the Branson Tourism Center to plan a Branson vacation?

GK: For at least the last ten years.

BTC: Would you recommend the Branson Tourism Center to others?

GK: Oh definitely!

BTC: Why?

GK: It’s the only way to go. You make a call to them, decide what shows and attractions you want to see, the type of lodging you want and they arrange it all. You just sit back and wait for the call from them confirming your reservations, where you are staying and pricing. Everything is locked in. It’s a super place to work through, friendly, hospitable and ready to bend over backwards to help you. On our last trip we decided to come a day early, called the BTC about getting an extra night lodging at the Dutton Inn when we were about 20 minutes out of Branson and by the time we pulled into their reception center at 8:00 PM, they had made the arrangements with the Dutton Inn for our extra day.

BTC: When are you coming back to Branson?

GK: Next year in May.

BTC: Is there anything in Branson that you haven’t done yet that you are planning to do on your next visit?

GK: We have never been to Silver Dollar city and we are talking about going next year.

BTC: Anything else you would like me to include?

GK: Great place to visit and we would love to live there.

*Photo courtesy George and Sally Kaup.

LED Iron Man-esque suit newest Haygood innovation

Michael Haygood performing in the the one of a kind eclectic suit he made to honor Iron Man.

BRANSON, MO, May 5, 2013 — Tens of thousands are discovering on You Tube what millions of Branson visitors have discovered over the years. When it comes to great entertainment, continual innovation in music, special effects and the use of technology and energy it’s hard to get ahead of the Haygoods in Branson or anywhere else for that matter.

Michael Haygood, of the Haygoods, is a huge Iron Man Fan and had been building a unique one of a type suit in hopes of getting invited to the Hollywood premier of “Iron Man 3” on May 3, but did not have it ready on time and it’s no wonder. According to recent information released on the suit it has hundreds of LED lights, and its music, Black Sabbath’s song “Iron Man” has 77 computer cues. Haygood said, “It started as just a small idea,” and has taken four months of programming, soldering, and work “until we got it like this.”

Although he did not make it to Hollywood for their premier performance, but to the delight of those attending the midnight showing of “Iron Man 3” he did perform at the Branson IMAX on May 2 just prior to the midnight showing of the movie. Haygood said, “I never thought in a million years, that people would care about my nerdy little project.” As of this writing almost 97,000 people have viewed the You Tube video of Haygood performing in the suit Kid builds Iron Man 3 light suit and LED guitar!…

Haygood indicates that the suit and performance will be incorporated into their show saying that they would probably end up with four or five of the suits and do an Iron Man-esque kind of light show “that’s just going to blow people away.” Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center, the seller of well over 3 million Branson show and attraction tickets, offered congratulations on the completion of the project and the success of the video on You Tube.

She said, “We advertise ‘The Haygood family recipe for success: raw talent showcased on over 20 different instruments, melodic sibling voices, and the group’s effervescent energy combined with a passion for putting on a top-notch show, every time’ and that, coupled with this kind of continual flexibility, passion, and innovation, is what makes the Haygoods one of the most popular and well received shows that we sell.”

Material Connection

“Branson – Up Close and Personal” with Dorothy Tabuchi

Dorothy and Shoji Tabuchi.

BRANSON, MO, April 3, 2013 — For 25 years the Shoji Tabuchi Show has set the standard adding the WOW and meaning to the term “production show” in Branson. It is one of the most popular shows in Branson because of the combination of talent and charisma of its star, Shoji Tabuchi; his supporting cast featuring his very talented daughter Christina; one of the best bands in Branson and great production, choreography, costuming and leading edge special effects.

During all of those years and before, the person behind that production has been the beautiful and talented wife of Shoji, Dorothy Tabuchi. Her passion and love of the arts, entertainment and her family and its talents, come to life in her spectacular productions that have brought joy, excitement, inspiration and entertainment to countless thousands over the years. We were fortunate enough to get a few minutes with this very special lady while she was taking a break from the hectic preparations for the 2013 25th Anniversary opening of the Shoji Tabuchi Show on April 19.

“Branson – Up Close and Personal,” is a service of the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, and is intended to provide readers with an up close and personal look at a Branson star or personality. The interview with Dorothy Tabuchi (DT) uses a “Question and Answer” format with the interviewing being done for the Branson Tourism Center (BTC) by Gary J. Groman, a 27 year resident of the Branson area, local columnist and free lance writer.

BTC: What’s the one thing you want most for people to know about Dorothy Tabuchi?
DT: I care greatly about people.

BTC: How and when did you first come to Branson?
DT: I first came to Branson from Louisiana on vacation somewhere in the early 1980s, fell in love with it and as they say, “The rest is history.”

BTC: What do you like best about Branson?
DT: Wow, let me think about that for a minutes because there are so many things that I like. That’s why we live, work and have our home here. I love the people, their kindness, hospitality and consideration of others and the “electricity” of Branson’s phenomenal entertainment .

