Additional show reviews can be found in the show directory.

UNIQUE MUSICAL OPENS IN BRANSON

April 6, 2010, 2PM

God & Country Theatre opened its production of the international hit musical, Always, Patsy Cline. This musical first opened in New York in 1997 and continues to this day to play throughout the world. Branson is fortunate to have the best possible person for the lead role; Lisa Layne. I have compared Lisa's CDs with Patsy Cline's CDs - there is no difference in the quality, timing, and tone of their voices. And it is not just the songs. Ms. Layne captures the voice inflections, typical phrases, and physical gestures that are convincingly Patsy Cline. Some say, close your eyes and you'll swear you are hearing Patsy Cline when Lisa is on stage. Go ahead and open your eyes and you'll also swear you are looking at Patsy Cline, live on stage.

Lisa Layne in Always, Patsy Cline, is as close as you will ever get to seeing Patsy Cline live, on stage. This show gives the audience a view of Patsy and her abbreviated career through the eyes of her devoted fan, Louise Seger from Houston. Sandy DePriest is outstanding in the role of Louise. She instantly connects with the audience. Louise explains how she became a fan and how she first met Patsy in person when she came to Houston. Sandy, as Louise, had the audience in stitches throughout the show. The show also had its tender moments causing a lot of teary eyes. The title of the musical came from the way Patsy signed her letters to Louise.

As for the music, it is awesome. A live 5-piece band backs up Ms. Layne as she sings more than 20 of Patsy Cline's songs. The band authentically produces the music right down to the subtle tinkling on the piano by Jeff Olson. Patsy introduces him as Jay Bob. Then she introduces Lou Colbe as Ray Bob who plays the upright bass. She introduces lead guitarist Ralph Lowe as Jim Bob. Next is Boo Miller on the pedal steel; Patsy calls him Billy Bob. Last but not least is drummer, Paul Oney, who is introduced as Bob Bob.

As the audience filed out of the auditorium the comments ranged from total amazement to pleasant shock. This show has everything; authenticity, exceptional talent in musicianship, vocals, and acting. It tugged at all the emotions and left everyone with a keen inside and entertaining look at a legendary singer whose music is as popular today as it was before her untimely death.

Always, Patsy Cline was written by Ted Swindley. The show is playing weekly at 2:00PM on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday at the God & Country Theatre through 11 December 2010.

Bob Cort, Editor

New South Gospel Opens!

April 1, 2010
Grand Country Music Hall

New South Gospel opened on 1 April 2010 and they got the show kicked off with a bang. We got up at intermission and went into the lobby and found we were trying to catch our breath. The clapping and foot stomping in the first half was almost non-stop. The entire audience was enthusiastic about this new show. As exhilarating as it was, we were all anxious to return for the second half where the entertainers picked it back up right where they left off. Beautiful music that brings a tear to the eye, hilarious comedy, toe-tapping southern gospel, and the best collection of musicians you'll find anywhere, all make for a great afternoon of spirit-lifting fun. The New South Quartet, with Tracy Heaston on piano, do an educational demonstration of the early years of southern gospel music.

Grand Country Music Hall listened to their many gospel music fans and created this show to fill a void; and they filled it well. I'm not aware of any other weekday show dedicated to gospel music. Those who are in town on Thursday afternoons now have a place to satisfy their thirst for good ole gospel music performed the way it oughta be.

Bob Cort, Editor

Mary Duff – Voice Of An Angel

May 25, 2009

Yes, “Voice of An Angel” is a perfect description of Mary Duff!!  It is actually the title of Mary’s newest spiritual album and a definite truth!!  What an amazing voice and talent!

Irish comedian, George Casey, opened the show and had everyone laughing and in good humor with his clean, comedic Irish storytelling. 

Mary, who comes from Ireland, has been singing since she was 12 years old.  She’ll tell you she is doing what she always wanted – singing for an audience.  She loves ballads and love songs but mixes in a few country standards and gives you a taste of her newest album selections as well.  Some will make you smile while others may bring a sweet memory to mind or even a tear to your eye.

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Peter Pan comes to Branson

May 6, 2009

I met Peter Pan and fairy dust filled the air.

