Month: June 2009

During the middle of June there was an unconfirmed rumor going around Branson that “Yakov’s Moscow Circus” would bare it all on or about June 23. Some were aghast that Branson’s family entertainment image might be endangered and at, of all places, “a circus with children in attendance.” That was only of course, until they found out that what the only thing that would be bared was the real bears that would be coming to the circus for a limited engagement.

On June 23, “Mishka the Russian Bears” started their limited engagement at Yakov’s Moscow Circus. Although Yakov’s Moscow Circus is currently performing a limited engagement at Yakov’s Theatre in Branson running through September 7, Mishka, the Russian Bears will only be appearing through July 5.

Information received from Yakov’s Moscow Circus says it features Andre the Clown and International Flying Adagio Star Marina along with a revolving line up of exciting and unique acts including Irina Markova and her award-winning canine troupe with their feline friends, Pavlina Gyumisheva the Human Slinky, Igor & Denis “The Strongmen of Moscow”, National Unicycling Champion Anthony Soumiatin, Boris the Wonder Dog and now Mishka the Russian Bears.

Yakov says, “Moscow Circus is a combination of comedy, adventure, romance, magical family chemistry and exciting human and animal performance art. It creates a fun story for everyone to enjoy.”

Yakov’s Moscow Circus will be appearing in Branson at Yakov’s Theatre on Tuesday through Sunday until September 7. For more information and specific scheduling on “Yakov’s Moscow Circus” and Branson’s other shows and attractions and accommodations call the Branson Tourism Center at 1-800-785-1505 or visit their website www.bransontourismcenter.com.

Moonshine Beach on shore of Table Rock Lake.

With June Heat Indexes reaching over 100 on some days, summer has come to the Ozarks and Branson a little sooner than usual The good news, according to Paul Miller, General Manager, Branson Tourism Center, is that Branson has lots of ways to stay cool and beat the heat of summer. “Three that can really cool off Branson visitors, he said, “Are White Water, Moonshine Beach, and Branson’s Titanic Museum.”

Miller said that White Water, operated by the same company that operates Silver Dollar City and the Showboat Branson Belle, has 12 acres and two million gallons of cool liquid fun and excitement to help cool the summer’s heat. It has more than 7,000 feet of water slides, a dozen rides and is located near the west end of the Branson Strip.

One of its major features 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.

Miller points out that one of the country’s premier recreational lakes, Table Rock Lake can also offer respite from summer heat. Although most people are aware of the great fishing, boating and other recreational uses of Table Rock Lake, a lot of Branson’s tourists are not aware of the fact that it has a major beach that is readily accessible for Branson visitors to use.

Moonshine Beach was closed last season because of high water damage, but just recently reopened. It is located just north of Table Rock Dam on State Highways 165/265 and is operated by the U.S. Corps of Engineers. In addition to its large swimming beach Moonshine Beach’s amenities include 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.

Miller says that another Branson attraction with some surprise relief from the heat is Branson’s Titanic, the world’s largest museum attraction. Like the majority of Branson’s indoor attractions and shows the Titanic is air conditioned, but it has some “cooler surprises” towards the end of the exciting “voyage” as the Titanic approaches and hits the iceberg that sends her to the bottom of the Atlantic. It is literally a chilling experience followed by a real “cool “hands on experience near the lifeboats.

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

Showboat Branson Belle on Table Rock Lake.

Branson is blessed with so many shows, attractions, and other activities it is sometimes hard to choose what to do from the bewildering number of choices available. However, for those who might want to slow down, relax, and have a unique entertainment experience, a cruise on one of Branson’s two major lakes, Table Rock Lake or Lake Taneycomo might just fill the bill…

The two lakes are very different lakes with Table Rock being the largest and deepest with over 43 thousand surface acres, and 800 miles of shoreline. It is Branson’s main lake for swimming, recreational boating, fishing, and water sports.

Table Rock Lake is also home to Branson’s largest cruise boat, the Showboat Branson Belle. The 278 foot long Branson Belle is a replica of the old time stern wheel river boats and is actually propelled through the water by her two huge 24 foot paddle wheels. On the typical day she leaves from her dock at the “White River Landing, located just south of Table Rock Dam on State Highways 165/265, three times a day for a lunch cruise at noon and dinner cruises at 4 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

A cruise on the Showboat Branson Belle is more than just a cruise. It is about two hours of beautiful Table Rock Lake scenery, great food and quality entertainment. Paul Miller, General Manager for the Branson Tourism Center, advises advance reservations, particularly during weekends, holidays and in the fall because of the popularity of the Show Boat Branson Belle. He also points out that the 4:00 p.m. dinner cruise returns in plenty of time for those wanting to attend an 8:00 p.m. Branson show to do so.

