Welk Resort Branson Hosts Traveling Vietnam Veteran Memorial Wall

For the twelfth year the Welk Resort Branson will host the traveling Vietnam Veterans Memorial, known as "The Wall,” during the 2008 Veterans Homecoming celebration. This moving tribute to our fallen and missing Vietnam Veterans will be open to the public for viewing at the Welk Resort Branson, November 5 through November 11, 2008. A special locator book will be available to assist visitors in finding specific names.

This official half-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the most visited memorial in Washington, D.C., spans nearly 240 feet in length and lists the more than 58,000 names of the nation's fallen heroes in the Vietnam conflict in honor of our Veterans during our Veterans Homecoming Week Celebration.

A special opening ceremony for “The Wall”, will be held at the Welk Resort on Tuesday, November 5, at 10:00 AM.

As is customary, the names inscribed on the wall will be read aloud throughout the seven-day period. The Welk Resort welcomes any volunteers wishing to read, the names and hometowns of the more than fifty-eight thousand Americans whose names are inscribed on “The Wall”. Normally readers are asked to read for at least 30 minutes. Please call the Welk Resort at 417-336-3575 ext. 118 or call 800-505-9355. There will also be a POW/MIA Service of Tribute and Remembrance held at The Wall at 8:00 AM on Friday, November. 7.

“It is with a sense of gratitude and honor that the Welk Family and The Welk Resort sponsor this tribute,” Dathan Atchison, General Manager of the Welk Resort. “We invite our visitors and our neighbors to come experience this moving memorial.”

Information courtesy of Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce

Branson's Ozark Mountain Christmas Begins November 1st

The Live Music Show Capital of the World - Branson - kicks off Ozark Mountain Christmas on Nov. 1 with star-filled Christmas music shows and a Holiday Promenade of Stars parade at Branson Landing.

Branson's star entertainers and holiday production numbers are ready to dazzle visitors and their families in November and December. From "Mr. Christmas" Andy Williams to Tony Orlando and the Lennon Sisters at the Welk Resort, a multitude of shows deck the halls and showcase Branson's Christmas spirit.

"Christmastime in Branson reminds me of Christmas when I was a boy. There's an excitement about Christmas in Branson with the shows, Silver Dollar City and all the other attractions. The atmosphere in Branson around Christmas always seems that much more welcoming and warm," said Williams, whose trademark Christmas sweaters add to the holiday cheer.

Familiar carols fill the air at family shows like the Presleys, Baldknobbers, and Hughes Brothers and peals of laughter roll down the aisles at Jim Stafford, Hamner-Barber and Yakov Smirnoff's shows. From the Oak Ridge Boys' Christmas show, to Broadway's Spirit of Christmas with The Osmonds, Branson wraps up its musical packages with one-of-a-kind festive family fun. And, for the kid in everyone, there's a "magical" Christmas show as well, at world-famous Kirby VanBurch's Christmas Spectacular.

Silver Dollar City's An Old Time Christmas (Nov. 1 - Dec. 30), one of America's most acclaimed Christmas celebrations, is kicking off its brightest season to date with new shows and activities, plus more lights than ever presented throughout the streets of the 1880's-style theme park. Newly enhanced lighting, through the addition of thousands of energy saving lights and all-new wrapping of 40-foot-tall trees, the spectacular Christmas on Main Street, with its showcase five-story special effects Christmas tree and all-immersive light and sound show, is even more spectacular. Also new this year, Silver Dollar City presents Frosty, an interactive musical, and the Culinary & Craft School that will premier this holiday season. Returning favorites include the Holiday Light Parade with colorful musical floats and the acclaimed production A Dickens' Christmas Carol. And for nighttime thrills, the roller coasters are open after dark with great views of the park's four million lights.

On the first Sunday in December, thousands of people gather in downtown Branson to watch a Christmas parade dedicated to "the true meaning of the season." This year marks the 60th Adoration Parade, an evening event with dozens of high school bands and lighted floats. The theme has always been "Keeping Christ in Christmas."

