Time is running out to see one of Branson’s most spectacular shows “Peter Pan”

Cathy Rigby as "Peter Pan."

Please Note this article is from 2010 and is here for archival purposes only

“If you don’t want to miss seeing one of the most spectacular shows in Branson don’t miss seeing Cathy Rigby as ‘Peter Pan,’ before it ends its limited engagement run on August 15,” says Tammy Johnson, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “It is a Branson show experience that is as magical for children as it is for adults.”

One review of the show said, “How magical? From a child’s perspective, ‘How many shows does one go to where the children are hurrying the parents to get back in their seats after intermission?’ Not very many, but Peter Pan is one of them. From an adult’s perspective this is a high energy spectacular first rate production with amazing sets, choreography, costuming and a cast to match.”

Generations have enjoyed the story of the Darling children and their trip to Never Land with the forever young Peter Pan and the fairy Tinker Bell. Branson’s production of Peter Pan “brings that story to life in a cornucopia of color, action, excitement, music, singing, dancing, athletic ability and drama that literally “soars” into your heart.

The sets are magnificent covering the range of everything from a stately residence to a pirate ship. What’s truly amazing is that as magnificent and complex as some of them are, the set changes are virtually seamless and breathtaking when revealed.

The ability and energy of the cast and their “owning” of the characters they play contributes immeasurably to making this a wonderful joyful fun filled experience. Cathy Rigby was “born” to play the part of Peter Pan and do it she does “as she does everything from acting, singing and dancing to sword fighting, ‘flying’ and the spreading of Pixie Dust.”

And what an amazing cast she has surrounding her. Robert Westenberg does a first class job of playing Captain Hook and convincing the audience that he is one of the most villainous scoundrels of all time. Chloe Leatherwood does a great job in her role as Tiger Lilly, the leader of the Indians, and Doran Schmidt as Wendy. There is an assortment of other characters such as “Slightly Soiled” played by Austin Michael and “Gentleman Starkey” played by Tom Wolff who add so much to the show.

Combine great choreography, lots of action with great costuming, sets, and a cast that performs like they do in Peter Pan and the result is a joy to watch and experience. A recent review of the show pointed out, “Nowhere is this more evident than in the number “Ugg-a-Wugg,” when Peter Pan, Tiger Lilly, Wendy, the Lost Boys and the Indians unite in one of the most spectacular production numbers ever produced on a Branson stage.”

Johnson agrees with one reviewers comments, “Peter Pan is a world class production that is one of the most entertaining shows this writer has ever seen. Any parent or grandparent sharing this with a child or grandchild will create a memory that should last for a lifetime.”

She reminds everyone that the last day to see Peter Pan in Branson is August 15. For additional information or tickets for Peter Pan or any of Branson’s other shows, attractions and activities 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.

Branson’s Table Rock Lake hosts special Fall events for Ironmen and Kids

Launching the Branson.Com boat into Table Rock Lake for the Purple Heart tournament held earlier this year.

“Branson is blessed with Table Rock Lake and its 43,000 acres of pristine water for fishing, boating, swimming and other activities. That, along with the natural beauty of the Ozarks Mountains and Branson’s great selection of shows, attractions, restaurants, shopping and other entertainment, provide the synergy for a wonderful and unique travel experience,” said Levi Kurtright, Director of Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “Over the next few weeks and into the Fall, Table Rock Lake will be the home of a number of special events hosting everyone from Ironmen to kids and fishermen to families and kids.”

Kurtright points out that the “KSwiss Ironman 70.3 Branson Inaugural Race,” a triathlon, will be held in Branson, Missouri on September 19. The triathletes will be competing against each other in a test of endurance for a share of $25,000 in prize money and to qualify for the “2010 Foster Grant Ironman World Championship 70.3″ in Clearwater, Florida. The course includes a 1.2 mile swim in Table Rock Lake, a 56 mile bike race through the rolling hills of the Ozark Mountains and a 26.2 mile run ending at the Branson Landing Fountains on the shores of Lake Taneycomo.

