Bob Cort (Bluefrog) is a 45-year Navy veteran (30 years in uniform and 15 as a civilian).  Since 2003, Branson had been a planned vacation destination and a hurricane evacuation destination.  A month after retiring in Slidell, LA, Hurricane Katrina came through and left its mark on the area.  That was reason enough to move to higher ground and spend his retirement doing what he likes most; enjoying country music and other shows in Branson, MO.  Bob and his wife, Velva, currently make their home in Forsyth, 14 miles east of Branson.

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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

FANS’ AWARD BEST TRIBUTE SHOW – LIVERPOOL LEGENDS

November 14, 2009, 8:00 PM

The BransonCritic awards team attended the Liverpool Legends show on Saturday night for the presentation of the 2009 Best Tribute Show Award.  Chad Ray, Director of Operations, made the presentation to Louise Harrison, along with “The Lads” (Marty, Kevin, Bob, and Greg) on stage.  Chad gave a brief background of BransonCritic.com and then read some quotes from Liverpool Legends fans, including:

Joy from Oklahoma City, OK
The Liverpool Legends …. bring back the magic of the Beatles …..they capture the feeling of the 1960's, and take the audience on an fabulous ride with fantastic musical performances.  Marty plays George like none other.  He can reproduce George's incredible guitar solos .....He looks and sounds unbelievably like George - and even has George's smile.  Kevin not only sounds and looks just like John, but brings John's crazy personality to the stage.  If you compare footage of John Lennon ... to Kevin, it's amazing…. including everything from Lennon's “off the wall” comments ... to his ever present gum-chewing.  Bob is marvelous at playing Paul.  His vocals are insanely like Sir Paul's…and he can hit all of Sir Paul's signature high notes.  And, of course, he plays bass guitar left-handed.  Not only does Greg sound just like Ringo, but he looks a lot like him as well.  He styles his drumming to match Ringo on the Beatles records perfectly.  Bob Dobro is …an absolutely awesome keyboardist.  He provides sound effects and orchestrations ... ….and without him, it would be impossible to perform a lot of the Beatle’s songs.  Louise Harrison is a remarkable lady.  She has a treasure trove of Beatle stories she happily shares with the audience during intermission….and it's an absolute honor to hear her talk and meet her after the show.

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EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARD BEST NEW SHOW – TOP TEN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

November 6, 2009, 7:00 PM

A six-member BransonCritic awards team attended the Top 10 Rock & Roll Revue on Friday night for the presentation of the 2009 Best New Show, Editors’ Choice Award.  Chad Ray, Director of Operations, made the presentation to Marvin Short, backed by the entire cast on stage.  Chad gave a brief background of BransonCritic.com and then read some quotes from Top 10 Rock & Roll Revue fans and Branson Critic editors, including:

Kathy Bennett, Editor: 
Top 10 Rock and Roll Revue definitely is the BEST New Show for 2009.  Each of these musicians is seasoned; and together form an awesome group.  Top 10 performs the type of music everyone loves; the transition from one decade to another is smooth; and the vocals are excellent!  There is comedy and interaction with the audience interspersed throughout the program.  It's the total package, amazingly well-done!   

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EDITORS’ CHOICE:  A MUST SEE SHOW – RANKIN BROTHERS

November 5, 2009, 8:00 PM

A six-member BransonCritic staff entourage attended the Rankin Brothers Show on Thursday night for the presentation of the 2009 Must See Show, Editors’ Choice Award.  Chad Ray, Director of Operations, made the presentation to Mark and Matt Rankin, backed by the entire cast on stage.  Chad gave a brief background of BransonCritic.com and then read some quotes from Rankin Brothers fans and Branson Critic editors, including:

Some of Editors:
Editor Kathy Bennett wrote:   The Rankin Brothers continue to be a favorite for locals and area visitors.  Mark and Matt are brimming with talent.  Their vocals are so smooth and are so close to the original artists, it's unbelievable.  The musicians are cream-of-the-crop, and the beautiful and talented Rankinettes know their stuff while performing the girls' rock and roll songs!  The friendliness, enjoyment, and love displayed by all on stage are genuine, and are displayed off-stage as well. 

