Month: August 2009

Roman rider jumps his horses through the Hoops of Fire.

Branson, Missouri is no stranger to either live shows or live entertainment, but, as Paul Miller, General Manager for the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services and sellers of Branson show and attraction tickets and lodging, said, “Even in Branson ‘Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction’ stands out.”

The fun starts as people walk from the parking lot to the main entrance and pass by the “real stars” of the show, the horses in their stalls. The fun and anticipation of what is to come continues to build during the "Pre Show” in the Carriage Room.

It is an exciting fast paced fun filled show presented by David Lucas, a very talented entertainer who keeps the comedy coming as he tells jokes, plays the banjo and juggles everything from hoops to silk scarves and machetes. His ability to weave his humor into his fabulous juggling routines not only keeps all ages of the audience entertained, but builds anticipation and excitement for what is to follow in the main auditorium. Tiger Woods is pretty good with a golf club and ball however, it is doubtful that even he can make them do what Lucas does on his last routine.

Right after the preshow the audience enters the main 85,000 square foot area where they go to their seats and have their first contact with the show, their server. At Dixie Stampede the server is an integral part of the show and does more than merely serve food. They provide a lot of the excitement that makes up the Dixie Stampede entertainment experience. From her pleasant greeting, great service, interaction with our group to her spirited participation during the competition, Jennifer, our server, did an outstanding job and added to the fun, spirit and enjoyment of the evening in a big way.

The grand finale provides a spectacular and patriotic end to a great evening of entertainment. and fun.

The Master of Ceremonies comes out mounted on a beautiful black Friesian horse and, in an entertaining manner, explains that after dinner there will be friendly competition between the North and South, lets folks know what side they are on and then spends some time getting the sides excited and stirred up for the competition that is to come. As he introduces the armies the nonstop fun and excitement begins with marching armies and thundering Calvary.

After the introduction of the armies and some fast paced maneuvers by the Calvary of the North and South there is a wonderful show taking the audience back to the very early days of the early west. It starts with animals grazing on a surreal plain before there were any humans and evolves through a heard of a heard of long horn cattle and the settlers moving in with their wagons. In between there is a beautiful act involving the Native American culture, a medicine man and the “Spirit of the Bird, a spectacular aerialist who soars high above the arena, in a performance that is poignant, beautiful, exciting, and graceful that will be remembered by audience members of all ages for a long time.

As the settlers move in and set up camp the servers start serving the food and there is plenty of it. No one with a normal appetite should leave Dixie Stampede hungry. Dinner consists of a whole mouth watering chicken, delicious hickory smoked barbecued pork loin, Dixie Stampede’s Original Creamy Vegetable Soup, Scrumptious Homemade Biscuit, Hot Buttered Corn on the Cob, Tasty Herb Basted Potato, Dixie’s very own Specialty Dessert and unlimited Pepsi, tea, or coffee. There is a vegetarian menu available if requested when the reservations are made.

As dinner is being served the entertainment continues nonstop with some of the most beautiful horses and skilled riders performing some of the most amazing feats of horsemanship most people will ever see. From Roman Riding and jumps through fiery hoops to racing buck boards and trick riding of many different types, the show is amazing. This pesky guy “Skeeter” keeps showing up and when he does get ready for some surprises and laughter because Skeeter doesn’t do “serious.

After the show and meal the competition begins with a number of different events. Some are done between the competing North and South Calvary, others such as the chicken chase and toilet seat competitions involve participants from the audience and still others involve racing pigs and miniature horses, but all just add to the fun, excitement and adventure that is Dixie Stampede.

The competition between North and South came down to the last action packed event involving the entire audience. The excitement crackled throughout the audience almost to a fever pitch as they endeavored to get victory for their side but, alas, on this night where both North and South won in terms of fun and excitement, the North was victorious.

The finale is a spectacular red white and blue patriotic salute with fireworks, riders and horses with luminous costumes and the Flying Doves of Peace. It is all set and conducted to the a song “Color Me America” written by Dolly Parton. What an end to a great evening of fun, excitement, adventure and entertainment.

Walking back to the car right after the performance the words of Dolly Parton from her Dixie Stampede advertisements came to mind, “My Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction is the most fun place to eat in Branson.” Those might just be the truest words that have ever appeared in an advertisement.

