June 2009
June 2009 Issue
Peter Pan: From Broadway to Branson
"Peter Pan," the musical that first opened to rave reviews on Broadway in 1954 and later earned a Tony Award for Cathy Rigby, last week opened a three-month run at Branson's Mansion Theater.
Like the character she has become so identified with over the last 20 years, the work never grows old for Rigby. "I get to be a kid for two hours every performance, eight performances a week,” Rigby says. “What"s not to like about that?”
“Peter Pan” brings a new level of Broadway-style production to Branson, something Rigby is especially happy about. She sees her show and The Mansion as perfectly suited for each other. The theater’s technical capabilities with rear-screen projection and rain curtains advance even further the spectacle that is Peter Pan. And, with The Mansion's large stage, Peter may be flying higher, faster and farther than he ever has before.
It is that ability of Peter and the children (after they think lovely thoughts and get a sprinkling of fairy dust) to fly that audiences find most magical and memorable. The show’s potential for daring is exceeded only by the athleticism of its star. Rigby, the former Olympic gymnast, is hailed by critics for having made the role of Peter her own and infusing the entire performance with a level of energy rarely found in a big stage production. Every element of the show, from the scenery to the choreography to the soaring acrobatics, has been tailored either by or for Rigby to capitalize on her strength and physicality.
“This is really a blessing,” she says. “Every time I catapult through that window in the opening act, it’s like a ride at the fair. I can hear the kids in the audience gasp; I can feel their excitement. I don’t know what I’d do if I had to have a real job!”
The Mansion production of Peter Pan features a cast of more than 30 people, many from Branson and the surrounding area. Notable among them is Peter’s nemesis, Captain Hook, played by Robert Westenberg of Springfield. A veteran of the Broadway stage, national touring companies, film and television, Westenberg now chairs the theater department at Springfield’s Drury University.
“People always tell me about their first experience seeing the show, who was in it and how it brightened their lives," Rigby said. "Now they bring their children and grandchildren to see it, and in the process they experience its charms all over again for themselves.”
Castle Rock Resort & Waterpark, formerly the Atrium Inn, has been renovated and expanded to provide families with a combination of indoor and outdoor waterpark activities. Guest rooms have been newly renovated and 100 new suites have been added. In addition to the family suites, the new resort inclues an on-site restaurant and is conveniently located near all of Branson's shows and attractions. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served daily.
The indoor waterpark is a climate controlled, 84-degree indoor attraction that provides a truly weather-proof vacation destination for families. The waterpark includes two water slides, two 500-gallon dump buckets, multiple indoor and outdoor activity pools, a lazy river and more! There is also a multilevel sun deck.
More information is available at www.castlerockbranson.com
Yakov Smirnoff, famous Russian Comedian, announced that a special Moscow Circus is a new addition to his exciting theater line-up in Branson. Yakov’s Moscow Circus will open on June 10 and run through Sept. 7.
Yakov says, “You can run away to Branson to join my circus! The highly respected Moscow Circus is an entertaining collection of clowns, strongmen, high wire walkers, con artists, and animals. Over here in America we call that Congress.”
Yakov’s Moscow Circus features Andre the Clown, Irina Markova and her award-winning canine troupe with their feline friends, Igor & Denis “The Strongmen of Moscow,” Flying Adagio Star Marina, National Unicycling Champion Anthony Soumiatin, Boris the Wonder Dog and more. For the first twenty dates Yakov will appear in person, subsequent show dates he’ll be a part of the show via multimedia. Yakov says, “The show is really a story and the story is set in a circus and begins in Russia. It features elements of honor, loyalty, character, nobility, patriotism, humor, romance…and some very exciting and unique segments. Parts of the story mirror the challenges, and the culture, of my country of origin Russia, and parts of the story showcase my love, and the values, of my country of choice the United States of America. You won’t want to miss the adventure as Andre the Clown searches for his lovely Marina the Ballerina!”
One unique aspect of Yakov’s Moscow Circus is the opportunity that Yakov created for many schools and charities to raise funds for their different projects. Schools participating distribute flyers to their students offering one free child’s ticket to Yakov’s Moscow Circus with the purchase of an adult ticket. Adults receive a special price of $20 to see Yakov’s Moscow Circus and for every adult ticket sold with the flyer, Yakov sends the school $5. Yakov adds, “I thought this would be a great way to encourage families to see Yakov’s Moscow Circus, have some fun and also help their schools out. And if you think about it, it’s also a great cultural exchange.” Schools or charitable organizations wishing to participate in this program can contact the theater.