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FANS’ AWARD BEST PERFORMING CAST – LEGENDS IN CONCERT

October 30, 2009, 3:00 PM

Eight members of the BransonCritic awards team attended the Legends in Concert show on Friday afternoon for the presentation of the 2009 Best Performing Cast, Fans’ Award.  Chad Ray, Director of Operations, made the presentation to the Blues Brothers performers, Bucky Heard and Justin Clark, on behalf of the Legends in Concert cast.  Chad gave a brief background of BransonCritic.com and then read some quotes from fans of the show, including:

Lisa from Springfield, MO:
Legends in Concert gets better each and every time I see it.  It is the only show I recommend to others to see in Branson.  Why you ask?  It is the wonderful cast who portray some of the biggest talents in the World.

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ROCKABILLY COUNTRY

There is a new show at 8:00 PM on Sunday and Monday evenings in the 200-seat Little Opry Theatre at the IMAX Entertainment Complex.  The seating in this theatre allows you to see the entire cast up close and personal.   Rockabilly Country was created by music veteran, host, singer, and emcee, Rick Quincey.  The song selection is true rockabilly and includes several of Johnny Cash’s most popular songs among a long list of songs by other artists.  The show features Grand Ole Opry star, Mary Lou Turner.  She performed her hit song with Bill Anderson, “Sometimes” with Rick Quincey singing Bill’s part.  It was a classic performance that brought back many memories, as did the other songs throughout the evening.  Mary Lou also sang some Wanda Jackson, Marty Robbins among others, and beautiful gospel songs.  She did a powerful rendition of, “How Great Thou Art.”  David Byrd on piano was outstanding, as always.  He even sang lead on, “Chantilly Lace” as well as backup vocals for other numbers.  Rick McKuen on upright bass sang lead and provided some beautiful harmony.  Drummer, Dave Holman, kept the beat light because of the small theatre but still provided the rockabilly rhythm and he displayed his talent as an excellent musician.  Dave also sang some backup vocals. 

There were several highlights throughout the show but two that stood out are Rick Quincey reciting, “Ragged Old Flag” and playing, “Sleepwalk” on his 1950’s era steel guitar.  The cast works together very well and they make everything they do look easy. 

Bob Cort, Editor

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Editors’ Choice Award Best Variety Show 2009 - Grand Jubilee

October 22, 2009, 8:00 PM

Seven BransonCritic staff members and spouses attended the Grand Jubilee show on Thursday night for the presentation of the 2009 Best Variety Show, Editors’ Choice Award.  Chad Ray, Director of Operations, made the presentation to Mike Patrick, Producer/Director/Emcee/Entertainer, backed by the entire cast on stage (Music Director, Danny Yancey, was not available).  Chad gave a brief background of BransonCritic.com and then read some quotes from Branson Critic editors, including:

“Grand Jubilee overflows with strong vocal performances backed by expert musicianship. Hilarious comedy is appropriately spaced throughout the first half.  The Grandpa Dandinio magic bit is the funniest comedy routine this writer has ever seen, anywhere, by anyone.”

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Fans’ Choice Award Best Headliner 2009 - Tony Roi

October 23, 2009, 8:00 PM

A four-member Branson Critic Awards Team led by Chad Ray, Director of Operations, attended “The Elvis Experience” show to present the Best Headliner Award to its star, Tony Roi.  Tony invited Chad to the stage during the first half performance and introduced him to the audience.  Chad gave a brief description and history of BransonCritic.com and pointed out that in the six-year history of presenting awards, this was the sixth visit to Tony Roi’s show to present an award.  Chad then read some of the many comments made by fans of the show, including: 

Shirley from Leavenworth, Kansas:
“There is one show that keeps me coming back to Branson every year.  Tony Roi’s Elvis Experience!  What an experience!  Tony Roi has the voice, the charisma, the moves… the looks, as well as humorous side.

”Tony puts his heart and soul into each performance.  He takes time out of his show for you to come up on stage to have your picture taken with him; and if you can’t come up on stage, Tony comes to you.  Tony Roi… captures the heart of all age groups.  And he always tells the fans, and the veterans, how much he appreciates each and every one of us.”

