New Branson show and Walk of Fame for Barry Williams

Barry Williams with Missouri Walk of Fame Star

BRANSON, MO, April 30, 2013 — “Another well deserved honor for Barry Williams,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center after hearing of his induction into the Missouri Walk of Fame in Marshfield, Missouri on April 26 during its Cherry Blossom Festival. Johnson points out that Williams, perhaps best known for his performance as Greg Brady on the hit prime time TV series, The Brady Bunch, is in his third year of performing in Branson and is starring in a new show this year, 70’s Music Celebration Starring Barry Williams.

The show is a high energy, multimedia production full of “disco, folk and classic rock songs featuring the music and comedy of the 70s staring Williams. It features a live band and dancers as Williams uses his personal experiences and some of the greatest music of the 70s from Elton John, The Eagles and The Bee Gees to take the audience “on a nostalgic trip through the grooviest decade.” It is “a spectacular ‘Dy-no-mite’ trip back through this colorful era in a ‘Far out’ and ‘Outta sight’ kind of way that is perfect for all ages.”

Williams, who was born in Santa Monica California, has been performing in Branson for the last three years and has made Branson his permanent residence. The Missouri Walk of Fame is Missouri’s version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Each year “the walk” honors famous Missourians and a star is unveiled during Marshfield’s annual Cherry Blossom Festival which has been celebrated since 2006.

Williams has had an extensive career starring in hundreds of television shows and over 85 productions of Broadway Musicals including appearances on several television shows such as Dragnet, Adam-12, The Invaders, That Girl, Mission: Impossible and others before landing his role as Greg Brady on The Brady Bunch. Williams has also been involved in musical theater, touring with Pippin, Music Man, City of Angels, The Sound of Music, West Side Story and others. In 1988, he appeared on Broadway in Romance/Romance.” This versatile performer “has been a DJ on satellites’ Sirius Radio, has recorded several live CD’s and recently, starred in a 2013 Sci-Fi made for television movie Bigfoot with Danny Bonaduce and Sheryln Fenn.

For additional information on the 70’s Music Celebration Starring Barry Williams or for information or tickets for any of Branson’s shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements 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.

Branson Forum reviews of “Clay Cooper” – “Rankin Brothers” – “it” shows

BRANSON, MO, April 22, 2013 — Branson has a huge number and variety of live shows and is often referred to as “The live music show capital of the world.” With so many Branson shows how does one decide what show to see? A starting point would be to go to a List of Branson Shows similar to the one provided by the Branson Tourism Center which will generally contain a description of the show, pictures, schedules, ticket prices and in many cases videos of the show.

Another way to get information is to visit the Shows Forum of Branson’s oldest and biggest Information Board 1Branson.Com to see what other people who have attended a particular show thought of it. Here are three such reviews on shows that people have visited within the last 30 days. The link under the show title will take you to the specific Branson Tourism Center Branson Show Listing where additional information is available. The “name” in bold type preceding the review is the screen name of the poster.

Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express

rjw1991A1 – “I spent my birthday evening last Thursday enjoying Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express. What a great choice. It’s hard to believe that a show so good can actually get better every time I see it. But with the talent of the entire cast, and the amazing audience interaction of Clay Cooper, it does. The range of music is terrific. From classic country to new country, and gospel. In addition to some great rock and pop, and a very moving patriotic song, written by Clay’s wife Tina, it has great entertainment for anyone. Great dance numbers by the Country Music Express Dancers led by Tina, comedy by Matt Gumm, and Clay’s son Colton, and one of the most talented bands in Branson. The amazing little Ezrah Noell is another high point of entertainment as well…

“If I would give anybody a recommendation for a Branson show I would say Clay Cooper must be on their list. In fact I would say that If you are limited by time, or budget to only one show, you can’t go wrong with Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express being that one show!”

Rankin Brothers

leftsaidted – OK, been waiting for someone to comment on the revamped for 2013 Rankin Brothers show at the Clay Cooper theater. NO one has yet, so guess I will.

So probably most people who have seen the Rankin Brothers over the last few years would agree that it has been one of Branson’s top shows, year after year. But they have really improved it for 2013, in my opinion. There are probably not a half dozen songs from their past show, the vast majority of songs are new and fresh.