Branson’s Lake Taneycomo is a long narrow 22 mile long impoundment of the White River that flows right past downtown Branson and Branson Landing. Branson Landing serves as the “home port” for Branson Landing Cruises’ 100 foot long luxury yacht “Branson Landing Princess” and the river boat replica, “Lake Queen.”

Although there is narration on sightseeing cruises there is no formal show or entertainment included as part of the Branson Landing Cruises. Most cruises have food and beverage service, ranging from snacks, breakfast, lunch, pizza, or full dinner service, depending on the particular cruise. Cruises aboard either the Branson Landing Princess or the Lake Queen should provide an excellent view of the Branson Landing water front, majestic Ozark bluffs, the beauty of the Ozarks along with an excellent chance to observe various species of ducks, Canada Geese, Grey Herons, Black or Turkey Vultures (buzzards), an occasional Bald Eagle and other birds along with other area wildlife.

Branson Tourism Center’s Miller again suggests advance reservations for these cruises to insure availability. He also said, particularly with the evening cruises, that there is an excellent chance of seeing the Branson Landing Fire and Light Show from a unique water side perspective.

Further information on these cruises is available individually through their respective web sites www.bransonlandingcruises.com or www.showboatbransonbelle.com or collectively by contacting Branson Tourism Center by phone at 1-800 785-1550 or through its website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

The Walker Family a.k.a. Redhead Express.

According to information received from the Dutton Family Theatre, the Walker Family a.k.a. the “Redhead Express,” will be performing their Branson show at the Dutton Family Theatre starting on July 6. Judith Dutton, speaking for the Dutton Family Theatre, said that a more detailed schedule of Redhead Express performances will be available within 48 hours, but that in general they will be performing at either 2:00 p.m. or 5:00 p.m. depending on the date during the summerwith additional times possible starting in the fall.

“The Walkers are such an inspiration to us!" says Sheila Dutton. “They are wonderfully talented musicians that we have become very good friends with and we are so excited to add them to the lineup at our theater.” She went on to say that they will have three great shows at the theater; The Duttons, Island Fire and the Redhead Express.

The Walker Family website www.redheadexpress.com, states that the Walker Family is “equally at home playing straight forward bluegrass as they are playing their own unique renditions of old timey and gospel.” It also points out that the show “showcases their four daughters’ beautiful harmonies, original songs, and increasing musical maturity,” while three talented young boys round out the band and “mom and dad add vocal depth, backup, and guidance to the ensemble.”

Through July 5 Redhead Express will continue to performat the Circle B Theatre. The information stated, “Due to scheduling issues in the Fall and the mid-year expiration of their performance contract, The Redhead Express and the Circle B were unable to negotiate a new contract.” Brett Walker of Redhead Express stated, “The Circle B gave us a home and an opportunity to get started in Branson. We will always be grateful to the Horns for that start.”

Apryll Walker said that a lot of their closest business associates advised them “that the matinee and morning show market would be ideal” for their show. They found that the Dutton Family Theater was a perfect fit. Bret Walker said other factors involved with the decision to move was the location of the theatre on Highway 76, a larger stage and the theatre’s state of the art sound and lighting.

For more information on the Dutton’s, Island Fire or Redhead Express shows contact either the Dutton Family Theater at 888-388-8661. For more information on those shows, other Branson shows, attractions or accomodations, contact the Branson Tourism Center at 800-785-1550.

Well, when you think you have seen it all, Branson, the Live Music Show Capital of the World, surprises you with another unique, exciting, and inspirational show. Described as “a hip educational musical adventure for kids of all ages,” the show, “Rock U Mentally LIVE!” will start a limited five week engagement at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater on July 16 and run through August 15, 2009.

Although the show hasn’t even opened yet, when Melody Byrd, Group Sales & Marketing Manager of the Legends in Concert Show is as excited as she appears to be about the show and says, “I believe this will be BIG for kids,” it should get a person’s attention. Adding to the excitement is the fact that the show is locally conceived and produced with the active participation of Bucky Herd. Herd is a well known local Branson entertainer and one of the “Blues Brothers” in the Legends in Concert Show also playing at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theatre.