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Fans’ Choice Award Best Show and Entertainers of the Year 2009 - SIX

October 24, 2009, 8:00 PM

A 12-member BransonCritic Awards team attended the sold out SIX show on Saturday night for the presentation of the 2009 Best Show and Entertainers of the Year awards.  At the end of the intermission, Chad Ray, Director of Operations, was invited to the stage to join the six Knudsen brothers; Barry, Kevin, Lynn, Jak, Owen, and Curtis.  Chad gave a brief background of Branson Critic Online Magazine and then read some quotes from fans of the show, including:

Diane from Missouri:
“SIX is the choice above all others for Best Show.  Whether you see it once or 50 times, it is still the most energetic, entertaining show we have seen.  The brothers are perfectionists, and have phenomenal skills both vocally and with their ‘instrument ability.’  While there are many great shows (in Branson), if you only had time for one - SIX is the best!”

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TAKE IT TO THE LIMIT – EAGLES TRIBUTE

August 18, 2009

Take it to the Limit is an incredible show with powerful harmonies, strong solo vocals, and superior musicianship.  The entire show is a tribute to Eagles music that will amaze you even if you are not necessarily an Eagles fan.  The talent on stage is captivating.  This is a perfect show for those who want to see something other than country, and because the Eagles did many crossover songs on the country charts, country music fans will enjoy this show as well.  Regardless of your genre preference, watching these talented artists, as they precisely project the Eagles sound and enthusiasm for their audience makes for a totally enjoyable afternoon. 

Larry Holiday is Joe Walsh, reincarnated.  Greg Morton gets sounds from his guitar that are absolutely incredible - if you didn’t see it you wouldn’t believe it.  Jon Sousan gives new meaning as you watch him perform, “Desperado.”  He performs the essence of the lyrics and melody but his feelings expressed in timing and gestures are like he is telling a story.  Scott Lancaster performs the Glenn Frey songs as well as playing a mean bass and acoustic guitar.  Larry, Greg, Jon, and Scott harmonize in a way that is convincingly Eagles.  Close your eyes and you’ll believe you are at an Eagles concert. 

Cody Titus on keyboards and TAZ on drums round out the band and give body to the music experience.  The sound throughout the show is perfectly balanced for each instrument in the six-member cast.  From the audience you can hear the total Eagles sound and still single out each instrument.  Every song performed in this show is done with everyone giving 100%.  There is minimal conversation and maximum music.

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RANKIN BROTHERS - Classic Music Revue

March 27, 2009
The Starlite Theatre

The 2009 Rankin Brothers - Classic Music Revue made its debut on 16 March to a packed house in their beautiful new venue, the Starlite Theatre right on the Hwy 76 strip.  Expectations were high; after all they were awarded Best Duo Act, Best Male Entertainer and Best New Show of 2008.  Would they keep the 2008 show intact?  Would they dare venture away from proven success to incorporate new material into the show? 

Some of the favorites from 2008 have been retained; e.g., the Righteous Brothers 1965 hit, “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’,” the Tokens’, “The Lion Sleeps Tonight,” Chuck Berry’s, “Johnny B. Goode,” etc.  What makes their show such a big hit is that they perform songs the way the original artists performed them.  Going all the way back to the ‘50’s, the Rankin Brothers bring back memories and emotions as they recreate the authentic sounds of the times. 

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RANKIN BROTHERS – Best New Show 2008

December 22, 2008

 On 23 November 2008, Chad Ray and six Branson Critics staff members joined an enthusiastic audience at the Welk Resort Theatre to see the evening performance of the Rankin Brothers Show.  Mid way through the first half, the show was stopped and Chad Ray was invited to the stage.  Chad explained to the audience briefly what Branson Critic is and the process for selecting award winners.  Chad was ill that night so Velva Cort, editor, accompanied him to the stage to handle the award.  Then Chad announced the Rankin Brothers Show as the winner of the Branson Critic Editors’ Choice Award for Best New Show 2008.   Chris Cathcart, producer, and Matt & Mark Rankin were on stage to accept the award.  Velva passed the award to Mark and the cheers started erupting, first from the band, and then the entire audience.  Everyone present was excited to see this talented group of entertainers, managers, producers, and technicians, recognized for all the work they put into presenting this top-notch award-winning show.

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JOHN DENVER TRIBUTE – Best Morning Show 2008

November 30, 2008

Five Branson Critic staff members attended James Garrett’s John Denver Tribute Show on 18 November 2008.  Following an enjoyable first half of classic John Denver music, James invited Chad Ray to the stage.  Representing all of the fans who participated in the 2008 nomination/voting process and the Branson Critic editorial staff, Chad explained the award selection process to the audience.  He then invited IMAX owner, Paul Bluto, and the rest of the IMAX management team, and all of the show cast members to the stage.  After sharing several quotes written by fans who love this show Chad presented the Best Morning Show Award to the John Denver Tribute Show for the second consecutive year.