The “Central Pro-Am Association’s (CPAA) Pro-Am and Team Tournament Series” will end its 2010 season with a Pro-Am Tournament on August 21 and a Team Tournament on August 22 out of Ahoy’s in Kimberling City. Jim Thompson, the owner of CPAA points out that this tournament will determine the CPAA Pro and Amateur Champions of the year. “That’s a real big deal this year,” said Thompson. “In addition to the CPAA tournament winnings, the highest placed finisher in both the Pro and Non Boater (Amateur) Divisions, who are also members of the Professional Anglers Association, will win a paid ‘ride’ to fish the entire 2011 PAA Tournament Series including paid entry fees, food, fuel and lodging allowances for the entire season.”

The final event in the national “Professional Anglers Association’s (PAA) 2010 Tournament Season” will be held on Table Rock Lake October 14 through October 16. The tournament is jointly hosted by the Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and BransonOnTheWeb, an affiliate of the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. The PAA anglers will be competing for $400,000 in prizes, will depart the State Park Marina daily with the weigh-ins scheduled for the State Park Marina on October 14 and 15 and at “Branson Landing/Bass Pro Shops” on Oct. 16.

On October 23, KTTS Radio, Central Pro-Am Association and K.A.S.T. (Kids Are Special Too) will join together at the Port of Kimberling Marina to help fight childhood cancer with a benefit for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The event will combine a Buddy Bass Tournament hosted by Central Pro-Am and KTTS and a family fun event hosted by K.A.S.T and KTTS.

The tournament will start at 7:00 a.m. with a weigh-in at 3:00 p.m. The entry fee per team is $170.00 with 70 % going for payouts and 30% to St. Jude’s. From 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. there will be fun and games for the kids with a kid’s fishing contest, casting contest, games, treats and lots of fun for families. CPAA’s Thompson encourages all fishermen to enter the tournament and invites all families with children to participate in the family fun event.

Kurtright reminds everyone that as these events are taking place on Table Rock Lake that Branson and all it has to offer is but minutes away. Couple that with the Fall of the year in the Ozark Mountains and Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest Festival and the opportunities for fun and excitement in Branson seem as numerous as the beautifully colored leaves that will be falling from the trees.

Because of the Fall Foliage, Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest Festival and all the other exciting events going on in Branson in October such as “The Front Men” featuring Alabama’s Randy Owen, Lonestar’s Richie McDonald and Restless Heart’s Larry Stewart together in one concert, he recommends that advance reservations be made for shows and lodging to ensure not only availability, but to obtain the best seating and accommodations available. Kurtright offers the service of Branson Tourism Center in that regard and points out that the Branson Tourism Center can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

“Diana the People’s Princess” is an iconic Branson experience

At the time of her tragic death on August 31, 1997, the woman born Diana Frances Spencer had achieved iconic status as Diana, Princess of Wales. The initial exhibit of the Branson Exhibition Center, “Diana, the People Princess,” tells the story of that iconic rise from her birth and early years through the fairy tale engagement and wedding to Charles, Prince of Wales, her service as a member of the royal family, motherhood, divorce, separation from royalty and what she did with that iconic status up till her death.

Tony Doblin, President & COO, Exhibition Dynamix feels the exhibit is an excellent fit with Branson. He said, “Diana will resonate well with the Midwest and the people who come to Branson because, whether you were a millionaire or a pauper, Diana treated you exactly the same. It’s an incredible exhibition that provides a very interesting and exciting introspective look into her life.”

The vast majority of the items on display are the property of John Hoatson, a life-long collector of Princess Diana memorabilia and pieces. He said, “I have been collecting Diana memorabilia since my early childhood and have over 6,000 pieces in my collection.” In addition to the over 2,000 pieces from Hoatson’s collection, the exhibit has a number of her actual Royal Dresses and other unique and interesting items including photos, videos, other items that most people have never seen and actual tapes of Diana’s voice obtained from a private answering machine message to a dear friend.

