A MOTOWN LEGEND WELCOMES US TO THE RUBY ROOM! THEATRE & LOUNGE! ™ — P 13 MADE FOR TV! SEASON 2021 SUPERSTARS ON WITH THE SHOW! & SUPER SHOWS! — P 19 THE NEXT GENERATION THE ULTIMATE 70S SHOW!

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HAS ARRIVED! FUN R US! — P 5 STUFF — P 18— P 24 It’s happening. SHOW GUIDE • MAP • FOOD • SHOPPING • FUN!

from our ROVING REPORTERS & PROWLING PAPARAZZI! May 29 —Matt Gumm & Company Clay Cooper Thtr Jun 2 —Matt Gumm & Company Clay Cooper Thtr Jun 3-7 —The Glass Menagerie Historic Owen Thtr 2021 Guest Star Dates! Jun 4 —Classical Mystery Tour: A Tribute to Not only does Branson sport over 100 live shows of our own The Beatles’ Abbey Road Silver Dollar City during the regular season—we’re the “go to” place for guest Jun 5 —Abba Tribute: Dancing Dream direct stars! Here are guest stars booked so far for 2021. from New York Silver Silver Dollar City Apr 30-May 3 —The Complete Works of Jun 11 —Mack Brock Silver Dollar City Shakespeare – Abridged Historic Owen Thtr Jun 12 —Vertical Worship Silver Dollar City May 1 —Bobby Marquez Branson Star Thtr. Jun 18-19 —Aaron Tippin Branson Star Thtr May 7-8 —Collin Raye Branson Star Thtr. Jun 27 —Russ Taff Branson Star Thtr May 11-14 —Texas Tenors Mickey Gilley Grand Jul 2 —Matt Gumm & Company Clay Cooper Shanghai Thtr. Thtr May 14-15 —Confederate Railroad Branson Star Jul 6-9 —The Texas Tenors Mickey Gilley Grand Thtr. Shanghai Thtr. ends and the schoolbells ring! For anyone May 14-15 —Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver Silver Jul 11 —Anthony Gomes Branson Star Thtr looking for a family-friendly show that will Dollar City Jul 15 —Peter Pan Jr. Historic Owen Theatre cause even the squirmiest youngster age 3 May 14-15 —Liam Purcell & Cane Mill Road Jul 23-24 —Branson Elvis Festival Legends Thtr. to 10 to be thrilled, entertained (and even Silver Dollar City Jul 24 —Chris Tomlin Silver Dollar City forget to misbehave,) this is your ticket! We July 24-25 —Kids Roc Clay Cooper Thtr. have been told the show is highly interactive, May 16-17 —Music Fest Clay Cooper Thtr. Aug 5-15 — Historic Owen Thtr. silly, funny, and full of singing, dancing, and May 16 —Casi Joy Branson Star Thtr Mama Mia kids being part of the show! Sounds like a May 20 —Kenny & Amanda Smith Band Silver Aug 6-7 —Wahazhazhe, an Osage Ballet The WOOSH! Dollar City Mansion Thtr. ere they come—a whole force of hoot! Catch it Tue, Thur & Sat, 10am at Jerry May 21-22 —Grand Ladies of Country with Aug 13 —Matt Gumm & Company Clay Cooper Thtr. superheroes—swooping in to save Presley’s God & Country Thtr. (see pg. 12) H Leona Williams, Mary Lou Turner and Aug 27 —The Hyssongs, The Hoppers, Mark the day starting May 13 and continuing to Barbara Fairchild Branson Star Thtr. Trammell Silver Dollar City perform their mighty deeds until summer May 22-23 —The Trailblazers Silver Dollar City Aug 28 —Joseph Habedank, The Whisnants May 28-29 —T Graham Brown Branson Star Thtr Silver Dollar City FAMILY FRIENDLY IMPROV SHOW! May 28-29 —KSMU Youth in Bluegrass Band Aug 29 —Mark Bishop, Booth Brothers, Dr. f you’ve seen the TV Contest Silver Dollar City Dennis Silver Dollar City JUNE Ishow Whose Line is May 29 —Route 3 Silver Dollar City 4, 11, 18, 25 it Anyway?, then you know improv is when actors are thrown situations—their job being to come up with a highly entertaining piece of comedy on the spot. And it’s all coming to Branson via The Arena: Improv Part of the troupe. Show! But wait, that’s not all! This show was put together by a showbiz maestro by countless productions, and on and the name of Doug Ewart whose resume on. In conclusion, expect a first includes, let’s see—music director for The rate performance which is family Second City of Chicago International friendly, no politics, nothing Tour Company, Esther’s Follies of Austin, sketchy, just light-hearted Texas, ComedySportz, The Improv fun! Whew! At the Olympic, Lonestar Comedy, countless Acclaimed Americana Theatre. show director theater and comedy troupes across the US, (417-544-8700) has performed with such talents as John Doug Ewart. Lovitz, John Goodman, Elvira (Mistress of the Dark), was owner/operator of Dallas West End Comedy Theater, producer of WHERE STARS ARE BORN! JUNE 15-19 2021 ot a dream? There’s no better place to learn Gthe “biz” of showbiz than to show up for the Song & Stage Bootcamp at Branson’s Hughes Brothers Theatre—which plenty of young rising stars from all over the great USA do each year!  Student performers here get to to partake of TRY THIS… master classes taught by showbiz pros from LA, New York and even Branson! Total immersion classes include • vocals • choreography • Hughes Brothers star Jason Hughes works staging, and much more. So, if you got that with a talented young singer’s moves and dream, go to Branson.Academy. grooves.THE BRANSON INSIDER INSIDER BUZZ 3 excitement. The carefree fun. The inspiration. INSIDER side, of course.” This Branson entertainment is not like Revelations entertainment elsewhere. It comes from a Yeah, right. Richard Freihofer different place. It’s inspired by a community That’sTheo N. Cider the Spirit Now, let me ask us a question. How do we that champions core values of faith, family Local expert, part-time preacher. know which side The Lord is on? Wisdom & knowledge from His Majesty and a love and appreciation of our country, the Editor & Publisher our freedoms and our veterans. There is Well, you know the answer, of course. At no better way to get to the heart of what WHOSE SIDE ARE YOU ON? least you think you do. The Lord is on the this town is all about than to experience a ell, since I’m here to preach at you side of what’s right. What’s good. Right? ou’re on vacation and you’re here to see Branson show. Or two. Or many. all and you all is here to listen at Well, let’s start with that right and wrong and do it all—so here goes! me, I know by that look on your So have fun wherever you roam, but then notion. That’s what folks have such a hard Step inside a Branson theater and treat faces which I can’t see (‘cept in my head)— time gettin’ together on. Ever been to a bring it all home. Check out our show quide, that you think you know the answer to the yourself to some of the world’s greatest read our stories, make your picks, then kick church board meeting? Nevermind. singers, dancers, musicians and performers question I just throwed at you all. back—and enjoy the show.✦ Some of you good folks see The Bible as of every kind. Note the feelings these shows Well, I wonder. stories about The Good Lord. But you don’t leave you with. The lifted spirits. The joy. The /TheBransonInsider Let me take you back to a Bible story that I see it as God’s Word. If you go down that Fine Print that Nobody Reads: The Branson Insider™ May/June 2021 Vol 12 Issue No.2 Copyright © 2021 by Performance Media, rocky road, then truth becomes a ping-pong Inc. All rights reserved. Published bi-monthly by Performance Media, Inc. P.O. Box 580 Ozark, MO 65721. Phone: (417) 827-4025, been thinkin’ on just about ever’ day on this TheBransonInsider.com. e-mail: [email protected] /TheBransonInsider Boring Lawyer Stuff: Information published ol’ earth since I first came acrossed it. It’s ball that bounces all over Creation! herein is subject to change without notice. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. The Branson Insider™ makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of published information, however the publisher cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from when General Joshua had his army outside Let’s go back to the beginning. In the errors or omissions. Distribution: For distribution issues, (heh-heh, did you catch that pun?), call our office. Editor & Publisher: Richard Jericho and ready to attack it back in the beginning was the Word, and the Word was B. Freihofer Advertising: Whoever answers the phone. Photography: Don Farquhar, Richard Freihofer, Jennifer Grant, Adam Hughes, Marshall Meadows Graphic Design: Gryphix-Stan Griffin, Lindzey GriffinBusiness Manager: Theresa K. Freihofer Old Testament. I’m sure just sayin’ that gets with God, and the Word was God. He was in the ol’ song playin’ in your heads. You know, the beginning with God. The Word became “Joshua fit the Battle of Jericho, and them walls flesh and dwelt among us, and we saw His came-a tumblin’ down!” glory, the glory as the only Son of the Father, full Anyways, since that was all part of The Good of grace and truth. That there’s all in the first COME BACK NOV-DEC FOR Lord leading The Children of Israel out of Bible chapter of the Book of John. the desert and into The Promised Land to Hows about this one for a zinger? I am the ✭CHRISTMAS SHOWS possess it, I’m sure Joshua got before The way, the truth and the life. (John 14:6) For me, ✭A CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND Lord and prayed before throwin’ everybody the real zinger is that all them three things ✭ into a big fight. That’s why I’m pretty sure are connected to each other and it all goes THE TRUE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT! he knew Who that was Who he suddenly back to The One from Whom all blessings flow! saw standing before him with a sword in His hand. Even so, Joshua was nervy enough to Which is all fine and dandy if you was able to go right up to Him and ask, “Are you for us or believe all that nonsense from Spiritland, sez for our enemies?” you. ‘Cause truth be told, sez you, is that truth is whatever you make it to be. The answer ol’ Joshua got should be a wake- up call to ever’ one of us, especially at times Well, there you go. That’s what makes like this. ever’thing fall apart. Even the Founding Fathers of this God blessed USA wrote that “Neither,” said The Man With The Sword. “For I our Constitution would never be able to hold am the Commander of The Army of the Lord. up if it wasn’t anchored by The Truth—which Now I have come.” comes to us from our Judean-Christian Then Joshua fell with his face to the ground foundation. In other words, from The Bible! and worshipped. Then he said, “What does But let’s take it one step further. We all know My Lord wish to say to His servant?” that truth is about what’s right and what’s Folks, I gotta be honest. I’m almost shedding wrong. Right? a tear right now just readin’ you all this story! Warning. Let’s go back to the days of Adam But I’ll try to keep a-goin’. and Eve and the Garden of Eden. In that The Commander of The Army of the Lord Garden, there was two trees. One was the said to Joshua, “Remove your sandals tree of the knowledge of Good and Evil. The from your feet, for the place where you are other was the tree of life. So if you get this standing is holy.” So Joshua did this. right, you’ll have the whole world figgered out in a heartbeat. It’s this—there is good Well, this Bible story back in the Book of in this world that seems good, sounds good Joshua pretty much cuts right to the heart and looks good. But it leads to evil. of things. At times like this, when it seems ever’body is either on one side or t’other and So what’s good and what’s evil, sez you. there ain’t hardly no middle that gets folks on Start by crackin’ open that Bible, readin’ The the same side of the fence—(Except when 10 Commandments, then readin’ that Bible one side gets together to go after t’other verse you see on signs at football games. side,) we come back to the Big Question— John 3:16. Go look it up. When you find out Whose side are you on? which side The Lord is on, then you’ll be able Now some of you good folks are glad to to figure out what’s goin’ on in the news. He’s chirp right up and say, ‘Why, I’m on The Lord’s good news. Amen. 

