www.BransonShowsReviewed.com

2009 Branson Shows Rated

  The shows are arranged from my favorite to my least favorite.  There is little difference between shows that have the same rating number.  I rate the shows from 1 to 10.  I have ranked the first six shows as number 1 because I can't decide which one I like the best.  The Nominees for the Best show are listed, but I rate them all the same because there is such little difference in the quality of each show.  The top 6 have been listed in alphabetical order.  Pick your favorite after reading the reviews, or see them all and tell me which show you feel is the best.  Remember that I have seen no bad shows in Branson this year, however there are some that are better than others.  I have tried to list most of the songs that are in the show to help you decide.  So pick out a show that has your favorite type of music.  Again, if you have any comments email me at WildcatWackerly@yahoo.com   I will respond to every email.  You also may call me at 417-337-8045, I will be glad to speak with you about Branson and the shows.

  1.   The Duttons                                          The Dutton Family Theater

     This show is one of the best shows in the area.  From the begining to the end it is pure entertainment.  The Wizard of Oz segment featuring the grandchildren of Sheila and Dean.  It is truly enchanting.  I also found a couple of young stars.  Little Timmy and Rachael Dutton I predict a bright future in singing and acting.  The mix and selection of songs are surpassed by no one.  I feel that you will be thoroughly entertained if you choose this show as one of your selections.  You will see the award winning Amy Dutton on the violin and fiddle playing her heart out in so many numbers.  The crowd cheers after she plays her numbers.  Don't miss this show, it is a must see.  I rate this show a 10.

1.   The Haygoods                                                             New Americana Theater

       This show is beyond great.  Any young couple, family, or group will absolutely love the Haygoods.  I am a senior citizen with a young heart and I loved it.  The production is first class.  Whoever is the producer of this show, I would like to meet them.  They did a tremendous job because most of the show was completely changed from last year.  You might want to try the famous "Haygood Weight Control Plan".  I think it will work.  The Irish medley was my favorite medley but there are so many great songs, I can't decide which one I like the best.  There is so much action on the stage you will get a workout trying to keep up with the wall to wall, front to back action on stage. No teenager should leave Branson without seeing this show.  As a matter of fact, No one should leave Branson without seeing this show.  There are not enough positive adjectives in the English language to describe this show.  Everyone is on stage most of the time.  The brothers and Katherine work well together.  I am glad Timothy is back on stage, I missed him.  I rate this show a 10.

  1.    Rankin Brothers Classic Music Review                        Starlite Theater

         This is a great tribute show from the beginning to the end.  Mark Rankin has to be one of the best, if not the best, male vocalist in Branson.  He can change the inflection, the tenor, the accent, the vibrato, and tone of his voice whenever as he wants.  Matt can do the best "Buddy Holly" I have ever experienced in Branson.  The Everly Brothers medley was really awesome with “Wake Up Little Susie”, “Cathy’s Clown”, and “So Sad” being the songs of choice.  Close your eyes and you believe you are hearing the Everly Brothers of 30 years ago.  The boys do the duo acts of the 50's and 60's so well you will think you took a trip on a time machine.  Matt does the Righteous Brother's "Unchained Melody" so well you will think that Bobby Hatfield has appeared again.  Mark does Bill Medley's "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'" that I am sure would surprise the authentic Bill Medley.  The Rankinettes do some of the lady hits of the era so well, you will enjoy them as I did.  "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" could be the best song presentation in Branson thanks to Betsy Butler, Wow!!!!.  Any baby-boomer will love this show and anyone else who loves classic rock, wants to see a show packed with people with pure talent.   I rate this show a 10.   

  1.    S I X                                                                 Hughes American Family Theater

         This show features no band or music tracks.  All of the music you hear comes from the s i x human voices.  During the first song, you will discover that you can't hear the fact that there is no band.  Kevin plays a horn, with his voice.  Lynn does some scatting.  Curtis demonstrates how the group gets a guitar sound without having an instrument.  Barry plays the horn extremely well.  Jak sounded like an acoustic bass.  Owen is the drums.  Put them together and you have a band.  You must see this show yourself so you can find out how that can be.  You can enjoy the comedic antics of Jak, the fantastic tenor voice of Curtis.  Barry as Frankie Valle.  Lynn as Frank Sinatra showing his rich smooth voice.  Owen with his constant beat.  Kevin with his powerful voice and comic flair.  This is definitely a must see show.  I rate this show a 10.

   1.   Top Ten Rock N Roll Revue                               Branson Mall Theater

6.   Acrobats Of China                    The New Shanghai Theater

       This show displays 16 acts that come from the New Shanghai Circus.  It is extremely entertaining and well worth the price of addmission.  The children will sit with their eyes wide open.  My favorite act is the Butterfly lovers.  I also like the drums used during the show.  They have come from the Thunder drums from the 2008 Summer Olympics.  The hoop jumpers are fantastic also.  The Magic Clock is a good illusion that is award winning.  The opening act is very beautiful.  The jar jugglers are amazing.  The Russian bar is a nice act that using a springboard to shot people in the air.  Foot juggling is very good also.  I rate this show a 10.