Cathy Rigby and the cast of the new Branson Peter Pan production, set to open this weekend at the Mansion Theatre, made their first appearance at a Meet the Cast Reception at the Titanic Museum.

After the evil Captain Hook darkened the famous grand staircase, Peter Pan appeared, complete with fairy dust, an infectious smile and a slide down the wooden banister.

“I already love Branson and the people are wonderful…everyone’s so friendly,” Rigby’s smile lit up her face. She charmed everyone who came to catch a first glimpse of the star and her new show.

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The Haygoods at The New Americana Theatre

April 20, 2009

The Haygoods blend a new setting and sound with their well-known talent, energy, and enthusiasm for entertainment. There are a couple of surprises this year.

The new theater suits them well. From the remodeled lobby to the enhanced stage and sound, they have created a whole experience for their fans.

Dominic, Shawn, Michael, Patrick, and Timothy continue to grow in their musical ability. As usual, the audience loves them. The surprises this year are in Matthew, Catherine, and Aaron.

Matthew has come into his own. He looks great and is having a good time on stage. He joins his older brothers in giving the audience a top-notch performance. Catherine and Aaron are growing up. This year’s production recognizes their maturity and presents all the family as young adult entertainers. Catherine’s ever expanding ability to play multiple instruments is showcased throughout the show. Whether it’s the sax, violin or harp, she plays well. Aaron continues his growth as an entertainer – with apparent ease.

They touch on many styles of music. Whether you are in to pop, country, rock, nostalgia, show tunes, or Gospel, there is plenty in this show to get your blood pumping.

Pat Avery, Editor

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COME TOGETHER with the Liverpool Legends

April 10, 2009

COME TOGETHER….and join the party at the Starlite Theatre with the Liverpool Legends!!

“One and one and one is three,” as the song goes……..now, add one more because a brand new fourth has very recently been added to the Liverpool Legends!  His name is Bob Beahon, and he is their “new Paul!”  Welcome to Branson, Bob!

I was more than a little bit anxious to see whom it was Louise Harrison picked to fill Paul’s space onstage.  Great job, Louise  –  I was pleasantly surprised.  I think you all will be, too!

The guys have stepped up the list of songs and every song I heard was a favorite of mine – the very first time this has really happened.  The first song, “I Wanna Hold Your Hand,” started the show. 

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Most Recent User Submitted Reviews

Sue Callison
Branson, MO
August 15, 2009
A Tribute to John Denver
Little Opry Theatre, IMAX

James Garrett's "A Tribute to John Denver" has been awarded BransonCritic.com's Best Morning Show two years in a row. It's easy to see why. This show is consistently wonderful! James doesn't try to sound like John Denver and he certainly doesn't look like John. He does honor John with his own compelling voice by singing John's songs with a passion that connects with the audiences. This show is definitely a must see in Branson and this show is definitely deserving of being awarded "Best Morning Show in Branson" again.

[Read full review]

Rocky Mountain High - A Tribute to John Denver
Little Opry Theater
3562 Shepherd of the Hills
Branson, Missouri 65616
Reviews for Rocky Mountain High - A Tribute to John Denver

D. Horning
Strafford, Mo
06/04/09
Starlite

I saw the real Beatles when I was 16 in Kansas City Mo back in 1964 and this show brought back many memories for me. I couldn't hear the real ones for screaming, but Wow! the Liverpool Legends show was awesome. Having Louise Harrison there to answer questions about the Beatles and her brother, George, was an added bonus. The talent of these guys is beyond belief. They have really achieved the true sound of the Beatles. I would very highly recommend this show to anyone who remembers this classic band. It is truly a trip down memory lane! Great job guys!!!

Liverpool Legends
Starlite Theatre
3115 W Hwy 76
Branson MO 65616
Reviews for Liverpool Legends

Kre8 by jan
Surprise, AZ
May 17, 2009
Dutton Theater

We saw the Duttons May 17. We love their show.

I guess what we really look for in a show is talent and entertainment and they couldn't score any higher. We have never seen any show with such energy, fun, enthusisam, and love for the audience and each other. They really draw you in. They do it all. Their children were unbelievable!! The young lady singing the Teddy Bear song was so talented, she will go far!! We saw 11 shows and they were the best!!!! If I could only see one show in Branson, again it would be theirs. I understand why they made it to the top ten out of 100,000 shows on America's Got Talent. That itself says ALOT!!!! GO DUTTONS!!!!!