Matt and Mark are in top form this year, no doubt energized by the new song performances. And the “Rankinettes, Lori and Amy, are even better than before, and somehow more beautiful, if you can believe it possible. Again, their song choices are new also. The quick change hat/beard/hair routine that Mark does is, new and very entertaining and comical at times, along with a revamped, albeit shortened, Elvis routine. To wrap this up, simply put, their show was great before, but even better this year. Way to go, Rankin Brothers and Rankinettes!

it at the Hughes Brothers Theatre

Nicola – We went to see “It” last Wednesday night at the Hughes Brothers Theater. We booked the day before and got second row center seating, so I’m not sure if it was just a quiet week or if we simply got lucky. We attended with two folks in their late 60s, myself (37), and my son (9). We all LOVED this show, start to finish. There was something for everyone. The guys were SO energetic and talented. The music was amazing, the comedy was hilarious, and the show just kept on moving forward. It started at 8pm and finished somewhere around 10:30. We were shocked at how quickly the time had passed. I loved the fact that they introduced their (huge!) families and brought that wholesome Branson feel to the show. For my parents, visiting from Southern CA, this was quite unique! The show was well-rounded with everything from country to pop to oldies to show tunes to patriotic fare to good old favorite hymns. I would not hesitate to go and see this show again — something that I’ve never done yet in Branson (discounting the Stampede which isn’t quite the same). I’ve already told my husband that we’re booking to see their Christmas show when we’re down for our annual Thanksgiving trip this year. Hopefully it shines as brightly as “It”.

For additional information on 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 for assistance by calling 1-800-785-1550 or through its website, www.BransonTourismCenter.com

Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express

rjw1991A1 – “I spent my birthday evening last Thursday enjoying Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express. What a great choice. It’s hard to believe that a show so good can actually get better every time I see it. But with the talent of the entire cast, and the amazing audience interaction of Clay Cooper, it does. The range of music is terrific. From classic country to new country, and gospel. In addition to some great rock and pop, and a very moving patriotic song, written by Clay’s wife Tina, it has great entertainment for anyone. Great dance numbers by the Country Music Express Dancers led by Tina, comedy by Matt Gumm, and Clay’s son Colton, and one of the most talented bands in Branson. The amazing little Ezrah Noell is another high point of entertainment as well…

“If I would give anybody a recommendation for a Branson show I would say Clay Cooper must be on their list. In fact I would say that If you are limited by time, or budget to only one show, you can’t go wrong with Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express being that one show!”

Rankin Brothers

leftsaidted – OK, been waiting for someone to comment on the revamped for 2013 Rankin Brothers show at the Clay Cooper theater. NO one has yet, so guess I will.

So probably most people who have seen the Rankin Brothers over the last few years would agree that it has been one of Branson’s top shows, year after year. But they have really improved it for 2013, in my opinion. There are probably not a half dozen songs from their past show, the vast majority of songs are new and fresh.

Matt and Mark are in top form this year, no doubt energized by the new song performances. And the “Rankinettes, Lori and Amy, are even better than before, and somehow more beautiful, if you can believe it possible. Again, their song choices are new also. The quick change hat/beard/hair routine that Mark does is, new and very entertaining and comical at times, along with a revamped, albeit shortened, Elvis routine. To wrap this up, simply put, their show was great before, but even better this year. Way to go, Rankin Brothers and Rankinettes!

it at the Hughes Brothers Theatre

Nicola – We went to see “It” last Wednesday night at the Hughes Brothers Theater. We booked the day before and got second row center seating, so I’m not sure if it was just a quiet week or if we simply got lucky. We attended with two folks in their late 60s, myself (37), and my son (9). We all LOVED this show, start to finish. There was something for everyone. The guys were SO energetic and talented. The music was amazing, the comedy was hilarious, and the show just kept on moving forward. It started at 8pm and finished somewhere around 10:30. We were shocked at how quickly the time had passed. I loved the fact that they introduced their (huge!) families and brought that wholesome Branson feel to the show. For my parents, visiting from Southern CA, this was quite unique! The show was well-rounded with everything from country to pop to oldies to show tunes to patriotic fare to good old favorite hymns. I would not hesitate to go and see this show again — something that I’ve never done yet in Branson (discounting the Stampede which isn’t quite the same). I’ve already told my husband that we’re booking to see their Christmas show when we’re down for our annual Thanksgiving trip this year. Hopefully it shines as brightly as “It”.