4 INSIDER BUZZ THE BRANSON INSIDER from our ROVING REPORTERS & PROWLING PAPARAZZI! THEY’VE ARRIVED! HUGHES YOUTH LAUNCH THEIR OWN SHOW! his season 2021 the youngins of Branson’s famous Hughes Brothers are revealing just how crazy-talented a bunch of cousins can get when they grow up together on stage and take music and dance lessons for the better part of their entire lives! Whaddaya get for a result? You get this, the kiddos hirin’ the dads to help them stage their own show! So VOILÁ Re-Vibe! Here is an exclusive report we have just received from our undercover showbiz critics: Or spies, if you prefer.  Re-Vibe stars young Hugheses between the ages of 14 and 22.  There is modern, contemporary, and several varieties of music performed by this trans generational troupe of singers and dancers, (all Hughes cousins).  The show consists of music young people like.  It’s high energy fun.  To elaborate, we shall drop some song clues  We Will Rock You  Livin’ On a Prayer  Carry On Wayward Son  Sail Away  Dynamite  Stayin’ Alive  Van Halen’s Jump—We’re talkin’, soul, disco, doo-wop, 40’s, hip-hop, tap, comedy, drums, guitars, fiddles, 70’s & 80s rock High energy fun  Yeah, we Know. We already said “high energy fun.” Worth sayin’ again. ✦ THE OFFICIAL COMPANY STATEMENT o help us report honestly, accurately and professionally as we fill in the blanks of what this show is all about-- here’s the official Hughes Vibe statement released to us hungry news hounds: = good feeling or connecting/ “From the amazing choreography to the soaring vocals, the youthful connection and may be used as a cast of Re-Vibe puts their own spin on these classics. Filled with 80’s noun and verb. Experience those rock, R&B, pop, alternative, jazz, country, and more; Re-Vibe is a fast-moving show with all types of dazzling dancing, marvelous positive vibes with Branson's most harmonies, fun costuming, incredible lighting, and great sound. excellent live music show – Re-Vibe! While the show is all NEW, the amazing vocalists and musicians are experienced performers from award-winning shows. Most of the cast has been performing on stage since their early childhood. Now they're debuting a show that reflects their own creative abilities to produce great entertainment for today's audiences.” That all pretty much paints a picture. It looks like little kids, big kids, youthful teens, and youthful adults of every age will find this show simply irresistible. ✦

THE BRANSON INSIDER INSIDER BUZZ 5 1959-2021 BRANSON’S THE BALDKNOBBERS GOSPEL SHOW his "Rock the House" Gospel show FIRST SHOW: which premiered last season is all about the key element of what would later be known as the Branson show “formula” which Branson’s first show pioneered: the straight-up Gospel segment. Now, Branson’s Famous Gospel Baldknobbers Gospel Show! is a Hall of Famer! full blown show of it’s own! In it’s first season, The Branson Show Awards crowned it The 2019 Gospel Show Legendary Gospel tenor Dan of the Year, as well as the show’s Keeton brings “rock-the-house” legendary vocalist Dan Keeton The Gospel to both big shows! 2019 Male Vocalist of the Year! ONCE AGAIN: LIKE YOU’VE SEEN IT BEFORE! NEVER 2019 SEASON 2021 BRANSON’S FAMOUS BALDKNOBBERS Fiddler e’ve said it before. And we’ll say it again. If you saw this ere it is in a nutshell: Award winning of the Year! show in Season 2020, then you haven’t Hmusicians, vocalists and comedy, plus seen this show! Like they’ve been doing plus huge new production enhancements every year since back in 1959, Branson’s of sound, lights, and whiz-bang special Famous Baldknobbers still fights to top effects. Expect top country hits, (Branson Show Awards.) themselves. No wonder they’ve stayed so traditional country favorites, Nathan Agdeppa firin’ up the fiddle! relevant every single year since way back southern rock, gospel, patriotic yonder in the 1900s! salutes, hilarious side-splitting WARNING! comedy and more—the “more” GOOD NEWS! Honestly, we’ve just got to say it out loud: being about the hottest musicians, hen longtime Gospel recording this outfit absolutely cannot be topped vocalists and country comedy in this Award-winning artist Ashley Dawn joined the by anything coming out of Nashville, W particular galaxy! Expect some of that comedy star Jerl cast last season that good news was Hollywood, The Big Apple or any other “outlaw country” with “attitude”, some “Hargus” Adams quite literally music to our ears! Ashley’s place in the showbiz universe! They’re that bluegrass, and even some classic rock. is up to something. career began at an early age, singing good! We think it’s because unlike other Shall we name names? Hows about Actually, he’s up to with her family as The Praters, the players who perform on sporadic tours, Keith Urban, Eagles, Jason Aldean, plenty. That there’s acclaimed Gospel group whose career recording sessions and the occasional Marshall Tucker, Loretta Lynn, Janis your warning. and multiple albums were popular gig in-between—this crew has been Joplin, Vince Gill, Trisha Yearwood, Lady with fans and critics alike. In addition to performing nearly every day and night for Antebellum—are we painting a picture here? performing in all three Baldknobbers the better part of their entire lives! We call shows, Ashley tours as it the “Branson effect”, one of the things Branson Show Awards’ 2019 Lead Guitar Player lead vocalist with the that sets “Showtown” apart from all other Ashley of the Year Grant Moody, (right) jams with Missouri National musical gatherings! legendary music star Greg Moody, (his Dad!) Guard’s 135th Army Dawn! And who on Planet Earth Band. Ashley also can compete with the Mabe writes songs, she’s in the family’s Baldknobbers recording studio working on tracks which are legacy—one which has already turning heads in Nashville, and (did we dazzled crowds of adoring mention?) she’s Mom to sons Kyler, 15, Casten, fans non-stop for an epic and 12, and daughters Hali, 13, and Lakoda, 8. unheard-of sixty years straight! Of course there’s more to this story, and that That achievement alone got would be Ashley’s husband Bo. Ashley’s them a Baldknobbers display musical roots, besides contemporary Gospel, at the historic Smithsonian are country and bluegrass. That would make Museum in our nation’s capital The Baldknobbers, in our not-necessarily- of Washington, D.C.! humble opinion, the perfect fit.

6 SHOWSStar vocalist Megan Mabe! All-Star Duo!THE BRANSON INSIDER SHANE! voice that resonates with fans of every age. Adding to that is a stage presence that, (as hen they say in Texas) is “all fired up!” Oh, and Nashville Ladies, just so you know, he looks like that star Shane because his number 2 passion, (after making Vancamp hits music) is working out. Just sayin’. the Baldknobbers stage—jaws drop My Voice in a heartbeat! The THE TAKE-AWAY by Megan McCombs Mabe t’s unheard of for a show to stay popular reasons for that Shane! for over 60 years. That is an historical general audience I and TV’s Branson Famous! fact. But this isn’t just a show with a history. Star of Branson’s Famous Baldknobbers reaction are many. Whenever the curtain rises, this show aims First, of course, to make history!✦ is the voice—a A YEAR TO COUNT sometimes booming, OUR BLESSINGS! sometimes Gospel soul-stirring, always e have made it. There is finally grace. Change is difficult for the best of heart-stealing light at the end of the tunnel. us, so when you find a staff that is willing Covid is looking to soon be an to face constant and often frustrating event we can place in our rearview mirror. modifications and alterations with a I don’t know about you, but I am driving positive attitude, you know you have away from that drab and unpleasant found your people. PREVIEW OF COMING scene with the accelerator to the floor! Not only have we been blessed with a As we embark on this post-Covid dedicated staff and crew, we have been ATTRACTIONS: journey, there is a commonly used blessed with two amazing partner shows expression that I have discovered holds in our theater—Reza, Edge of Illusion AUGUST-DECEMBER: even more true in these uncertain times. and Doug Gabriel. Any unknown waters THE VINTAGE BALDKNOBBERS SHOW! Award-winning singing stars: 3rd There is always strength in numbers. This are always easier to navigate and wade Generation Baldknobber Brandon Mabe saying is often flippantly thrown out through when you have a swimming and Brandon’s lovely wife Megan! and grossly overused in team settings, buddy. We could not have asked for but in our current environment, it two better partners. Not only have they seems suddenly to hold a new weight supported the overall success of our NOVEMBER-DECEMBER: of importance. The more individuals or theater, but they have operated their BRANSON’S FAMOUS BALDKNOBBERS organizations that can rally to a cause— shows with professionalism and poise, CHRISTMAS SHOW! A holly, jolly fun- the cause currently being to overcome even when the circumstances of Covid fest of music, laughs and Baldknobbers the obstacles and struggles created have been challenging. Putting on a just being Baldknobbers! Expect a lively after a pandemic—the better and more show is a feat in itself, but putting on An instant hit in its’ 2020 debut season, this North Pole Revue—then everything successful the outcome and overall a show with social distancing, masks, throwback “blast from the past” fires up that leads our hearts and minds to “The health of the team. There is power and sanitizing, and countless other new the Classic Country, Bluegrass and funny One” from “Whom all blessings flow!” strength in like-minded folks coming processes is another level. Doing it business of the 60s, 70s and 80s that created together. A team of many always trumps with grace and success—that is true generations of eternal Baldknobbers fans! a team of few. professionalism. At the Branson Famous Theater, we have It’s been a crazy year, but it’s been one been blessed with the most dedicated that I wouldn’t take back. It showed me team in Branson. blessings that God has granted that are Whether it be our front of house staff, sometimes easy to take for granted. It our cast and tech crew, our suppliers, our showed me that surrounding oneself marketing partners, our show partners with the right family of people is the or even our family support systems at only true way to navigate life—whether home, I have never experienced such through a pandemic or just another loyalty and dedication to the greater “ordinary” year. God knew that 2020 success of our theater. Each person in was going to be a rough one, and I am our business has had to work harder so thankful that he gave our theater and longer hours, taking on more the team we needed to find our way to responsibilities and tasks and sacrificing 2021 and beyond. Even more so, I am more for the greater cause. Navigating thankful that we had a God to lead us the unknown has been a true challenge, and our team when the path and final but our team has proven that the strong destinations at times seemed so difficult only get stronger when put to the test. to navigate. New and changing rules, regulations, See ya later, 2020! We have new and mandates have yet to phase our mountains to climb! dedicated staff. At each new turn in “Alone we can do so little; together we this crazy pandemic journey, they have can do so much.” -Helen Keller ❀ Baldknobbers 2021: (Left to right: (front) Shane VanCamp, Josh adapted and complied with ease and Gabriel, Nathan Agdeppa, Dan Keeton, Megan and Brandon Mabe. Back: Greg Moody, Grant Moody, Randy McConnell and Lance Conque. THE BRANSON INSIDER SHOWS 7 NEW DINNER SHOW IS DAZZLING ALL AGES! YEARS IN VEGAS. ENDLESS WORLD TOURS. CHARITIES. A Whole New World! The New Dinner Theater! After performing his show on a cruise ship Garry found the perfect venue for his new in Hawaii, Garry was approached at the post Branson production and immediately got show “meet’n’ greet” by a Mom, a Grandma, involved in the legendary showplace’s mass two Aunts, and a young lady with them transformation. Branson Central Theater who immediately caught his eye. Turns not only was restored to its dinner theater out, like him, the young lady lived back in glory days, it also became the home of Vegas, a town that allowed the New York Golden Catering, a food service perfect native to pursue all her interests, and even for serving meals on site. No buffet. “An bring life to some of her dreams. She was an elegant dinner.”, says Garry. What is also EMT nurse. That was her passion. But since obviously perfect for these masking times childhood, she also loved to perform. That is the natural social distancing of all tables. interest led to a side hobby of modeling, Fortunes were spent on revamping the performing in Vegas, and eventually, to theater’s inside. Outside is still a work in designing costumes: a craft she surely has progress. Hopefully, it won’t be too long mastered, (as us audience types will verify). before it begins to resemble the design For both of these two, it was the beginning envisioned by Janine. (Honestly, is there of a whole new world. anything this lady can’t do?”) Vegas & Beyond! Continued on page 22 Garry works his magic Back in Vegas, they reunited. First with one of his many came love, then came marriage, then young volunteers. came this amazing twosome making magic together all over the world—Janine performing with her husband, designing UNBELIEVABLE! honors upon this dynamic duo! It definitely costumes, managing a blizzard of showbiz his crew swooped in from Vegas last deserves a drumroll here as we announce details—and eventually adding “backstage year just in time for the Big COVID that at an international event in Las Vegas, Mom” to her resume. That came about by Pandemic of 2020—yet STILL—even Garry and Janine Carson received the the birth of Sophia, now 3 years old. Which, T prestigious Merlin Award for “The Best once again, changed everything. in the midst of all that social distancing chaos—their dinner show was such a smash International Magic & Illusion Duo!” To cite “By the time Sophia was sixteen months hit that they ended up swooping up a the award granted by 37,000 members of old,” as Garry told The Insider, “she had been handful of Branson’s top showbiz awards in The International Magician’s Society: “This on 42 planes and had a handful of passports their debut season! Folks, in a town with this magical duo has been traveling the world and visas. We felt it was time to slow down many live shows, magic shows included, it’s and seen in over 40 countries, performed for a bit. We loved all our animals, but we knew pretty obvious to those of us with lightning- military troops overseas and has provided it was time to get them off the road and to fast minds that this Vegas outfit knows how their show as a fundraiser for non-profits & give them new homes. It was heartbreaking, Magic’s service organizations for children and families to work their magic on us audience types! but the regulations just began to get Rising For those of us who thought we’d “seen it for over 14 Years.” overwhelming. We had several offers to Star! all”—well, we hadn’t. Wild Times! perform in Vegas, but what we liked about 2020: Magic’s Top Honors! For decades, international sensation Branson was the concept of shows without Garry Carson reigned in Vegas. His magic gambling. We decided to offer something But wait—that’s not all! Not only did different from Branson’s other magicians Garry & Janine Carson sweep astounded viewers on network TV and dazzled multitudes on world magic shows, all which Branson off its feet, (so to speak)—in 2020 are awesome by the entire magic world bestowed its highest tours with his huge entourage of stage hands, props, the way, so to performing assistants Branson we 3 year-old Sophia Magic’s and (shall we mention?) came and makes her grand Highest here we are. a supporting cast of entrance! Honors! tigers, leopards and other wildcats that Vegas legend Roy Horn (of Sigfried & The new Roy) helped him train. dinner theater. Besides entertaining, Garry built illusions for other magicians, David Copperfield being one Garry and Janine receive their prestigious of many. But then, 2020 Merlin Awards in Las Vegas. everything changed. 8 SHOWS Garry during his “wilder” days! THE BRANSON INSIDER SHOWS FIT FOR A KING’S CASTLE!