The Royal Dresses in the exhibition were acquired by Maureen Rorech Dunkel when Princess Diana auctioned off a collection of her dresses in a well planned and publicized auction for charity on the evening of June 25, 1997 at the world famous Christie’s in New York City. The auction and sale of the auction’s catalog raised over $5.6 million for the charities selected by Diana to benefit her humanitarian efforts.

Over $700, 000 of that came from an anonymous buyer who was not even at the auction and had only found out about it five days before it was held. That buyer was Ms. Dunkel who purchased 13 of the dresses as an investment based on Prince William’s anticipated future ascension to the throne. Due to the tragic and untimely death of Princess Diana less than two months later, the investment value of the all the dresses sold that night has gone up drastically.

A number of the actual Royal Dresses are displayed in the exhibition and help separate the different stages of the life of this remarkable woman. One example is the elegant pink wild silk dress, with its bodice elaborately embroidered with a “tapestry of flowers, sequins and gold,” that she wore on her State Tour of India in 1992.

As important as the items in the exhibit are it is the way they are arranged and presented that contributes substantially to the experience guests will have while touring the exhibit. The experience starts by entering a theatre where a short video gives an overview of the stages of Diana’s life, from birth to death and her rise to iconic status. This provides an excellent foundation for the self-guided tour that follows.

When you exit the theatre you will enter the first major exhibit area, “Althorp,” her ancestral home where you will begin an experience that will share the life of this remarkable women from her birth to her death and the impact she has had even after her death. The tour uses videos, story boards, and an elaborate system of visual indexing and identification to identify each item in the exhibit which enhances the overall experience of the exhibit’s visitors.

One example of the variety and what to expect while viewing the exhibit is its “Engagement and Wedding” presentation. When you walk into the room, you are surrounded by huge video screen showing the actual wedding which creates increases the sensation that you are really there. Among many of the interesting items that most people have never seen is an actual preserved piece of the wedding cake.

Tammy Johnson, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center said, “This exhibit is a great addition to the Branson entertainment scene. From the ‘Beverly Hill Billies’ TV truck to a Princess and the Titanic, the World’s Largest Toy Museum and so much more, the exhibit ‘Diana the People’s Princess’ is another excellent example of the choices Branson has to offer its guests.”

For additional information or tickets for the exhibit “Diana the People’s Princess” 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.

The Front Men of Alabama, Lonestar and Restless Heart to perform together in Branson

Branson, Missouri again shows why it is billed as “the live music show capital of the world.” For the first time, the lead singers of the “Supergroups” Alabama, Lonestar and Restless Heart will come together for one performance on one stage at the Tri-Lakes Theatre in Branson on October 22. “What a unique and wonderful entertainment experience it will provide for Branson audiences,” said Tammy Johnson, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. The concert entitled “The Front Men” will feature Alabama’s Randy Owen, Lonestar’s Richie McDonald and Restless Heart’s Larry Stewart.

She points out that as unique as having all three stars on one stage at once is the concert’s format is equally unique. All three stars will be on stage for the entire concert performing as an “all star” band for each others sets. “With its unique format and over 50 original number one hits between them it promises to be a show that is as exciting and amazing as it is unique,” she continued. Johnson also said that all three will be available after the show to meet and greet those attending.

Alabama's Randy Owen

Randy Owen and Alabama have sold over 73 million albums, including 21 gold, platinum and multi-platinum certifications. They have 42 number one singles including “Feels So Right,” “Mountain Music, “Reckless” and many more. Since its inception Alabama has received over 150 industry awards including multiple Grammys and induction into both the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame. Owen was diagnosed earlier this year with Prostate Cancer, but has undergone a course of treatment and, according to his doctor, “is doing great and is just about fully recovered.”

Richie McDonald of Lonestar

Richie McDonald was the original lead singer and played rhythm guitar, piano, and keyboards for Lonestar from 1992 until his departure for a solo career in 2007. During that time Lonestar had nine number one hits including “Runnin’ Away with My Heart, “I’m Already There” and their biggest hit “Amazed” which was a crossover reaching Number One on both the country charts and the Billboard Hot 100. He is an accomplished song writer who, among many others wrote “I’m Already There,” a song that has touched the hearts of so many especially America’s military and their families. He has “earned six gold and platinum albums, several CMA and ACM awards as well as BMI awards for songwriting.”