Anyone who has ever seen Herd perform knows the professionalism and energy he puts into each performance and cannot help but be enthused about the new show. Herd describes the show as “A fun filled, educational musical adventure for kids of all ages that focuses on social and environmental responsibility.”

Another well known Branson entertainer, Chris Skillern, has also be actively involved in the development and production of the show. Skillern describes the development of the show as “A labor of love for kids everywhere because, after all, the future of our planet depends on them!"

Information furnished on the show describes it as “An inspiring show features exciting original music, awesome choreography, larger than life costumed characters, a thrilling multimedia presentation, fun filled audience participation, and much, much more!” However, see for yourself, click here for a one minute Rock U Mentally promotional video.

Jeannie Horton, General Manager, for Legends in Concert at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater said, “We love the educational and environmental focus of the show and are excited to be working with such a talented group of entertainers.” According to Byrd, in addition to the Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater, Branson Tourism Center (BTC) will be one of the primary outlets for the sale of “Rock U Mentally LIVE!” tickets. Branson Tourism Center is one of Branson’s largest and most respective providers of Branson show and attraction tickets. It may be reached by phone at 1-800-785-1550 or on their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Yakov sharing Laboratory of Laughter with his audience.

From its “Star Spangled” beginning the audience at the Yakov Smirnoff Show knows they are in for something special. Yakov’s unique blend of humor, personality, natural unforced patriotism and ability to establish a rapport with his audience coupled with great production, costuming, and dancing fulfills that expectation and then some.

As one would expect from America’s favorite Russian comedian there is a lot of funny lines and comedy routines. Most of these routines are built around themes and are introduced by full production numbers.

In the typical comedy show one might not expect much in terms of production, but this is no typical comedy show. The dancers, costuming, and music are excellent and choreographed into the show along with excellent sets to provide an exciting quality entertainment experience. To paraphrase the words of Yakov himself, “You might not have thought about production numbers in a comedy show, but you will now.”

The dancers are referred to as the “Russian Dancers” and are they good. They participate throughout the show in a variety of ways from “Secret Service Agents” to “lab assistants,” but it is their dancing that adds a special element to the show. Two of the dancing highlights are the “Russian Hoedown” and the actual performance of “Russian Dancing.” These are some very talented dancers dancing some well choreographed pieces.

In the first half, Yakov’s comedy runs from the Celestial to the Presidential with lots of laughter in between. Not only does it answer the age old question, “How can women love men,” but answers other weighty questions relating to important domestic and world issues as only “President Yakov” could. A highlight is when the President takes random questions from the audience.

One of the highlights of the second half is the “Laboratory of Laughter” which is a mixture of comedy, psychology, laughter and love. You will laugh at the comedy Yakov used in illustrating the importance of laughter to happiness and love. Yet, some might be moved to tears as he describes his family’s first days in New York and their befriending by their landlady. Either way it is a remarkable and unique journey shared in a warm, funny, and caring way.

Although you might not have thought about laughter being the key to happiness, “You will now.” Among many of the relational nuggets of wisdom Yakov shares is “Never go to bed angry. Stay up and fight” and “It takes two to tickle.” Yakov’s comedic wit, sincerity, warmth and his ability to relate to his audience will definitely not only have you laughing, but walking out of the show feeling happy about yourself and the privilege of living in this great nation.

To obtain personal assistance with information or reservations for Yakov’s show or any other Branson show or attraction please call 1-800-785-1550 or click here.

The Silver Dollar City Foundation is sponsoring a benefit for the Foundation’s “Care For Kids” program at Branson’s White Water on Saturday, June 20th, from 3:00p.m to8:00 p.m. The Care For Kids program was started in 2006 to help meet the “physical, mental and emotional needs of kids in the Stone and Taney counties. It works very closely with school district and local churches in accomplishing its mission and is currently serving 14 school districts in Stone and Taney Counties.

The event includes admission to the park starting at 3:00 p.m. a tropical BBQ dinner and games
in the Pavilion from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., a live band, PEARL from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and exclusive ride time for two hours after the park closes to the public at it scheduled time of 7:00 p.m. The cost of the event is $15.00 for adults, $10.00 for children ages 4 through 11, and $10.00 for season pass holders.