The Showboat Branson Belle is bedecked in all its Christmas finery and charts a course for holiday food and fun on Table Rock Lake though December. Also, the World's Largest Titanic Museum Attraction will be decorated with thousands of merry lights and holiday trim that recall those elegant Christmases past.

Holiday shoppers will discover Branson's newest "Winter Wonder Landing" at the Branson Landing waterfront. The Landing features a promenade of trendy specialty shopping and dining establishments, the brilliant water and fire spectacular that dances to the sounds of the season in the Town Square and Santa Claus, who has even been known to vacation in Branson himself.

Three name-brand outlet malls, boutique shops at the Grand Village, Ozarks craftsmen at Branson Mills and Engler Block and shops throughout Branson are decked out in lights with holiday decorations that beckon Yuletide visitors.

Christmas traditions in the Branson/Lakes Area include a Christmas light display at the Enchanted Forest on Indian Point Rd., the Christmas on the Trail show and Trail of Lights at Shepherd of the Hills Historic Homestead and the animated lighting displays of the 1-mile Branson Area Festival of Lights drive-through.

For rest and relaxation following a fun holiday entertainment and shopping outing, a host of Branson lodging options and special offers are available from a cozy cabin at one of the lakeside resorts to luxurious hotel rooms and condos throughout the area.

Branson has more than 100 live shows, theme parks, pristine lakes, golf courses, family attractions, shopping and other features that are fun for everyone!

Information courtesy of Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce

Branson Vacation Packages Budget Friendly, Full of Fun

ReserveDirect offers some of the best ways to save on your Branson vacation. Their website, ReserveBranson.com, provides a reliable, secure and convenient way to reserve everything you need for your Branson vacation, including Branson vacation packages featuring everything from Silver Dollar City to Noah – The Musical.

The great things about the vacation packages we offer is that they are completely customizable to fit your needs. Our Silver Dollar City Branson Packages, for example, allow customers to choose from 1, 2, or 3 parks including Silver Dollar City, White Water and Celebration City and there are other add-ons, like tickets to the Dixie Stampede or Showboat Branson Belle, available for guests as well. The Silver Dollar City vacation packages allow guests to save 20 percent on overall costs and they are easily reserved online or by phone.

The other packages we feature are geared for a quick getaway or an extended stay if you wish. Because Branson is a short drive from so many destinations, it is an easy locale to reach for a quick weekend of fun. A few of our vacation offerings feature Jim Stafford, Yakov Smirnoff, The Titanic, Andy Williams and The Presleys. Plus, we also offer Stillwaters Resort and Welk Resort packages. The Stillwaters Resort packages include activities like the Dixie Stampede and Silver Dollar City, while the Welk Resort packages include shows like the Tillis Family Reunion, Rankin Brothers and Tony Orlando and the Lennon Sisters. These play and stay vacation packages are convenient, fun and easy on the budget too.

When you start to plan your Branson vacation, be sure to check in to see any new Branson vacation packages we have available. And, of course, on ReserveBranson.com, you can always create your own package perfectly customized to fit your schedule, preferences and pocket book.

B.B. King to Perform in Branson

The King of Blues will return to Branson in October.

Blues singer, guitarist B.B. King will be performing one show in Branson Oct. 5 at Welk Resort, the resort and Sullivan Shows announced Wednesday.

Joe Sullivan, owner and president of Sullivan Shows, said King performed in two shows at Welk Resort in Feb. 2006 and said he is excited to bring King back to Branson again.

“He has so much charisma and he has been such an influence,” Sullivan said. “He just keeps the audience in the palm of his hand.”

Sullivan said following the two shows in 2006, he received many rave reviews from those who attended and also many requests from those who missed the concert. Sullivan knew he had to bring King back to Branson.

“It took about a year to find a spot to fit in his schedule,” Sullivan said. “He just tours constantly. He tours world-wide. He seldom shuts down.

“He is a warm, wonderful person. He is one of the nicest performers I’ve ever worked with.”

Sullivan recalled following King’s performances in 2006, the artist would pause and visit with fans while signing autographs.

“He stayed until he met the last person,” Sullivan said. “He is a dream to work with.”