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BOB NELSON – Editors’ Choice, Best Specialty Show 2008

November 30, 2008

On 20 November 2008 seven members of the Branson Critic staff joined the audience of the Bob Nelson Comedy Show.  We made sure we were there in our seats early to catch the pre-show antics of “Grandpa.”  When Grandpa was done helping Bob with his pre-show managerial tasks he slipped behind the curtain.  At this point Chad Ray of Branson Critic was introduced to the audience and a hand holding a microphone came out from behind the curtain.  Chad went up on stage and took the microphone to explain Branson Critic was there.  Bob Nelson then came out and joined Chad as he explained to the audience what Branson Critic was and how the award nominations and selections were accomplished.  Chad then read some excerpts of fan and editor comments supporting Bob’s show for the Editors’ Choice Best Specialty Show Award:

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THE DUTTONS 2008

August 4, 2008

Branson is about wholesome family entertainment.  The Dutton family understands this as well as anyone in the business and the entire family works together to present the best in wholesome entertainment.  How so much talent can exist in one family is beyond my ability to explain, but it is there; I and millions of others have seen it for ourselves.  Last year The Duttons were among the top 10 finalists on America’s Got Talent.  Millions of TV viewers got to see just a small sampling of their abilities.  Here in Branson, locals and visitors are treated to a full two-hour top quality production that showcases the special talents of three generations of this amazing family in their own theatre. 

Children on stage are cute, right?  It’s one thing to be cute but it’s an entirely different thing to be cute and exceptionally gifted.  The third generation of Duttons is not just paraded on stage; they have a role to play that highlights their talent and without exception, they all do it well.  The kids’ singing is professionally done, hitting perfect pitch instantly and holding it true for as long as it takes.  The voices are augmented with gifted acting ability (gestures, eye and facial expressions) that marks true professionalism.  This permits the theme of the moment to be presented convincingly with the entire stage coming alive with talent everywhere.  Dancing, singing, comedy; they do it all.

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BOB NELSON COMEDY SHOW

July 8, 2008

Remember the days when you could enjoy a good stand up comic and then be disappointed when his time was cut short?  In the last several years I’ve tried to enjoy stand up comedians but too many think the use of four letter words make their act funnier.   Nothing could be further from the truth.  The vulgarity simply lowers the bar for what is considered talent and what is funny.  How talented do you have to be to cuss?  There are many comedians that simply glorify indecency.  Kind of makes you wonder about the audience, too.  Do they really enjoy that stuff?  I don’t.  What I do enjoy is good-clean-laugh-out-loud comedy and that’s what we have right here in Branson.

After being featured on late night TV, Las Vegas, movies, comedy clubs, and his own HBO specials, etc., nationally known Emmy award winner, Bob Nelson, brought his kind of comedy to Branson.  He has settled in and currently performs Tuesday through Saturday at 6:00 PM in the Imaginary Theatre at the corner of Gretna & Roark.

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GRAND JUBILEE 2008
at the Grand Country Music Hall, Hwy 76

June 26, 2008

The Grand Jubilee Show has been a favorite since my wife and I started coming to Branson five years ago.  Start with the dynamic Grand Band; top musicians in their field who can produce music of any genre you care to hear, and they all do it extremely well.  For the Grand Jubilee show, the music is country, rock and gospel.  Award winning Danny Yancey is the music director and plays the pedal steel, banjo, and rhythm guitar.  Danny is endorsed by the Gibson Banjo Company and in this show you can see why.  Matt Hanshaw plays lead guitar with a vengeance and he does some flattop picking in the bluegrass segment that the audience just can’t watch fast enough.  Robbie Blackwood lives behind his drums, he plays for 3 shows per day at the Grand Country Music Hall, and then again on the live Branson Country USA radio show on Friday nights.  He is fun to watch as his solid driving beat is precise, moving, and colorful with the occasional twirling drumsticks, and yet he doesn’t dominate the other instruments or vocals no matter how soft the songs get.  I’ve watched Larry Allred closely on electric and upright bass.  His light-hearted personality would make you think he doesn’t take his musicianship seriously.  Wrong.  Larry is very serious about his bass playing.  He is as much into the tempo of the music as the drummer and if you watch closely, you can see him coordinate with the others by eye contact and body gestures.  I really like to see and hear him walk all over that bass on several numbers - almost like he were playing lead guitar.  Larry is also very serious about his singing; he provides backup vocals during this show but is a fine solo performer as well.  The wild man on the fiddle just can’t be beat.  Wayne Massengale is a master on the fiddle and a veteran entertainer.  He gets the crowd into his music every time he is featured.  Not only is Wayne expert on the fiddle for bluegrass and country numbers, he also provides the smooth violin sound for more classical songs - you know, the sweet background sound in a sad, serious song that conjures up a tear in the eye and a lump in the throat.  Wayne uses that fiddle to elicit the desired emotion from the audience.  Wayne also plays rhythm guitar, mandolin, conga drums, tambourine, and sings backup vocals. 