t goes without saying—only the best of the best are granted the THE COURT OF KING’S CASTLE DUBLIN IRISH TENORS & The CELTIC LADIES: Ihonor of appearing at a King’s The amazing singers and dancers of King’s Castle are featuring Irish Dance Stars! Castle! That being said, the shows chosen and summoned from such faraway places appearing here obviously fill the The sound of Irish tenors singing in as England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland and (can you harmony taps into a level of musical bill—for they are actually produced believe it?) even Arkansas! Read all about them at by a real King! beauty that is dreamlike. It’s no wonder KingsCastleTheatre.com! this show has become one of the most We speak of England’s world popular in Branson—and we haven’t famous, award-winning show VEGAS HIT “BOOGIE’S” INTO SEASON 2021! even mentioned the Celtic Ladies yet! producer Mr. David King, whose DANCING QUEEN! While The Tenors are dreamlike, we describe the voices of these Celtic kingdom includes hit shows Ladies as nothing less than heavenly! If you loved Riverdance, you will comprised of over 500 performers The Ultimate 70’s love this masterpiece of angelic voices and the breathtaking Irish step- appearing and touring throughout Show! Dig out your bell dancing we enjoyed in The King’s Castle hit show Spirit of the Dance! the world! Behold the suits of armor bottoms and put on your and royal trappings as you enter dancing shoes; Dancing NEW JERSEY NIGHTS! King’s Castle Theatre. Then, get Queen is returning from THE MUSIC OF FRANKIE VALLI & THE FOUR SEASONS! ready for a command performance Las Vegas to the King’s Castle Theatre this Season 2021! of one of The Castle’s blockbuster (Honestly, we can’t even say “Dancing Queen” without Celebrating its 8th blockbuster productions! hearing those heavenly Swedish voices serenading season in Branson! A Broadway hit our imaginary ears!) Celebrating the Classic #1 Hits of and award-winning movie (Jersey RETURN OF the 70’s, this high octane music fest stars The Castle’s Boys) introduced new generations international troupe of singers and dancers performing to the group that stole the hearts THE IRISH those eternal 70’s sounds! Here, we get to groove to of nearly all who came of age in STEPDANCE! disco classics like Y.M.C.A., “Disco Inferno”, Play That the 1950s and ‘60s! Backed up by Funky Music, Waterloo, We Are Family, Superstition, incredible production numbers and wow—can you feel it? Dancing Queen is a show- performed by an international cast of world class dancers, the legendary stopping psychedelic kaleidoscope of singing, dancing crooners bring us Sherry, Rag Doll, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Can’t Take My Eyes Off and spectacular costumes that gets multitudes singing You, Walk Like a Man COME BACK NOV-DEC FOR: along and even dancing in the aisles! Get ready to get and so much more. your groove on at the biggest 70’s party ever! BRANSON’S CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND! No yuletide trip to Branson would be NEW SMASH HIT ROCKS BRANSON! complete without experiencing this holiday feast of music and dance! Expect a Christmas ANTHEMS OF ROCK! Even though it premiered wonderland of high-energy dance, elaborate during our 2020 pandemic season, this Branson- costumes, beautiful scenery, gorgeous produced rock extravaganza is already on a production roll! Fans of every age seem to be ready to rock, numbers and for everybody from youngsters to grandfolks are packing out this rockfest of the highest Back by popular demand, exciting amazing music and explosive dancing! Let’s drop some names and let you guess kicking chorus Irish Stepdance returns to Branson how long it will take for you to rock along with this world class entourage of girls this side as part of King’s Castle’s Dublin singers and dancers! How about Queen, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Bon Jovi, of the North Irish Tenors & The Celtic Ladies! Led Zeppelin, Journey, Elton John, Aerosmith—or Bohemian Rhapsody. Rock on! Pole!

THE BRANSON INSIDER SHOWS 9 ON TOUR MUSIC, AND A LIFE, THROUGHOUT 2021! THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING! CALL (417)-464-8497 FOR BRANSON SHOWCARPENTERS DATES! ONCE MORE

If we stop and listen to the music you know her hit songs and you know her begins to play. Then we hear the real serenading us these days, whether it be story—one which frankly, changed history. Karen Carpenter begin to sing. Diana on the radio, at the shopping mall, the Unusually, Karen Carpenter was both a suddenly appears and Karen’s voice Ihair salon or on earphones plugged into singer and a drummer. She and her brother becomes hers. It’s seamless. Does whatever they’re plugged into—we will no Richard, (The Carpenters) used their own Diana look like Karen? Well, somewhat, doubt hear an awful lot of The Carpenters voices to create multi-track masterpieces for her clothing style could definitely once more. To this day, The Carpenters that dominate the airwaves even to this day. have parachuted in from Karen’s The Dream 1970s wardrobe closet, but it’s the voice, remain prominent on the soundtrack of our That innovation literally changed the world iana grew up in a family of entertainers lives, ever popular, and ever-uplifting. Truly, of music. A few examples: (They Long To Be) the stage presence and the captivating personality that draws us into the amazing and has been an entertainer all her they are music to our ears, on so many levels. Close to You, We’ve Only Just Begun, Top life,D (even during those years as a registered of the World, Hurting Each Other, Merry talent of Karen Carpenter channeled by Bringing to life these musical treasures that the amazing talent of Diana Lynn! nurse, but we digress, for that’s another generations of us all love is multi-award Christmas Darling, and so many more. amazing story.) Her showbiz experience winning singing star Diana Lynn. Diana is comes across the moment she takes the certainly no stranger to Branson, (nor these The Shock! stage, for her sunny personality, both warm pages), for as us real Branson Insiders all Save the Dates! and upbeat, is literally contagious. Audiences know, Diana is the wife When Karen’s young life iana is no stranger to Branson, having love her. and frequent co-star of the succumbed to the effects starred in several shows of her own and Throughout her life, Diana has performed gentleman we see on the of anorexia nervosa at havingD appeared in some of Showtown’s in shows of every kind. But page to our immediate the tender age of 33, the premiere showplaces along with her her lifelong inspiration, right, who is of course world was shocked. Until husband Keith (a.k.a Neil Diamond). After was Karen Carpenter. She Neil Diamond. then, the eating disorder, several years in Branson, the two stars and Karen both share the Correction: Diana is, on (anorexic) was largely decided to expand their winter road tour, same vocal range. Says the contrary, married to unheard of among the a decision which suddenly morphed into Diana, “I always say, Keith Allynn, the multi- general public. But packed out shows throughout America I was taught by award winning tribute that was then and this is for over two years! The stars did keep their Karen Carpenter. artist who performs as Neil now. It was the tragic loss home in Branson for a little vacay, but their And I’ve always Diamond! Sorry for the of Karen Carpenter that Branson home became a full time residence dreamed of doing a fake news. educated us all. It literally with the arrival of COVID-19. But now that show of her music.” changed the world. COVID is on the downswing, America craves It’s obvious, Karen both Diana’s show and Keith’s show to return. was taught good. Booking demands quickly filled up their About The We’ve Only And some dreams 2021 calendars, and then some, causing this do come true. ✦ Carpenters Just Begun! dynamic duo to now hit the road throughout the summer months and llow us to educate he show begins with some weekends. Better Diana with Wes Larson, who plays Karen’s famous brother Richard you youngsters who a gentleman taking call the number seen here Carpenter. Like Richard, Wes plays piano and just about every other don’t know better. a seat at the piano to and grab your tickets for instrument there is. He’s also a music teacher, actor, minister, portray Karen’s brother now or later before this You might not remember show producer, entertainer, businessman, and so much more. Richard Carpenter. He outfit goesWoosh! her name, but trust us, We’re not sure if he sleeps, however.

10 SHOWS THE BRANSON INSIDER is James McCall from Leon THROUGHOUT ON TOUR 2021! Russell and many more, on CALL (417)-464-8497 FOR drums is Tim Pope, formerly with Ray BRANSON SHOW DATES! HIT SHOW RETURNS Charles, Tony Orlando and many more. him and WHO'S NEIL DIAMOND? a guitar. The WITH BAND OF hen you hear the songs he wrote audience was so Wand sang—our guess is that you’ll overwhelmed, the venue find yourself singing along and knowing pleaded that Keith would stay ALL-STARS! the words that you never even knew you for another show. Then another. 5,000 knew! Prediction: at the end of this show, packed out each one. That says it all. you’ll be on your feet singing your heart Presley’s God & Country Theatre! (More out. And at this particular time in our world, END OF STORY you may have to fight to hold back tears. about Diana’s show on page 10) t the show’s finale, drums begin More on that later. Here are some of Neil’s pounding. On screen is a flag waving. songs which create the soundtrack of our Keith begins singing—"Far, we’ve been SOMETHING OUTRAGEOUS! lives: Cherry, Cherry, Sweet Caroline, I am, traveling far, without a home, but now I said, Solitary Man, Cracklin’ Rosie, Holy, es, we’re going to do something without a star. Free, only want to be free, we Holy, Shilo, Soolaimon, Kentucky Woman, Youtrageous! Actually, it was Keith who huddle close, hang on to a dream. On the I’m a Believer, Brother Love’s Traveling came up with the idea. Before his show boats and on the planes, they’re coming to America. Never looking back again, they’re coming to America. Home, don’t it seem so far away, Oh, we’re traveling light today, in the eye of the storm, in the eye of the storm. Freedom’s light burning warm. Got fter packing out performance venues a dream to take them throughout North America for the there, they’re coming past two years, world renown Neil to America. Got a A dream they’ve come Diamond tribute artist Keith Allynn has begins, the musicians are introduced! True Salvation Show, Song Sung blue, Pretty landed once again in the town where adoring story, hand on the Bible! It’s an awesome Amazing Grace, and one we are saving to share, they’re coming to fans flocked to his show A( Neil Diamond statement. Finally, we get some clues which for the end of this story. Stay tuned. America. My Country ‘tis of Tribute) for a whopping ten years straight! reveal just why Branson’s musicians are so thee, Sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing—” But wait—this time, the fans are in for a off-the-chartsamazing! WHO'S KEITH ALLYNN? surprise, for now Keith is backed up by a So here goes: Let’s have a drumroll for each esides being an amazing Neil Diamond During these times in which band of all-star musicians who, like Keith, introduction: On lead guitar is Bogie Btribute artist, Keith Allyn is one of the we live, the words, the are legendary performers in their own right! Bohinc, formerly with Andy Williams, most captivating entertainers you are likely music, of Neil Diamond’s (More on that a tad later.) But as we probably Tony Orlando, and many more. On bass is to ever experience. Entertaining is not America--resonates deep too often like to say—“folks, that’s not all!” Robert Terry, from Jimmy Osmond and just his vocation—it’s his lifelong passion. in our heart of hearts. The many more. On keyboards is Terry Laird He’s brilliant, he’s warm, he’s funny, he’s drums are pounding as the As might be guessed by all genuine Branson music swells, the audience Insiders, Keith’s return is in the company of his from Lawrence Welk and many more. On full of mesmerizing Neil Diamond stories, percussion is Diana Allynn, (Mrs. Keith), on and he literally “owns” not only the stage, rising to their feet. Many are lovely wife Diana Lynn, who opens her own wiping away tears. There award-winning Carpenters Once More show percussion and flute is Adrianna Fine from but the hearts of most all of us audience Fleetwood Mac Dreams, Jerry Presley’s types. Example: He recently performed a is scarcely a dry eye in the at the same power-packed performance house. End of story. ✦ venue as her husband—namely, Jerry Elvis Live, and many more, on percussion one-nighter for 5,000 people. No band. Just