King is the winner of 13 Grammy Awards and 22 W.C. Handy (Blues Foundation) Awards. He has released more than 50 albums including four Gold albums, two Platinum albums and one Multi-Platinum album. His R&B chart-topping hits include “Three O’Clock Blues,” “Please, Love Me” and “You Upset Me Baby.” King’s most popular crossover hit, “The Thrill is Gone,” reached 15th on the Top-40 Chart in 1970.

King has been inducted into the Blues Foundation, Rock & Roll, Performance Magazine and N.A.A.C.P Image Awards Halls of Fame; received Lifetime Achievement Awards from the Academy Awards, Songwriters’ Hall of Fame, Orville H. Gibson/Gibson Guitar and more; and is featured on several Walks of Fame, according to Sullivan Shows. Kimberly Crites, marketing manager for Welk Resort, said having King perform in Branson, “It is huge.”

Buy tickets here!


Information courtesy of Branson Daily News

Branson's 53 Theaters Shine with Music, Dance and Drama

For those who have difficulty making a decision when all the choices seem good, Branson is becoming increasingly complicated.

But the mid-America entertainment hot spot is heaven for those who delight in having lots of options, including music, comedy, big production-style theater and a wholesome good time. With 53 theaters offering two or three shows a day, as well as more than a dozen museums, four theme parks, numerous outdoor activities, shopping and restaurants, making a choice could be a challenge.

About 100 shows play here on any given day. To help you decide which to see, here's a primer. We describe shows that will run throughout the summer and in major theaters, independent of theme parks or other venues.

What's new

The 339,000-square-foot Sight & Sound Theatre, which opened May 23, is the biggest building in Branson. Sight & Sound Theatres, with headquarters in Strasbourg, Pa., has been dubbed the "Christian Broadway," because of the company's high-quality productions of biblical stories. Noah – The Musical, complete with more than 100 live animals and 200 animatronics, plays Tuesday through Saturday until Christmas. Aisle seats afford the best view of the animals as they board the ark.

Making his first appearance in Branson in September will be Grammy winner Joe Diffie, whose "John Deere Green" and "If the Devil Danced in Empty Pockets" were No. l hits. He'll be onstage at 8 p.m. at the Yakov Smirnoff Theatre. Mr. Diffie includes the comedy of Paul Harris in his show.

New location

Liverpool Legends, a Beatles tribute in its third season, is at the Starlite Theatre. Fifties at the Hop has been playing in Branson for 14 years but only now has landed its own theater by the same name. Located in the Shoppes at Branson Meadows on Gretna Road, the new setting includes an expanded refreshment area and lobby that's almost as entertaining as the show inside. Look for additional room to dance in the aisles and a surprise rebel without a cause.

Liverpool Legends, a critically praised Beatles tribute in its third season, is in a new location, at the Starlite Theatre. Be in your seats 15 minutes before showtime to see news film from the Fab Four's U.S. tours. Louise Harrison, elder sister of George Harrison, is on hand to answer questions, and showgoers dance in the aisles.

New acts

The Rankin Brothers, who are from Trophy Club, have realized one of their career goals by landing a full-time gig in Branson at the Welk Resort Theatre. Their musical revue of everything from Neil Diamond to Buddy Holly to George Strait keeps hands clapping and toes tapping, just as when Matt and Mark Rankin played at the Garland Theatre. The suit Mark wears during the Elvis numbers was reputedly designed for the King himself.

The Roy Rogers-Dale Evans Happy Trails Theater adds the duo's grandson to the lineup. Dustin Roy Rogers, who has served as general manager of the theater and museum since it opened five seasons ago, moves to the stage with his father and the High Riders. In addition to a couple of duets with his father and a solo of "Night Rider's Lament," Dustin shares memories of his grandparents.

Ann-Margret is joining Andy Williams at the Moon River Theatre through July 26. She first visited Branson with Andy in 2004. This season's show returns the duo to a 1960 screen test for the movie State Fair.