  7.   Country Tonite W/ Collin Raye, T G Sheppard, Restless Heart, Little Texas OR Debby Boone

  8.   Pierce Arrow  3:00 PM                                                Pierce Arrow Theater

             This show is one fantastic musical delight.  I actually like it better than the 7:30 show.  The comedy is good but the song selection in this show is outstanding.  A couple of duets are just fantastic.  I hope I can nominate them for the best song performance.  The cast is the same as the night show with the exception of Kim Boyce.  She is only in the night show.  Desta has two wonderful songs in this show and she is able to shine.  Two of the songs are truly wonderful.  I don't think I would not change a thing in this show except a song or two by Kim.  I did miss her in this show.  I would recommend it to anyone.  It is so close to the top 5 that it makes my decision so hard.  See it and then tell me what you think about where it should be.  I hope you also see the other five shows so you have something to compare.  I rate this show a 10. 

  9.  Grand Country Jubilee                                   Grand Country Music Hall

 10.   Amazing Pets w/Sean Paul             Grand Country Music Hall

     This show is definitely a show for the families.  In fact it might be the best one.  I thoroughly enjoyed it.  You see Alana with her birds.  She has some of the most beautiful birds I have ever seen.  The pink birds are my favorite.  I enjoyed the bird flopping on the floor as if it were injured.  Valery has his dogs in the first half and the cats in the second half.  Sean Paul is one of the best MC's I have ever seen.  He knows how to control a crowd and get people into a happy mood.  The cats that Valery uses in the second half is amazing.  I did not know that cats could be trained.  Alana has her beautiful parrots come out in the second half and do tricks.  The best animal act is Frankie, the monkey.  I think Sean Paul and Frankie are exceptional.  I rate this show a 10.

 11.   Legends In Concert                                        Dick Clark's American Bandstand Theater

 12.   Magnificent Variety Show                          The Osmond Family Theater

         This show is so fast paced that you better not blink to much.  I want to tell you that this show has almost 300 costume changes and they are appreciated by this old man thanks to Bonnie Van Meeteren, the costumer.  The stage is filled with talent oozing everywhere.    They take you on a journey from the 1940's through and including, the 2000's.  The second half consists of selective songs from some of the best musicals.  I love "Grease", "West Side Story" and "Funny Girl".  They do everything well.  They all dance, sing and work so hard during the complete show.  There are not too many shows that illustrates the epitome of talent.  This show does from beginning to end.  I rate this show a 10. 

  13.   Pierce Arrow  7:30 PM                                     Pierce Arrow Theater

       This show is a complete entertainment bonanza.  Two wonderful female vocalists, six very talented men,  four out-of-sight band members, and one tremendously funny comedian.  The stage design and the electrifying beginning adds up to a top-notch musical buffet.  If you only see four shows this trip, Pierce Arrow should be one of them. Cecil, the Preacher, is the funniest comedy skit that I have seen in Branson.  There are two award winning type duo's in this one show.  I hope to see it over and over again.  The three o'clock show is a different show.  It is the 8:00 PM show from 2008.  The group has to be one of the best groups in the city, but I don't know how to classify them, they are not a quartet.  So, they are the best group of five vocalists in a show.  I rate this show a 10.

 14.   Branson Brothers Show                               God & Country Theater

         This show is one of the best in town featuring male groups.  The Branson Brothers have been around for almost 20 years.  I remember the good ole days of Silver Dollar City.  Jimmy and David were members of the original group.  Dave replaced Terry Kaufman and then Terry came back.  The brother harmony is there and you get to enjoy it.  Dee Allen is one of my Mom's favorite vocalist and he shows his ability in this show.  He has several great solo parts.  The highlight of the show is the Drifter's medley featuring "Under The Boardwalk" and "Stand By Me".  Another one is the arrangement of "You've Lost That Lovin Feelin".  The keyboardist, Lyman Clark, adds a great sound to the arrangement. Diana is always good and she was the first female vocalist that I saw in Branson when she was a young, young, lady.   I will see this show over and over again.  I rate this show a 10.

 15.   Cassandre' The Voice Of An Angel                 New Americana Theater

            This show illustrates that there is a bright and shining star on the strip.  It sits above the New Americana theater to welcome Cassandre' Haygood as a force to be reckoned with as a female vocalist.  The stage lighting and sound is superb for the theme and quality of this show.  The show features an eight piece orchestra which includes a synthesizer that can add so much more.  There is really a string section with violins, guitar, viola, and a cello. You also have a piano and drums.  The arranger has taken some older songs and gave them a new lift to compete with modern music.  Cassandre' version of "Over The Rainbow" is well worth the price of addmission.  I witnessed a true birth of a star on Monday, March 30, 2009.  I rate this show an enthusiatic 10. 