THE BRANSON INSIDER SHOWS 11 Elvis & Jerry Presley: THEATERS WHAT A STORY, Branson’s LIVE Showplace for The Music You Love! WHAT A SHOW!

ow! Three full-blown productions to add another of authentic Elvis shows—complete zinger—two members with the trademark Elvis entourage of Jerry’s current of keyboards, horns, electrics, percussion— cast, (singer Denny and OF COURSE lady backup singers and a Yeary and trumpeter Gospel quartet! Anyone of any generation Jay Daversa) also who never knew how insanely awesome an performed with The Elvis concert was—here’s your ticket to rock King himself! ’n roll heaven! The most common reaction What we love most (and quote) from fans in the know is this: about Jerry’s Elvis “It’s the most authentic Elvis show I’ve concerts is that they ever seen!” are real. No over-the- What other Elvis performer is related to top Elvis exaggeration Elvis three ways, hung out with Elvis, was and schtick—just encouraged by Elvis, attended over a dozen amazing performances Says Jerry, “I’m not an impersonator, I’m a Elvis concerts, and even served in the crafted to recreate Elvis live shows as they family member doing the songs of Elvis and Army like Elvis? But folks, that’s not all! Like really were. We also love the fact that in I try to keep it as authentic as I can. You will Elvis—Cousin Jerry even has a twin brother! between numbers, Jerry too is real. He’s not never see me do things that Elvis didn’t do.” And it gets even better, for Elvis’s original Elvis. But what a guy. A gracious host and Elvis couldn’t have found a better guy to ELVIS LIVE! backup singers, (The Jordanaires, The full of Elvis stories, Jerry has fun with the carry on his legacy. A devout Christian, Stamps Quartet and The Blackwoods)— audience as well as his fellow performers. But Jerry’s life has not suffered the turbulence ALOHA FROM performed with Jerry for years! And just when the music starts, Jerry becomes Elvis. that befell Elvis—yet the kindness, respect, HAWAII CONCERT! generosity and even heart for God that Elvis was known for—is alive and well in cousin MADISON SQUARE Tribute Shows Jerry Presley—the one we believe to be GARDEN CONCERT! APPEARING LIVE AT very much the keeper of the flame.✦ Tue: REQUEST NIGHT! GOD & COUNTRY! ✱ ✱ ✱ 50 Yrs of Elvis & Jerry COMIC BOOK HEROZ! • Jerry is related to Elvis 3 ways • He Kenny was one of the first Elvis tribute artists TRIBUTE SHOWS out there • Elvis’s Manager Colonel 3 DOG NIGHT Rogers Parker disapproved of Jerry • Elvis CARPENTERS ONCE MORE! came to Jerry’s rescue, encouraging him • Jerry attended over 13 Elvis CHICAGO! concerts • He hung out with Elvis at TEMPTATIONS: Graceland • He treasures several gifts SOUL & MOTOWN! Elvis gave him • He met briefly with Elvis backstage in July of ’77 • In NEIL DIAMOND August, he received a note from Elvis starring Keith Allynn! apologizing for the short meeting and 50 YRS OF KENNY ROGERS! inviting him back to Graceland • Days FLEETWOOD MAC later, Elvis died • At Graceland after FLEETWOOD MAC :DREAMS! the funeral, Jerry ran into Elvis’s Dad WAYLON, WILLIE & Vester sitting on the stairs. “I guess THE GOOD OL BOYS it will never be the same around here Sept: NEIL SEDAKA anymore,” said Jerry. With tears in ! his eyes, Vester answered, “No, Son, I guess it never will be.” • “Elvis was a humble guy,” says Jerry. “He didn’t 417-334-6806 put himself up on a pedestal. He loved 1840 W. Hwy 76 people. He was such a giving person. www.GodandCountryTheaters.com ! There will never be another Elvis.”

12 SHOWS THE BRANSON INSIDER POWERHOUSE PERFORMERS HEADLINE ELEGANT NEW SHOWPLACE FOR RHYTHM & BLUES! What all had just in Detroit which took rhythm and blues and Teenagers, The Five satins, Dion and the soul music to the world. What began with Belmonts, The Del Vikings, The Coasters Ruby Room Stars: (Left to Right) witnessed was a performance by a one kid, (Barry Gordy) and $800 became and so many more. Earl Lee, Derek Ventura and legendary entertainer a music explosion—and you’ll hear it all Doc Hutchinson. and his entourage. here. Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, Leading it is Derek The Supremes, The Temptations, Stevie THE RUBY ROOM’S Ventura, an original Wonder, The Four Tops, and many more. SHOCKING SURPRISE! member of The And the songs: My Girl, I Heard it Through Drifters, the iconic the Grapevine, Tracks of My Tears, I Can’t e will just simply describe this exciting music group who Help Myself, Get Ready, Stop in the Name Wnew showplace at The Majestic as gave us those of Love, and more. Many more. Oh, and one an elegant, intimate theater and a lounge. immortal classics of more thing: surprise guests include The Table service offers the appetizers and Under the Boardwalk, Supremes! (Hint, Hint!) bar service described at the top of our Up on the Roof, There DooWop & The Drifters. story—and it all comes with a shocking Goes My Baby, Save surprise! (For those of you restless souls too Again, to educate all youngsters, we will impatient to discover the surprise before the Last Dance for explain “DooWop” as that early rock n’ roll Me, and over thirteen heading to the Ruby Room, we’ll go ahead music style that originated with Harlem and blab it here, although we’re turning it other chart hits—all teenagers singing four-part harmonies on which landed The upside down for the rest of us who don’t street-corners back in the 1950s and early like spoiling the fun ahead of time! Either Drifters in the Vocal 60s. But come to think of it, thanks to the Group Hall of Fame! way, you’re going to love this place. We’re popularity of oldies stations and Internet, insiders. We saw it under construction. alk about a Branson trend setter! (Note: Read more kids today are highly educated in popular

about Derek on p. 20) We’ve seen these guys perform. We know! Introducing: a theater that seats music, so most everybody under seventy show! the of

probably knows all about Doo-Wop. This Tlike a lounge, serves hot appetizers, This Season 2021, Derek and company are stars the by served be will table Your flatbreads, street tacos and homemade starring in two electrifying performances at show takes us back to those golden sounds desserts at table side with service during their elegant new venue which is certainly of The Drifters, Frankie Lymon & The the show—complete with a full bar offering unique in the Branson music scene. The beer, wine, Starbucks coffee, teas and soft shows, as we see here—are Dancing in the drinks!. Oh, and there’s even a small dance Streets- A Motown Revue and DooWop & floor. Now for the shows. the Drifters. And for the showplace: allow When they exploded on stage at the us to introduce The Ruby Room at the prestigious 2018 Terry Awards , the place Majestic Theater & Lounge! went nuts! The whole Branson entertainment community was instantly swept away by a THE SHOWS powerhouse performance that rocked like Dancing in the Streets: A Motown Revue an earthquake and rolled like a shockwave! Made a body wanna “move and groove!” (which obviously recalls the immortal classic of Motown’s Martha & the Vandellas) is aptly What Branson experienced that night was a described as a production presenting the medley of rhythm and blues, some doo-wop greatest hits of the biggest Motown artists and soul, and some Motown memories that in history. And to educate all youngsters, we lit a fire in every heart! Made it tough to resist will elaborate by explaining that “Motown” leaping up and to just start dancing—. You is that historic “Motor City” record company could feel it!

The Ruby Room (artist’s rendering.) In person it’s awesome, it’s fun, and for those who can’t resist, there’s even a space for dancing!

THE BRANSON INSIDER SHOWS 13 2021 BRANSON SHOW GUIDE Shows appearing in THE BRANSON INSIDER are listed in RED! *MEAL GUIDE: B (BREAKFAST), L (LUNCH), D (DINNER), A (ALCOHOL AVAILABLE) Map See Show Meal Menu Please See Theatre Website for Show Times Grid Pages Season Avail* Page The Americana Theater 2905 W Hwy 76 • 417-544-8700 americanatheatre.com E-6

Awesome 80's 18,27,28 Apr-Dec

The Blackwoods theblackwoods.com 18,27,28 Apr-Oct

The Blackwoods Christmas Show theblackwoods.com 18,27,28 Nov-Dec

British Invasion 18,27,28 Apr-Dec

Broadway to Buble: George Dyer 18,27,28 Apr-Oct

CJ Newsome's Classic Country & Comedy patsyclineandfriends.com 16,27,28 Thru Dec

The Johnson Strings thejohnsonstrings.com 18,27,28 Apr-Oct

The Johnson Strings Christmas Show thejohnsonstrings.com 18,27,28 Nov-Dec

A Janice Martin Cirque Show janicemartinshow.com 18,27,28 Sep-Nov

Raiding the Country Valult raidingthecountryvault.com 17,27,28 Apr-Oct

Rock n' Roll Royalty rocknrollroyaltybranson.com 18,27,28 Apr-Oct

Rock n' Roll Royalty Christmas Show rocknrollroyaltybranson.com 18,27,28 Nov-Dec Branson Central Theatre 625 St. Hwy 165 • 417-231-4112 F-5 14 1,8, Escape Reality: Up Close Comedy & Magic carsonentertainment.com 27,28 Thru Dec D The Steve Morris Lunchtime Break: Comedy, Music bransoncentraltheatre.com Thru Dec L Branson Famous Theatre 645 Hwy 165 • 417-231-4999 baldknobbers.com F-4 2 6,7, Branson's Famous Baldknobbers 27,28 Thru Oct 6,7, Branson's Famous Baldknobbers Christmas 27,28 Nov-Dec 6,7, Vintage Baldknobbers Show 27,28 Aug-Dec 6,7, Baldknobbers Gospel Show 27,28 Thru Dec 6,7, Baldknobbers Gospel Christmas Show 27,28 Nov-Dec The Doug Gabriel Show douggabriel.com Thru Dec

Reza: Edge of Illusion rezalive.com Thru Dec Branson Hot Hits Theatre 206 South Commercial St • 417-337-7426 bransonhothits.com F-13

Motown Downtown Thru Dec

Doo Wop & More Apr-Dec

Patsy to Patsy, Music of Patsy Cline, Reba & More Thru Dec

Marvin Gaye & The Masters of Soul Apr-Dec

Platters Golden Sounds Thru Dec

From Broadway to Hollywood to Branson May-Dec

James Taylor & the Soft Rock of the 70s & 80s Apr-Nov Branson Star Theatre 3750 W 76 Blvd • 417-693-4432 bransonstartheatre.com C-3 4 Nashville Roadhouse Live 1,19, starring Stevie Lee Woods 27,28 Thru Dec D,A

Phil Dalton: Theatre of Illusion Apr-Nov

Mark Aldred's Jukebox Live March

Wildman Pebo Wilson Thru June

Outlaw Eagles Thru Dec

Creedence Coolwater Thru Dec

Brian Clarke: Out of the Basement Thru July

14 SHOWS THE BRANSON INSIDER 2021 BRANSON SHOW GUIDE Shows appearing in THE BRANSON INSIDER are listed in RED! *MEAL GUIDE: B (BREAKFAST), L (LUNCH), D (DINNER), A (ALCOHOL AVAILABLE) Map See Show Meal Menu Please See Theatre Website for Show Times Grid Pages Season Avail* Page Clay Cooper Theatre 3216 W. Hwy 76 • 888-222-8910 claycoopertheatre.com E-5

Clay Cooper's Country Express Thru Oct

#1 Hits of the 60's (& 50's too)! Thru Oct

#1 Hits of the 60's Christmas Show Nov-Dec

Dean Z - The Ultimate Elvis Thru June

Dean Z's Rockin' Christmas Show Nov-Dec

The Haygoods Thru Sept The Shoji Tabuchi show TBA Dick Clark's American Bandstand Theatre 1600 W. Hwy 76 • 417-339-3003 legendsinconcert.com/Branson E-10