Gene Williams, Loretta Lynn, Dot Rhodes and Mike Snider will be inducted into the George D. Hay Music Hall of Fame, named for the man who created the Grand Ole Opry. Williams said, “I am honored to be included in the 2009 induction group along with country icon Loretta Lynn, Dot Rhodes, entertainer and wife of Hall of Fame member Dusty Rhodes, and Mike Snider, an extraordinarily talented musician in country music.”

The George D. Hay Music Hall of Fame and Foundation, located in Mammoth Spring, Ark., honors the memory of George D. Hay, who credited a hoe down in the town as the inspiration for his creation of the Grand Ole Opry. Both the hall of fame and foundation have the support and encouragement of Hay’s daughter, Margaret Hay-Van Damm.

“The (George D. Hay Music) Hall of Fame induction, by foundation selection, is a means of recognizing rare individuals who have played an outstanding and enduring role in the world of country music. Your musical history and career set you apart as one such individual,” said Bob Ross, president and 2009 awards chair of the hall and the foundation. The induction will be conducted during the 13th Annual George D. Hay Music Hall of Fame and Hoe Down Awards Show on Sept. 20 at the George D. Hay Music Hall of Fame Theater in Mammoth Spring, Ark.

In Williams’ nomination biography, Ross wrote, “Gene is a man who strives to keep alive the spirit of country music for all music fans.” Williams’ fans recently presented him with a Gold Record for the #1 classic country music show in America. Williams has been honored by his hometown with a road named after him following a 2007 key to the city presentation and a historical marker recognizing his support to help preserve the town’s history. A historical building in Dyess will be a museum recognizing former residents, Johnny Cash, Tommy Cash and Williams. He was grand marshal in the first Dyess Christmas Parade in 2008.

The Gene Williams Country Music TV Show was featured in the June 2009 issue of Better Homes and Gardens as a nostalgia experience in a live television show. For the past eight years the show has been taped in Branson live before a studio audience. Guests have included Mickey Gilley, who is his current announcer, the Oak Ridge Boys, Roy Clark, Johnny Lee, Barbara Fairchild, Sons of the Pioneers, Johnny Cash’s band The Tennessee Three, the Blackwood Brothers, Helen Cornelius, Leona Williams, Charlie Louvin, Mary Lou Turner, Cal Smith, Stonewall Jackson, Norma Jean, Porter Wagoner, Jim Owen, Buck Trent, Wanda Jackson and many more.

Over the past five decades, his TV shows have won numerous awards and become the largest syndicated country music TV show not affiliated with Nashville. The show was rated as the most popular TV show in national ratings by WNGF Buffalo Broadcasting of New York and as a favorite TV show in a national magazine. Williams even helped Dr. Phil make a dream come true for one of his guests by making him a feature country singer on Williams’ show.
Williams’ television career led to his making two movies, Country Music Jamboree and Sound of Country Music that starred more than 39 Grand Ole Opry stars. He has worked with such greats as Johnny Cash, the Carter Family, the Statler Brothers, Carl Perkins, Charlie Walker, Charlie Louvin, Del Reeves, Merle Haggard, Ray Price, Minnie Pearl and Jack Greene.

Publication of this press release, on this site, sponsored by the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services and sellers of Branson show and attraction tickets and lodging. BTC can be reached by calling 800-875-1550 or by visiting their web site www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

It has been called a “once in a life opportunity” by Bill Tirone, director of sales and marketing for Hiltons of Branson, the company that handles the management of the new Payne Stewart Golf Club in Branson. According to Tirone, the opportunity is referring to a special package that includes the chance to play an 18 hole round of golf with Andy Williams for a $12,000 donation to the Boys and Girls Club of the Ozarks.

This special package includes more than just a round of golf. In addition to the round of golf with Williams the package also includes limousine service, two tickets to the Andy Williams Show, dinner at the Andy Williams Moon River Grill and two nights in the Presidential Suite on the top floor of the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel.

Information publicizing the fundraising effort quotes Williams as saying, “I’ve always supported the Boys and Girls Club, as long as I can remember.” “I think it’s one charity that you can actually see the good that comes from supporting the club, and its effect on young people. I’ve been involved in the Boys and Girls Club in Coachella Valley, Calif., for a long time also, and I support the Boys and Girls Club nationally as well.”

Tirone came up with the fund raising idea for the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Ozarks and Williams, who is an avid golfer, agreed. Tirone said there is only one package with Williams unless he agrees to do additional packages. He explained that all requests for the package will be processed through him because of the coordination necessary to ensure that Williams and the presidential suite will be available on the desired dates. When asked what happens if more than one person offers to donate, Tirone indicated they will be handled in order of receipt and ability to coordinate with Williams schedule.