For additional information on 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 for assistance by calling 1-800-785-1550 or through its website, www.BransonTourismCenter.com

 

Silver Dollar City, a coaster riders dream come true

"Outlaw Run's" record setting 162 foot 81 degree first drop.

BRANSON, MO, April 20, 2013 — With the addition of the spectacular world record setting “Outlaw Run” wooden coaster to its world class coaster repertoire, Silver Dollar City has to be a coaster riders dream come true,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. In addition to everything else the 1880’s styled theme park offers on a day to day basis, the opening of “Outlaw Run” gives SDC five unique coasters of which four are exciting world class coaster experiences and the fifth is the most unique and entertaining coaster ride in existence,” she added.

Silver Dollar City’s five coasters along with temperature requirements to operate and minimum height restrictions for riders are:

“Outlaw Run” is the $10 million first-of-its-kind ride” that sets several world firsts for wood coasters. Its “record-breaking 3 inversions, with a 720-degree (double) barrel roll and a 153-degree outside banked turn” and its initial 162 foot 81 degree drop is a world first for a wood coaster. At speeds of up to 68 miles per hour, as it takes riders on a 2,937 foot ride in just 1 minute and 27 seconds. Outlaw Run does not operate if the temperatures are 37 degrees or below and has a minimum height requirement of 48 inches for riders.

Silver Dollar City's iconic Wildfire metal coaster.

“WildFire ®” is SDC’s iconic coaster that provides a world class coaster experience and, if one has time to appreciate it, a fantastic view of the Ozarks and Table Rock Lake. Traveling at speeds up to 66 MPH the cobra-rolling coaster incorporates high-speed spiral, a full loop with its five inversions, a vertical drop of 15 stories and corkscrew into one of the most exciting coaster rides anywhere. It does not operate if temperatures are 40 degrees F or below and the minimum height requirement is 52 inches.

“PowderKeg ® ” is a compressed air-launch coaster that accelerates from the “Powder House” going from 0 to 53 MPH in just 2.8 seconds. Its initial 110 foot drop sends riders through spiraling turns and trees at speeds up to 64 MPH exposing them to negative “G” forces on their exciting 3,500 foot journey back to the Powder House. PowderKeg ® does not operate if temperatures are 40 degrees F or below. The minimum height requirement is 42 inches . To ride unaccompanied riders must be 48 inches tall, but those between 42 and 48 inches may only ride with a ” supervising companion at least 16 years old who also meets all ride requirements.”

“Thunderation” is themed as a runaway mine train. It is a high-speed coaster that takes its riders 121 feet into the air as it sends them on a scenic view of the Ozarks at speeds up to 48 MPH before a spiraling drop and trip through an underground tunnel returning to its starting point. Thunderation does not operate if temperatures are 38 degrees F or below. Its minimum height requirement is 42 inches. To ride unaccompanied riders must be 48 inches tall, but those between 42 and 48 inches may only ride with a ” supervising companion at least 16 years old who also meets all ride requirements.”

“Fire-In-The-Hole” is the parks oldest coaster and has been a favorite of families for decades. It’s a unique indoor coaster taking its riders on a night time trip through an Ozarks town that has been set on fire by the infamous “Baldknobbers. It’s a ride filled with adventure, high-speed drops and an exciting ending that shows why the ride is called, “”Fire-In-The-Hole.” The minimum height requirement is 36 inches, but those between 36 and 42 inches may only ride with a ” supervising companion at least 16 years old who also meets all ride requirements.”

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson reminds those interested in going to Silver Dollar City that when they purchase their ticket from the Branson Tourism Center they get two days at the park for the price of one which is quite a savings. For additional information or tickets for Silver Dollar City or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Branson Dinner cruises cannot be replicated anywhere

The Showboat Branson Belle cruising on Table Rock Lake.

BRANSON, MO, April 17, 2013 — Branson has dinner cruises on two of its three lakes, Table Rock Lake and Lake Taneycomo. Starting with the boats themselves, they are as different and unique as the two lakes upon which the cruises take place.

