Edited by: Gary J. Groman
Entertainment offerings meet outdoor adventure at 11th annual Branson Fest
BRANSON, MO –– March 21, 2003 – As Branson Fest embarks upon its second decade of introducing Branson’s entertainment offerings to the world it will sport a new dimension on April 8 – 12 at the Welk Resort Theatre.
For the first time in Branson Fest’s 11 year history an Adventure Village will be part of the entertainment arena.Spring in the Ozarks is the perfect time to introduce Branson’s outdoor appeal – the dogwoods are blooming, the red buds are budding out and activities on the lakes and streams are beginning to pick up.
The outdoor segment won’t be the only new facet of Branson Fest in 2003.The traditional days of Wednesday – Sunday have been changed to Tuesday – Saturday.The festivities will kick-off at
However, what has become the Branson Fest trademark, the sampling of area shows under one roof and on one stage will continue.Each day of the event visitors can attend an indoor concert, Tuesday 7 p.m. and Wednesday – Saturday 2 p.m., that will feature legendary performers such as Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers, Jim Stafford, the Baldknobbers Jamboree, the World Famous Platters, Presleys’ Country Jubilee, the Lennon Brothers and Gail Lennon and new performers Jimmy Osmond and Roy Rogers, Jr. and the High Riders.
Hospitality and Business Expo
This year’s Hospitality and Business Expo area includes autograph sessions, give aways, contests and more. The 12,000 square foot tent at the Welk Resort Theatre will be filled with more than 60 booths that offer a sample of Branson’s finest attractions, businesses and theatres.
The Hospitality and Business Expo features representatives from area theaters, attractions, businesses and civic organizations on hand to answer questions about the various shows and entertainment at their venues or provide information. Here visitors will get the chance to visit with their favorite Branson entertainers during autograph sessions. Visitors can also pick up free information, prizes and give-aways at the Hospitality and Business Expo.
Arts, Culture and Heritage
The spotlight is on Ozark Mountain culture and heritage at the Arts, Culture and Heritage tent. Visitors have the opportunity to view the art of nationally recognized Branson artists, and autograph sessions allow visitors to meet the artists.Each day will feature a special artist demonstrating his or her unique craft.
Real American Entertainment – The Real American Entertainment Tent holds a stage where festival visitors can see a variety of performances from local shows and organizations. The line-up of outdoor entertainers includes such stars as Girls Day Out, Jim Owen, the Legends in Concert cast, Connie Tillis, Cedric Benoit and the Cajun Connection and the American Kids.
“Streetmosphere” – Branson Fest “Streetmosphere” will be featured throughout the festival outside the tents.Dance troupes, choirs, flag corps, special demonstrations, a clown and costumed characters will entertain visitors during the warm spring days of Branson Fest.
Taste of Branson – Inside the Taste of Branson Food Tent, guests can sample traditional Ozarks cuisine and enjoy some of the best fare from several of Branson’s finest eating
establishments.
Hike, Bike, Fish, Golf and More – Out Branson’s Backdoor
The new Adventure Village area of Branson Fest will feature insight into Branson’s significant outdoor appeal.Visitors will be able to collect information on the local golf courses, maps of the local hiking trails and visit with some of the leading outdoor enthusiast in the Branson/Lakes Area.
Benefit Contribution
Proceeds from Branson Fest 2003 will support Mountain Country Habitat for Humanity.Over the years Branson Fest has donated tens of thousands of dollars to the local Habitat for Humanity, enabling them to build houses in our community.