Tirone said that a similar package is also available with Paul Revere for a similar $12,000 donation. Paul Revere & the Raiders are currently appearing with the Righteous Brothers’ Bill Medley at the Andy Williams Moon River Theatre through October 24. For information or donations regarding the packages with either Andy Williams or Paul Revere, Tirone should be contacted at 417-243-3410

Paul Miller, General Manager of the Branson Tourism Center said that Williams is known locally for his generosity and efforts to help the local community and its charities. He reminds people that Williams will be performing in Branson for the first time this year with his “Variety Show” in the Moon River Theatre during the entire month of September. He will be performing the famous “Andy Williams Christmas Show” from November 1 through December 7. “To ensure availability,” Miller suggests making advance reservations as far in advance as possible.

Twirling fire bolos are just one of the many reason why Yakov’s Moscow circus is such "hot" entertainment for Branson audiences.

As Branson celebrates 50 years of live music shows it is amazing to consider the variety of entertainment those shows offer. Branson shows have it all, from all genres of music, to comedy of all sorts, outdoor drama, magic, thundering horses, and now, during a limited engagement, the action and excitement of Yakov’s Moscow Circus.

The show’s story line is an original fairy tale, narrated on video by Yakov Smirnoff. It is a tale of relationships, love between sisters, young love found, betrayal, redemption, and, as would be expected in a happy fairy tale ending.

The fairy tale is set in the exciting environment of a Russian Circus and, as it unfolds, is artfully woven around the acts in the circus and its characters. From graceful performance on the aerial hoop high above the stage to the final act, a beautiful and exciting combination adagio dance and aerial silk act, Yakov’s Moscow Circus is constant action, variety and entertainment for the whole family.

Unicyclist Anthony Soumiatin is a U.S. National Unicycling Champion and after seeing his act it is apparent why. It’s exciting enough watching him perform one feat after another during his regular unicycle performance, but things go up to a much higher level when he switches over to the seatless unicycle. His jump from one seatless unicycle to the other, virtually a “wheel to wheel jump” is one of the most amazing feats of coordination and agility a person is likely to see.

The performance of Irina Markova’s dogs and cat was a big hit with the audience. Not only was their performance exciting and active, but the costuming, particularly having the dogs come out costumed a lions added a lot to the excitement and color of the act.

From Russian dancing to a touch of classical ballet and adagio dancing, juggling, whips spitting out fire, fire twirling and children in bubbles, this is one circus with something for everyone. Andre the Clown is the common denominator that keeps the action and excitement of the circus rolling from one segment to the other. Whether it’s juggling, plungers, comedy or just clowning around and interacting with the audience, Andre becomes the crowd’s direct interface with the excitement and adventure of circus.

Perhaps the best way to sum up Yakov’s Moscow Circus would be from some of the recent comments made on the “Shows Forum” of Branson biggest message board, www.1Branson.com. One commenter said, “My family and I went and saw the Moscow Circus @ Yakov’s theater last night [August 22]. All I can say is ‘Wow’. What an amazing show. It was a circus and a show tied into one venue. I highly recommend this show to anyone.” Another comment that specifically speaks to those with families is “It’s something that will entertain adults and children equally…!”

Yakov’s Moscow Circus will complete a limited engagement performance at the Yakov Smirnoff Theatre with its last performance on September 7. For information or tickets for Yakov’s Moscow Circus or any other Branson show or attraction please call the Branson Tourism Center toll free at 1-800-875-1550 or contact them through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

(Branson, MO 08/09) From traditional quartet harmonies to upbeat country and bluegrass, Silver Dollar City‘s Southern Gospel Picnic presents the top performers in gospel music along with hearty home-cooking served up picnic-style. The festival features 12 days of soul-stirring songs from Dove Award winners, Hall of Famers, top recording artists and up-and-coming groups, with over 300 performances during the festival, August 27 – September 7.

“The Southern Gospel genre has changed from being exclusively quartet-focused to including family groups, trios and even bluegrass and country groups, and we’ve got the favorites in all categories,” says SDC festival coordinator, D.A. Callaway. “The common thread is that it’s all uplifting – praise music from the heart, guaranteed to lift your spirits, make you tap your feet and clap along.”