Legends in Concert Thru Sept D,A

SIX (Real Brothers) thesixshow.com Thru Oct

Buckets N Boards bucketsnboards.com Thru Oct

A Brett Family Christmas thebrettsshow.com Nov-Dec Dolly Parton's Stampede 1525 W. Hwy 76 • 800-520-5544 dpstampede.com E-10

Dolly Parton's Stampede Thru Oct L,D

Dolly Parton's Stampede Christmas Nov-Dec L,D The Dutton Family Theatre 3454 W Hwy 76 • 417-332-2772 theduttons.com E3

The Duttons May-Oct

The Duttons Christmas Show Nov-Dec

The Magic & Comedy of Taylor Reed taylorreed.com Thru Dec Leroy New Tribute to Marty Robbins TBA Grand Country Music Hall 1945 W Hwy 76 • 417-335-2484 GrandCountry.com E-10

Amazing Pets! Thru Dec

Branson Country USA live TV Broadcast Thru Dec

Comedy Jamboree Thru Oct

Comedy Jamboree Christmas Show Nov-Dec

Down Home Country Apr

Grand Jubilee Thru Oct

New South Gospel Thru Apr

Ozarks Gospel Thru Dec

Ozarks Country Thru Dec Hamner’s Variety Theater 3090 Shep. of the Hills Expy • 417-334-4363 hamnersunbelievable.com C-6 See Website

Hamner's Unbelievable Variety Thru Oct

Hamner's Unvelievable Christmas Spectacular Nov-Dec

Abba Tribute Thru Dec

Beach Boys “California Dreamin” Thru Dec

Back to the BeeGees Thru Dec

Magnificent 7 Music Variety Show Apr-Dec

Mike Walker: Lasting Impressions Thru Dec The Hughes Brothers Theatre 3425 W. Hwy 76 • 417-334-0076 Hughes-Brothers.com E-4 15 3,20,21, The Hughes Music Show 27,28 Thru Oct L, D

THE BRANSON INSIDER SHOWS 15 2021 BRANSON SHOW GUIDE THE PRESENTS: Shows appearing in THE BRANSON INSIDER are listed in RED! *MEAL GUIDE: B (BREAKFAST), L (LUNCH), D (DINNER), A (ALCOHOL AVAILABLE) Map See Show Meal Menu Please See Theatre Website for Show Times Grid Pages Season Avail* Page

The Hughes Brothers Theatre Continued

The Hughes Family Christmas Nov-Dec L, D

Hughes Brothers Country 21,27,28 Thru Dec L, D

Oh Happy Day: Goin Back to Gospel! Apr-Jun L 1,5,21, Re-Vibe! 27,28 Thru Nov L, D

Famous Impressions Thru Dec Branson's IMAX™ Little Opry Theatre 3562 Shep. of the Hills Exp • 417-335-4832 bransonimax.com B-4 See Website

George Jones & Friends Thru Jul

Hank Williams Revisited Thru Dec

Smoke on the Mountain Thru Oct et’s get real. If your ticket—the show’s all-star band, (The Sanders Family Christmas Nov-Dec you want the “real Recliners) PLUS a stellar entourage of The Petersens Thru Dec deal” in your singers and dancers! And it all happens at The Petersens Gospel Thru Oct search for a Country the iconic Americana Theatre, right in the Music Show that heart of the Branson strip! Such a deal! Sons of Britches Mar-Dec serves up everything To describe this country music George Jones & Friends Remembered Sep-Dec from classic country extravaganza, we are reminded of the Rick McEwen's Big Show Thru Nov all the way up to hot Country Tonite Show, that dazzling country 2021—this is your show! Jackie B Goodes Uptown Café Vegas production that enjoyed several W. Hwy 175 at 65 • 417-336-3535 Bransonuptown.com E-4 But if you also want laughs, then when it blockbuster seasons here in Showtown. Tribute to George Strait Dinner Show May-Dec D,A comes to laugh-out-loud hilariousness, THIS Likewise, this full blown country variety one is the “show of shows”! show comes at us fast and furious with a Country Legends May-Dec L, A catalogue of country hits that spans the Jerry Presley’s God and Country Theatre The unbelievably good news is that we 1840 W. Hwy 76 • 417-334-6806 GodandCountryTheaters.com E-10 10,11,12See Website get a “two-fer” all in one star-studded decades. supershow! We’re talkin CJ Newsom’s About that Terry Wayne Cowboy Church 12,27,28 Thru Dec Classic Country & Comedy, starring Sanders character— Elvis Live! Request Night 12,27,28 Apr-Dec multi award-winning country honestly, that hilarious Elvis Live! Aloha From Hawaii 12,27,28 Thru Dec singer (and one who channels outfit represents so many goofy Patsy Cline like no other) CJ characters its hard to keep track of Elvis Live! Madison Square Garden Concert 12,27,28 Thru Dec Newsom! ‘em all! Let’s see, there’s Grandma Elvis Live! Gospel Concert 12,27,28Select Dates Beulah, Barney Fife, Fred Smoot, And just for laughs, you also get hall-of- Christmas with Elvis 12 Nov-Dec Joan Rivers—aww, we give fame, award-winning 1,3, comedy legend up! Terry’s 40 year career Comic Book HeroZ 27,28 Apr-Dec has accumulated so many (and 3 Dog Night: Shambala 12,27,28 Apr-Dec Hee-Haw TV characters, (and awards) who can veteran) Terry Wayne honestly remember them all? Best of Neil Sedaka: Tribute 12,27,28 Aug-Dec Sanders—all in the If you like country, Hall-of-Fame Carpenters Once More 10,27,28 Apr-Oct

same show! comedy, and if you like an inspiring Carpenters Christmas Nov-Dec patriotic segment,—then you are sure But yes, folks—that’s 12,20, Chicago: A Tribute Apr-Dec not all! (We love to like a classic Branson show. This one, 27,28 for example. The saying that!) Here’s Temptations: Soul & Motown 12,27,28 Apr-Dec what you also get with real deal. Neil Diamond Tribute 11,27,28 Apr-Dec

50 Yrs of Kenny Rogers 12,27,28 Apr-Dec

Fleetwood Mac Dreams 12,27,28 Apr-Dec

Waylon, Willie & The Good Ol Boys 12,27,28 Apr-Dec Jim Stafford Theatre TICKETS: Who is 2835 W. Hwy 76 • 417-334-4528 jimstaffordtickets.com E-4 Terry Wayne CJ NEWSOM’S CLASSIC COUNTRY & COMEDY Jim Stafford TBA THE AMERICANA THEATRE Sanders? 2905 W Hwy. 76 Branson Answer: Jimmy Buffett Tribute: Parrotville TBA 417-544-8700 all of the Phone: above.

16 SHOWS THE BRANSON INSIDER 2021 BRANSON SHOW GUIDE Shows appearing in THE BRANSON INSIDER are listed in RED! THE PRESENTS: *MEAL GUIDE: B (BREAKFAST), L (LUNCH), D (DINNER), A (ALCOHOL AVAILABLE) Map See Show Meal Menu Please See Theatre Website for Show Times Grid Pages Season Avail* Page King’s Castle Theater 1,3,9, 2701 W. Hwy 76 • 417-334-2500 kingscastletheatre.com E-8 20,27,28 3,9,20, Anthems of Rock 27,28 Thru Dec 1,9, Dancing Queen 27,28 Thru Oct

Dublin's Irish Tenors & Celtic Ladies 9,27,28 Thru Dec

New Jersey Nights: Music of The Four Seasons 9,27,28 Thru Dec

Branson's Christmas Wonderland 9,27,28 Nov-Dec Majestic Theatre 2849 Gretna Rd. • 417-231-2420 C-7 Doo-Wop & The Drifters 1, 13,20, The Ruby Room Thtr. & Lounge • 417-231-2420 therubyroomatthemajestic.com 27,28 Thru Dec D,A Dancin' in the Street: a Motown Revue 1, 13,20, his acclaimed Vegas-style country millennial year of 2020! The Ruby Room Thtr. & Lounge • 417-231-2420 therubyroomatthemajestic.com 27,28 Thru Dec D,A music showcase features the all-time Performed by an all-star cast of award- Absolutely Country, Definitely Gospel classics from country’s biggest acts. • 417-218-0808 acdgbranson.com Thru Dec D,A winning Branson musicians and Dropping a few names, we can’t help but Nashville stars, Raiding the Country Branson Murder Mystery Dinner Show mention the likes of Johnny Cash, Buck • 417-849-8331 bransonmurdermystery.com Thru Dec D,A Vault in three years has won multiple Owens, Conway Twitty, Murder by Eggnog awards; including “Entertainers of Nov-Dec D,A • 417-849-8331 bransonmurdermystery.com Merle Haggard, George Jones, Loretta the Year”, “Best Band”, and many Lynn, Dolly Parton, Glen Campbell, Comedy Hypnosis Dinner Show • 417-849-8331 jecobiesmindplay.com TBA D,A individual band awards. In addition, the Waylon Jennings, Garth Brooks, George show enjoyed an unprecedented rise Mickey Gilley Grand Shanghai Theatre Strait, Brad Paisley, and many more. 3455 W Hwy 76 • 417-336-0888 amazingacrobats.com D-3 to number 3 on TripAdvisor within 12

Shanghai Circus Thru Dec In one spectacular production, Raiding weeks of opening due to fan reviews. the Country Vault tells the story of The following year it was ranked #1 Mickey Gilley & Johnny Lee Apr-May Sep-Nov country music—from all the way back Branson show and voted "Best of to the 1960’s to all the way up to this Branson" in 2018. ✦ The Texas Tenors Sel Dates

Rick Thomas, Illusionist: Mansion of Dreams Thru Dec Pierce Arrow Theatre 3069 Shep. of the Hills Expy • 417-336-8742 piercearrowtheater.com C-5

Pierce Arrow Country Thru Sep

Pierce Arrow :Decades Thru Sep

Pierce Arrow: Decades Vol. 2 Thru Sep Presleys’ Country Jubilee 2920 W. Hwy 76 • 800-336-4874 presleys.com E-6 Thru Dec Sight & Sound Theatres 1001 Shep. of the Hills Expy • 800-377-1277 sight-sound.com B-8

Jesus Thru Dec Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Thtr. 13260 W. Hwy 76 • 417-334-7469 ShepherdoftheHills.com A-3 See Website

Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Drama May-Oct D

Ventriloquist Jim Barber & Friends Thru Aug

WhoDunnit Hoedown Thru Dec D

Shepherd's Chuckwagon Sep-Dec D

A Shepherd's Christmas Carol Nov,Dec D Showboat Branson Belle 4800 W. Hwy 76 • 800-475-9370 bransonsilverdollarcity.com J-3 Thru Dec L,D Yakov Theatre yakov.com B-12 470 St. Hwy 248 • 417-336-3838 TICKETS: Comedy Star Yakov Smirnoff Oct-Dec RAIDING THE COUNTRY VAULT THE AMERICANA THEATRE 2905 W Hwy. 76 Branson Phone: 417-544-8700

THE BRANSON INSIDER SHOWS 17 THE PRESENTS:

TheJohnsonStrings.com

It all began in 1964 when The Beatles of Liverpool crossed “The Pond”, landed in New York, appeared on The Ed Sullivan TV Show which was viewed that night by just about every North American who had a TV and could pull in the 3 available stations. What began was hysteria, screaming, girls feinting, Beatlemania, and what history has dubbed The British Invasion, when North America suddenly Fifteen dazzling instruments, seven voices in tight harmonies—plenty of laughs— craved and could not live without just about every rock n’ roll band whose and it’s all in the family! (The Johnson family). Our recommendation is simple: members had heavy British accents and whose music seemed to magically strike kick back, relax, and behold things the likes of which your eyes and ears have a chord in every heart! Now, live on stage in Branson, Missouri, experience the never experienced! The Johnson Strings routinely sweep audiences off their incredible music of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Who, Queen, The Kinks, feet—(so to speak). They set hearts and minds sailing into musical dreamlands. Dusty Springfield, Elton John—and wow, who can even read those names In-between, they manage to serve up all kinds of family fun! (Their comedy is without that British music invading our heads yet again! Experience this show. the whole package: musical, physical and whimsical!) Their musical brilliance is It’s groovy. Fab. And totally Gear. spectacular, their performances emotional, playful and fun. Within minutes, they have kids turning to their parents and asking for music lessons! Now that’s an inspiring show! From classical to pop, from country to Hollywood, from bluegrass to Disney, from the hits of today to Gospel, we recommend riding the musical landscape along with the incredibly entertaining Johnson Strings!