Restless Heart's Larry Stewart

Larry Stewart is the lead singer and rhythm guitar player for Restless Heart. Restless Heart was formed in 1984 and has had many number one hits including “Bluest Eyes in Texas,” “I’ll Still Be loving You, “That Rock Won’t Roll” and many others including the pop cross over hit “”When She Cries.”

Johnson said that the chance to see these three amazing singers performing the hits that helped make the groups they sang with famous is a unique opportunity. She also anticipates that because there will be only one show tickets will go fast and suggests making reservations as soon as possible. For additional information or tickets for The Front Men 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.

More Branson excitement – Silver Dollar City’s KidsFest and Moonlight Madness

“What a great week at Silver Dollar City,” said Tammy Johnson, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center

Silver Dollar City's Wildfire takes on an exciting different perspective during Moonlight Madness.

. “Not only is KidsFest still going on, but Silver Dollar City is celebrating ‘Moonlight Madness’ and staying open until 10:00 p.m.”

Johnson said, “KidsFest is one of the biggest festivals of the year for Silver Dollar City and will run until August 8.” She points out that in addition to all the great rides, shows, craft demonstrations and everything else there is to do at Silver Dollar City there are many additional KidsFest activities. These include the magic and illusions of Peter Gossamer, Sponge Bob, VeggieTales, stunt dogs and much more.”

“What could be better than a day at Silver Dollar City,” asked Johnson. “How about a chance to ‘ride, scream, soar and dance under the stars?’” Silver Dollar City “as well as 30 rides and attractions will remain open until 10:00 along with select shops and restaurants staying open late with supper specials and thrill-seeker deals.”

“Moonlight Madness is created for families looking for something special at the end of summer,” said Silver Dollar City General Manager Brad Thomas. “With Silver Dollar City open 12 ½ hours daily, there’s everything to explore from the coolness, literally 60 degrees, of Marvel Cave to the rides from daylight into night. There’s nothing like a nearly 15-story drop in the dark on Wildfire, or a moonlit water battle on Riverblast.”

Johnson reminds everyone that both KidsFest and Moonlight Madness” end August 8. She said, “Silver Dollar City is a beautiful place anytime, but it takes on a whole different look at night.”

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 (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.

A peoples review of the Branson show “NOAH the Musical”

Noah dancing with part of the spectacular 300 foot Ark in the background

“NOAH the Musical’ is one of Branson’s most spectacular stage productions,” said Tammy Johnson, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center.” She points out that the epic bible story is performed on a 300 foot long wrap around stage filled with 26,550 square feet of live and animated animals; talented actors, singers, dancers and great costuming and an ark that ends up towering over 40 feet above the stage. “It is one of the most popular shows we sell and consistently receives great reviews from our customers.”

In a recent review this writer said, “To anyone who knows the story of Noah and the Ark, the ending is no surprise, but the entertaining journey to the end of the story in “NOAH the Musical” is filled with a wonderful mixture of surprises, original music, pageantry, adventure, fun, spectacular sets and drama. It is a Branson show unrivaled in spectacle, uniqueness, entertainment and message that everyone from children to adults will enjoy.”

The Forums of the website 1Branson.Com are an excellent place to get information on all that is Branson from shows, attractions, lodging, events and much more. It provides an excellent place to ask questions and share opinions of all that is Branson. The two-way flow of information between those living in or familiar with Branson and those with questions about Branson is unique and effective. The comments made by people who have made a Branson show part of their Branson experience provide a “person to person perspective” on a show.”

Recent posts to the thread entitled “REVIEW: Noah The Musical” speak volumes about what a fantastic entertainment experience “NOAH the Musical” is. The poster’s screen name is in parentheses followed by their comments.