White Water will be open for the public during its regularly scheduled hours of operation 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The event will not impact on those who have already purchased a regular admission to White Water or any of the benefits they will receive from that purchase.

Guests attending White Water during its regular scheduled session do have the option of paying the extra costs mentioned above and fully participating in the meal, band, and the exclusive two hours of ride time after the park closes at 7:00 p.m. Those attending the benefit are reminded that admission before the 3:00 start time is at White Water’s regular price.

For a additional information about the benefit call Cally Ross 417 335-7058

There is an unconfirmed rumor going around Branson that “Yakov’s Moscow Circus” will bare it all on or about June 23. Some might be aghast that Branson’s family entertainment image could be endangered and at, of all places, a circus. That is, until they find out that what the show might “bare” is exciting news about “bears,” real bears.

Yakov’s Moscow Circus is currently performing a limited engagement at Yakov’s Theatre in Branson running through September 7. Will the bare all on the bears actually happen? Only that very funny man, Yakov Smirnoff and the Moscow Circus knows what, if anything will be bared and when.

The anticipation and excitement of waiting is a bear. The good news is that information on the latest bare bones facts about “Yakov’s Moscow Circus” and Branson’s other shows and attractions can be laid bare by calling the Branson Tourism Center at 1-800-785-1505 or visiting their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

One of many beautiful aerial fireworks displays that will be seen.

Branson, Missouri “the Live Music Show Capital of the World,” will be celebrating America’s Independence Day and the Fourth of July with a number of fireworks displays and celebrations. Although most will be on July 4, some start as early as June 28.

Paul Miller, General Manager for the Branson Tourism Center advises people planning to attend these events to bring their own chairs unless they are assured of some other seating and to arrive as early as possible. He also reminds people that the Fourth of July weekend is an extremely busy time in Branson and suggests they allow a little extra time to travel from point to point and to book shows and lodging as far in advance as possible.

The major Fourth of July celebrations and fireworks displays are listed below. A contact phone number is provided for each.

Name: Honor America
Place: College of the Ozarks by Lake Honor
Phone: College of the Ozarks – 417-334-6411 or 800-222-0525
Date/Time(s) /Comment(s): June 28, Picnic 4:30 p.m., Entertainment 6:00 p.m., Patriotic Concert by Springfield, Symphony 8:30 p.m. followed by Fireworks. Bring your own chairs and come early.

Name: Liberty Light Up
Place: Branson Landing – Town Square by Fountains
Phone: Branson Landing – 417-239-3002
Date/Time(s) /Comment(s) July 3, Concert by “Chain Reaction, A Tribute to Journey” at 8:00 p.m. followed by Fireworks.

Name: Branson Spirit of 76 Independence Day
Place(s) Two locations: Branson Landing and Stockstill Park
Phone: Branson Veteran’s Task Force – 417-337-8387
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4, 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. (Simultaneously both locations) Show your patriotism on Independence Day by wearing Red, White and Blue and join the celebration with free Ice cream and flags.

Name: Fireburst Fourth of July Fireworks Show
Place: Kimberling City
Phone: Kimberling City Table Rock Chamber of Commerce – 1-800-595-0393
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4, 6:30 p.m. Entertainment in Summer Fresh parking lot, Fireworks at dark. Good Viewing Area: Right on Route 13 in downtown Kimberling City, near Kimberling City Shopping Mall, about 6 miles south of Branson West. It can be viewed very well from Table Rock Lake near the north end of the bridge.

Name: BBQ and Fireworks at Chateau on the Lake
Place: Chateau on the Lake – North of Table Rock Dam on State Highway 165/265
Phone: Chateau on the Lake 417-334-1161
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4, Paid BBQ event, complete with live music will be followed by fireworks display which is easily and conveniently viewed for free from Table Rock Lake via boat or park in loop just south of new overrun floodgates on Table Rock Dam or the Chateau’s public areas.

Name: Hollister’s 56th Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration
Place: Historic Downing Street in Hollister
Phone: City of Hollister- 417- 337- 8315 or Hollister Chamber of Commerce- 417-334-3050
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4/ Dusk. Good Viewing Area: Along Business Hwy 65 in Historic downtown Hollister.