So who, one might ask, do we consider to be Rock n’ Roll Royalty? Well, here’s definitely one way to find out. We can best describe this lively trip back in time by dropping some names. There is not a one among them that isn’t a trigger of both memories and music that seem forever embedded in every heart and mind that has been on Yeah, the 80s were awesome. Totally. Dude, compared to the music of the 80’s, everything today is all planet earth for the past seventy odd years. Here goes: bogus. (Kidding, of course) Some say the 80s was the best decade of music for launching songs that Elvis, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Elton John. That both kids and adults still know and love. Well, dudes and dudettes, this show takes us on a Journey of should give a few clues. Other clues are songs. Songs like the artists and groups that will make a body wanna Great Balls of Fire, Hound Dog, Walk the Line or Crocodile Jump out of it’s “rad” seat! Every Breath You Take, Rock. To capture the spirit of that era which has honestly you will be Livin’ on a Prayer as you recall the Glory never left us, there’s no better way than treating ourselves Days of R.O.C.K. in the USA! We’ve Got the Beat, to an award-winning casts of musicians, vocalists and but the moment you Relax, WHAM!, you are right tribute artists who not only will bring it all back—they will back in the Danger Zone! Yes, the minute the take you there. And here’s the cherry on top: after the TICKETS: music of this show launches, it’s hard for a body show, all are invited to a meet ‘n greet and photo op’ with to stay seated! It just wants to get Footloose! Our the stars in the theatre lobby, where in addition, we can TO ALL 4 SHOWS! recommendation: Don’t Stop Believing because THE AMERICANA THEATRE browse a vast array of nostalgic merchandise—all which Who You Gonna Call to get tickets? Answer: Call 2905 W Hwy. 76 Branson will surely recall a memory or two, or even stir up many a the number you see here! Phone: 417-544-8700 long ago dream.

18 SHOWS THE BRANSON INSIDER NETWORK TV, AND A-LIST GUEST STARS FIRE UP ICONIC BRANSON STAR THEATRE! (SEE AD ON PG 4) our nation represents. It’s that kind of show. As one prominent musician was overheard MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT: saying, “these guys aren’t just good, they’re NASHVILLE ROADHOUSE crazy good!” LIVE CONCERT SERIES! Stevie’s showbiz roots run deep. His Dad COMING SOON! played guitar with the legendary Lester MAY 1 Flatt and Earl Scruggs, then later with fellow BOBBY MARQUEZ Nashville RoadHouseLive starring Stevie Lee Woods & The NRL Band-- legend Eddy Arnold. In fact, Stevie’s whole and featuring some of music’s top stars as weekly guests—will begin family is in the music world. Besides charting their broadcasts on network TV in the very near future! (Note: these country hits, Stevie also hosted Today’s Hot MAY 7 & 8 will be ticketed shows!) Country on TV’s Nashville Network. COLLIN RAYE Originating from The Branson Star Theatre, the worldwide telecast Looks like the wheel is coming full circle! ✦ will be available to viewers on GAC TV (Great American Country), MAY 14-15 Telemundo, I-Tickets, I-Tunes and Virtual Pay Per View! To attend the CONFEDERATE RAILROAD broadcasts and keep up with the guest star announcements, visit: BransonStarTheater.com. MAY 21 & 22 GRAND LADIES OF COUNTRY LEONA WILLIAMS, MARY LOU TURNER AND BARBARA FAIRCHILD

MAY 28-29 T GRAHAM BROWN Your Host: Country/Rock Star Stevie Lee Woods JUNE 18-19 AARON TIPPIN BRANSON STAR THEATER AMENITIES! TICKETS 800-320-3418 DINNER: Pot Roast, bourbon street chicken, seasoned red potatoes, UPDATES green beans, tossed salad, Apple Bansonstartheater.com cobbler, yeast roll, iced tea and water. WHERE COUNTRY MEETS ROCK & ROLL! CONCESSIONS: Yes his show’s first season in Branson is resume a mile long! BEVERAGES: Beer, wine, spirits, Soft already winning awards, bringing in the The ALL Folks, this show is STAR CAST of drinks, bottled waters, coffee, tea,etc. A-List superstars, and launching Branson a high energy fun into the wide world via radio and TV! NASHVILLE (all can be taken into the theater) Enjoy! fest that moves fast RoadHouseLive! Heading up this all-star supershow is and furious—but powerhouse performer Stevie Lee Woods, with plenty of heart, (Left to right) Rick whose music career in both country and soul and a whole McEwen, Mark rock music charted hits all the way to #1 (Is lotta love. The level Boyd, Stevie Lee there anything left?) for example--and for of performance and Woods, Paul Oney, years had him on the road opening for the musicianship is an Steve Leach and likes of Lorrie Morgan, Martina Mcbride, absolute showbiz Robbie Springfield. Brooks & Dunn, Diamond Rio and just earthquake! It’s about everyone in-between. On stage, he’s that awesome! You can see the love the explosive—consuming it like a hybrid of performers have for the music, for each Mick Jagger, Garth Brooks and maybe other, and even for us audience types. You even Brooks & Dunn—all while backed up can feel it. by a lovely troupe of high-steppin’, boot- During a powerful segment of the show, scootin’ dancers and one of the hottest for all to see, that love is expressed to our band of all-stars ever assembled, each one a veterans, our flag, and to the ideals Branson legend with a big league showbiz THE BRANSON INSIDER SHOWS 19 from our ROVING REPORTERS FOR OLDE TIMEY PHOTO FUN & PROWLING PAPARAZZI! hat’s right, folks—not only A MOTOWN LEGEND IN OUR MIDST! MRS. BRENDA’S GOTCHA Tis our own Derek Ventura COVERED! appearing in both shows at the Photos, which you’ll new Ruby Room inside The easily find right across Majestic, (as we learned on the street from Grand page 13)--the former New York Country. (Whew—that City bandleader was actually was a long sentence!) the lead singer of Motown’s We gladly recommend legendary doo-wop quartet either place for three The Drifters from 1972-1984, good reasons: One. a singing career that soon had Those high-pressure him touring both North America Derek (far right) sales tactics to get you and Europe for over a decade! back in the day! Generations both to spend big bucks on Derek today! pictures of yourself are past and present not allowed here. Two. continue to dance, Both of these high class groove and cherish As plainly seen here, Mrs. Brenda’s paparazzi caught photo studios have the memories and dreams stirred up close and personal in both the some Wild West varmints acting up at the local saloon! amazing costumes and by such Drifter classics as Under the Doo-Wop & The Drifters show sets that will make you Boardwalk, Up on the Roof, and over and the Dancing in the Streets n our not-so-humble opinion, your best feel like you’re in a Hollywood movie! And thirteen other chart hits—all which Motown Revue, now playing shot for having some photo fun will three: The folks taking the pictures are an landed The Drifters in the Vocal Group in that way cool Ruby Room Icome by heading Easterly down the absolute hoot! Hall of Fame! Lucky us, for now we get Theatre & Lounge, (with dance Branson strip to Mr. Brenda’s Old Time to hear The former Drifters lead singer up floor) For more: see p. 13.)✦ Saturday night in the Ozarks! YOUR BEST SHOT! We agree with SHOWBIZ ROYALTY ROCKS KING’S CASTLE! Trip Advisor, e’d expect royalty in a castle, who rates Mrs Wright? Well, even though we Brenda’s Old speak of a showbiz castle, we appropriately Time Photos speak of what we, and millions of others right up there would consider to be of some showbiz at the top of the royalty who appears at said castle. We list for old timey thusly describe a young royal who this photo phun! season is absolutely rocking the castle The folks here on electric guitar as he shreds the licks A Victorian belle primps are creative of Van Halen and others in this season’s smash hit production of Anthems of with perfume…. nuts and funnier than a Rock, (as seen back on pages 3 and 9) herd of cats eating jalapenos—plus they His name is Jack Cathcart, a graduate of are fun to have fun with! Missouri State with a BFA in acting. Besides being a guitar maestro, Jack has chalked Check out the ad below, see some of the up a long resume of theater, film and TV Jack Cathcart. foto phun on their facebook page and credits—everything from Shakespeare to website—then let the good folks at Mrs. the trumpet maestro of TV’s iconic an award-winning music video. All should Lawrence Welk TV Show, and Grandma Brenda’s give you and your good folks be of no surprise, for Jack descends from their best shot. ✦ Peggy Lennon, of the legendary Lennon a showbiz dynasty which includes, among Sisters! Warning: Do not miss this royal many others, Grandpa Dick Cathcart, performance. If thou art worthy. ✦

past fifty years! It’s all happening atJerry Presley’s God & Country Theatre! The stats say it all: Grammy Hall of Fame, 2020 Lifetime Achievement Award, some of the world’s best-selling albums of all time, and so many other accolades to list, but you get the picture. How about some usic history was made when brass memory triggers? Make Me Smile, Hard Mhorns joined electric guitars, power to Say I’m sorry, You’re the Inspiration, vocals, and the drumbeat of rock ‘n roll Will You Still Love Me?, Look Away, If You to create the iconic band Chicago! Now, Leave Me Now—should we keep going? all of us in Branson get to see and hear For tickets to this tribute entourage of up close and in person, the musicianship world class musicians, see pg. 12. ✦ that helped create the soundtrack of the

20 ATTRACTIONS THE BRANSON INSIDER Hughes News The Latest News From The World’s Largest Performing Family! Season 2021

performers have been playing to packed NEW THROWBACK SHOW of this band of brothers, these country WHAT A YEAR! out Branson audiences for decades, we are crooner Hughes Brothers, is a treasure richer es, it’s a brand new show at The Hughes ver at the Hughes Family Theatre, issuing this ADVISORY: If you haven’t seen than all the gold in California, for brotherly The Hughes Music Show lately, then YFamily Theatre. Sort of. voices in harmony for a lifetime is an OSeason 2021 has just about launched into another galaxy! you haven’t seen the latest incarnation of this We speak of the new Hughes Brothers experience to behold. ✦ showbiz masterpiece! Country Show which premiered last fall First, the youngsters of this outfit which and has already USA Today calls “the world’s largest kicked up a performing family”—have launched cyclone of their own new show, (RE-VIBE. which high praises! you already knew if you read carefully Yes, it’s new, back on page 5!) but here’s the Then, of course, is the multi-award- catch: Country winning mega production starring over Music is what 50 members of the huge Hughes Brothers originally family nation which has reigned in Branson brought for over 20 years! A drumroll, please, as we The Hughes speak of The spectacular Hughes Music Brothers to ADD A MEAL AT Show!, which, as fans all know, is way the dance, so THE HUGHES SHOW more than a show of music! Yes, this huge to speak. So Hughes entourage of performers spanning So what can one expect? Off-the-charts here we are, Celebrity the ages from babyhood to adulthood are musicianship, dancemanship—and a full a whole new Dinner Theatre brilliant music makers—(violins, guitars, assortment of Pop, Country, Hollywood, show bringing ave time, avoid traffic and stress— drums, woodwinds, keyboards and on and Broadway, forties throwback—oh, we give back that good Sand enjoy a relaxing gourmet dinner on)—but they are also amazing singers, up! Expect anything and everything from ol’ Country & before the show—prepared by acclaimed dancers, acrobats and slapstick comedians! this cast of little kids, big kids, Moms & Dads, Western music, Swedish chef Reggie Regnall! We will cite Although the four Hughes Brothers teens, young adults, babies, and yes, the But we’re saving the dessert entrée to help paint a picture: and their ever-expanding family of star legendary Hughes Brothers themselves! the best for last, so here it is—The harmonies luxurious dark chocolate mousse topped with a heavenly light whipped cream & fresh rasberries. Oh Yum. (See ad on p. 15)