“Sunnikc” said, “We went the last time we were in Branson, it was the fall of the year it opened in Branson. My children are still talking about it. They absolutely loved it. It’s also the only show I’ve actually been to in Branson outside of SDC [Silver Dollar City] shows.”

“Busymomx3” said “Awesome show for all ages! Well worth the $ Our group of 6 consisted of ages 70-1 and all enjoyed it. FYI–they have 2 cry rooms for the little ones, so you won’t have to go out and miss part of the show. The building is huge and very well built for a large flow of people. Everything flowed real nicely–with bathroom breaks and exiting after show. Would recommend to everyone.”

“Flutterby” said, “We went to see Noah this past weekend and it was absolutely amazing! It is more expensive than most other shows, but it is worth every penny. Before we could even get out of the theater, my teenage daughter was asking if we could go back to see the Christmas show this season.”

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson said, “The Christmas show referred to is the “Miracle of Christmas,” another spectacular show, which replaces “NOAH the Musical” for the Christmas season from November 2 through December 31. She said that the first season for the “Miracle of Christmas,” in Branson was in 2009 and it appears that it will become a part of the Christmas tradition for many Branson visitors. Johnson also points out that the Christmas Season is a very popular time of the year in Branson and suggests making show and lodging reservations as early as possible to ensure the best choices of show seats and lodging.”

For additional information or tickets for these or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions activities 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.

Exercise your knowledge of Branson’s shows and attractions?

Righteous Brother Bill Medley and daughter McKenna Medley performing at the Starlite Theatre in Branson.

Tammy Johnson, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center, said that the free downloadable “Branson Tourism Center Vacation Guide” has just about all the information anyone could need to plan a trip to Branson. “It has information on Branson shows, attractions, lodging, lakes, shopping, weather, dining, churches, hospitals, events and just about anything else to do with Branson.”

As this writer reflected on all the information available about Branson, not only in the Vacation Guide, but on the internet and through word of mouth from the millions of people who have visited Branson over the years; he wondered just how much about Branson people really know. The ten question exercise below provides a fun way for those familiar with Branson to rate their Branson knowledge and to provides access to Branson information for those considering Branson as a vacation destination.

The answers and a link to additional information are provided just below the last question. In terms of being on target with your knowledge of Branson, give yourself 10 points for each correct answer. A score of 90 or above is “Expert,” 60 to 80 “Sharpshooter,” 40 to 60 “Marksman” and below 50 “Beginner.”

1. Where is a “quacker,” not a “cracker.” required equipment?

2. Where in Branson can you see a Grammy Award winning Rock n Roll Hall of Fame inductee perform “unchained” and “unwired?”

3. Where can you see the “talking dogs?”

4.What Branson show features a stampede and flying cow paddies?”

5 What Branson attraction has over 30 exciting rides, shows, Ozark craftsmen displaying their crafts, festivals and is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year?

6. Where in Branson can you witness a circus fairytale?

7. What comedian in a Branson show has been performing their character on Branson stages the longest? For ten points extra credit name the character they portray?

8. What is the name of the Branson show of biblical proportions featuring an ark on a 300 foot surround stage and live animals?

9. What Branson Attraction has two King Charles Spaniels named “Molly” and “Carter” as its mascots?

10. What show is Branson’s longest running international show?

The answers are:

1. Ride the Ducks – on Table Rock Lake or Lake Taneycomo .

2. At the “Righteous Brother Bill Medley” show.”

3. Aboard the Showboat Branson Belle as part of the Showstopper Show with nationally acclaimed comedian and ventriloquist Todd Oliver and his talking dogs Lucy, Irving and Elvis.

4. The very funny Jim Stafford Show.

5. Silver Dollar City.

6. Yakov’s Moscow Circus.

7. Gary Presley of Presleys’ Country Jubilee. The character is “Herkimer.”

8. NOAH the Musical

9. Branson’s Titanic Museum.

10. The Acrobats of China

Johnson offered the services of the Branson Tourism Center and their Vacation Planning Specialists to provide further information or tickets on any of the shows or attractions mentioned in this article, any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements. The Branson Tourism Center can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Branson entertainer Michael Grimm makes the semifinals of NBC’s “America’s Got Talent”

Michael Grimm during Branson interview. He has a new look for the AGT Semi Finals.