Featured traditional artists include multiple Dove Award winners The Kingsmen, Gold City, Brian Free & Assurance and The Booth Brothers, plus phenomenally popular groups and Dove Award winners Jeff & Sheri Easter, Karen Peck and New River and Mike & Kelly Bowling. Contemporary artists include 2008 Dove winners The Isaacs and Austins Bridge. Another crowd favorite, Callaway says, is the Reggie Saddler Family, led by former R&B artist Reggie Saddler who performed with artists from Jerry Lee Lewis to the Drifters before entering the gospel music ministry. Performances throughout the day are followed by Southern Gospel Nights concerts each evening in the park’s 4,000-seat amphitheater.

New this year, worship services on Sunday, Sept. 6 will feature The Lesters and minister/humorist Dr. Dennis Swanberg. Swanberg’s humor is also showcased in several performances, and comedic performers include Aaron Wilburn, Tim Lovelace and Roy Webb.
Nothing pairs with Southern Gospel music better than favorite picnic foods. The House of Chicken and Fixin’s on the Square features double-battered southern fried chicken, slow-roasted apple glazed chicken and smoked barbecue chicken, with favorite “fixin’s” from au gratin potatoes and coleslaw to Silver Dollar City’s signature cakes.

Throughout the festival, the park is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Sept. 5-6, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.).

For additional information on this event please contact the sponsor of this press release on this site, the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services and sellers of Branson show and attraction tickets and lodging. BTC can be reached by calling 800-875-1550 or by visiting their web site www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Neal McCoy entertaining the audience up close and personal.

What’s two hours of nonstop fun, action, entertainment excitement, and music presented by one of the most personable entertainers around? It just might be the Branson edition of the Neal McCoy Show at the Yakov Smirnoff Theatre.

Neal has received the Entertainer of the Year award twice, won Video of the Year, has three Platinum Albums, one Gold album and nine number one hits and is one of the legends of country music. Yet, in responding to the question, “What one thing do you want potential Branson audiences coming to your show to know about the show he said, “We want the folks who come to our show to know that we’re here to entertain them. I’m not coming to show you how good I can sing or how good my band is. We’re here to make sure you’re part of the show and that you have enjoyed yourself when you leave.”

In his typical down to earth style he went on to say, “Not everyone is a Neal McCoy fan” and acknowledged that “Not everyone knows who Neal McCoy is so we are going to do something that you are going to like, something that will bring you into our show and once you’re in you are really going to enjoy it.”

That just might be the understatement of the year. From the time the curtain went up, until the show was over about two hours later, it was pure entertainment. The band was excellent, his singing was great, but it was Neal’s innate ability to do just what he said he would do, “bring the audience into the show” and to do it so completely that it added immeasurably to the entertainment experience of the audience.

The audience knows it’s going to be a different kind of show when a two time country music entertainer of the year starts the show off, not with one of his own hits, but with two country classics like “Smile” and “Fly me to the Moon.” Now the more astute reader might say, “But those aren’t country classics.” Exactly and that is the point, “Smile” was a Nat King Cole Classic and “Fly Me to the Moon” is another classic by Frank Sinatra.

In fact the show is so different that Neal and the band don’t really know exactly what will be in it from night to night because there is no play list, the list that most bands use to know what song is coming next. Neal said, “Only the first two songs are scripted” and after that they just go with the flow. It was about ten minutes before show time and I asked, “What will the first two scripted numbers be?” He replied, “I don’t know, we decide just before we go on.”

There was a variety of music for every taste with a lot of Neal McCoy signature songs such as “Wink,” “The Shake,” “They’re Playin’ Our Song” and many of his other signature hits. There was also a lot of music covering a wide range of musical interests such as the Eddie Arnold song, “You Don’t Know Me,” “I’ve Grown Accustomed To Her Face,” from the musical “My Fair Lady” and a “rapish style” combination of “The Ballad of Jed Clampett” and “Day-O” to mention a few.

But here’s the kicker, it was not just the fact of the music, it was the entertaining manner in which virtually each piece was presented. It wasn’t just someone sitting up there or walking across a stage singing songs. There was some interaction with the band or audience on virtually each piece. In one case it was the integration of the fiddle player Steve Auburn, into Neal’s performance of “The City Put the Country Back in Me,” for others it was telling a humorous story or joke or bantering with the audience from either the stage or down with the audience.

From his first step on stage until his last number he gives the impression that he is interested in doing nothing else but give the audience a great entertainment experience. It is something that is more easily felt than seen however, it is a wonderful thing to experience and makes the Neal McCoy show the unique, exciting and memorable entertainment experience that it is.