The Showboat Branson Belle provides a combination dinner, sightseeing and show cruise on beautiful Table Rock Lake a warm water lake with over 857 miles of shoreline. The 278 foot long, 3 decked, 700 passenger boat is as close to the old river showboats as one is likely to get, not only in terms of its docking facility at the “White River Landing,” but in its appearance and the entertainment it provides.

The “Made in the USA Dinner show” features the world’s only aerial violinist, Janice Martin; “The Show Men,” a six-member all-male vocal group , Master of Ceremonies, magician and comedian Christopher James and is presented in a “riverboat showboat” setting. The show is a combination of Martin’s extraordinary musical and acrobatic talent, the harmonies and individual talents of The Showmen and the magic and comedy of James in as entertaining production as any “showboat” has ever seen. When combined with a delicious meal and sightseeing on Table Rock Lake a dinner cruise on the Branson Belle provides a special, entertaining and unique Branson dinner cruise that is not replicated anywhere.

Main Street Lake Cruises' "Landing Princess."

Main Street Cruise Lines Landing Princess a spectacular sightseeing and dinner cruise on Lake Taneycomo, a cold water lake impoundment of the White River that runs 23 miles from Table Rock Dam to the Power Site Dam near Forsyth. It is a lake whose shoreline is narrow and closely follows the banks and channels of the impounded White River providing an unparalleled opportunity for observing the constantly changing beauty of the Ozarks.

A sightseeing trip on either of Main Street Cruises two boats, the Lake Queen or Landing Princess, provide passengers an unparalleled opportunity to experience a spectacular show produced by “Mother Nature” herself. It includes the grandeur of the Ozarks scenery including a constantly changing show of color, deer and other animals; birds of prey such as hawks, Ospreys and Bald Eagles; as well as other birds, waterfowl, lake activity and a unique view of Branson Landing and its famous fountain show. The scenic vistas and unique bluffs carved out over eons of time are only viewable from the Lake and provide what, in its own way, may very well be the biggest and best show in Branson.

The “show” takes place aboard Main Street Lake Cruises’ Landing Princess, 100 feet of luxury, elegance and beauty. Her two fully glass enclosed climate controlled decks provide the ultimate in comfort and convenience while cruising, dining and enjoying the breathtaking scenery passing by on either side. The Landing Princess, scrumptious dinner and spectacular sightseeing show staring the beauty of the Ozarks and Lake Taneycomo provides one of the most unique and enjoyable dining experiences available anywhere.

Two vastly different lakes, “shows” and boats with each providing an extraordinary dining and entertainment experience that is unique and cannot be replicated. For additional information on either the Showboat Branson Belle or the Landing Princess 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, www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

International entertainment, exciting adventure in Branson at Silver Dollar City’s World-Fest

World champion fire-knife dancer from the "Island Fire" show.

BRANSON, MO, April 15, 2013 — “A wonderful part about Spring in the Ozarks is the blending of the Spring beauty of the Ozarks with the cultures, adventure, color, fun and entertainment of America’s largest international festival, Silver Dollar City’s ‘World-Fest,'” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “The recent opening of Silver Dollar City’s new record setting wood coaster ‘Outlaw Run’ adds even more excitement to an already spectacular event,” she added.

World-Fest, is the first of Silver Dollar City’s six world class festivals held throughout the year and will run Wednesday through Sunday from April 17 – May 5 at the award winning 1880’s styled theme park. Information received from Silver Dollar City indicates that this year’s international celebration will include “new shows with drummers and aerialists from Argentina, fire-knife dancers from Samoa and a Russian folk trio, plus the Italian show Spettacolo Musicale and the return of Viva Italia, an entire plaza filled with Italian entertainment. Guests can travel the world and see groups from Switzerland, Peru, Ireland and more throughout the festival.

The Los Pampas Gauchos Drummers and dancers from the "Amamos Argentina "show.