Branson, Missouri, known as the “Live music show capital of the world,” has some of the finest singers and musicians in the world playing in its live shows. Tammy Johnson, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center points out that Michael Grimm, who was a guitar player and vocalist with the “Righteous Brother Bill Medley Show” in Branson, was selected by America voting to go into the semifinals of the NBC prime time hit show “America’s Got Talent (AGT)” earlier this week.

Grimm was playing with the Bill Medley show in Branson when he auditioned for AGT. After his initial appearance on AGT in the Los Angeles auditions he was selected to go to Las Vegas for the next round of competition. After his June 5th performance with the Bill Medley show he left Branson to devote full time to the AGT competition. The auditions and Las Vegas shows were taped for TV, but the Los Angeles show was performed live in front of millions of TV Viewers.

In addition to being performed live, it is the first time during the competition this year that America has gotten to vote for who they wanted to go to the next level. Up to this point the three judges Piers Morgan, Sharon Osborn and AGT’s newest judge, Howie Mandel made the decisions on who progressed to the next level. On the live show, they make recommendations and America votes. In selecting who will go into the semifinals the popular vote selects three out the four from each show and the judges pick the fourth.

The words of AGT host Nick Cannon, after watching Grimm’s audition performance, almost seems prophetic. He said, “That’s a Super Star’s voice right there.” Evidently, America agrees with him because Grimm was advanced to the semifinal round by its popular vote.

During an interview prior to leaving Branson Grimm said “I just want to get as far as I can get. It would be an honor if I can make it a couple of rounds, open some doors for my career, and make enough money to build my Grandma a new house.”

He said that his relationship with his Grandma, Laura Butters, goes back to about age four when she took over the raising of him and his sister after their parents separated. He said, “My grandma is my inspiration,” He credits her, not only with his interest in music and the start of his professional career. His career started at the age of twelve as he sang in “hole in the wall” bars in the Waveland Bay St. Louis area in southern Mississippi as his Grandma chaperoned him and sit there drinking “Diet Cokes” all night until he was through..

During that interview he also said, “It is a once in a lifetime experience and it’s been quite a ride.” Well hold on Michael the rides not over and there’s still have a house to get for Grandma.

For additional information or tickets for the “Righteous Brother Bill Medley Show” 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.

Branson’s “hot” attractions provide cool relief from summer heat

Silver Dollar City's new $7 million dollar RiverBlast literally provides a watery blast of relief from the summer heat.

Even in the midst of the summer’s heat, Branson’s “hot” shows, attractions, activities and the excitement and adventure they offer makes it one of the ‘coolest’ vacation and entertainment destinations in America,” said Tammy Johnson, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. “Branson’s attractions and activities provide a variety of ‘cool’ fun filled ways to get relief from the heat.”

Silver Dollar City, an international award winning 1880s themed park and Branson’s most popular paid attractions has many ways to cool off. The “American Plunge” is an exciting traditional log flume ride providing a thrilling five story plunge at speeds up to 35 miles an hour into a splashdown that guarantees a refreshing soaking. Other rides that provide a similar soaking would be the “Lost River of the Ozarks” or Silver Dollar City’s newest water ride, the $7 million “RiverBlast” which provides a leisure float into what might be the biggest “water fight” on the planet. Another interesting way to get cool at Silver Dollar City is to take the Marvel Cave Tour.

The Branson area is blessed with three fresh water lakes, Table Rock Lake, Bull Shoals Lake, and Lake Taneycomo. Many people are aware of the great fishing, boating and other recreational activities available on the 43,100 plus acres of pristine waters of Table Rock Lake. One feature a lot of Branson’s visitors might not be aware of however, is Moonshine Beach located just north of Table Rock Dam on State Highways 165/265 within minutes of the Branson Strip. Moonshine Beach is operated by the U.S. Corps of Engineers and, in addition to its large sand swimming beach has a play ground, picnic areas, a boat launch ramp, flush toilets and showers. It is open from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and there is a daily charge of $4.00 per vehicle.