Becky Priest performing a beautiful rendition of "In the Arms of An Angel."

His band is fantastic and consists of Becky Priest, Keyboard; Lester Estelle Jr., Drums; Steve Auburn, Fiddle/Mandolin; Tommy Nash and Darryl Preston, Guitar and Jeremy Worden Bass. They fit right in with the blend and variety of music Neal performs and the way he interacts with them. Some highlights of individual band moments are Tommy Nash’s guitar playing during Neal’s performance of “I’ve Grown Accustomed To Her Face,” the short duet of “Maidens Prayer” by Tommy and Steve Auburn and the simple eloquent solo presentation of “In The Arms of An Angel” sung and played by Becky Priest.

After seeing the show, Branson Mayor, Raeanne Prelsey described Neal as a “fresh, electric, multi-talented entertainer” and a “great addition to the Branson scene.” Another person who had seen the show said, “He is not only a great entertainer, he really is pretty darn funny!” After seeing the show this writer would agree with those assessments and add, “Neal McCoy is a person that loves what he does, entertaining people, and does it so well he provides an entertainment experience that goes beyond hearing mere music, fun and excitement and touches the heart to be remembered for years to come."

For further information and tickets for the Neal McCoy Show or any other Branson show or attraction please call the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services and sellers of Branson show and attraction tickets and lodging. They can be reached by calling 800-875-1550 or by visiting their web site www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Country Tonite vocalists, left to right, Kenya Wilhite, Jason Froeschle, Kim Barber, and David Griffin.

New country or old country, Branson’s Country Tonite Show with guest star T G. Sheppard is pure country presented with energy, enthusiasm and talent that is amazing. The power of this show is in the voices of its vocalists, skill and grace of its dancers, the musicality of its live band and the way it has been choreographed into a unique and exciting country music experience.

The first half of the show and the finale was presented by the Country Tonite Show cast and is basically the first half of the show they present when they do not have a guest star for the second half of the show. The “Timeless” country music star, T.G. Sheppard was the guest star for the second half of the show.

Country Tonite’s four vocalists, David Griffin, Jason Froeschle, Kenya Wilhite, and Kim Barber did an excellent job on a variety of country favorites. Although there were many opportunities to hear their considerable talents throughout the show two were especially memorable. One was their participation in the all cast performance of “Rocky Top” and the other was the back to back medleys of “Classic” and “Contemporary Country” during which their individual vocal versatility was displayed one after the other.

The dancing skills of the shows six dancers Bristol Sosa, Jenn Turner, Jill Perry Fitzpatrick, Tim Ehrenberg, Todd Coker and Stephen Feemster were evident as they added the dynamic of their dancing to the country music experience that is Country Tonite. The dancing has been choreographed into the performance in a manner that enhances the overall entertainment experience. In some cases it is subtle and in other cases, as illustrated by the clogging number and the beautiful solo dancing of Todd Coker during the vocal performance of “Home” by Kim Barber, it is a major element of the performance.

The musicians in the Country Tonite show are some of the finest Branson has to offer. Directed by Marty Wilhite who is also the bass player, the musicians of Country Tonite are Randy Luna, keyboard, Nathan Agdeppa, fiddle, Gene Mulvaney on the steel guitar Casey Smith, drums and Mike McAdoo on guitar. Simply said, it would be hard to beat the musicianship and versatility of these musicians as they performed for both the Country Tonite and T.G. Sheppard segments of the show.

T.G. Sheppard performing with Country Tonite in Branson, Missouri.

The second half of the show was presented by the “Timeless” country music legend, T.G. Sheppard whose career started in the late 70s and early 80s with a string of dozen number one hits and continues today with the launch of his newest album “Timeless” and an extensive road schedule. Using the musicians of the Country Tonite show, T.G. performed number after number of his hit signature songs such as “Slow Burn,” “Last Cheater’s Waltz,” “Do You Wanna Go To Heaven,” Party Time,” “Only One You,” his all-time favorite, “Finally” and many more.

During an interview earlier in the day, in the reception lobby of the Branson Tourism Center, T.G. was asked, “What one thing would you like people who are considering attending your show to know?” Without hesitation he said, “What any performer would want people to know, that you’re the real deal, sincere, love your music, performing it and what you do.”