June 15-19, 2021 (See page 3) BOOTCAMP INFO: 417-334-0076

THE BRANSON INSIDER SHOWS 21 his just in: a shocking piece of news: On a cold, snowy day way New Dinner Show back in April, (yikes, just this past continued from page 8 April!) Branson’s Wild World owner WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE James Kelly was kind enough to show Blowing up Social Media! us where lions, tigers, cougars (Oh my!) and wolves, dingoes, arctic foxes, jackals When Escape Reality (Magic & Illusions) GOING! and more will be added to a massive new Comedy & Magic Dinner Show premiered outdoor area as part of the attraction in Branson, it literally blew up social media, described in the ad below. And here’s the (at this writing ranking #2 on Trip Advisor) In shocking news: No Extra Charge! our opinion, here’s why: It’s family friendly. The illusions are incredible, the magician and his wife But wait—that’s not all! As the folks are lovable, and Garry is non-stop hilarious! But find out quick, this is already one of here’s what’s really special: the show is rapid- the price friendliest animal attractions fire, funny and astounding, but not at all hyper. out there! So this is huge! But there’s In fact, it’s so relaxed and casual that audiences even more! are stunned when the 90 minutes are over! (No Despite being expanded outdoors, intermission. Just woosh! And it’s over!) Dinner we’ll still be able to get up close and at 5, show gets out by 7. Then it’s woosh! On to personal with our wildlife friends, as an 8pm show elsewhere, or woosh, back to the they lock eyes with us mere inches lodging to just kick back and chill. away! Yet besides more animals, we get more surprises, like being able to get our pictures taken in a safari vehicle The Magic of Helping Others! with an actual, living, breathing tiger in Years ago Garry founded a charity which has long the back seat! Woah! since outgrown him and to this Says James, the new Wild Valley, day works a different kind of magic throughout should be up and ready some time the world. His heart for people less fortunate has in May. “For the last six months I’ve dominated his life since childhood. The result: been literally living and breathing this sponsormagiclink.com, project,” he tells us. a link-up of entertainers performing at charity fund-raising events and networking with Are us folks ready to take a walk on the corporate sponsorships. Their way cool slogan is: Wilder Animals. No Extra Charge! wild side? Oh yeah! The Magic of Helping Others! All in The Family! Providing she is in the mood, you are very likely to see the appearance of three year-old Sophia Carson, the show’s rising star. And at the end of many an illusion, you will for sure see Garry and Janine flow into each others arms as they take their bows. But as this behind-the-scenes Insider reporter has observed, that’s not just part of the act—it’s a glimpse into their lives. ✱

22 ATTRACTIONS THE BRANSON INSIDER A WHOLE NEW WORLD! AT BRANSON’S WILD WORLD!

hether you’ve been WORLD CHANGERS there before, or never SHARK Snake before--Season 2021 All winter long Branson’s Wild World is a whole new world at transformed the environment Hugs! Branson’s Wild World! TANK! of this amazing attraction into Expect new adventures, an all-encompassing, immersive stunning new attractions and experience. As far as the scenery a transformed shopping area and theatrical effects, you might whose specialty gifts, toys, at first feel like you’ve entered a and educational items fulfill us Disney creation. That notion soon animal lovers’ wildest dreams! evaporates, as the sights, sounds, and atmospheres transport you Oh, and one more thing— beyond the realm of fantasy and expect new wildlife. Much imagination and into the very new wildlife. worlds where those wild things dwell — a world you can feel, and HANDS ON even touch. Feed sharks. Real sharks. Get eyeball to eyeball with CREATING ATTRACTIONS howling wolves, mountain WORLDWIDE lions, living dinosaurs—all returning stares mere inches The designer, owner and operator away! Hold a boa. Pet dingos. of Branson’s Wild World is known Enter an undersea world and throughout our wild world as a leading try a round of mini-golf, while Mini-golf the expert in the design of tourist attractions. sea creatures swim among Wild Abyss under After creating over 300 different you. Or just watch you. the sea, as real attractions in over thirty countries, 47 creatures swim year-old St. Louis native James Kelly and GLOBETROTTERS! among you, (real his wife Lisa have decided to call Branson ANOTHER and unreal)—or World renown attractions designer home and make Branson’s Wild World James Kelly & his wife Lisa. WORLD! just watch. their labor of love. As you will quickly discover during your A creative visionary much like Disney, More anything? James seems to be constantly adding new animals website investigation, Branson’s Wild To that, James shook his head “no.” World is no typical zoo and aquarium and new attractions to Branson’s Wild World. As we attraction. Here, wild animals are not studiously observed, he seems very “hands on” and “I do it ‘cause it’s fun.” hiding under rocks or snoozing in the “24-7”. We couldn’t resist asking him—what’s the And there you have it: the very reason why dark shadows of some faraway corner. motivation? More visitors? More money? More fame? this place is so fun! ✱ Instead, they inhabit beautifully crafted habitat that keeps them comfortable, Lemurs (from Latin lemures – ghosts or active and happy while you visit their spirits) are mammals native only to the spaces—up close. Very up close. NEW! island of Madagascar. They chiefly live in LEMURLEMUR LOVE! trees and are active at night. NEW Until shortly after humans arrived on the island around 2,000 years ago, there were lemurs as large as a male gorilla. STUFF! Modern studies of lemurs did not begin in earnest until the The Abyss: The Search 1950s and 1960s. Initially hindered by political issues on for The Lost City of Madagascar during the mid-1970s, field studies resumed in Atlantis! More crazy- the 1980s. looking sea creatures, Many lemur species have already gone extinct in the last like that 20’ giant eel, 2000 years due to human activity. Because of these threats or those 16’ manta rays, and their declining numbers, environmentalist groups or that “gulp” monster consider lemurs to be the world's most endangered croc! Lots of new wild mammals, noting that as of 2013 up to 90% of all lemur and crazy wildlife. species confront the threat of extinction in the wild within Lots of new giant the next 20 to 25 years. Many efforts try to preserve animatronics. Sort of a lemur habitats as well as promote public awareness and Disney gone wild. (Our appreciation for lemurs. words, not theirs.) YeeeeEEESH! THE BRANSON INSIDER ATTRACTIONS 23 World’s LARGEST THE FUN KEEPS GROWING! Toy Museum f you haven’t been there lately, then you Ihaven’t been there. Giant new add-ons to this mega attraction have been rolling out over the last few months faster than a 1925 Seven year-old Ralphie Lionel freight train! Grim of Branson engineers the attraction’s 37 foot Let’s get one thing straight—yes it truly is long HO gauge train the World’s Largest Toy Museum, (over complex. That involves 1 million toys), but don’t get stuck on that word “museum”. This isn’t just some relic running the switchyard show. For most folks, a trip here turns into for three main lines and one of the funnest experiences ever— controlling the direction whether the folks be Moms and Dads with and speed.of each train. the kids in tow, the grandfolks—or even (no Go Ralphie! kidding) newlyweds.! Yes, you heard right— newlyweds! Seems toys spark memories that the newbies begin to vocalize—pretty much a giant leap in their new life of getting to Museum Host Michael Morgan shows know each other! us Daisy’s latest signature model in The minute you step inside this monster The National BB Gun Museum’s gift shop. attraction comprised of six different inside pavilions, you’ll feel more like you’ve walked into a lively theme park than some still-life-of-a museum! Among all the pleasant background find a whole lot here noises of toys and games nostalgia items you The Inside Scoop won’t find anywhere that will flip your switch both mechanical and or flick your trigger! electronic, you are likely Let’s take a look around. To orient ourselves else. Some don’t have to hear shrieks of delight, in this huge toyland , know that there are buttons or screens or giggling kiddos—and the six distinct areas located in three adjoined batteries,” he laughs, “—so Just Go! unmistakable soundtrack buildings on three levels, each with amazing kids today sometimes don’t Just so you know, this is not just old of voices telling the stories gift shops that you’re going to love. (A set know what to do with them!” stuff from flea markets or garage this place so magically of chattering teeth, anyone? How about Be Prepared sales. These are enormous collections gathered inspires! some Pez? Hot Wheels? Yo-yos? Tinker from all over. We’ll explain that later. First, a little Toys? Retro Barbies? Lincoln Logs? Some Be prepared for two things. 1. There is much name-dropping here to help paint a picture magic tricks the store hosts will be glad to to see. 2. There is much to DO! There are The Story of You of what you can expect to see—a giant Star demonstrate for you? Perhaps a set of ball retro toy rides. There are costumes for the Wars Collection, Star Trek, Marvell, Barbie, TV Welcome to your happy place. Like we say, and jacks, or a Daisy BB gun? kids to play dress-up and to pose for freebie Westerns from the 1950s, GI-Joes wearing it may feel like a theme park at first, but the pictures. There are dolls to play with. Tinker Says longtime museum host Ron Howard, just about every uniform in history, the most theme doesn’t come from Hollywood or toys. Checkers—(located in the museum’s (not the Opie guy), “We’ve got lots of spectacular model train set up ever, courtesy from some other fixture in our pop culture. world’s biggest checkers collection—which of The Roark Valley Modular Railroad Club, The theme is you. Your includes checker sets model circuses (created by The Circus Model life. So get ready for Neil and Karen Bruner of Little Rock, Arkansas help the kiddos discover the going back to the 1700s!) an emotional journey, fascinating world of tinker toys and legos at one of the museum’s interactive Builders Association), sports memorabilia, where memories are play areas. 8 year-old Gavin seems to be building upwards while 4 yr. old To say there is much to Native American artifacts, bicycles, cap awakened—and stories Gabby works on a new set of wheels. see is putting it mildly. guns, car toys,(probably more begin to flow like a Think of it like this: no than you’ll see in your lifetime,) river. What you see matter what you were planes toys, pedal toys, models, and experience here interested in while farm toys, firemen toys, will cause storytelling RETRO FUN! growing up, you will find police toys, Care Bears, without even trying. it here. You will also find Trolls, Shirley Temple, They will likely be stories that you have probably metal toys, cast iron toys, from childhood, told not entirely grown out of , Red Ryder, Stearnsy from family member to that interest. Perhaps it Bears—Disney, and then family member. They has just been matured, there’s big stuff, like a real may be reunion stories— modified, or slightly stagecoach, a real car used by describing objects redirected! You can be Queen Elizabeth II—the toy and experiences with sure of one thing--no collection from the household them that had not been matter the age of either of legendary broadcaster Paul remembered for years— you, the kids, or anybody Harvey--oh, we give up! There’s maybe for decades. else—you are going to no way to describe this place! Just go! 24 ATTRACTIONS THE BRANSON INSIDER THE OUTSIDE LOOKS FUN, BUT THE INSIDE IS FUN! Who is Harold Bell Wright? Massive doll and everything else.” Tom & Wendy’s Toy Story collections and We asked if the kids, He’s the namesake of the Harold Bell Wright doll houses (Cecily, age 2 and Let’ meet the people behind all this: Tom Museum, which is all part of the show here. spanning the Amelie, age 8) were and Wendy Beck. Seriously—go ahead Oh, and he probably had a lot to do with centuries! enjoying themselves. and meet them. They’re usually right there! changing the world. He came to this area “Oh yes,” said Anna. Besides being a Veteran, Tom had a long and wrote a book about it, which became They’ve been playing career in the retail store business. Wendy the third best-selling book of all time. It with the GI Joes, taught school. “I wanted to do something was called The Shepherd of the Hills. But Lincoln Logs and that that was fun,” Tom tells The Insider. “So— even more amazing, he wrote a book called big train set.” what could be more fun than toys?” The Printer of Udell’s. When a young Ronald Reagan read the book, he was so inspired So folks, there’s your he immediately sought out a local pastor testimonial. and dedicated his life to Jesus Christ. And the rest is history. BUY, SELL, TRADE? Perhaps. This place is on the hot list of both TV’s American Pickers and The Feedback Antiques Roadshow, so For some impromptu anything can happen. To be feedback, we appraised by toy expert Tom ambushed the Beck, toys must appear in Brian and Anna person and be arranged for Barros family appraisal in advance. Offers to purchase any museum item from Oklahoma Tom and Wendy Beck. City during their will be considered. journey through the museum. “It’s great,” Brian told us. “Brings back a lot of memories Mom & Dad teaches from my childhood. 8 year-old Amelie all about Also brings back a Raggedy Ann & Andy while lot of memories of 2-year-old Cecily kicks my parents telling me back in a Raggedy Ann what they grew up with.” EZ chair! “I really enjoyed all the Western toys,” said Anna. “And the nostalgia toys like Howdy Doody.” Confused, we reminded Anna that she

His book changed the life of a future president— and the rest is history! was much too young to remember that TV puppet star from the 1950s. “Well, Museum host Ron Howard shows us the my parents introduced me to that. They prehistoric V-8 engine of a 1927 Cadillac, watched old videos and I got to see them. one with those legendary “suicide doors.” It’s fun to see all the things they were always talking about—the tin toys, wind-up toys,

