Since her design the Show Boat Branson Belle has been special but why? Is it the fact that she was built on the shores of
Sure, all these things contribute to making her special. But, could it just be that it is how all those things are combined with the natural beauty of the Ozarks, good food, a cruise, great entertainment, and old fashioned Ozarks hospitality that really makes the Showboat Branson Belle special?
From the moment one sees her they know they are in for something special. As they board and are seated there is the aurora of elegance and an atmosphere reminiscent of a river boat era long gone by. As the engines gently throb to life and the dock slips away, it is almost impossible not to just sit back, relax and enjoy over two hours of food, cruise, and entertainment provided by a crew, cooks, wait staff, and entertainers that are dedicated to just one thing, ensuring that each passenger gets that special experience that is the Showboat Branson Belle.
On the evening of July 31, as the boat slipped away from the dock, after we had been introduced to our host for the evening, Bob Nichols, viewed a very short and interesting video giving an overview of Branson’s history and the building of the Showboat Branson Belle, our salads were served in a manner that was an indication of the entertainment to come. All of the meals served on the Showboat Branson Belle, up to 3,000 daily, are prepared in her own on board galley and are served by one of the most attentive and caring wait staffs in Branson.
The meal was served to the accompaniment of dinner music provided by Randy Luna and the “Show Stopping Smoothies.” Between the meal and the show there was ample time to walk around the boat and her decks and view the beautiful Ozarks scenery. Announcements announcing the start of the show are made in plenty of time to allow passengers to return to their seats prior to the start of the show.
The “Showstopper Show” adds the meaning to the word “Show” in Showboat and is one of the most fast paced, exciting, and entertaining shows in Branson. Like everything else on the Showboat Branson Belle it is a first class experience, not an after thought. Its choreography, flow, and cast provide a unique and special entertainment experience.
The Showstopper Dancers and Singers are some of the best that the Ole Seagull has seen in Branson. There is a seven minute segment in the show where they do parts of over 20 plus songs with accompanying costume changes that is simply amazing. Their dance numbers were entertaining, sharp, precise, and energetic and their singing was a joy to hear.
The husband and wife acrobatic adagio of Elena and Vadim Serykh, their daughter, and their special blend of elegance, grace, and athleticism combine into a unique performance that will not soon be forgotten. Add nationally acclaimed ventriloquist and comedian, Todd Oliver and his canine friends, Irving, Elvis, and Lucy, and you will hear dogs talk and sing, laugh your socks off, and realize why you will forevermore smile whenever you hear the word, “Yup.”
How many times in ones lifetime will they get the opportunity to step back into history and experience a cruise aboard a paddle wheel boat like the Showboat Branson Belle? To cruise by scenic vistas as they dine, see one of the most entertaining shows they will ever see and experience something with their family that will become one of those special memories that could last a lifetime? The answer to those questions is, “Not many, not many at all.” And, in an Ole Seagull’s opinion, that is truly what makes the Showboat Branson Belle so very special.
Originally Published In the Branson Courier on Aug. 6, 2006.