Name: Rockaway Beach 4th of July Celebration and Fireworks Display
Place: Downtown Rockaway Beach
Contact: – Rockaway Beach Chamber of Commerce – 417-561-4280
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4. Family activities start at 1:00 p.m. and Fireworks start at 9:00

Name: Big Cedar Fireworks Display
Place: Big Cedar Lodge
Location: Off State Highway 86 in Ridgedale, MO
Phone: Big Cedar – 417-335-2777
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4/ Dusk. Good Viewing Area: In front of Registration Building or from Table Rock Lake.

Names: Show Boat Branson Belle Cruise
Place: Show Boat Branson Belle
Contact: Show Boat Branson Belle – 417-338-2611
Date /Time/Comment(s): July 4, 8:00 p.m. dinner cruise. No guarantees and you take your chances, but the 8:00 PM Dinner Cruise has been known to anchor and watch the Chateau on the Lake’s Fireworks display as part of the cruise. Branson Tourism Center’s Miller, points out that this cruise is generally sold out so the further in advance reservations are made the better.

Name: Shell Knob Fire & Thunder Fireworks Display
Place: Shell Knob, MO, 1 mile S. of Bridge
Contact: Shell Knob Chamber of Commerce – 417-858-3300
Date/Time/Comment(s): July 4/Dusk. In case of rain event will be rescheduled for July 5.

Name: Cape Fair Fireworks Display
Place: Cape Fair Marina
Contact: Cape Fair Chamber of Commerce – 417-538-2222.
Date/Time/ Comment(s): July/4 Dusk.

Neal McCoy, country music superstar and two-time Entertainer of the Year, brings his show to Yakov’s Theatre in Branson MO. Neal McCoy’s show opens on June 16 at 8:00pm and runs through November 1 on selected dates. Yakov says, “Neal McCoy and I are a great team because Neal McCoy has three platinum albums and I have four…Celine Dion’s, Cher’s, Garth Brooks’, and Frank Sinatra’s.” Just like those entertainers, Neal’s show is more than a concert and country music, it’s a high energy entertainment experience packed with a variety of musical styles and it’s dynamite fun!”

Neal McCoy says, “I like to entertain and have a great time with the folks. Here in Branson people know how to have a good time! So that’s what we’re planning on doing and you gotta love that.”

Neal McCoy, known for his fast-moving shows and fun music has received Entertainer of the Year two times and other exciting accolades including five #1 singles, five top 10 hits, 1 Gold album, and many, many others. His hits include Wink, The Shake, No Doubt About It, You Gotta Love That, They’re Playing Our Song, Billy’s Got His Beer Goggles On, The City Put The Country Back In Me, Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye, If I Was A Drinking Man and more. Along with over 13 USO Tours, Neal has traveled around the world bringing his signature brand of entertainment to the fans.

McCoy, who was named Humanitarian of the Year by multiple organizations, is using his first eight shows in Branson to raise money for local charities including Make-A-Wish Foundation, Special Olympics, The American Heart Association, and The American Red Cross. Each charity will have a benefit night at Yakov’s Theatre.

The first four shows in June also include special performances from Yakov. Neal says, “I just do what I can to help. I hope people will see the great value in being able to see two stars at a great price plus benefit their charity of choice at the same time.” If you want your charity to benefit from your attendance at any of these first four shows go to www.yakov.com or call 800-336-6542 and tell them which charity you would like to help.

For tickets and additional information about Neal McCoy’s engagement or schedule at Yakov’s or other Branson Shows, attractions, lodging or Branson travel services call 1-800-785-1550 or visit www.bransontourismcenter .com.

Veggi Tales Bob the Tomato and Larry the Cucumber posing with some of the kids.

If Branson, the “Live music shows capital of the world” had a “festival capital” it would have to be its largest and most popular attraction, Silver Dollar City. Already a world class theme park, Silver Dollar City holds a continuous series of varied high quality fun filled festivals throughout the year. Starting with “WorldFest” in the spring and ending with “An Old Time Christmas” in November and December, Silver Dollar City is continually evolving from one fun filled and exciting festival to another. In terms of fun and excitement, “Kidsfest” running from June 6 through August 9 is no exception..

Paul Miller. General Manager of Branson Tourism Center, said, “Even for a place known for its festivals, KidsFest is the most popular of all Silver Dollar City’s Festivals for kids and their families.” He believes that popularity stems from the fact the festival is specifically designed for kids and families and is held during the peak time of the year when lots of kids and families are in Branson.