For tickets to Yakov’s Moscow Circus call 417-332-1234 or visit www.yakov.com
June 2009 is the 50th anniversary of the completion and dedication of Table Rock Dam, the massive construction project in the late 1950s that permanently changed the Ozarks.
On Sunday, June 14, a 50th Anniversary Ceremony will be held at 2:45 p.m. at the dam's scenic overlook across from the Dewey Short Visitors Center. This time markes the exact hour of the original dedication of the dam in 1959. After the ceremony, visitors will be treated to refreshments and entertainment at the visitors center.
Also to honor this milestone, the Branson Chamber of Commerce is looking to reconnect with anybody who worked on the project, or anyone who has photographs or stories about the dam or lake construction.
Please post your stories or photographs on the Table Rock Lake 50th Anniversary Facebook page (must be a Facebook member to post to this page). You also can contact Ladona Johnson at 417-334-4084.
For more information about the dam and Table Rock Lake, visit the Corps of Engineer's Web site.
Branson Landing's 3rd Annual School Shoes for Kids
May 29, 2009 - August 9, 2009
http://www.bransonlanding.com
Location: Branson Landing
Please join us this year in our community outreach program "School Shoes for Kids," providing school children in need with brand new tennis shoes to start the new school year! It's easy to sponsor a child simply purchase a NEW pair of children's tennis shoes and drop them off at one of the Branson Landing Sponsor locations. This year, Branson Landing has partnered with OnMedia and PETER PAN and for each pair of shoes donated, the donor will receive one FREE 2009 Child's Admission Ticket to see the amazing Cathy Rigby in PETER PAN at The Mansion Theatre - as our way of saying Thank You! With your donation, together we can make a real difference for the children of Stone and Taney County School Systems.
"The Big Show" Basketball Tournament
June 4, 2009 - June 7, 2009
rodneyperry@foxhollowonline.com
Phone: 309-255-1437
Expect to see teams form all over the country for the inaugural "Big Show” Basketball tournament. With over 120 teams slated to compete this will prove to be a popular and challenging tournament for everyone. Guest speaker, Olympic Gold Medalist and Hall of Fame Member Lynette Woodard will be in attendance.
National Kids' Fest
June 6, 2009 - August 9, 2009
http://www.silverdollarcity.com
Location: Silver Dollar City
Phone: 800-475-9370
Get ready for the All-NEW Fun Family Ride coming to Silver Dollar City next spring. We can't tell you what it is just quite yet, we're trying to keep the secret as long as we can! But we'll be spilling the beans soon enough, so continue to watch the website for updates.
2009 Colgate Country Showdown at Branson Landing
June 12, 2009
Times: 5 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
www.colgatecountryshowdown.com
Location: Branson Landing’s Town Square
The 28th Annual Colgate Country Showdown is coming to Branson Landing this year! KHOZ 102.9 will host America’s largest country music talent search and radio promotion this year, right in front of the Branson Landing Fountains! For 27 years, the Colgate Country Showdown has given aspiring country music artists a chance to launch their professional careers and this year, they will have their chance to perform for you at Branson Landing. The Master of Ceremonies for the Colgate Country Showdown will be Clay Cooper from the Clay Cooper Theatre. The show will also feature MC - Clay Cooper and his band, The Country Music Express Band – AND… the band will also be providing the backup for the contestants. Clay Cooper has been performing in Branson for years and In 2005, Clay decided to put together a show of his own – which can now be found at The Clay Cooper Theatre. Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express is an all-new, high energy show full of great singing, dancing, comedy and much more. For more information on Clay Cooper and his Theatre in Branson, visit www.claycooper.biz. For more information on 2009 Colgate Country Showdown Rules and Regulations visit www.colgatecountryshowdown.com today.