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BRANSON BROTHERS AT GOD & COUNTRY THEATRE

June 21, 2008

The Branson Brothers made a roaring return to the stage on Friday, 20 June 2008 at the God & Country Theatre.  This time as a trio, the Branson Brothers Show rocked the house to the delight of new fans and old fans that were getting hungry for the return of this high energy, fast moving show.  The debut in their new theatre was like the whole cast had all this energy built up while they were off and it all came pouring out for their opening show.  The fans were glad they were there, the cast was glad they were there, the theater owner was glad they were there - so we all had two hours of terrific fun-filled entertainment. 

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ROCKIN’ MONSTER BASH at GOD & COUNTRY THEATRE

June 21, 2008

Several posts on various internet forums ask for show suggestions for couples coming to Branson with kids.  This show fits the bill.   I went to see it by myself and kept wishing my grandkids were here to see it.  I had fun watching and the kids in the row behind me were having a ball.

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LISA LAYNE COUNTRY

June 17, 2008

Veteran singer/songwriter, Lisa Layne has her show at the God & Country Theatre where she performs at 2:00 PM Tuesday through Saturday.  What makes this show a favorite is the sound and quality of Lisa’s voice, the song selection, the talented musicians, and the relaxed and humorous interaction among the cast and audience.  Of course some of the most comfortable theater seats in town also contribute to an overall pleasant experience.

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Rankin Brothers - Classic Music Revue

June 12, 2008

My wife and I finally made it over to the Welk Resort Theatre to see the Rankin Brothers after so many friends said, “You’ve got to see it.”  Now we know why.  We should have known a first rate resort with a first rate theater is going to have a first rate show.  The Rankin Brothers deserve this beautiful venue where so many talented big names have played.

Our evening started with a quiet dessert at the Stage Door Restaurant right before show time.  Then, when we went into the theater and got settled in the comfortable seats, we were ready to be entertained.  The Rankin Brothers; Matt, Mark, and the entire cast, were ready to entertain.  They came out and the brothers explained who they were, how they came to be in Branson, and what the show was about - and then the Classic Music Revue began with Bob Seger’s 1978 hit, “Old Time Rock N’ Roll.”  This was well-performed and a perfect opening for two hours of music from the 50’s through the 90’s.  The brothers were learning the music of the 50’s and 60’s when they were in their teens.  They proved how well they learned with their second song of the evening, Eddie Cochran’s 1958 hit, “Summertime Blues.”  By this point in the show they had the audience convinced they were for real, they knew their stuff, and they knew how to entertain.

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CROSSTIES BLUEGRASS & GOSPEL – IMAX

June 10, 2008

The CrossTies Bluegrass and Gospel Show is the newest live show offering at the Little Opry Theater in the IMAX Entertainment Complex.  This show and venue were made for each other.  The cast gives you the best in bluegrass and gospel music in the intimate setting of this unique theater where the audience sits up close and personal like you could almost reach out and touch the strings on the instruments.

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DOUG GABRIEL SHOW

May 27, 2008

Branson is the live entertainment capital of the world so one should expect more than singers, dancers, musicians, and joke tellers; you should expect to see real “entertainers.”  When I think of Branson entertainment, the Doug Gabriel Show is the first thing that comes to mind.  He is Branson’s most awarded entertainer, including Entertainer of the Year.  A powerful singer and extraordinary musician, Doug connects immediately with the audience in everything he does.  He puts every ounce of energy into his performances, whether instrumentally or vocally.  Doug acknowledges being influenced by other great artists but his performance of their music is entirely his own. 