Duttons
The Dutton Family Theater
3454 West Hwy 76
Branson MO 65616
Reviews for Duttons

C. Duncan
Forsyth, MO
5/14/09 and once before
Starlite

This was our second visit to the Rankin Brothers show in 5 weeks. We watched, jumped around, sang, clapped and screamed (especially for Elvis). If you close your eyes during the songs, you will swear you are listening to the original artist!

This show is entertaining, funny and friendly. After the show, we went to the lobby to take the opportunity to meet the boys and the Rankinettes. All are so friendly.

At this show, the second time we partook, we were privileged to have a wonderful conversation with Mother Rankin. She is so sweet and soooo proud of her boys.

Go see the show! You will not regret it.

The Rankin Brothers - Classic Music Revue
Starlite Theatre
3115 W State Highway 76
Branson, MO 65616
Reviews for The Rankin Brothers - Classic Music Revue

James C.
Homewood, IL
March 30, 2009
Tribute to John DEnver
I-max Little Opry

This show is very strong when the performers maintain their focus on John Denver, his music and some anecdotes about John and his way of doing things. The show falters a bit when Randy Plummer does one of his gospel tunes or Rick Quincy performs on his hand-made hammer dulcimer. These men are consummate professionals, among the very best, but this is not what the show is about. These performances do give Mr Garrett a chance to go backstage for a brief rest; perhaps that is why they are in the show.

Mr. Garrett obviously has known John Denver very well. He sings many Denver songs - both the well-known recorded hits and some unrecorded "gems". He tells several stories about John and the amusing things he did, even when John was an international celebrity. The show was well worth the admission price and this viewer believes it is, indeed, worthy of a "best" award.

There is no comedy aspect to the Tribute show.

The Little Opry Theater inside the I-max is also a gem. It is easy to overlook on a visitor's first visit to Branson. Just 250 seats means that every person is within "spittin'" distance of the stage and the performers. There were a total of eight different shows presented there when we visited in March.

Rocky Mountain High - A Tribute to John Denver
Little Opry Theater
3562 Shepherd of the Hills
Branson MO 65616
Reviews for Rocky Mountain High - A Tribute to John Denver

Bill & Martha M.
Valley View, Texas
March 16, 2009
Starlite Theatre

My wife and I attended the 2009 season opening show of the Rankin Brothers and it was great. The entertainers received numerous standing ovations during the show and especially at the end of the show. We were in Branson four times during 2008 and saw the Rankin Brothers show each time. Each show was so great and it seemed impossible that there could be any improvements made---------but they've made some changes in the 2009 show and it's now even better than last year. The three beautiful and very talented lady singers, called the Rankinettes, provide "backup" for Mark and Matt Rankin. And they also have their own individual songs of the same musical era to give the show just the right balance of the songs of the 50's, 60's & 70's. The entire show members: the vocalists, musicians, sound and video technicians all were clearly worthy of being voted "The Best New Show in Branson for 2008". If you love the music of that era, or just simply love all good music, this show is
a "MUST SEE" show while in Branson.

The Rankin Brothers - Classic Music Revue
Welk Resort Theatre
1984 State Hwy 165
Branson MO 65616
Reviews for The Rankin Brothers - Classic Music Revue

Judy
Lenexa, Kansas
3/14/09

The Clay Cooper Show is a must-see in Branson. Clay interacts with the audience, even treats one couple to popcorn and a drink, for having some fun with him. The country music on the show is some of the best you will see in Branson. The show has six dancers who are tops in their field. The show is geared for the entire family. No worry about suggestive material in this show. In addition to the great country music and the artistic dancing, there is good, clean comedy that is sure to make you laugh. Clay's musicians are very talented performers and each shines at what he, or she, does.

The entire show will make you glad that you picked this show to see out of all the other good shows in the area. Clay comes across as a performer who enjoys what he does and wants the audience to enjoy the show. No headliner with an ego-trip here-just a great performer doing what he does best--and what he does best in superb.

Clay Cooper's Country Music Express
Clay Cooper Theater
2215 West Highway 76
Branson MO 65616
417-332-2529
Reviews for Clay Cooper's Country Music Express