As T.G. performed, he not only delivered every song with enthusiasm, energy and excitement, but established a personal rapport with his audience by interacting with them in a manner that was genuine and sincere. It is a joy to watch a master entertainer work, interact with the audience and get them involved in their own entertainment experience. T.G. Sheppard’s performance is a testimony to the fact that he’s “the real deal.”

It’s hard to envision anyone caring about country music that would not have a fabulous entertainment experience at this show. T.G. Sheppard will be appearing with Country Tonite at the Oakridge Boys Theatre in Branson Tuesday through Saturday until August 20 and again October 20-24.

Country Tonite vocalists, left to right, Kenya Wilhite,
Jason Froeschle, Kim Barber, and David Griffin.

Kalani Towers seven stories high with six slides.

In terms of excitement and things to do Branson, Missouri is unrivaled and its biggest attractions Silver Dollar City and White Water certainly provide their share of that excitement and activity. In terms of keeping the excitement going, Silver Dollar City has just announced that it is adding the dates of August 17-20 to their schedule and that the park will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Easily, not only Branson’s biggest but most popular paid attraction Silver Dollar City is a world class theme park built around the theme of preserving the 1880’s. Its combination of practicing craftsmen, rides attractions, shows, and festivals makes it a unique entertainment experience that will “Create memories worth repeating.” The announcement for the added dates said the additional dates were “dedicated to the rides, from the multi-looping roller coaster WildFire to the 10 family rides at the Grand Exposition. Select merchandise and food venues will be open as well.”

Another major Branson attraction owned by the same company owning Silver Dollar City, White Water with its 12 acres and two million gallons of cool liquid fun will be open between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 10:.00 p.m. on August 17, 19 and 21 for “Night Water.” For only $20.00 guests will be able to enjoy 7,000 feet of water slides and a dozen rides including Kalani Towers, a seven story tall six slide ride. Two of its 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.

Paul Miller, General Manager for Branson Tourism Center said, “The extended schedule for Silver Dollar City and “Night Water” at White Water just add to the activity and excitement that is Branson.” He also suggested that with school starting in some areas now would be an excellent opportunity for those families where school starts later to share Branson together under less crowded conditions.

For additional information or tickets for Silver Dollar City or White Water are available through the Branson Tourism Center by calling 1-800-875-1550 or visiting their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

The choice of exciting activities and things to do in Branson, Missouri is seemingly endless and continues to grow and expand. Always popular with visitors are those events relating to Ozark’s history, heritage, and tradition and one of the most popular heritage events for the past two decades has been the downtown “fiddle contest,” a one day event.

Building on that popularity, the 21st edition will become a three day event called the “Downtown Branson Fiddle Festival” which will be held August 28 through August 30. The event will incorporate Branson’s Historic Downtown with the downtown’s newest shopping and entertainment attraction, Branson Landing and, in addition to the fiddle contest will feature a host of other activities. All the activities of the festival, including the fiddle contest are free.

Information received from the sponsors of the Festival, The Downtown Branson Main Street Association, The Historic Downtown Branson Business Owners, The Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce/CVB, The Branson Landing and The City of Branson indicate the Festival will start off with a free “Big Smith” concert in Branson Landing’s Public Square, on the banks of Lake Taneycomo near the Branson Landing Fountains on Friday, August 28 at 8:00 p.m.
The fiddling competition for over $5,000 in cash prizes will be held on August 29 and 30 in Branson Landing at the same location as the “Big Smith Concert” is being held. The competition will be divided into six divisions and conducted in two phases. The six competitive divisions, Pee Wee (9 and younger), Junior (10 through 16), Senior (60 and older), Cross Tuning, Seconding (Guitar/Bass accompaniment) and Open will compete in the Preliminaries on Saturday August 29 at the Branson Landing Fountains from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The winner of each division, except for the Seconding and Cross Tuning divisions, will compete in the finals on Sunday, August 30 from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

According to information received from the sponsors, the events producer Bill Lennon indicates that fiddlin’ is an integral part of the fabric of the Ozarks. “The Ozarks and Fiddlin’ should be like New Orleans and Jazz,” Lennon said. “There’s no reason why this event can’t be an event of national importance.”

The Festivals “Big Smith Concert,” Preliminary and Final rounds of competition and a Gospel Service on Sunday, August 30 starting at 10:00 a.m. will be held at Branson Landing. In addition, the information received indicates the “Historic Downtown area will host fiddling seminars and other activities in the Ozarks Music & Culture Tent; additionally, there will be street performances, sidewalk sales, a Farmers Market and more throughout the Downtown area.”