Plan lunch or dinner at the adjacent Moon River Grill, which opened in 2007. Andy eats a meal or two there each day, enjoying pot roast and rhubarb shortcake from his mother's recipes. He usually brings a celebrity guest or two to lunch with him.

Information and Images courtesy of The Dallas Morning News

Welk Resort Theater Announces New Line-Up for 2008

Welk-Sullivan Productions is making some changes in 2008 at the Welk Resort Theatre with new pairings of beloved entertainers, some brand new talent and the return of two popular reunions.

Tony Orlando will join The Lennon Sisters in 2008 for an all new Christmas Celebration production at the Welk Resort. This new pairing of beloved headliners in an all-new show will run from November 1 through December 6, 2008.

The new production will showcase America’s Sweethearts of Song -- Kathy, Janet and Mimi Lennon -- with an entertainer admired and known for his string of chart-topping hits and the song that became an American anthem of hope and homecoming, reunion and renewal.
Orlando, a consummate entertainer, sings his hit songs including “Tie A Yellow Ribbon Around The Old Oak Tree,” “Candida,” “Knock Three Times” and many more. Then he delights audiences with music from different genres, adds variety as he showcases his very talented band and then pulls even more surprises out of his vast repertoire. The Lennon Sisters dazzle audiences with their sweet harmonies, signature songs and “More than 50 Years in 5 Minutes” video remembrance of their amazing entertainment career.

“We’re thrilled to bring these beloved entertainers together and bring a new Christmas production to Branson in 2008, said Joe Sullivan, general manager of the Welk Resort Theatre and executive producer of Welk-Sullivan Productions.

“I’ve enjoyed working with Larry, Steve and Rudy Gatlin since 2001 when we brought the Gatlin Brothers Christmas Reunion Show to Branson. Although I will miss working with them next year, I fully support their decision to perform in a morning timeslot at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theatre next year,” said Sullivan. “I have been and continue to be a Gatlin Brothers fan and friend.”

Also new in 2008…The Rankin Brothers Classic Music Revue will debut at the Welk Resort Theatre in March and run through December. Matt and Mark Rankin, along with their cast of outstanding musicians and performers, will present timeless, classic hits covering six decades of music. These genuine, talented brothers thrill audiences with their authentic renditions of the most-beloved songs of all time.

The fast-paced variety show will feature the Rankin Brothers backed by a five-piece band, two female singers and a specialty/comedian act. Based on their belief that classic music is timeless, the Rankin Brothers project a love and respect for the music they play, re-creating perfect renditions of favorite songs. From The Everley Brothers to The Doobie Brothers, Buddy Holly and Sam Cooke to Bruce Springsteen, Simon and Garfunkel and Huey Lewis & The News, the Rankin Brothers Classic Music Revue will entertain with classic hit music which appeals to all generations.

Along with their considerable vocal and musical talents, the Rankin Brothers have the showmanship that audiences of all ages adore. Multi-media technology will add a modern element to the performance with rich, eye-catching films, stills, graphics and audio.
“Mark and Matt Rankin have dreamt about moving to this great community and performing full-time for many years” said Sullivan. “They’ve really honed their performance skills in Texas, playing for corporate, private and special events since 1989. They have the talent, charisma and heart to make it here in Branson.

“Welk-Sullivan Productions brings a proven track-record of production experience and presenting promising new talent to Branson,” said Sullivan. “We think it’s a promising partnership and an exciting new addition to the Branson entertainment scene for 2008…and many years to come.”

“Darren Romeo plans to perform in Branson next year and he will be making an announcement about the venue at any time,” said Sullivan. “I’ve also become a Darren Romeo fan and friend since we launched ‘Siegfried & Roy present Darren Romeo’ in 2004."

And returning in 2008 will be The Tillis Family Reunion starring Mel Tillis and Pam Tillis. This reunion received rave reviews for their Fall 2007 engagement at the Welk Resort Theatre and will return in 2008 from September 16 through October 25 for 38 performances.

With singer, songwriter, comedian and 2007 Country Music Hall of Fame Inductee Mel Tillis at the helm, this famously talented family delights audiences with chart-topping music and their special Tillis Family humor. Mel has recorded more than 60 albums and 36 Top Ten singles including Coca Cola Cowboy, Good Woman Blues and Southern Rains.