Exile Reunion In Concert At Branson Landing
June 13, 2009
Times: 8 p.m.
http://www.bransonlanding.com/special_events.html
Location: Branson Landing Fountains
Admission: Free
EXILE is an award winning and legendary band that has been recording and writing hit songs spanning more than three decades. After having had worldwide success with the #1 pop smash in 1978, “Kiss You All Over,” this legendary quintet made a seamless transition from pop to country in the early 1980s. Their second country single, “Woke Up In Love” peaked at #1 in early 1984 and nine consecutive #1 singles followed: “I Don’t Want To Be A Memory”, “Give Me One More Chance”, “She’s A Miracle”, “Crazy For Your Love”, “Hang On To Your Heart”, “I Could Get Used To You”, “It’ll Be Me”, “She’s Too Good To Be True” and “I Can’t Get Close Enough”. Combining achievements in pop and country with success overseas, Exile earned 11 #1 singles, numerous top 10 singles, three gold albums including two Greatest Hits CDs, several multi-platinum singles and thirteen award nominations from the Academy of Country Music (ACM) and the Country Music Association (CMA). Don't miss this special SATURDAY night concert with EXILE starting at 8 PM in front of the Branson Landing Fountains!
Summer Music Series Presented by Coca-Cola
June 13, 2009
Times: 12 noon - 2 pm
cmcgregor@simon.com
Location: Factory Merchants Branson
Phone: 417-335-4041
Admission: FREE live entertainment in the courtyard
Lyal Strickland
Flag Day
June 14, 2009
http://bransonveterans.com
Phone: 417-337-8387
TBD
Rods & Relics Rod Run
June 19, 2009 - June 21, 2009
http://www.area57events.com/
Location: Dick Clark's Area 57
Phone: (877) 588-1957
Branson Landing 2nd Annual Downtown Clown A'round
June 20, 2009
http://www.bransonlanding.com
Join us for Branson Landing's 2nd Annual Downtown Clown A'Round - where we will be celebrating Kids of all Ages - by turning the Branson Landing Promenade into a Festival of Fun for Everyone! With Clowns all A'Round the Landing, you and your family will also experience a wonderland of huge interactive inflatables from Monkey Moe’s! Check out the likes of a Monkey Barrel Bounce, Rescue Heroes Play Area, Bungee Run, RipCurl Slide, Adrenaline Rush, Obstacle Courses and much, much more! In addition to celebrating Kids of all Ages - we will also celebrate and thank 20 local, not-for-profit charities for all of their dedication and hard work in helping those less fortunate in our area with assistance, food, education and more. It is together, that we can create a memorable day for all AND also join in the combined efforts of helping those less fortunate. So...mark you calendars and bring the kids - both young and old - to the Branson Landing and join us as we Celebrate Kids of all Ages - with tons of fun, clowns, face painting, balloon animals, inflatables, great shopping, awesome eating options and more.
Titanic Father's Day Boat Show
June 20, 2009 - June 21, 2009
Times: 9am to 5pm
http://titanicbranson.com
Location: The Titanic Museum
Phone: 800-381-7670
Admission: Free Family Event
The number one best selling aluminum fishing boats in the world will be on display when The Titanic Museum Attraction launches its Father’s Day Boat Show in the Titanic parking lot. This special Father’s Day event will salute the man-of-the-house who may be dreaming of owning his first fishing boat or looking to move-up to something different, like a Suntracker pontoon boat, the official pontoon boat of Walt Disney World. Other Tracker boats on display will be Nitro bass boats and Tahoe sport boats. It’s a time for celebration Tracker Marine is celebrating over 30 years of building boats in the Ozarks and the Titanic Museum Attraction is celebrating its 4th year honoring those who built and sailed the biggest boat of them all, Titanic.
Packard Meet
June 25, 2009
http://www.area57events.com/
Location: Dick Clark's Area 57
Phone: (877) 588-1957
The Bueller Band At Branson Landing
June 26, 2009
Times: 8 p.m.
http://www.bransonlanding.com
Location: Branson Landing Fountains
Admission: Free
Bueller is Nashville’s all 80’s band and will take you back to those unforgettable MTV-inspired tunes of Flock of Seagulls and Journey, to the classic metal of AC/DC and Van Halen, to the roots rock of Mellencamp. You will be in for a treat with this rockin’ Nashville talent – comprised of 3 different lead vocalists, drums, bass, guitars and keyboard. The 80’s era brought us a wide variety of music, fashion and trends and Bueller will take you back in time…over 20 years ago to re-live this incredible decade. Don't miss this special Friday night concert with BUELLER starting at 8 PM in front of the Branson Landing Fountains!
