BransonFest ushers in spring season

BransonFest is being called one of the American Bus Association’s Top 100 Events for 2004

The popular event will be held April 6-10 at the Welk Resort in Branson. Showcase concerts, sample menus from several local restaurants, arts and heritage, outdoors and many other events and opportunities are planned. More than 50 Branson entertainers will perform during the event. Tickets are required for the showcase concerts; other events are free.

The talent line-up for the showcase concerts are as follows. Lists are tentative and subject to change.

Tuesday, April 6, 7 p.m.: Host Tom Mullica. Performers: Red Skelton, A Tribute by Tom Mullica; Doug Gabriel, the World Famous Platters, the Osmonds, the Braschler Music Show, Pierce Arrow, and Roy Rogers, Jr., and the High Riders.

Wednesday, April 7, 2 p.m.: Host Jim Owen. Performers: Spirit of the Dance, Broadway! A Star-Spangled Celebration; Jim Owen, The Haygoods, Country Tonite, Bob Anderson and the Rat Pack.

Thursday, April 8, 2 p.m., Host to be announced. Performers: Baldknobbers Jamboree, Ronnie Prophet, Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers, Pam Tillis, the Lowe Family of Utah, Ronnie McDowell and Jason Petty.

Friday, April 9, 2 p.m.: Host Paul Harris. Performers: Todd Oliver, #1 Hits of the ’60s, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat, Darren Romeo, the Voice of Magic; Dino Kartsonakis, Lost in the ’50s, and Paul Harris and cast.

Saturday, April 10, 2 p.m.: Host to be announced. Performers: Jim Stafford, Red, Hot…& Blue!; John Tweed, Brett Family Singers, Stuck on the ’70s and the Osmonds.

Tickets to the showcase concerts in the Welk Theatre cost $29.50 per show or $130 per person for all five shows. Tickets and information are available at 800-505-9355 or 417-337-7469. Group rates are available by calling 800-808-9355 or 417-336-1228.