“The new show Amamos Argentina presents the Los Pampas Gauchos drummers and dancers, featuring Argentinian National Folk Dancing Champion Andres Sosa, plus aerial dancers from Buenos Aires who soar above the stage. Also new, Island Fire presents the rhythms, music and dances from Samoa, Fiji and the South Sea Islands, and features world-champion fire-knife dancers twirling flaming ceremonial knives. ‘The popular Viva Italia showcase of Italian entertainment returns, presenting Spettacolo Musicale, with tenor Aaron Caruso and Sicilian soprano Cristina Corollo accompanied by the 7-piece live band, The Gondoliers. Viva Italia, a “Little Italy” plaza, comes alive with Italian theatrical entertainment, including “living florals” and statues, stilt walkers, interactive musical comedy, live “music box” performers and colorful costumed characters. Returning groups also include Streichmusic Alder, alphorn players and yodelers from the Swiss Alps, Ireland’s premier harpist Dearbhail Finnegan and English musician Robin Slater, Austrian yodeler Kerry Christensen, plus the melodic pan flute music of Ecuador Manta.”

World-Fest’s Taste of the World Menu, served in addition to the great selection of food normally available throughout the park, will be served in the “Tastes of the World Food Pavilion.” This will include a wide variety of food from around the world such as English Isles Scottish Eggs and Fish and Chips, Naples Nachos, Mexican Fajitas, French Crepes and Italian Calzone plus desserts such as French Eclairs, German Apfel Dumplings served with Cinnamon Ice Cream and much more.

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson shares that all the activities of World-Fest are in addition to the 30 rides and attractions, including its brand new “Outlaw Run,” a world class record setting multi-looping wood roller coaster that reaches speeds in excess of 66 miles per hour; some of the best entertainment and live shows available in Branson; dozens of demonstrating craftsmen and much more that Silver Dollar City routinely offers on a day to day basis. “Especially unique and adding to the overall experience of a visit to Silver Dollar City is the way the park is seamlessly integrated into the natural wonder of the Ozarks hills surrounding it,” she adds.

She also reminds those planning to go to World-Fest that when they buy their Silver Dollar City tickets from the Branson Tourism Center they get a “2 Day Pass for the price of one day.” For further information on World-Fest, Silver Dollar City or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions please contact the Branson Tourism Center by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

 

Are discounted show tickets the best value for Branson vacation?

BRANSON, MO, April 9, 2013 — “Buying tickets for a Branson show is just like buying anything else,” said Tammy Johnson Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), Branson’s largest seller of Branson show and attraction tickets. “You get what you pay for.”

As is the case with most tourist destinations, there are places in Branson that offer “2 for 1” or other extremely discounted tickets. “This brings to mind a time tested caveat, ‘Buyer beware’ Johnson added.

In dealing with “discount ticket brokers, “among others, a potential buyer might want to consider some of the following points. Is the business offering the tickets a member of the BBC (Better Business Bureau)? If so what rating does it have? What conditions apply to receiving the discount? Are they getting the best seats available? Is there a service charge? Does the establishment selling the tickets offer tickets to all of Branson’s most popular shows and attractions? Are they a one stop provider of Branson travel services? Do they offer show, attractions and lodging packages that can result in total savings of more than just the discounted tickets they offer?

Johnson points out that the Branson Tourism Center has sold well over three million Branson show and attraction tickets, has been an accredited member of the BBBfor over a decade and enjoys an “A+” rating. BTC never charges a service fee, offers tickets to all Branson shows and enjoys an excellent relationship with the shows and attractions with which it does business. This results in getting its customers the best available seats at the time of booking as opposed to the “remnants.”

Employing over 100 people, BTC offers a full range of Branson travel services, including lodging for just about every budget and taste. The savings resulting from “packaging,” combining lodging with tickets for shows and attractions, will in many cases be much more than that of just the discounted tickets with added convenience and less risk.

The convenience and comfort factor in dealing with a full service travel provider with the reputation of the Branson Tourism Center does not cost any more, generally results in better seats and value with a savings of both time and money if packaging is used and all without any conditions or stipulations.

As Peggy Barthel, the purchaser of BTC’s 3 millionth ticket, pointed out; after spending most of the day on the internet trying to decide where to go and what to do while in Branson she discovered the Branson Tourism Center and called their 800 number,1-800-875-1550. In summing up the results of that call she said, “One call that’s all, they just took care of everything. We’re just going to go up there and have fun.” Isn’t that what you want for your Branson vacation?