 16.   Hughes Brothers Family Show                       Hughes American Family Show

         This show is definitely a wonderful show to see.  Especially if you like kids.  The brothers have a talent for great harmony.  I am looking forward to seeing the new opening medley that will be included soon.  Andy needs to sing "An Innocent Man".  He does such a great job on "The Longest Time", I can imagine the great rendition that Andy could sing.  When I think of the Hughes Brothers, I think of the wonderful western medley that they have become to be known for.  I was not disappointed.  It is there, with a young trio adding their western song also.  This is the World's Largest Performing Family and they will tickle your funny bone and please your eyes and ears.  I rate this show a 10.

 17.    Doug Gabriel Show                                 Jim Stafford Theater

       This morning show is a must see.  Doug demonstrates why he is the most awarded entertainer in Branson.  He won male vocalist from me on two occasions in the 90's.  The song selection in the show is great.  I haven't heard a better one in decades.  With his son Josh on the drums, the band gives all they have for your entertainment.  I know Jordan is in school and cannot participate fully everyday, but I would like to see more of him in future years.  The drum duet by Josh and Jordan is worth the price of adimission in itself.  Cheryl is a great female vocalist and I listen to her great CD several times a month.  That is saying alot since I have over 7000 CD's.  This show is for everyone.  There should be lines at the theater door when they open to sell tickets.  I rate this show a 10. 

 18.   Island Fire                                               The Dutton Family Theater

     This show is tremendously entertaining, educational, and interesting.  Everyone who has not been to the Pacific Islands need to see this show.  Those who have will want to see it because this show will refresh some wonderful memories.  The dancers are extremely talented and the costumes are exceptional.  Several of the dances are simply enchanting.  The young ladies are very attractive which also includes the 2007 Miss Samoa.  The men that dance are also very talented.  The World Champion Fireknife dancer is on the stage.  There are two other fireknife dancers that add to the whole ambiance.  The story teller and singer is wonderfully gifted and you will enjoy the stories and smile at the wonderful vocals.  I hope I see this show many, many times.  I rate this show a 10.

 20.   Rock N Roll Is Here To Stay                  Branson Star Theater

       This show has a tremendously talented cast and band.  the cast features several people from the Red, Hot and Blue Show.  However in this show they concentrate on the 50's, 60's, and 70's.  Kelly Wiegand displays her great voice which I just discovered in this show.  I was very glad to see Scott Sartain.  I bought his CD at the Red, Hot and Blue show but never put the face with the voice.  Now I have.  Kelly Wiegand, Scott Sartain, and the other two vocalists and dancers, Chris Tucker and Amber Boyd, are very talented.  They make a great quartet leading to a nomination for quartet of the year.  The song selection is absolutely great.  They perform very popular songs of the 3 decades but most of these songs are not sung in other shows of this area.  I thoroughly enjoyed my experience and I will return over and over.  I rate this show a 10.

 21.   The Warnocks                                          Branson Mall Theater

        This show featured my favorite female sister group since the Lowe Sisters.  The girls are totally talented.  The oldest daughter, Kathrine writes some of their music.  Ashlee has a great descant able voice.  Emilee is just a sweet girl that has more talent then her tiny body can hold.  Anna is simply wonderful and is so beautiful as well as talented.  Rhonda is the tallest sister and has just as beautiful voice as any of her siblings.  Take these six young ladies and add two very talented parents and you come up with a must see show for Branson visiters.  I have watched these young ladies for six years now and enjoy them more each time I see them.  They also appear with the Andy Williams Show this year.  I rate this show a 10.

 22.   Rock U Mentally                          Dick Clark's American Bandstand

        The talented cast performs the beautifully penned original songs to inform the audience of some things that we all should be concerned with, the pollination by the bees, air pollution, water pollution, being approached by a stranger, personal inituative for yourself, stopping bullying when you see it, cooperate with people to accomplish the tasks, finding pollution solutions.  All of these topics are handled with clever music and songs that are tremendously entertaining.  The writers of the songs, Bucky Heard and Chris Skillern, deserve to be given an award for what they have produced for the young people that visit Branson.  This show needs to be presented to the American youth by some television network sometime.  The show ends with Imagination Boxes that are brought out for the children to come down front and participate in decorating their boxes.  Wow, what a show.  I enjoyed it tremendously and I am 63 years old.  Bravo Bucky and Chris!  I rate this show a 10.

22.   Wade Benson Landry's Swingin' Cajun Style    God & Country Theater

     The talent and ability of Wade Benson Landry is astonishing when it comes to the fiddle.  The drummer could be the best in town.  They have a unique duel of instruments during the show.  It is between Wade and Adam playing the fiddle and drums.  It is tremendously entertaining.  I want to see this show again and again.  The female vocalist is very talented and her voice is very pleasingly unique.  The steel guitarist is one of the best I have heard.  All in all this show has so much talent on stage it should be against the law for being unfair to the other shows in town.  I would recommend this show to anyone who enjoys classic country or Cajun music, because that is what you will get.  I rate this show a 10. 