THE BRANSON INSIDER ATTRACTIONS 25 RETURN OF THE SUPERSTAR CRAFTERS! Good News! Some of Branson’s converted by developers into a trampoline wife Jennifer, a self- most popular, (and world-famous) Park). But the good news, like we said, is— described, life-long Gcrafters they’re back! fan of working with continue to be For this we can thank the retail items she sought out and aforementioned venue personally enjoys. welcomed to owners Mark and Jennifer, When it comes to their new home who also own Mrs. Brenda’s customer service, at the new Ozark Old Time Photos just a few Jennifer has no Mountain Craft doors down and just a few equal. “We really Mall, located right pages back, (page 20). As care about our across from Grand Mark tells us, “Jennifer and I customers,” she tells Country on W. also had an old time photo us. “If you’re looking Highway 76, (the attraction at The Branson Mill. for something, we Branson strip!) A lot of real friendships with will do whatever we For that we can other vendors came out of can to help track it high-five the efforts that. We were like family. We down. We’ll answer of Ozark craft ate our meals together every questions. We just connoisseurs Mark day. We worked together. want to create a and Jennifer Grant, When that location changed great experience for who have managed hands and broke up that all ages.” to re-gather family, it really hurt.” Our conclusion WEIGHT LOSS Branson’s superstar Local resident Heather But things would later is this: Mission ✦ crafters and working Anderson shops quilts. change—for the better! Accomplished. MIRACLE! vendors from such Says Mark, “When we saw legendary Branson venues as Engler Block, that we could bring part of that family of (razed after the 2013 Leap Day Tornado), vendors back together in a new location, and the popular Branson Mill, (later we jumped on it. Having these crafters, artisans and working Jenn will be happy to tell you all about it! And also about that vendors come back Grandbaby of hers who we see here! (LOL!) together, each with their own talents and uniqueness—is something really Emergency special. It’s representing Alert: the heritage of Branson.” Electronics necessities Briefly described, every at a fraction of retail booth in the Ozark prices! Mountain Craft Mall features unique items not found elsewhere. Some include classes offered by the crafters Meanwhile, Heather’s 3-year-old daughter themselves. Manning Miah shops the toy department! the attraction is Mark’s COLOR ME CRAZY!

Master Craftsman Gaylen Montgomery (right) disciples a student in the art of the scroll saw.

Have Jenn do a little “show & tell” at her “Color Me Crazy” blending bar. She’ll be glad to demonstrate how she customizes her water-based makeup for the ladies to match skin tone perfectly—plus perform anti-aging wonders! Jenn was trained by a professional who specializes in makeup for the stars. For an appointment call 417-380-4264! 26 ATTRACTIONS THE BRANSON INSIDER A shock for UNBELIEVABLY TRUE! VETERANS! and all MAP AT THIS AMAZING SHOPPING ATTRACTION Patriots! LOCATOR SEE BELOW! See Map on opposite page. KEY: Listings are EVERYTHING IS followed by their location on the map grid. SHOWS At The Majestic Theatre C-7 At the Americana Thtr E-6 • The Ruby Room MADE IN THE • CJ Newsome’s Classic Country • Doo Wop & The Drifters & Comedy • “Dancin’ in the Streets”   • Raiding the Country Vault Motown Revue USA! • The Johnson Strings At Jerry Presley’s God & Country orget imports. • Awesome 80s Thtr E-10 What better • British Invasion • Elvis Live! Aloha from Hawaii • Rock ‘N Roll Royalty time is there Show to BUY AMERICAN At The Branson Central Thtr F-4 • Elvis: Madison Square Garden kitchen department’s high- • Escape Reality, Magic & Show than during these Brian shows us his star attraction. grade cast iron cookware, the • Elvis Request Night pandemically, Illusions, Dinner Show, bed and bath area, the home starring Garry & Janine • Christmas With Elvis politically, and décor, the Christian themed Carson • 3 Dog Night Show economically area, the vast toy department, • 50 Years of Kenny Rogers challenging times? At the Branson Famous Thtr F-4 • Carpenters Once More the tools, the old timey • Chicago Tribute Show The answer is: there candies, spices, gourmet • Branson’s Famous is no better time Baldknobbers • Comic Book Heroz! food, gifts, jams, jellies…the • Branson’s Famous • Fleetwood Mac Tribute to buy American old time ice-cream parlor & • James Taylor & Friends Tribute than TODAY! But Baldknobbers Gospel Show soda shop and--wow, where • Vintage Baldknobbers Show • Neil Diamond Tribute starring wait—this is no do we stop? Keith Allynn charity appeal! An At The Branson Star Thtr C-3 • Neil Sedaka: His Music, His old timey styled MAN ON A MISSION • Nashville Roadhouse Live Legacy • Guest Stars General Store right Made in the USA’s owner • The Temptations: Soul & here in Branson, At The Hughes Family Thtr E-4 Motown Brian Karn aims to do his • Waylon, Willie & The Good Ol Boys Missouri offers a part to bring back American • The Hughes Brothers Music bona-fide shopper’s manufacturing and create Show ATTRACTIONS wonderland loaded with just about • Hughes Brothers Country Show Branson's Wild World F-9 20,000 of these have been sold here!-- new jobs in our good ol’ USA! • ReVibe Mrs. Brenda’s Old Time Photos everything you can think of—and here’s probably because nobody has reported To that idea, we throw in a E-9 the catch--every item, repeat, every item is seeing them anywhere else! We’re talking hearty “Amen!” At King’s Castle Thtr E-8 World’s Largest Toy Museum made right here in the Good Ol’ USA! Hard about a colorful collection of • Anthems of Rock D-4 to believe, but it’s true! • Dancing Queen cotton dish cloths and dish • Dublin’s Irish Tenors & The SHOPPING towels which NEVER sour, To see for yourself, go directly to Made Celtic Ladies Made in the USA General Store The mildew or stink—attributes TOYS GALORE! in the USA General Store, inside The • New Jersey Nights: The Four Shoppes at Branson Meadows which, going by the expressions Shoppes at Branson Meadows! Upon Seasons C-9 seen on many faces, are music • Branson’s Christmas World’s Largest Toy Museum D-4 arriving you will no doubt be amazed as to a homemaker’s ears! Most Wonderland Ozark Mountain Craft Mall E-9 you discover here a full buffet of incredible want at least two, or three, or a merchandise! And here’s an added treat: if handful! Need a gift you drop everything and head there right idea? Voila`! Come Back now, bargains will await you, as well as a NOV-DEC! vast treasure trove of awesome items you’d A SHOCKER ✭CHRISTMAS SHOWS be lucky to find back home!✦ FOR VETERANS ✭A CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND MUSIC TO A HOMEMAKER’S EARS! & PATRIOTS! Kids discover the toy department! ✭THE TRUE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT! One item in particular is a genuine star When was the last time you attraction in this shopper’s dream! It’s also saw veterans’ merchandise, Americana been selling like hotcakes ever since our items, or even American flags that were Branson visitors first got wind of it! So far, over actually MADE IN THE USA? Well, you will in MADE IN THE USA this store’s entire department of veterans items, plus clothing and merchandise all GENERAL STORE Bed, bath—and everything else! celebrating love for our good ol’ USA! Hats, Clothing • Housewares • Bed & Bath all kinds of veterans gear, collectables, décor, Kitchen • Military • Gifts • Jellies memorabilia—you name it, this place has Candies Toys & Much Much More! got it! Let’s shout out a shocking statement MERCHANDISE here: THIS IS THE LARGEST SELECTION 100% MADE IN THE USA! OF AMERICAN MADE MILITARY THEMED MERCH ANYWHERE! NEW EXPANDED LOCATION! THE MERCHANDISE 4270 N. Gretna Rd. Visit us at www.mitusageneralstore.com Folks like you will also enjoy perusing the Men’s, Women’s & Children’s clothing, the AT THE SHOPPES AT BRANSON MEADOWS 417-336-USA (8721)

THE BRANSON INSIDER INSIDER BUZZ 27 1 2 3 4 5 7 8 9 Creation10 Experience11 Museum12 13 14 Branson Zipline 45 Branson Events Center Ledgestone A 45 5 To Springfield/Branson Airport VigilanteInspiration Ziprider Tower Branson Hills ParkwayPayne Stewart PavillionShepherd Theatre ay of the Hills ssw pre Shrine of Ex s Holy Spirit Mansion ll Silver Dollar Butterfly Palace i Thtr.nThtr. H City e Yakov h B t

f 248 o Sight &

Branson IMAX d r Sound o IMAX Little Opr’y e

Acrobats of China h Greatest Adventures m Shoji Tabuchi

Hamner Theatre p e h Mini-Golf o S c

Golden Mini-Golf Bookside y Shep . he d Corral rd of The Shoppes at e the H R ills Expressway Branson Meadows n Indian Point Rd. Branson Showroom a C 25 n a Pierce Promised et Star Branson Dinosaur Adv. Zipline r BUS T Museum Arrow Land Zoo Majestic G 7 White House Majestic Branson Mill Craft Village 5 e

Theatre k Green Mountain Dr. Mountain Green Ballparks Theatre Theatre 15 No Motorcoaches a Parakeet Pete’s SteampunkBalloon Steampunk Balloon

of America L Allowed Toy Museum Tanger Outlet Natl. BB Gun R Museum Tracks #5 Ro Center oa ark Valley Rd. rk D V Dickens Gifts White Water W a Big Foot i ll Big Foot ld e w y Mickey Gilley o od R D d . Duttons Crystal Theatre r. Xtreme Racing Hughes Family Thtr. Cruises Beyond Museum Tracks #4 Museum of Fishing of Fishing The Lens The Lens Grand Country Mini Golf Mini Golf Branson Auto & Farm Museum & Farm Museum Titanic Fritz’s Adventure WonderWorks Tracks #3 FerrisWheel Americana Thtr Dolly’s Stampede Dixie Stampede Music City Center Music City Center Grand Country G America’s Fun Park r Vista Shopping Center Center Vista Shopping

e CarvelleeCaravelle Kings Castle James F Epps Rd.

e Branson Landing n

E

M 7 Branson Landing Branson o Jim Landing Branson u Stafford nt Rock ai n Grand Villiage Shops Lane D Tribute Waterpark r. Waterpark Clay

Marina Castle Rock Presleys’ Scenic Scenic Raliway Raliway Riply’s Cooper UpTown Café Cooper Green Mountain Dr. Museum Museum Lost Treasure Mini-Golf Craft Mall Curling Vine Winery Craft Mall 5

F Andy Williams Branson Central Theatre Dick Clark’s Winery Winery Hot Hits

Branson Mall

Mini-Golf Mini-Golf Aquarium at Mrs Brenda’s Old Time Photos Mrs Brenda’s Old Time Photos God & Country Branson Famous Thtr Green Branson Top Ops Plaza Ozark Mountain Ozark Mountain The Boardwalk The Boardwalk Historic Historic Owen Thtr Owen Thtr Harbor Indian Point Hollywood Wax Dockers Mt Pleasant Mini-Golf

Marina Marina Wild World Mountain Wildwood Dr. Wildwood Branson Fall Creek Rd. Veteran’s Memorial To Safari Rd. Runaway Craft Mall

Pirates Cove Thousand Hills Dinosaur Canyon Dinosaur Dinosaur Canyon Dinosaur Holiday

Mountain Celebrity Car Museum Freedom Journey Thtr Branson Convention Convention Center Center Coaster Hills G Fall Creek Rd. mo College of the

o American Bandstand Thtr. yc American Bandstand thtr. 25 ane Ozarks Welk Indoor15 T Ralph Foster e Museum MAP KEY Waterpark Pointe ak Red Time Saver Route Royal L Blue Time Saver Route Yellow Time Saver Route Welk Resort H Fish Hatchery 15 Insider Theaters Insider Attractions MoonShine Beach Other Theaters Other Attractions Table Rock Scenic Overlook Shopping Dam 5 Traffic Lights Dewey Short I Table Rock 15 Branson Golf Course Visitor Center BRANSON Creek Restaurants/Dinner Lake Showboat Theatre Branson Bell Table Rock MAP State Park 25 To Eureka Springs State Park Marina Table Rock Branson J Spirit of America Lakeshore Trail 8 Buffalo Ridge Airport To Cosmic Caverns 8 Top of the Rock

28 SHOWS THE BRANSON INSIDER