New this year will the first U.S. performance of JEERK, a Swedish super group that has become a phenomenon in Europe. Brad Schroeder, Silver Dollar City’s Director of Special Events said, “Kids love action, and JEERK presents an energetic and outrageous combination of dance, percussion, music and acrobatics, all in flawless precision.”

In addition, information received from Silver Dollar City indicates KidsFest will feature “kid-favorite entertainment productions” including the “Magic of Peter Gossamer,” an original live stage show from VeggieTales, and “Kid Concoctions.” The Magic of Peter Gossamer will feature comedy, tricks, vanishings and levitations. America’s favorite talking vegetables will star in a VeggieTales live stage show musical adventure created exclusively for Silver Dollar City called “The Invention of Silliness.” The Kid Concoctions Activity Center, is a hands-on activity where kids can make their own creations from the acclaimed Kid Concoctions books and television show.

In addition to all the value added KidsFest activities Silver Dollar City has its craftsmen, food, and 30 themed rides and attractions offering excitement, thrills and adventure. There are high-speed coasters such as the explosive-launch coaster PowderKeg, named the Best Family Thrill Coaster on the Planet by Thrillride.com, the multi-looping coaster WildFire, the 7-story super-swooping Giant Swing and mega-splashing rides like the American Plunge and the Lost River raft ride.

Branson Tourism Center’s Miller reminds those attending KidsFest that the same company owns both Silver dollar City and another very popular family summer attraction, “White Water.” Located east of Silver Dollar City on State Highway 76, Whitewater offers 12 acres of tropical excitement with more than a dozen rides, attractions, and 7,000 feet of water slides creating two million gallons of fun and enjoyment for kids and their families. He suggests those planning to attend both parks can save money by purchasing combination tickets. For further information on KidsFest, Silver Dollar City or White Water call 1-800-785-1550.

With the opening of Branson’s newest airport, currently named “Branson Airport,” travelers to Branson now have a choice of two airports to choose from and competitive low cost airfares. Yet, just in case it comes up in a trivia quiz, none of the airports serving Branson are actually located in Branson.

The closest commercial airport to Branson is the Branson Airport (BKG) which is located about 8 miles and a 10 to 15 minute drive southeast of Branson. It has been open to commercial air traffic since May 11, 2009 and is currently served by AirTran and Sun Country.

The Springfield-Branson National Airport (SGF) is located about 50 miles and a 60 minute drive northwest of Branson. It is served by Allegiant, American Eagle, Delta, NWA and United.

At first blush it seems superfluous to even mention another airport and carriers serving Branson with Branson Airport only being 8 miles away. But aren’t there other factors that should be considered also that could be as important?

In today’s economy, it would seem that price might be one of those factors. Although SGF has been serving Branson for decades it was notorious for high prices. Some believe this actually helped pave the way for the private development of BKG based on the fact that it would offer low cost air service to Branson. The good news for Branson air travelers is that in doing so it forced the air carriers flying into SFG to lower their fares to compete.

For example, at 3:00 p.m. on June 7, 2009, www.kayak.com showed that two travelers, traveling from Chicago to Branson on July 11 and returning on Jul 18 could fly round trip to Branson through SGF on American Eagle for $192.20 each. Kayak showed that the same itinerary on AirTran Airlines into BKG would cost $350.90 per passenger. The total difference on the two round trip tickets is $317.40. For that kind of savings, some travelers might elect to drive the extra 50 minutes and 42 miles to Branson.

Sharon Budnick, Manager, Branson Travel Agency, a sister entity of Branson Tourism Center, points out that travelers flying into Branson have more practical and flexible options available than ever before. She said, “Travelers flying into Branson should consider all the factors including price, travel distance and time from the arrival airport, length of flight, scheduling, and the options that are available to the traveler if there is an issue with a connecting flight.”

Budnick also suggests that most air travelers to Branson will need a rental car. BKG is a private airport and has only one rental car agency “Enterprise.” Unlike the vast majority of other airports in the United States, BKG does not permit other rental car agencies to pick up their customers at the airport. She advises travelers going into BKG, not using Enterprise, to have local contact and other appropriate information for the agency they will be renting from prior to their arrival at BKG. The car rental situation at SGF, in terms of choices and manner of operation, is the same as that found in most airports.