 23.   Hamner Barber Variety Show                           Hamner Barber Variety Show             

        If you want a show that will delight the children in your family, the adults, and the seniors, you need to pick this show.  You will continue laughing into the next skit by Jim Barber.  You will continue to leave your mouth open in amazement with the magic and illusions that Dave and Denise Hamner perform all night.  The three dancers add beauty and grace to the mix.  The Barber and Seville ventriloquism segment and the Austin Powers magic segment were my favorites of the night. The cast is extremely friendly and gives the audience the feeling that they are wrapped up in pleasure with their jobs.  This show is more than just Ventriloquism or Magical Illusions, it is both.  I rate this show a 10.

  24.   Broadway                                             Branson Variety Theater

      This is the same cast as Spirit of the Dance, but the choreography is just a little better.  What makes this show so good is the actual singing of the two headlining vocalists.  Those two vocalists are exceptional in what they do.  I love to hear their singing and mixing with the audience.  The music is on tracks but that doesn't take away from the entertainment value of the show.  There are several musicals that are represented.  They include Hair, West Side Story, Sweet Charity, My Fair Lady, Cabaret, Oklahoma, 42nd Street, Annie Get Your Gun, Crazy For You, Mama Mia, Hair Spray, A Chorus Line, Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Chicago, The Wizard of Oz, Godspell, Cats, and Grease.  I rate this show a 10.

 25.   Clay Cooper's Country Music Express                    Clay Cooper Theater

       This show is one of the best variety shows in Branson.  It starts out with great comedy and music and ends with a beautiful patriotic song that was recorded by Clay Cooper.  Clay is one of the best classic country singers that is in Branson.  He has the voice to do Conway Twitty like no other tribute performer.  He will please you from the begining to the end.  The group of six dancers are well choreographed and performed.  Carrigan Bradley is a little fireball of an entertainer.  Matt Gumm is a very talented entertainer that can do almost anything.  The band is wonderful.  Melody Hart is a fantastic entertainers.  R P Harrell is a tremendous talent to have in the show.  When Clay found Melody Hart and R P Harrell, that must have been a great day.  I rate this show a 10.

 26.   The Keatings-A Father and Son Musical Experience   Branson Star Theater

      This is a polished musical buffet from the begining of the show till the end.  Ken has a beautiful light classical voice and Josh has the vim and vigor of a youthful master of music.  When visiting Branson, this is a must for the theater goer to enjoy.  Their showtime is a plus so that they easily can be plugged into your schedule to see and enjoy.  The delightful rendition of the songs by this dynamic duo of musical excelence is to be savored by their audience.  The Frankie Valle and the Four Seasons tribute is the highlight of the show.  I would encourage all visitors to see this show, especially if you like pop music sung excellently.  I rate this show a 10.

 26.   George Dyer Concert                                 The Dutton Family Theater

       This show will give the audience a pure musical banquet to those who attend the show/concert.  He knows how to grab an audience by both hands and mold it into people that can enjoy the entire concert and all the different genres of music of which he gives us a taste.  His very talented daughter, Kendra, adds beauty and grace to his show.  He has several numbers in the show that will thrill you and throughly delight you.  I hope he can continue to perform here in Branson so I can award him some nominations in the Branson Show Awards in 2010.  Since the nominations closed on July 31, 2009 for this year, since I had never heard him before, I could not nominate him this year even though I would have.  I hope to find some CD's of yours so I can enjoy your magnificent voice in the future.  I rate this show a 10. 

27.  The Diamond Image of Neil Diamond  (Keith Allyn)     Branson Malls Hall Of Fame Theater

      Keith Allyn is Neil Diamond in Branson, MO.  The Legends In Concert show should keep their Neil Diamond impersonator in other cities.  Keith is that good.  He reacts well with the audience.  Keith's voice sounds identical to Neil Diamond on most songs.  Close your eyes and you will agree that this show is a good one to see.  He has the Neil Diamond growl on the appropriate songs.  He has the look of a much younger Diamond than Neil is today.  His vocal prowess is good as demonstrated that he was voted as one of the best Elvis Impersonators in the country.  I am so glad that he changed his impersonatee to Neil Diamond.  I will definitely see this show everytime I can.  I rate this show a 10.

27.  Redhead Express                                       The Dutton Family Theater

27.    The Doerfels Family Bluegrass               Stars At Centre Stage/Music City Centre

       This show is a delight to the ears.  I have never witnessed a more talented family then this one.  They are all so young but yet so accomplished as professional instrumentalists.  I would love to see them on a weekly basis.  They are so personable and friendly.  I feel they are a great family and I am pleased to have met them and maybe we will be friends someday.  Ben is so talented on the acoustic guitar.  He is only 14.  Kim is a gem on the fiddle.  TJ is fantastic on the banjo.  the mandolin is played superbly by Eddie and the bass is played so well by Joey.  They have 9 boys and one girl in their family with the oldest being 20.  TJ's wife, Angelica Grim, is also an accomplished entertainer and her voice is a family treasure.  I recommend this show highly.  I rate this show a 10.