 

It’s “Your Branson”

This scenic Ozark vista was taken from the bow of the Lake Queen and is an example of why the natural beauty of the Ozarks, sooner of later, will become part of "Your Branson."

BRANSON, MO, April 8, 2013 — “Part of the fun and adventure of Branson is finding ‘Your Branson” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center.” When asked, “Isn’t there only one Branson?” Johnson responds, “Yes, but that Branson is full of so many different things to see and do that everyone who comes to Branson can make it ‘Their Branson’ by simply selecting those things they and their families are interested in doing.”

Branson is sometimes called the “Live music show capital of the world,” because of the large number and diversity of Branson Shows offered on a daily basis during the season. This offers an unparallel opportunity to help define “Your Branson” from within Branson’s show offerings by selecting shows that interest you. It might be an itinerary of all country music shows* including, Presleys’ Country Jubilee, Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express, Pierce Arrow or the Grand Jubilee; noncountry music shows such as the Haygoods, Duttons, it, The Rankins, Shoji Tabuchi or George Dyer; production shows such as Joseph, The Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Pageant, Acrobats of China, Adventures of Marco Polo, Cirque Montage or any of the other magic, comedy and other shows Branson offers.

Branson’s Attractions add another element to the creation of “Your Branson.” With attractions as varied as the 1880s styled winning theme park, such Silver Dollar City, debuting its world record setting wooden coaster, “Outlaw Run,” this year; White Water; the Titanic Museum Attraction, the National Tiger Sanctuary, sightseeing cruises aboard Main Street Lakes Cruises “Lake Queen,” paddle wheel river boat replica of a bygone era plus dozens of other attractions the scope of the things to include in “Your Branson” grows exponentially.

“Your Branson” for many will include some form of shopping. With its Historic Downtown Shopping District, Branson Landing, discount malls such as Tanger Mall and The Shoppes at Branson Meadows and dozens of unique and exciting specialty shops sprinkled throughout Branson it is real easy to include shopping in “Your Branson.”

The natural beauty of the Ozarks and Branson’s three pristine lakes, Table Rock and Bull Shoals Lakes and Lake Taneycomo will, if not initially, become a part of “Your Branson.” Whether it’s a scenic overview, a walk along the Branson Landing Board Walk, a romantic dinner cruise on the Landing Princess, watching the summer fog lift off of Lake Taneycomo or a drive across Table Rock Lake the spectacular beauty of the Ozarks is an inherent part of the Branson experience.

“What’s wonderful is that it really is ‘Your Branson’ and a Branson vacation can be anything you want it to be,” Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson said. “Our mission at the Branson Tourism Center, is to help people plan ‘Their Branson’ and have a great Branson experience that will bring them back to Branson again and again.” For additional information or tickets for any of Branson’s shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please feel free to contact the Branson Tourism Center by calling 1-800-785-1550 or through its website, www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

* Although the music in these shows is primarily country each offers a variety of music and great comedy.

 

“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.

Country or non-country Branson’s entertainment paradigm has not changed

Production number with dancers during Clay Cooper's Country Express.

BRANSON, MO, April 3, 2013 — Branson shows were once thought of as being primarily country music shows because most of its early shows followed the format paradigm used by Branson’s first show, The Baldknobbers when they started Branson’s first show in historic downtown Branson in 1959. That paradigm included a mixture of country music, gospel and hillbilly comedy.

When the Presley family opened Presleys’ Country Jubilee, the first theatre on what is now the famed “Branson Strip” in 1967 they, as well as the majority of the shows that came after them until the mid 80’s, followed basically the same paradigm with variations in the comedy, styles and costuming. When the CBS prime time show “60 Minutes” did its piece on Branson in the early 90’s it strongly reinforced that paradigm and firmly established Branson’s country music reputation in the minds of many people, but a new paradigm has gradually emerged on the Branson show scene since then.