White Water, southwest Missouri’s largest water park, is located on 12 acres right on the famed Branson Strip. It has two million gallons and of cool liquid excitement, more than 7,000 feet of water slides and a dozen rides to help provide a fun filled way to find relief from the summer’s heat. One of its major rides is “Kalani Towers”, a seven story tall six slide ride. Two of the slides have 300 foot drops enabling speeds of up to 40 mph and four have 312 foot slides located immediately adjacent to each other that permit lane racing at speeds up to 25 mph. Other cooling rides are the Raging River Rapids a two slide ride wrapping around a huge five story high waterfall as riders race to the pool below; the Bermuda Triangle, a fast paced enclosed slide; the Caribbean Plunge and Tropical Twister rapid-water raft rides; Surfquake, a 500,000 gallon wave pool producing 4-foot waves and the Lazy River, a gently moving river for just floating and relaxing.

The majority of Branson’s shows and indoor attractions are air conditioned but iceberg located near the entrance to the Titanic Museum is an indication of some special “cool things.” Does it get much cooler than touching an iceberg? In addition, as guests near the end of their exciting adventure aboard the Titanic, after it has hit the iceberg, they will encounter a chilling experience followed by a real “cool “hands on experience in the interactive area near the lifeboats.

For additional information on these and other really cool Branson shows, attractions, and activities or for lodging arrangements please call the Branson Tourism Center at 1-800-875-1550 or visit www.BransonTourisimCenter.com.

Branson – home of “Ironman 70.3 Branson” and “Showman 72.4Z Branson?”

The majestic "Showboat Branson Belle."

The “Ironman 70.3 Branson” triathlon will be held in Branson, Missouri on September 19. It will test the physical fitness and endurance of its triathletes as they compete against each other in swimming, bike racing and running events in an effort to win part of the $25,000 prize money and qualify for the “2010 Foster Grant Ironman World Championship 70.3 in Clearwater, Florida.

Keeping with the Ironman and the triathletes theme and remembering that Branson is often referred to as the “live music show capital of the world,” one could wonder if there would be a place for a “Showman 72.4Z Branson” competition. It would pit some of the world’s best “Showathletes,” those who see multiple Branson shows in a day, against each other in a competition to see who could see the most Branson shows in one day. The winner gets absolutely nothing except one of the most entertaining days they will ever have in their life.

In the spirit of the occasion, Tammy Johnson, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center, (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. said, “Imagine the challenge, so many shows and just one day. If I wanted to see as many Branson Shows as possible in one day, I would start at www.BransonOnTheWeb.com (BOTW) because it has Branson’s best search engine, not only for shows but for attractions and lodging too.”

With just a few mouse clicks Showathletes or anyone else, can quickly generate a list of shows sorted by date and time. The BOTW search for September 18, the day before the “Ironman 70.3 Branson” lists dozens of live shows of every type from which Showathletes could pick. One competitor might start the first leg of the competition with The Twelve Irish Tenors at 10 a.m. followed by NOAH the Musical at 1:00 p.m., the Showboat Branson Belle at 4:00 p.m. and Jim Stafford at 8 p.m. Another might start with Down Home Country at 10 a.m. followed by Yakov Smirnoff at 2:00 p.m., Dixie Stampede at 4:40 p.m. and the Acrobats of China at 8 p.m. The variety of choices of Branson’s live shows are almost endless.

Now this writer will be the first to admit that there will probably never be a “Showman 72.4Z Branson” competition and if there was there would be many winners in terms of the maximum number of shows a competitor can fit into one day. “Even at that though,” said Johnson with a twinkle in her eye, “It’s a win for everyone because each competitor would have had an exciting fun filled day of great Branson live entertainment.”

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. They can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.