 28.   Presleys' Country Jubilee                                                              Presley Family Theater

       This is a great musical variety show with all types of music.  There are 4 generations of performers on stage of the Presley Family.  Lloyd Presley started playing music in downtown Branson in 1954.  They were the first to build a theater on Missouri Highway 76 on the site that the theater is on to this day.  The children are handed instruments before they can walk.  Most of the grandchildren of Lloyd are tremendously talented instrumentalists.  They also have the knack of picking enormously great talent to appear on their stage.  The outfits that they wear are always top notch and they add to the complete enjoyment of their show.  Listen for Amber Presley's "Cry".  That song is done so well by Amber, it should be released to the radio.  I think it might make another trip up the charts.  I rate this show a 10.

 29.   Dalena Ditto                                          Oak Ridge Boys Theater

       She is a total bundle of entertainment.  I think she is the best female entertainer that I have seen in many a years.  She has surrounded herself with so many talented musicians that she should stand back and pat herself on the back.  I really feel that this is one of the best, if not the best, morning show in Branson.  Dalena has everything, a great singing voice, comedy skills, beauty, and a bubbling personality.  Her band is tremendously talented and a pleasure to listen to.  Patty Davidson is a wonderful find for Dalena.  She has an act that the audience will cheer about.  I have watched her for 25 years and I still enjoy her immensely.  The surprise about that is she looks 30 now.  I rate this show a 10. 

 30.   Brett Family Singers                                       Dick Clark's American Bandstand

 31.   Red, Hot, and Blue                                             New American Theater 

        The show has completely been revamped.  There are new arrangements, costumes, songs, and choreography.  From the beginning to the end it is pure entertainment.  They had a good show for many years.  Now, I consider it a great show.  Steve Parrish, Ryan Walton, and Jeremy Rabe are great vocalists.  Christopher Tucker has done a great job of directing this great show.  The medley of the 1940's is one of the best medleys in the show.  The other is the 1950's.  That medley contains several songs from the movies that featured the llife of the 1950's, "Grease" and "Bye Bye Birdie".  My favorite song was a interwoven combination of "PS I Love You" and "Danny Boy" sung by Stephani Haygood and Jeremy Rabe.  I will definitely return for many more performances before the end of the year.  I urge you to see this show.  I rate this show a 9.

   32.   Liverpool Legends                                              Starlite Theater

         This show consists of the recreating the Beatles Ed Sullivan performance and other United States concerts.  You also get a chance to see what happened in the preparation for the huge concert that was held at the Mets Shay Stadium.  The boys came out dressed in meticulously styled costumes based on history.  During “A Hard Days Night”, Paul played the bass guitar, Ringo played the drums expertly, John sang the solo and George plays the lead guitar.  There are many times that you will see that these boys can play their appropriate instruments very well.  In fact I think that two of them could be the best.  If you love the Beatles, you will love this show.  If you like the Beatles, then you might find it interesting how carefully thought out this presentation of the Beatles is.  I rate this show a 9.

 33.   Joey Riley                                        Mickey Gilley Theater

      This show is a delightful afternoon treat.  Joey has a good voice and is tremendous on all the instruments he plays.  His major talent is his comedy.  If you want to laugh in the afternoon, see this show.  The band contains many of the Branson's great instrumentalists.  The female singer, Casey Bass, is one fantastic female vocalist.  I liked her in the Mickey Gilley Show, but I love her in this show.  The song she sings near the end of the show is one of the best female singers in the area.  This show is filled with classic country music.  The comedy is done with class and is the best part of the show.  I would like to see this show many times.  I rate this show a 9.

 34.   John Tweed Show                         Clay Cooper Theater

         I was amazed at the quality of entertainment this little show has to offer.  He is the "Voice of Branson".  He only has a keyboard artist, Kenny Christiansen, as a backup. However he sounds like a full band or even an orchestra.  Together they make a wonderful show.  The comedy is also there and so is the music.  Music is of the utmost importance to this show, but John is more than a singer, he is a full-fledged entertainer.  The ticket price is a definite plus.  It is almost half of what the bigger shows charge.  He sings an awesome variety of music from country to Broadway.  But the song that he wrote about his great grandfather in the Civil War.  It should be a hit.  I absolutely loved it.  I rate this show a 9.

 35.   Spirit Of The Dance                            Branson Variety

         I was very impressed with the dancing in this show.  The cast is the best Dance Troop in the city.  The music and production of this show is right on.  The music is on tracks but that doesn't take the enjoyment out of the show.  The cast is very good.  I could have nominated more for the best dancer, but I did name two males and two females for the corresponding categories.  The openings of both halves is a great with awesome production qualities.  The four line dance is my favorite.  I like it when they turn around and get faster and faster.  The precision with their hands on each others knees is very good.  Those two parts of the show is worth the price of admission.  I rate this show a 9

.

  36. Tony Roi's Elvis Experience                            New Americana Theater

          Tony is an absolute must for any gigantic Elvis fan.  And gentlemen, there is enough entertainment in this show to keep you interested also.  The women honestly go ape for Tony.  I think it is well deserved.  I was glad to here some of his self-penned original songs in the mix.  He portrays the Elvis in the last decade of his life.  Since Elvis died at age 42, he was never old.  Tony picks a wonderful group of Elvis tunes to sing of the more than 800 songs that was recorded by Elvis.  He has all of the moves and voice of Elvis.  As I was writing the review, I had my head down.  I had to look up several times to make sure Elvis hadn't appeared on stage.  He is a great entertainer and his longevity proves it.  I rate this show a 9. 

