Why does history have to be so boring? It doesn’t have to be. Load up the family and take them to see something that is both educational and fun. Take them to see #1 Hits of the 60’s at the Jim Stafford theatre where history suddenly becomes fun again.
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| The talented cast provides tremendous energy on stage. |
#1 Hits of the 60’s is performing this year in the Jim Stafford theatre. I’ve seen this production multiple times in various venues since it first began five years ago. I’ll admit I was a little concerned when I read that it would be at Jim Stafford’s theatre because of the intimate size of the theatre. I was worried that certain aspects of the show would have to be toned down to in order to compensate for the size of the theatre. After seeing the show I learned that my fears were unfounded and that the small size of the theatre added beautifully to the high-energy production. If you happen to get there early, I would recommend that you walk around outside and take in the beautiful landscaping outside the theatre. I’ve always thought that Jim Stafford’s theatre is one of the most beautiful landscaped theatres in Branson.
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| Bright, colorful costumes help bring the 60’s to life. |
When you are first seated the 60’s experience begins as a groovy usher shows you to your seat. The female usher that seated me was really enjoying what she was doing and made the experience that much more fun. The show begins as the powerhouse cast hits you hard with the number one songs from 1960-1969. The momentum continues as you reminisce over popular TV show themes from the 60’s played by the talent members of the band. If you weren’t around or can’t remember the 60’s then you will be educated with the popular dance crazes of the time, and hear familiar songs as the cast pays special tribute to stellar artists like the Beatles, and the Beach Boys. Make sure you take in the groovy styles of the time as the cast constantly changes from one happenin’ outfit to another. I don’t know about you but this boy is glad he wasn’t around to wear those outrageous clothes, lol! Since I was not even a thought during the 60’s, the show really educated me in what the time was like and gave me, even for a couple of hours, a feeling of what it would have been like to live during this carefree and turbulent time. One helpful aide during my "road trip to the past" was the use of video screens that constantly reminded me of the artists that sang the songs, and various images of the people, and events that made the 60’s what it was.
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| The little old "lady" from Pasadena makes an appearance. |
Standout moments from the show included the soulful sounds of the Motown segment, and the drive-in scene. Yes, those cars are really being driven around the stage. I don’t know about you but looks fun to me! The ending to the show is very unique to any show in town. All I will tell you about it is that you will be reminded of JFK, Martin Luther King Jr., Bobby Kennedy, and the dramatic "MacArthur Park."
If you hear someone say, "Learning is no fun!" Take them to see #1 Hits of the 60’s. This show will be sure to change their mind. For tickets and information call 1-800-451-3791 or click here.
Photos by Basil Groman – Complete gallery of photos here.