For additional information or to enter the Downtown Branson Fiddle Festival call The Downtown Branson Main Street Association 417-334-1548. For additional information on Branson shows, attractions or lodging please contact the Branson Tourism Center by calling 800-785-1550 or by clicking here to visit their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Probably no place on earth has a choice of more things to do within a smaller geographical area than Branson, Missouri the live music show capital of the world. From lakes to golfing and a choice of attractions, live shows, entertainment, restaurants and shopping that most destination cities of Branson’s size can only dream about, the choices are virtually endless. How does a potential Branson visitor, particularly one who has never been to Branson before, narrow those choices down?

One way is for the visitor to do it themselves by phone, email, or the internet. In a lot of cases this will result in more choices and questions than the person started with. It will definitely involve the investment of time to contact each of the different theatres, attractions, or lodging options the person may be interested in to check on availability, prices, make reservations, and get the answers to any questions they may have etc.

Another way is to use the services of a business providing Branson vacation planning services and selling the show and attraction tickets, lodging, and other Branson services necessary to make the plan a reality. This one stop type of service can save time, frustration, money, help insure availability and good seating at shows and is an easy convenient way to start a pleasurable Branson experience.

Paul Miller, General Manager, Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected providers of vacation planning services, show and attraction tickets and lodging says “One of the primary reasons people use vacation planning services is convenience.”

Miller explained that in the case of BTC, the person would make one toll free call to 1-800-875-1550. At that point they will be dealing with a trained BTC Travel Specialist who lives in the Branson area, can help them get the answers to any questions they might have and will assist them with arrangements for shows, attractions, lodging or other Branson travel services. As but one example of the level of convenience BTC provides Miller said, “We can even make specific tee time reservations for golfers so all they have to do is show up and enjoy their round of golf.”

“One of the primary questions people have about dealing with a vacation planning service,” Miller says is, “How do we know we are dealing with a reputable business?” He suggests checking with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and points out that the Branson Tourism Center is an accredited member of the BBB. The BBB of Southwest Missouri located in Springfield, Missouri, its phone number is 417-862-4222 and its website is www.southwestmissouri.bbb.org/.

Miller points out that another major concern people have is any additional fees charge by the businesses providing the vacation planning services. He advises that some services do have additional fees and service charges that are added. He said the best way to find out is to ask early in the process. Branson Tourism Center has no service charge or fee of any kind. The prices shown on their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com are inclusive of all taxes, include no service charges or fees and are the actual price the customer pays.

“Will we get good seats or lodging accommodations?” is another question commonly asked. Miller explained that BTC enjoys and excellent relationship with all the theatres, attractions, and lodging facilities it deals with and employees over 45 Travel Specialists. He said that combination will result in its customers getting some of the best seats and accommodations available. He stresses however, “The earlier reservations are made, particularly during the busier times of the year, such as Ozark Mountain Christmas, the better the chances are to get the best seats and accommodations.”

Miller said the services of a vacation planning service such as Branson Tourism Center allows Branson visitors to spend more of their time enjoying the Branson experience. Branson Tourism Center can be reached by calling 800-785-1550 or by clicking here to visit their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

This is the week car enthusiasts from all over the country come to Branson for the annual Super Summer Cruise. The cruise will be held August 6 – 8 and will feature two major events; a daily Show ‘n Shine held daily at the Shepherd of the Hills Historic Homestead on West Highway 76 and the Midnight Cruise on August 8 down Shepherd of the Hills Expressway.

Paul Miller, General Manager for Branson Tourism Center, said that the Super Summer Cruise is one of Branson’s most popular events and draws thousands of people to Branson every year. He suggests making advance reservations for lodging and shows to insure not only availability, but to have the best chance of getting the accommodations and show seating desired.

The gates of the Shepherd of the Hills Historic Homestead will open for vehicle registrants at 7:00 a.m. daily August 6 – 8. From 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. daily, the gates are open to the general public for the Show ‘n Shine and entertainment event. 500 trucks and cars will be displayed for public viewing and judging. The Best of Show Awards will be presented at the Pavilion Theatre at Shepherd of the Hills starting at 4:00 p.m. on August 8.