 37.   #1 Hits Of The 60"s                            Caravelle Theater

        You will almost 100 songs during this show that are all hits of the sixties.  It is action and melodic delight from the very beginning till the very end.  I would love to see this show over and over.  The entire cast is very talented.  I even got to hear my favorite song, "I Will Follow Him" from the 60's and also from the movie "Sister Act".   They use the screens to show some of the events of the decade that shaped our country.  I heard most of the popular artists in at least one song except Brenda Lee.  The segment that they sing in the second half where the boys and girls take turns singing hits was my favorite medley.  It was absolutely fantastic.  The costumes are great this year.  I recommend this show to all baby boomers and others who love the music of the sixties.  I rate this show a 9.

 38.   Yakov's Moscow Circus                           Yakov Theater

        Another show for the family with young children.  I really enjoyed it.  You will see many circus acts that is very enjoyable.  I enjoyed the unicycle act.  He is able to jump from one moving unicycle to another.  The silk ballet is absolutely beautiful.  They fly out over the audience and truly amaze them.  There is a lady who swings chains of fire over, under, and through the sides of her body.  An elaborate display of gigantic bubbles and zillions of bubbles.  The trained dogs are an amazement as they are dressed in cute lion and panther outfits.  The little tiny dog is so cute.  The live Russian Siberian Bears that walk on their hind legs and front legs, riding bicycles, and other things that will blow your mind.  I rate this show a 9. 

39.   Baldknobbers Jamboree                                Baldknobbers Theater

          Everyone needs to see the 50th Anniversary show of this Branson family entertainment creator.  The Mabe family, Baldknobbers, and the Presley's started the entertainment is this southwest Missouri town.  The first full time show was started by the Mabe Brothers in downtown Branson in 1959, making this the oldest show in Branson running continuously. I enjoyed the performances of Joy Bilyeu, Brandon Mabe, Patty Mabe, Brandon Mabe, Denton Mabe, Tim Mabe and Brent Mabe that are members of the Mabe family.  They also have many cast members that are friends and perform well.  Bob Leftridge, Gene Dove, Roger Blevins, and many more  The entire cast provide the show with much talent and moments in the show that are fantastic.  The comedy of Stubs, Droopy, and Hargus is much appreciated and enjoyed.  I still can't forget the members of the cast that are gone and enjoyed the video's that were shown during and before the show.  Take a look at the Baldknobbers this season and see a piece of history for Branson, MO.  I rate this show a 9.

 40.   The Yeary's Sweethearts Of Branson             Branson Mall Theater

        This is a cast of 4 entertainers that showcase the talent that the good Lord gave them very well.  Sheila has a voice that rivals Olivia Newton-John.  Denny plays a stack of instruments and shows off his wonderful bass voice, as he did for 27 years in the famous Blackwood Quartet.  Tucker will make you laugh till it hurts.  Fourteen year old, McKayla plays the keyboards, clogs, and sings like an angel.  I really think this could be the most underrated show in Branson.  The Branson Mall is a wonderful place to go and stay and eat at Ruby Tuesdays and listen to the free shows on the Center Stage in the Mall between Walmart and Jubilee Foods.  I rate this show a 9.

 41.   Crossties                                                         Circle B Chuckwagon Theater

         This show is a demonstration of great bluegrass music.  The theater has a homey feeling.  You almost feel like you are sitting in the performers living room and can be part of the show.  Many of the songs are written by the Glaspys' and written extremely well.  They are heartwarming, lyrical, and tremendously entertaining.  Karina's CD is a great example of the talent that this family has.  I have listened to her CD many times since the night I saw their show.  The cast is one of the most talented small groups of entertainers assembled in Branson.  I wish them the best because they deserve it.  I rate this show a 9.

  42.  Redhead Express                                       The Dutton Family Theater

        Kendra has a tremendous voice and I really enjoy hearing her.  He voice is well suited for bluegrass.  The ability to hold a note for a long time was demonstrated.  Kendra excels on the guitar as well.  Kendra writes many of the songs that are performed.  LaRae is a tremendous talent on the banjo while Maghan plays the fire out of the bass fiddle.  Alisa is an accomplished fiddle artist.  LaRae is the only person that can smile, play a fiddle, and dance at the same time.  The best comedy skit is in this little show.  It is modeled after Hee Haw.  They sing and then Brett hits a triangle and one of the cast members steps to the mic and tells a one-liner.  Some are the funniest I have ever heard.  One of the boy’s liners was the best one I heard.  His poor Mom might have been zinged.  All are dressed in overalls with bare feet. The five women sing and play all their instruments extremely well.  They ended the show with a gospel song, “Get Up John”.  The song was about John, The Baptist.  This is a great group to show you bluegrass and how it should be performed.   I rate this show a 9.