BTC: What is your favorite thing to do in Branson when not involved with the show?
DT: For me, ever since we started the show, it seems like it has been 24/7 involvement with the show. I truly enjoy the little bit of spare time that I do have simply relaxing with family and friends.

BTC: How did you get involved in the entertainment industry?

DT: I have always loved anything to do with the arts. That love turned into an occupation after Shoji and I got married and I had the opportunity to be immersed in the entertainment business. It started with me attending the majority of his shows as he performed in other theatres, helping to produce elements of his performance, as well as others, and it came to full fruition as we developed and presented our own show. Along the way I have done everything from responding to Shoji’s fan mail, selling merchandise while on the road, emceeing, singing and dancing in the show, working with costume and set designers, choreographers, sound and lighting designers and, of course, the production of the show.

BTC: When you are producing a show what is it you strive for most?
DT: To surround the fabulous entertainers that Shoji and Christina are with a production that will excite and have the audience feeling a special magic and electricity as they experience the show. To have those who have never seen the show saying, “I have never seen anything like this” and have those who have seen the show before saying, “Wow, I didn’t think it could get any better, but it just did.”

BTC: When did you construct the Shoji Tabuchi Theatre?
DT: We started the Shoji Tabuchi Theatre in 1989 in what was the previous auto museum on 76 Hwy. In 1990, we built our new theatre on Shepherd of the Hills Expressway. This year, we are proudly celebrating The Shoji Tabuchi Theatre’s 25th year anniversary.

BTC: What part did being able to do production numbers in your show play in the design and building of the Theatre?
DT: A lot. I love to build the anticipation up to the WOW and see the look on people’s faces when the unexpected happens. This theatre was designed so that we have the physical capability to have sets and do production numbers that combine with the great talent of Shoji, Christina and our other entertainers and musicians to provide our audiences with that WOW through a unique combination of a production and concert show.

BTC: How long have you been producing the Shoji Tabuchi Show?
DT: For over 25 years plus years. As I shared earlier, I started by putting together some of the production numbers Shoji and others did even prior to us opening our own show and we have been doing our own show for 25 years.

BTC: What is the first thing you consider when planning the production of the show?
DT: Giving our customer a WOW experience, something they will never forget. I know it’s repetitive, but it’s true, I want the new people coming to the show for the first time to say, “This is the best show I’ve ever seen.” I want the people who are returning to say, “I did not think it could get any better, but it just did.”

BTC: What percentage of the show do you try to change from year to year?
DT: There is no set percentage of change. Each year’s production is a healthy balance of those numbers that people have told us on the comment cards that they like and want to see again as well as new numbers and productions that fulfill us in terms of innovation and keeping the show fresh and exciting for our audience.

BTC: What are the three things that you would not even consider leaving out of the show and why?
DT: The Patriotic Finale because it honors our great Nation and those who have and are sacrificing so much defending Her; the tribute to our son Jason, who we lost at age 19 because it is a comfort to us and to those, who like us, have lost someone they love and Shoji playing the “Orange Blossom Special,” because of its excitement and the special place it occupies in the history of fiddle playing.

BTC: Does the fact that your husband and daughter star in the show present any unique production challenges or opportunities?
DT: Not really. When I have a passion for something it drives me and I have a personal passion for my husband and daughter and a professional passion for their skill, what they do and how they do it. It is a joy and a blessing to be able to work with them and the rest of our wonderful cast and crew in producing the show. We have a great respect for each other and what we contribute to the show which keeps the challenges to the minimum and maximizes the opportunities.

BTC: What’s your favorite part about working with Christina in the show?
DT: Having the privilege and blessing of getting to see and work with my daughter on a regular daily basis.

BTC: What’s your favorite part about working with Shoji in the show?
DT: The same thing, having the privilege and blessing of getting to see and work with my husband on a daily basis. How fortunate I am to be able to spend my days working with the two loves of my life. It doesn’t get any better than that!

BTC: What is your favorite part about this year’s show?
DT: There’s a number of them, but I can say without a doubt that it’s the opening number. All I am going to say is “make sure you are in your seats and don’t miss it.”

BTC: Whether in the show or not, what is your favorite number that Shoji plays?
DT: I love “Unchained Melody.” On our anniversary and on my birthday, I wake up and Shoji is standing at the foot of the bed playing “Unchained Melody” on his violin.

BTC: Where and when did you first meet Shoji and what was your reaction?
DT: I met Shoji while vacationing in Branson in 1983 when some friends introduced me to him. For me it was love at first sight and it’s still true, he is the love of my life.”

BTC: How long have you been married?
DT: This year we will be celebrating out 29th Anniversary.

BTC: Anything else you want our readers to know?
DT: We are so blessed as a family to be able to work together doing what we love to do. It is a blessing that we do not take for granted as we strive, each and every show to please our customers and give them an entertainment experience that they will never forget.