Vehicles being judged will be placed in one of the following classes: 1900 -1972 Stock Autos, 1973 – 2009 Stock Autos, 1900 – 2009 Stock Trucks, 1900 – 2009 Modified Trucks, 1900 – 1964 Street Machines, 1965 – 1980 Street Machines, 1981 – 2009 Street Machines, 1900 – 1948 Street Rods, 1964 – 1972 Stock Muscle Cars, 1964 – 1972 Modified Muscle Cars, Corvettes – All Years and Special Interest. Within each class the vehicles will be judged in five major areas, exterior, drive train, interior, Engine, and customization or restoration.

Immediately after the award ceremony there will be a briefing for all the drivers participating in the Midnight Cruise at the theatre. The August 8 Midnight Cruise, which is free to the public, will start at the rallying point for all the vehicles participating in the cruise, the parking lot at Celebration City. The route will proceed east on State Highway 376 and through the Highway 76 intersection and up the Shepherd of the Hills Expressway to its intersection with Roark Valley Road at B.T. Bones. Miller suggests that those wanting to watch the cruise should stake out their spots early.

For additional information on this event or Branson shows, attractions or lodging call 1-800-875-1550 or click here.

“Sight & Sound Theatres” is pleased to announce the hiring of Mike Pitman as Sales Manager. He will oversee all sales operations for Sight & Sound’s three theatres, one in Branson and two in Lancaster, PA.

Mike most recently served as the national marketing director for Fogle Enterprises that includes the Osmond Theatre as well as five Branson-area restaurants. Prior to his work at Fogle, Mike was senior vice president of sales and marketing for Ozarks Discovery IMAX Theatre. Mike has been active in the business community serving on boards and committees to further promote the Branson area as a travel destination. In 1995, Mike partnered with Don Gabriel to form the Christian Business Men’s Committee, a group that meets weekly and prays for Branson’s businesses and hosts the annual Branson Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast.

The Branson theatre currently features the epic Bible story, “NOAH the Musical” which runs through October 17, 2009. Branson’s newest show, “Miracle of Christmas” will premiere on the Branson stage on October 31, 2009 and run through January 2, 2010. Tickets are now on sale through the website (sight-sound.com) or the Branson Tourism Center website www.BransonTourismCenter.com or by calling them at calling 800-377-1277 or 800-785-1550 respectively.

Sight & Sound Theatres, described by some as “the Christian Broadway,” is the nation’ largest professional Christian theatre company with theatres in Lancaster, PA, and Branson, MO, and welcomes nearly a million theatergoers from across the country and around the world annually.

Publication of this press release, on this site, sponsored by Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected sellers of Branson show and attraction tickets, lodging, and travel services.

The Righteous Brothers Bill Medley and Paul Revere & the Raiders are having a Class Reunion Celebration in Branson.

As Branson celebrates its 50th year of live music shows, the Righteous Brothers’ Bill Medley and Paul Revere & The Raiders and Branson Tourism Center have created a unique Branson experience. The experience provides a stroll down memory lane and a unique Reunion Celebration for the high school classes of 1965 through 1975.

What a special opportunity for those who graduated during those years or, for that matter, simply anyone who remembers the great music of that decade, to relive the personal and musical memories of that time and personally meet and interact with the some of the very entertainers whose music helped create those memories. The special Righteous Brothers’ Bill Medley and Paul Revere and the Raiders Reunion Celebrations will be held in Branson, Missouri on August 15, 2009, August 29, 2009, September 12, 2009, and September 26, 2009.

Each Reunion Celebration will include attendance at the 7:00 p.m. “Righteous Brothers’ Bill Medley and Paul Revere and the Raiders Show” at the beautiful Andy Williams Theatre and an exclusive private “Reunion Get Together” with the stars after the show at the Andy Williams Moon River Grill. Tickets for the Righteous Brothers’ Bill Medley and Paul Revere and the Raiders Reunion Celebrations are being sold exclusively by the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected providers of Branson show and attraction tickets, lodging, and travel services.

Paul Miller, General Manager, Branson Tourism Center stressed the exclusivity of the Special Reunion Celebration including both the show and the exclusive after show Reunion Get Together. He said that although the show will be open to anyone having a show ticket, available through Branson Tourism Center and other sources, only those who have purchased tickets for the Reunion Celebration from Branson Tourism Center will be able to get into the post show Reunion Get Together.

Miller advised purchasing tickets for the Reunion Celebrations as soon as possible because the number of tickets for each scheduled Reunion Celebration is limited. Miller said, “For tickets or further information on the Reunion Celebrations please call 1-800-978-1999 or go to www.BransonTourismCenter.com.”