  43.   Branson Blast!                                                    Branson Star Theater

           This show will get you into a good feeling and the children will enjoy also.  It has a variety of entertainment pieces that seem to fit well together.  The illusions are good and so are the card tricks.  The comedy song performed by Ivie Walker is delightful.  I am going to return to see it again, because I missed so much while I was writing the review.  The ticket price makes this show a nice way to entertain the whole family, on a budget, before going to McDonald's or Wendy's for dinner.  I had four children and they would have liked it very much.  I like to see the high amount of audience participation sections.  The compound word segment is cute and educational.  It gets you thinking.  The show went by very quickly because of the fast pace that it has throughout.  I rate this show an 9.

  44.  Riders Of The Circle B                                     Circle B Chuck wagon

        The entire experience is fantastic.  The moment you arrive you are treated as if you are special.  The food is great.  The music is fantastic and the comedy is good also.  Christy Horn is one of the better female vocalists in Branson.  The Band is top notch and should be enjoyed thoroughly.  The meal is basically all you can eat.  You watch a western movie while eating popcorn.  Then the meal is served, consisting of barbecued porks, baked potato, beans, corn muffins, applesauce and cake.  You also get all you can drink Tea, coffee and water.  A truly wonderful experience for the whole family.  I rate this show a 9.

  45.   Strait Country W/Patsy Cline                         Imax Little Opry Theater

        This show has one of the best cast performances in Branson.  James does a great George Strait.  Karina in uncomparable as Patsy Cline.  Jim plays the dobro so well that you will be wanting more.  Randy is terrific at singing and the bass fiddle.  I enjoy all the numbers that this group does and I left wanting more.  Since it is almost impossible to see a George Strait concert in this time.  So this is my chance to see George Strait, almost.  You will hear many of George's number one hits done with grace and precision.  You need to hear their version of "Can't Help Falling In Love".  It is great.  I wish I could have a copy of it at home to hear it anytime I want to.  I rate this show a 8.

  46.   Branson Divas                                                 Imax Little Opry Theater

         This show features three of the legendary entertainers in Branson.     You will experience some beautiful music, comedy and dance.  The songs that are sung by Janice and back-upped with class by Michele Sevryn and Cindi Barr will entertain you.  I like Cindi's voice and I am glad that she has many numbers.  Janice Copeland is the premiere female power singer.  I have watched her throughout her career and she has performed with the best, Roy Clark, Andy Williams, Jim Stafford, Ray Stevens, and Pierce Arrow.  The comedy skits are well thought out and very entertaining.  They tease each other from the beginning to the end.  Michele sings one of my favorite songs, "Lesson In Leavin".  This show is worth seeing especially at a reasonable price.  I rate this show an 8.

  47.   A Tribute To John Denver                               Imax Little Opry Theater

         This show features one of the best assembled casts in Branson.  James Garrett is an immensely talented vocalist.  He is able to nail the John Denver voice and mannerisms.  Long time Branson entertainer, Randy Plummer, adds an acoustic bass to the mix.  Randy's vocals are tremendous.  Jim Glaspy adds his skill on the Dobro, banjo, and guitar.  Rick Quincy is a brilliant instrumentalist and plays the harmonica, guitar, mandolin, and dulcimer.  Karina Glaspy adds the female vocal touch when needed.  She performs Jeanne Kendall on "Heaven's Just A Sin Away" in the duet with James.  This show is performed in a small, cozy, and appropriate theater to get the audience into the music.  I rate this show a 8.

  48.   New's Country With Leroy New                      Imax Little Opry Theater

          For the classic country fan, this show is a must.  There is so much talent and music coming from just three inspirational and fantastic musicians.  Leroy New, Kathy Eckert, and long time Branson musician, Buddy Burr.  I will definitely see this show again.  They were worried that I would see a show that is not there best because it was opening day.  If they get better, watch out Grand Jubilee.  I can see why Leroy New is called "Branson's Guitar Wizard.  It is a well deserved title.  The instrumental bridges are the best part of the show.  In other shows, the bridge is to give the band a time to shine.  In this show it is time for the star to shine.  And shine he does.  I rate this show a 8.

   49.   Ricky Boen and Texas Mud                             Hamner Barber Theater

          This show is a must for those fans who enjoy Western Music and Western Swing.  Mark Pearman joins Ricky Boen in a tremendous display of fiddling during several sessions of Twin Fiddling.  Michelle Inskeep adds a female touch with her singing.  Her comedy is very funny and enjoyable.  The band is top notch and very talented.  Enjoy the 1940's with several songs from that decade being played and sung in the Western Swing mode.  I never thought about how the 40's could be played in that style.  The members of the band are very personable and will treat you fantastically.  I rate this show an 8.