Recently, five-year-old Parker Strobeck wasn’t too sure he wanted to fly. Parker’s indecision was on the set of “Peter Pan” currently playing at Branson’s “The Mansion Theatre through Dec. 12. But when the star of the show, Cathy Rigby, came out dressed as Peter Pan, Strobeck changed his mind. Parker, along with two other children who have muscular dystrophy got the flight of their lives as they soared in the rigging Rigby uses in “Peter Pan.

As aerial designer Paul Rubin gently pulled the ropes, hoisting Parker six inches above the stage, Parker , of Omaha, AR said, “Don’t put me up too high.” . Within a minute, Parker was swinging across the stage, grinning at his mother, Kerri Strobeck. She said Parker had recently enjoyed his “Make A Wish” visit to Disney World.

Rubin also gave flights to Thomas Canter(CQ), 7, of Ozark, and Xavier Kleiber, 13, from Stotts City. To the children’s delight, Rigby gave them packets of “fairy dust” to sprinkle. “Think good thoughts,” she said. Also watching the event was Mansion owner Gene Bicknell. MDA has personally touched him, he said. He lost his niece Dellena Scofield to the disorder.

A news crew from KOLR-10 in Springfield, Mo., taped the flights for use during the annual Labor Day Muscular Dystrophy Telethon.

Rigby became America’s favorite when she was on the U.S. Olympic gymnastics team in 1970. She started touring in “Peter Pan” in 1974, and said she has done the rigorous show 2,700 times. Rigby said. “It’s maintaining the energy of a 10-year-old boy, who jumps on furniture and runs around the room while he’s singing and then performs aerial ballet, and that’s in the first scene.”

“Peter Pan” staring Cathy Rigby, is playing at The Mansion Theatre Tuesdays through Sundays at 8 p.m. with Wednesday and Saturday matinees at 3 p.m through Dec. 12. For information or to purchase tickets call Branson Tourism Center at 1-800-785-1550 or visit www.bransontourismcenter.com.

Branson, the live music show capital of the world, has a passion for providing the millions of tourists that come to Branson each year a quality and variety of entertainment that is both memorable and unique. From a world class theme park, its great shows and lakes, Branson provides the opportunity for an entertainment experience that is unrivaled anywhere.

If a person used one of Branson major destination web sites such as www.branson.com or contacted a major provider of Branson tourism services such as the Branson Tourism Center for information about what there is to do in Branson, they would literally be overwhelmed by the hundreds of shows, attractions, and activities available. Yet, if Branson were a camera sitting on a tripod, it would be supported by the three legs Branson’s Shows, Silver Dollar City, and Table Rock Lake.

If one of those legs were missing the Branson of today would be, to say the least, unstable and at risk of losing its relevance as a major tourist destination. An argument could also be made that not only is the Branson of today being supported by the “tourism tripod,” but was built upon it.

Branson’s shows are the first leg of the tripod. It started in 1959 when the Mabe family opened Branson’s first live commercial show the “Baldknobbers, A few years later the Presleys’ built their theatre on what has now become the “Branson Strip.” From that simple beginning, Branson has grown to the point where, because of the the number and quality of its live shows, Branson is billed as “the live music show capital of the world.”

“Silver Dollar City,” the second leg of the tripod, was opened in 1960 by the Herschend family and has developed into a world class theme park that is easily Branson’s number one paid attraction. Silver Dollar City is constantly evolving with new festivals, rides, or shows designed to give its guests “memories that will last a lifetime.” Of equal importance to Branson is the promotion, both in market and out of market, that Silver Dollar City does promoting not only itself but Branson.

The last leg of the tripod is Table Rock Lake. The result of the Table Rock Dam, which was completed in 1958, Table Rock Lake, along with the world class trout fishery it created in Lake Taneycomo, added a vital water component to Branson’s entertainment offerings. This leg of the tripod also represents the natural beauty of the Ozarks which along with Table Rock Lake and Lake Taneycomo contributes tremendously to the uniqueness of the Branson entertainment experience.

In 1958, Branson was basically a small laid back town in the Ozarks. Then, one at a time, the legs of the tourism tripod, Branson Shows, Silver Dollar City and Table Rock Lake, were firmly put in place. The entertainment concept of “Branson” was firmly attached to the top of that tripod and the rest has become entertainment history.