Daughter and country music superstar Pam Tillis combines the best of traditional and contemporary music. This CMA Female Vocalist of the Year has 3 Platinum and 2 Gold albums to her credit plus 10 Top-Five hits on the Country Music Charts including Mi Vida Loca, Maybe It Was Memphis, Shake The Sugar Tree and Cleopatra-Queen of Denial. Pam continues to record and perform hit music such as Band In The Window, from her 2007 CD “Rhinestoned,” which topped the European country music charts.

Rounding out this family reunion are singer/songwriter Mel Tillis Jr., aka “Sonny,” and perennial favorite Carrie April Tillis with her breathtaking opera singing.

Confirmed special events at the Welk Resort Theatre in 2008 include:

Welk Stars Reunion 2008, September 3 – 7; guest stars to be announced.

Tony Orlando’s Yellow Ribbon Salute To Veterans, November 11.

Additional special events/concerts to be announced.

The Welk Resort Theatre is located three miles south of Highway 76 at 1984 State Highway 165. The 2,245-seat theatre near Table Rock Lake was home to The Lawrence Welk Show from 1994 through 2004. Since 2004 Welk-Sullivan Productions has presented extended engagement shows in the theatre including Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers, Pam Tillis, The Lennon Sisters, Darren Romeo, Mel Tillis & Connie Smith, Crystal Gayle & Lee Greenwood and the Tillis Family Reunion. Special engagement concerts have featured B.B. King, The Moody Blues, The Beach Boys, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Taylor Hicks, Chuck Berry, Three Dog Night, Ray Price, Creedence Clearwater Revisited, B.J. Thomas & Billy Joe Royal, Delbert McClinton and annual week-long Welk Stars Reunion shows. The destination resort complex includes a 160-room hotel, the Stage Door Restaurant & Lounge, swimming pool, gift shop, miniature golf course, new luxury condos and, opening in 2008, an indoor/outdoor recreation center.

Information courtesy of Branson Chamber of Commerce

Image courtesy of Sullivan Shows/Welk Resort

Schedule of Branson Veteran's Homecoming Celebration Events

Branson's 14th annual Veterans Homecoming Week kicked off Monday with an opening ceremony at the Mansion Entertainment and Media Center and a ribbon cutting at the new Veterans Welcome Center.

The week-long event, billed as the largest Veterans Day celebration in the nation, features a host of activities for veterans and their families through Sunday. New this year is the Veterans Welcome Center, located at Missouri 165 and Green Mountain Drive.

Sponsored by the Department of Missouri Veterans of Foreign Wars, the center will serve free lunch to veterans ($1 for family members) throughout the week from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., followed by two hours of free entertainment.

Veterans also can sit down to free chow today through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Celebration City.

Free shows and ongoing activities abound — a sampling of events is included below. For an expanded list, visit www.bransonveterans.com or call the Branson Veterans Task Force at 337-8387.

Tuesday, November 6, 2007

"Sunchon Tunnel Massacre Survivors" book launch at Celebration City Theatre, 9-11 a.m. Six survivors of the Sunchon Tunnel Massacre during the Korean War are scheduled to attend. The event is free and open to the public. Call 230-5555 for more information.

Rose Petal Ceremony and Luncheon at Keeter Center, College of the Ozarks, 10:30 a.m. The Branson Women's Veterans Committee will host the ceremony to honor women veterans who have died for their country. Following the ceremony is a luncheon with special guest speaker Lt. Col. Vicki Merryman, retired from the U.S. Army. The Rose Petal Ceremony is free of charge. The luncheon cost is $20 and reservations are required. Call 339-6823 for more information.

Opening Ceremony for the Traveling Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall at Welk Resort, 10:30 a.m. The wall is traditionally open daily 8 a.m.-10 p.m. through Nov. 11, Veterans Day. Free for viewing to all. Call 337-7469 for more information.