   50.   Breakfast With Mark Twain                  Hot Hits Theater

       This show begins with a hot breakfast at a cafe a block away from the theater.  Dave Ehlert appears as Samuel Clements and tells stories during the entire show.  It is educational, entertaining, and interesting.  I want to see it again because I know I missed so much while I was writing in my notebook.  This is a nice break from the music shows that are in town.  The coffee/tea house that is in the lobby of the theater is very good.  I had them make me a blackberry iced tea and it was very good.  I used Splenda and therefore it was sugar free.  The tuna sandwich and homemade vegetable soup is good also.  I ate it before one of the nighttime shows and it was reasonably priced.  I rate this show an 8. 

  51.   Country Sunshine                                            Caravelle Theater

          This is a tribute show of three of the most beloved female artists in the country field of the last 50 years.  Lallie changes dresses about a half dozen times in this show.  She sings a little Patsy Cline dressed in a western outfit that I know Patsy would have worn.  She wears a long flowing gown that Loretta Lynn would have worn, also.  She changes her voice with each change of clothes to sound like the star of which she is paying tribute.  She is wearing another gown and a blonde wig when she enters the stage as Tammy Wynette.  She can sing anything.  I especially enjoyed "Harper Valley PTA" when she came into the audience and sang to some people.  She has a nice voice and does a good job of changing the sound of her voice with each star.  I rate this show an 8.

  52.   Elvis And The Superstars                 Hot Hits Theater

         This theater is a wonderful little theater.  The sound is top notch as is the lighting.  The seating is comfortable and since it is such a small theater, you can't have a bad seat.  His impersonations of Elvis, Neil Diamond, Roy Orbison, Dean Martin, Rod Stewart, Johnny Cash, Conway Twitty, Ray Charles, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Tom Jones.  I enjoyed Dean Martin, Roy Orbison, and Neil Diamond very much.  I would like to recommend.  I would like to see Dave add several more Roy Orbison songs to expand the tibute of Roy.  A person that can sing Roy Orbison has to have a great voice.  Dave Ehlert has one of those voices.  He can really sing.  I rate this show an 8. 

 53.   Comedy Jamboree                                            Grand Country Music Hall

          This is a show for comedy lovers.  There is probably just as many comedic skits as there are music medleys.  Splinter Middleton has a fantastic baritone voice that people have been enjoying since he was a teenager.  Jackie Brown and John Drockleman add tremendous vocals.  But the Aesthetic and athletic dances by Gigi Hutchison and Justin Tews added so much.  A second dose of the Grand Band is appreciated.  You can also see them in Grand Jubilee.  This show accentuates the comedy, which it should.  After all, it is called Comedy Jamboree.  I rate this show an 8

  54.    Ozark Mountain Jubilee                                   Grand Country Music Hall

          This show is a perfect ending for a Sunday evening, the only time it is performed.  The Max Bacon family has performed this show for over 20 years here in Branson.  It is actually the third longest running show in Branson.  The band is one of the best I have heard.  I would recommend this show to anyone.  Mike Patrick is pleasure to watch and he really can play the piano.  Randy Plummer adds his bass skills and voice to the show also.  Little Garrett Bacon is a nice addition to this show.  I think he is a gem.  The Quartet is a treasure.  Family harmony is very apparent in this show.  I rate this show an 8.

 55.   Keith "Red" Allen As Redkneckers                Crystal Room of The Branson Star Theater

             This is a one man show that is really entertaining.  I like the home stories that we all remember in our lives.  The stories are warm hearted and totally believable.  I could relate to him almost the entire show.  I was so glad that he did "Everybody's Talkin".  That song is not done in Branson very often.  One of the problems that Branson has is the fact that some songs are performed in quite a few shows.  Gary Paxton, creator of "Monster Mash" and Alley Oop", wrote a song for Keith and it was wonderful.  Listen to the lyrics and you will be moved.  See this show.  I rate this show a 7

  56.    Sunday Gospel Jubilee                                   Grand Country Music Hall

                  This show features many gospel songs done in a very enjoyable way.  The band is a great band and should be recognized as such.  Phil Koontz is one fantastic steel guitar player.  Mike Patrick is a great pianist and you will enjoy his comic antics with Brad Bacon.  My favorite part was a nice story about a little girl who died in 1883 just short of one year.  The Bacons visited the grave 110 years after her death exactly.  Jenine wrote a poem and set it to music and sings it in this show.  I am not a gospel music fan.  I have tried to keep my personal fellings out of the review, but that is impossible to do.  Listen to the story and enjoy it as much as I did.  Randy Plummer is a cast member and he really can sing a gospel number.  I rate this show a 7. 

 1.    Breaking Up Is Hard To Do                                  Branson Star Theater

 20.   Our Sinatra                                         American Songbook Dinner Theater at Shake It Up Club     (Show Closed)

21.   50's At The Hop                                            50's At The Hop Theater

All Shows are reviewed by Gary R. Wackerly of www.BransonShowsReviewed.com.  All nominations and commentaries are decided and awarded by Gary R. Wackerly.  The final decision on the nominated winners will be decided by a three-five member committee chaired by Gary R. Wackerly.  www.BransonShowsReviewed.com has no affiliation with any show, company, City of Branson, or any Chamber of Commerce.