Branson Hammer-In Knife Show
June 27, 2009 - June 28, 2009
Times: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. each day
Location: Shepherd of the Hills
Phone: 417-334-4191
Contact Gary Mulkey (gary@mulkeyknives.com) or Shepherd of the Hills for more information.
Late Show with David Letterman Stupid Human Tricks & Stupid Pet Tricks Casting Call
June 27, 2009
Times: 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
http://www.explorebranson.com/static/index.cfm?contentID=274
Location: Branson Landing in Downtown Branson
Join KOLR 10 (Springfield), KSFM (Ft. Smith) and KHTV (Little Rock) at Branson Landing on Saturday, June 27th, 2009 from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. for The LATE SHOW WITH DAVID LETTERMAN Stupid Human Tricks & Stupid Pet Tricks Casting Call! No purchase is necessary. This casting call is open to all ages. However, participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. The parent or legal guardian must chaperone and sign a release waiver. Participants will have the chance to be selected to perform their trick on the Late Show with David Letterman. You must arrive at the casting call between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. The casting call is based on a first come, first serve basis, so pre-registration will not guarantee an audition. The last audition will take place promptly at 2:00 p.m. Please read the full casting call rules for all details – available at www.explorebranson.com and also posted on www.ozarksfirst.com. Auditions will take place outside in front of the Branson Landing Fountains. If you are participating in the Stupid Pet Tricks Casting Call, please take note of the following: bring water for your pet, pets must be under the control of the owner at all times prior to the casting call (leash, crate, etc.), and owner must provide proof of all current vaccinations. Participants selected by The LATE SHOW WITH DAVID LETTERMAN personnel will receive a free trip to New York, a payment for their appearance on the show, and a chance to perform their trick on the stage of the Ed Sullivan Theater in front of millions of LATE SHOW WITH DAVID LETTERMAN viewers. Good Luck!
Parrot Head Party
July 1, 2009 - July 1, 2009
http://www.outbackbranson.com
Location: Outback Pub
Phone: 417-334-7003
Christmas In July 2009
July 2, 2009 - July 5, 2009
http://www.EvenSantaVacationsInBranson.com
Phone: Taunya at 800-432-4202
A Big Red Reason to see you in Branson! Even Santa Vacations In Branson. Once again Santa, Santa Helpers and their relatives will descend on Branson to celebrate the 4th of July. Real Bearded Santas and Designer Bearded Santas with their helpers are traveling from around the world to celebrate with the folks from Branson this fourth of July. The Santas and helpers will be attending seminars to prepare for the up coming Christmas Season, anyone who is interested in wearing the red suit, is invited to attend the seminars and special events including Branson shows. The public is invited to come out and visit with the Santas who will be appearing at Stacey’s Ozark Village for Breakfast with Santa July 4, 9 - 11 a.m. and The Chappy Mall for lunch with Santa 11 - 2 p.m. There will photo opportunities as well. All to raise money for local charities.
July 4th Summer Sale
July 2, 2009 - July 6, 2009
http://www.BransonOutlets.com
Location: Factory Merchants Branson
Phone: (417) 335-6686
Join us for great savings during this summer sidewalk sale. Just look for the "red roofs".
Chain Reaction - A Tribute To Journey In Concert At Branson Landing
July 3, 2009
Times: 8 p.m.
http://www.bransonlanding.com
Location: Branson Landing Fountains
Admission: Free
Back by popular demand, DON’T MISS this exciting and unforgettable concert by Chain Reaction - A Tribute to Journey on July 3rd at 8:00 PM. Join us for what promises to be an exciting concert as this group of five is one of the best tribute bands in the country, honoring the timeless classics of Journey. They will take you back in time with the Big Hits like Separate Ways, Don't Stop Believin', Faithfully, Open Arms, Ask the Lonely, Be Good to Yourself, Who’s Cryin’ Now, Lovin' Touchin' Squeezin' and more! Chain Reaction will make you feel the magic of Journey all over again and you are sure to be amazed by Chain Reaction’s incredible recreations of Journey. Don’t Miss Chain Reaction – A Tribute to Journey as they light up Branson Landing’s Town Square on July 3rd - right in front of the Branson Landing Fountains! The Liberty Light Up Fireworks Show - produced and presented by Gateway Fireworks Displays out of St. Louis, MO will begin after the concert. This celebration promises to be unforgettable with a choreographed opening highlighting a spectacular celebration of America’s Independence - closing with a Gateway Fireworks Signature Grand Finale that will leave you in awe.