As entertainers such as the Osmonds, Lennon Sisters, Andy Williams, Yakov Smirnoff, Jim Stafford and others joined the Branson show scene, along with shows such as the Acrobats of China, Dixie Stampede, Shoji Tabuchi, the shows on the Showboat Branson Belle and others it quickly became obvious that Branson certainly wasn’t just country anymore. In the last two decades, with the explosion of non-country shows such as the Duttons, it, Haygoods, Joseph, George Dyer, SIX, Liverpool Legends, Amazing Pets, Buckets N Boards, the Hamner Barber Variety Show and a host more has actually expanded the depth of Branson’s major shows to the point where the number of major non-country shows outweighs the number of major country shows.

Although that’s the case, an examination of the the Branson Tourism Center Show Schedule lists a number of shows that are country music based. The two original shows that started the paradigm that made Branson famous, The Baldknobbers and Presleys’ Country Jubilee are not only still going strong, but are two of Branson’s most popular shows along with Pierce Arrow and the Grand Jubilee who use basically the same format.

Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express, as would be expected, is country music based, but with a unique twist, production numbers. Clay’s wife Tina, an accomplished dancer, has choreographed a number of dance numbers into the show that are performed by a cast of dancers which in combination with a live band, Clay’s singing and ability to relate to his audience and great costuming results in the most unique country music shows in Branson.

In addition, many country music legends perform limited engagement performances in Branson throughout the year. This includes but is not limited to artists such Charlie Pride, Ray Price, The Charlie Daniels Band, Clint Black, Neal McCoy, Randy Travis and many more. Limited engagement appearances are indicated in the Branson Shows List by a “Limited Engagement Clock Symbol” on the right hand side of the entry.

It’s really interesting the way that Branson’s shows still have the two original shows, and the very paradigm format that helped establish its live entertainment industry, going as strong and popular as ever along with other country music shows while right beside them, and entertaining Branson audiences in growing numbers, is a variety of non-country music shows. From its very beginning the paradigm of Branson’s live entertainment industry has been about more than “format.” It has involved providing its visitors with a great entertainment experience and, country or non-country, that paradigm will never change.

For additional information or tickets for any of the shows mentioned in this article or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services by calling 800-785-1550.

The most effective way to get information on a vacation in Branson?

BRANSON, MO, March 28, 2013 — With all there is to see and do in Branson, a question that often comes to mind is, “What is the best way to get information on all there is to see and do in Branson? “That depends on the person seeking the information and how much of their time they want to invest getting it,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “But here is one of the simplest and most efficient ways to get all the Branson information you will need and make reservations and get tickets if desired; just make one toll free call to 1-800-785-1550.

That free call will put the caller in contact with a Branson Tourism Center (BTC) Vacation Planner who will assist you in getting the information you want. The Vacation Planner you will be speaking with is one of the nearly 100 dedicated BTC staff members who proudly live and work in the Branson area and the advice given is based on an intimate familiarity with Branson and all it has to offer because they, and their families, experience it on a daily basis.

Just as important is the reputation of the company they work for. The Branson Tourism Center is a Better Business Bureau (BBB) Accredited Businesses with an A+ rating; a member of the Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce; is one of Branson’s largest employers; has sold over 3 million Branson show and attraction tickets and has helped hundreds of thousands of people plan and have a great Branson experience. BTC also owns and operates three websites providing the most extensive source of Branson information available on the web, two informational websites with telephonic transactional capability www.BransonTourismCenter.Com and Branson’s first destination website, www.Branson.Com and an internet transactional site www.BransonOnTheWeb,.

What can those calling BTC for information on Branson expect? The words of Peggy Barthel, who along with her husband Eddie, purchased the 3 millionth ticket sold by BTC answers that question pretty well. She said that prior to discovering BTC on the internet she “had spent most of that day spinning my wheels trying to decide where to go, what we were going to do and that kind of thing.” In summing up her Branson vacation planning experience with BTC she said, “One call that’s all, they just took care of everything. We’re just going to go up there and have fun.”

The phone call and advice are free and there is never a “Service Fee” for any of the shows, attractions or hotels BTC sells. In fact, because of the relationship BTC enjoys with its vendors, it is very likely that not only will you receive the best seats and accommodations available, but save money particularly if shows and attractions are bundled with lodging.

If you have any questions about Branson please do not hesitate to call the Branson Tourism Center at 1-800-785-1550. BTC is open seven days a week from 8:00 AM to 9:30 PM except for Christmas Day.