United States Navy Drill Team at Branson High School Gym, 7:30 p.m. The United States Navy Ceremonial Guard, founded in 1931, will give a free performance. Call 337-8387 for more information.

Wednesday, November 7, 2007

Veterans Homecoming Meet and Greet Reception at the Mansion Entertainment and Media Center, 9 a.m. A reception honoring Branson Veterans Task Force's guest of honor Eddie Beesley, Sue Downes and Christon Stone. Reception is free and informal, followed by a 10 a.m. showing of the musical "Celebrate America," which is free for veterans, $32.50 for others. Call 239-1333 for more information.

POW/MIA Network's Vietnam Memorial Wall Service at Welk Resort, 8 a.m. Program includes music by the LeCroy Sisters, wreath laying and special speakers. Call 336-4232 for more information.

Gold Star and Blue Star Mothers and Gold Star Wives Luncheon at the All American Cafe, 10:30 a.m. Complimentary brunch for Gold and Blue Star Mothers and Gold Star Wives. Call 337-8387 for more information.

Women Veterans and Tuskegee Airman Presentations at Celebration City, 9:30 a.m. Lt. Col. Vicki Merryman, Bronze Star recipient who served her country in the Army for two decades speaks at 9:30 a.m. George Boyd, Tuskegee Airman, will speak at 10:30 a.m. Call 230-5555 for more information.

Free Outdoor Concert by the 399th Army Band from Fort Leonard Wood at Factory Merchants Mall, 2 p.m. Call 337-8387 for more information.

Candlelight Military Memorial Service at Skyline Baptist Church, 6 p.m. Call 337-8387 for more information.

Thursday, November 8, 2007

Korean War Veterans Association Mini-Reunion at Settle Inn, 9 a.m.-noon. Annual event honoring those serving during the "Forgotten War," held in the Stonehenge Room. Call 365-1389 for more information.

Friday, November 9, 2007

11th Annual Military Gala and Banquet Saluting Special Operations at Chateau on the Lake. Evening includes Medal of Honor recognition, POW/MIA candlelight service, Special Operations salute, fireworks, Mozark MOAA's True American Hero Award, Ambassador of Patriotism Award, entertainment and dancing. Advance reservations are required. Call 866-481-GALA for more information.

World War II Living History Encampment at Shepherd of the Hills Expressway, 9 a.m. The 84th Infantry Division will set up camp, re-enact battle, and display equipment, uniforms and weapons. Event lasts through Saturday. Call 337-8387 for more information.

Raising of the world's largest flying American Flag at RFD TV The Theatre, 1 p.m. Call 332-2282 for more information.

Saturday, November 10, 2007

Veterans and Active Duty Military Honor Day at the American Presidents Museum, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is free for all veterans and active duty personnel to the museum. There will be a special display of World War II Pin-up Girl Art in the Gallery Hall. Call 334-8683 for more information.

Battle of the Branches Boxing Match at Eagle Plaza, noon to 3 p.m. Veterans are encouraged to cheer on the boxer representing his or her branch of service. Tickets are $10 each or $20 for VIP seating. Call 334-3693 for more information.

Luau and Marine Corps Birthday Celebration and Tuskegee Airmen Reunion at Chateau on the Lake, 6 p.m. Reservations required. Call 777-4063 or 336-6350 for more information.

Sunday, November 11, 2007

73rd Annual Veterans Day Parade, downtown Branson, 11 a.m. Sponsored by American Legion Post #220. Call 337-8387 for more information.

Tony Orlando Yellow Ribbon Show at Welk Resort Theatre, 2 p.m. Free tickets have all been reserved and may be picked up at the Welk Resort Theatre box office Nov. 1-9. Any tickets not claimed by 5 p.m. on Nov. 9 will be available at 8:30 a.m. Nov. 10 on a first come, first served basis. Call 337-7469 for more information.

Kickin' Round at a Veterans Hoedown at Welk Resort Theatre Parking Lot, 5 p.m. The grand finale of Veterans Homecoming. Cost is $15 per person. Reservations are required. Call 339-4222 for more information.

Information courtesy of Springfield News-Leader