Branson Landing's 2nd Annual Liberty Light Up Fireworks Show
July 3, 2009
Times: 8 p.m.
http://www.bransonlanding.com
Location: Branson Landing Fountains
Admission: Free
Join us for Branson Landing's 2nd Annual Liberty Light Up – and celebrate Independence Day - In a BIG Way - a Day Early! Don’t miss our special FRIDAY, July 3rd Concert at 8:00 pm in front of the Branson Landing fountains with the amazing band, Chain Reaction – A Tribute to Journey. Following the concert - Branson Landing’s 2nd Annual Liberty Light Up - an amazing choreographed Fireworks Display Show produced and provided by Gateway Fireworks Displays. Mark you calendars and bring the kids - both young and old - to the Branson Landing and join us as we Celebrate Independence Day - on Friday, July 3rd! Enjoy an evening of great entertainment, shopping and awesome eating options, topped off with an unforgettable concert at 8pm in front of the Branson Landing Fountains, featuring Chain Reaction - A Tribute to Journey AND The Branson Landing's 2nd Annual Liberty Light Up Fireworks Show.
Fireburst/Flotilla 2009
July 4, 2009
Times: 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.
http://www.visittablerocklake.com
Location: Kimberling City
Phone: 417-739-2564
Celebration of the nation's Independence Day has become an explosive annual event on Table Rock Lake. The lake will explode on 4th of July with Fireburst '09. The 30 minute fireworks show will be jam packed with bright sparkles and booms which will echo down the lake. There will also be live entertainment, games, concessions and activities for the entire family. Fireburst '09 will take place on Saturday, July 4, over beautiful Table Rock Lake beginning promptly at 9:30 p.m. Spectators may catch the show from a boat anywhere near the Kimberling City Bridge or a car by parking at Kimberling City Shopping Center, Summer Fresh Supermarket or the field just north of Summer Fresh Supermarket. There will be entertainment from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. staged at Summer Fresh parking lot to help pass the time while you wait for the fireworks to explode.
Fireworks Display
July 4, 2009
Times: Dusk
http://hollisterchamber.net
Location: Historic Downing Street in Hollister
Phone: 417-334-3050
Longest running fireworks display in the Ozarks. This celebration has been presented by the City of Hollister Fire Department for over 50 years.
Gift of Hope Inc.
July 4, 2009
http://www.giftofhopeinc.org/
Phone: Tina Hansen 417.546.8062
We will have lots of fun activities and entertainment not to mention a large Fireworks display. We are asking for volunteers. If you would like to be a vendor or sponsor at Celebrate America please send your information to thansen@nzimes.com
Spirit of 76
July 4, 2009
http://bransonveterans.com
Phone: 417-337-8387
Independence Day celebrations are held in numerous park area of the town sponsored by the Golden Corral. Flags and ice cream are given free to the participants at each location. And don't forget about the other celebrations Branson has to offer with the support of all the other military organizations.
Christie's Ex - A Billy Joel Tribute Band In Concert At Branson Landing
July 10, 2009
Times: 8 p.m.
http://www.bransonlanding.com
Location: Branson Landing Fountains
Admission: Free
Join us Friday, July 10th at 8 PM for CHRISTIE'S EX. This Billy Joel Tribute band was formed 5 years ago for the sole purpose of embracing Billy Joel's incredible tunes and having a blast performing them live. Christie's Ex can deliver the next best experience to actually hearing Billy Joel himself. They take their music seriously, but not themselves. Their shows are full of high energy, humor, and of course great music. Christie's Ex has opened up for national acts such as The Cars, Rick Springfield, Ambrosia, and Craig Morgan.
10th Annual Clown Jam
July 15, 2009 - July 19, 2009
http://www.ClownJam.com
Location: The Stone Castle Resort & Conference Center
Phone: 800-523-4887
Admission: Registration fees for children are $80 and adults $115.
An entertaining and educational experience for anyone who would like to learn how to become a clown or magician. Clown Jam is very proud to host Kid Jam which is 3 day event designed for children 10-15. They are taught makeup, skits, balloons and magic. For graduation, they perform on the evening show.
Each registration includes two banquets and two shows. Registration is open to the public. There is an additional public show on Wednesday the 15th that is $10 adults and $5 for kids.
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