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JACKSON CASH – CARAVELLE THEATRE

May 23, 2008

When Jackson Cash first takes the stage, and without him saying a word, you feel the presence of Johnny Cash.  And then on a twist of the original words he says, “Hello, I’m Jackson Cash” and you know you’re as close to the man in black as you will ever experience.

In his second year at the Caravelle Theatre Jackson has refined his show to include even more history of Johnny Cash and he also includes a few of his own original songs.   Listen to him perform, “Big Joe.”  You’ll be amazed at Jackson’s songwriting talent.  You can tell by the storyline, rhythm, sound and quality of his original songs that Jackson Cash has many characteristics in common with Johnny.  While built on a smaller frame, Jackson has the facial features and mannerisms of the original artist.  I happened to see Jackson when he appeared on the Jim Bakker television show and met Johnny’s sister, JoAnne Cash.  You could see the breath leave JoAnne’s body as she stared in awe at his resemblance to her brother.  Then the tears flowed as she first heard him sing, “I Still Miss Someone.”  She was genuinely honored to be able to sing a duet of that song with Jackson on the show.  JoAnne swears there is a DNA connection somewhere.  (Jackson was adopted five months after birth - kinda makes you wonder).  What JoAnne experienced that day on the Jim Bakker Show, Jackson Cash brings to the Caravelle Theatre for us to see every Tuesday through Saturday at 8:00PM.

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WADE LANDRY

May 14, 2008

The Ozark Mountain Morning Show - Swingin’ Cajun Style is new for 2008 at the God & Country Theatre.  Wade Benson Landry is not only a Branson Fiddle Player of the Year winner (and Louisiana fiddle champion at age 15, and again at 17), he is a well-versed, all around terrific entertainer.  With his experience gained while working with some of the greatest names in the business, Jimmy C. Newman, Mel Tillis and many, many others, Wade has acquired a keen insight as to what the audience likes and wants to see in a show.  The Ozark Mountain Morning Show incorporates Wade’s insight and offers excellent classic country, like, “Invitation to the Blues,” “Leavin’ and Saying Goodbye,” “I Thought I Heard You Calling My Name,” etc.  These songs aren’t just sung; you also get some background on the music presented.  This is especially helpful when Wade gets into the Cajun segment.  When you hear his stories that go along with the music, you get a greater appreciation for writer, the original artist, and Wade’s live presentation, not to mention his hilarious discussion of a number of Cajun characters.  Wade’s nephew, Adam Guidry who plays drums, has taken up the squeezebox accordion to add to the authentic flavor of the Cajun segment.  You’ve got to see how they handle the drums while Adam plays the squeezebox.  Wade has an imagination and you’ll see it on display in his show.  I’ve seen things in this show that I’ve never seen anywhere else - and they’re good!

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ANDY WILLIAMS WITH THE ENTERTAINERS

April 12, 2008

Known throughout the world for his soothing voice for over 50 years, Andy Williams is as vibrant as ever.  This is his 17th year performing nightly at his Moon River Theatre.  President Ronald Reagan declared his voice a “national treasure.”  Williams has taken excellent care of our national treasure.  It is obvious that he cares for his voice as a violinist would care for his Stradivarius.  And like the master violinist, Williams plays his voice with precision.  In addition to performing nightly, Williams just recently completed another CD recording project. 

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STRAIT COUNTRY

April 8, 2008

Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, George Strait, has fans everywhere including on-line chat forums and visitors to Branson, MO.  James Garrett proved he is on top of what Branson visitors are looking for when he put the new Strait Country show together.  This show is a must for George Strait fans as it features many of his #1 hits over the last 20 years.  It also highlights other country hits as well as gospel and bluegrass.

Following an award-winning first season with the John Denver Tribute Show, which he still performs this year; James appears to have another hit show on his hands judging by the audience reaction and my own personal enjoyment.  The sizeable crowd attending the show’s debut on 4 April 2008 could all be seen mouthing the words to all the George Straight songs.  Like everything he does, James insists on quality and he is precise in the performance of every song he sings.  The intimacy of the Little Opry Theater makes audience members feel like they are getting a private performance from their favorite stars.  Even from the last row you feel like you could just reach out and touch the strings on the instruments. 

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