Shows - Branson Critic

The DUTTONS 2008!

Sandi — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 14:22:56 +0000

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.

The show opens with a medley of down home style music, “Play Me Some Mountain Music,” “Rocky Top,” and a fantastic performance of, “I’ve Been Everywhere.” Throughout the show you can see this family doesn’t just play their multiple instruments - they play with them; playing the banjo behind the back (not behind the head - down behind the lower back). How’d he do that? You need to keep your eyes on the stage because things move fast. There is constant movement of performers and continual exchanging of instruments.

Got someone in your group who doesn’t like country music? Don’t worry; there is plenty of variety in the Duttons show. Amy plays some beautiful classical violin as well as a version of “Orange Blossom Special” that can’t be beat. Amy also played on the miniature fiddle she learned to play when she was 3 years old. You won’t believe the music she gets out of that little thing.

There is no need for a stand-up comedian; comedy is plentiful throughout the show. There is playful sibling rivalry with each one having perfect comedic timing. Even leading into the intermission, Ben and Jonathan announce their product specials for sale in a way that is reminiscent of an “Abbott and Costello” routine - very funny and entertaining, as were the not-so-subliminal messages projected on the screen as we waited for the show to start. Messages like “EAT POPCORN - EAT POPCORN - EAT POPCORN.” Dutton family trivia questions were also presented on the screen for pre-show entertainment; e.g., How many Duttons are at a typical Thanksgiving dinner? Answer: 41, give or take a few.

A Mary Poppins rooftop segment showed a light-hearted and brilliantly scripted segment that seemed fun for the kids on stage as well as the kids and adults in the audience. The props and choreography were first rate. And then there were the tender moments that pulled at the heart strings as when Timothy and daughter, Rachel sang “Daddy, Tell Me The Story.” The sweet, innocent tone of their voices said as much as the words.

Dean and Sheila Dutton had 7 biological children before they adopted 7 teenagers. Now there are 19 grandchildren. The success of the show over the years demonstrates that beyond the excellent entertainers on stage, the family also has an abundance of expertise in a business sense. They know how to market their show, they know what the audience likes and they make sure their show delivers consistently. The show and marketing innovations are in constant change mode to keep up with, and maybe even stay ahead of, the times. Their success also shows they have made wise business decisions over the years. They have also acquired a new theatre in Arizona where they will perform in the off season (January - March).

Family entertainment by a family of entertainers; the Duttons Music Show covers a variety of music styles, great vocals and musicianship, a lot of comedy, dancing and lots of action on stage. The Duttons - it’s what Branson is all about.

Bob Cort, Editor

John Wayne and America’s Yodeling Sweetheart!

Sandi — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 23:04:13 +0000

John Wayne and America’s Yodeling Sweetheart!
Owen’s Theater – Downtown Branson
Showtime: Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 5:00pm

I read somewhere the other day a suggestion that everyone should see at least one smaller-sized show every time they come to Branson. I agree with that statement – after all, you never know who or what you may be missing – and, most big stars all had to start somewhere! I really enjoy the more intimate venues. You actually get more one-on-one time with the performers and they also can make each person in the audience feel special by being able to greet each person coming in or going out, or maybe even during the show! How many of the bigger shows can accomplish that?

My most recent visit to a smaller venue was downtown at the Owen’s Theatre and John Wayne and America’s Yodeling Sweetheart!

Paula Cravens opened the show with several country songs – “Back in Baby’s Arms” and “She’s Got You” made famous by Patsy Cline, and “Fancy,” a Reba McIntire hit. Besides Patsy and Reba, she pops in and off the stage throughout the show taking on the likenesses of Patsy Montana, Lucille Ball, and Katharine Hepburn.

Ermal Williamson is John Wayne! When he takes the stage, you really feel like the “Duke” is standing right before you! How did he get his nickname, “Duke?” He’ll tell you during the show! Ermal’s portrayal is very convincing as he relates (in first person) how the rugged and masculine Marion Morrison eventually became John Wayne, how long he worked at acting before he “became” an actor, and just how long it took for him to win the coveted Oscar!

Together, Paula and Ermal recreated scenes from several famous movies from John Wayne’s monumental career including the details surrounding several stunts, too. Ermal demonstrated the six-shooter fast-draw, and also taught a lucky audience member how to do John Wayne’s famous and one-of-a-kind walk!

In between these marvelous scenes, Paula graced us with several western songs displaying her amazing ability to yodel. Ever try it? It takes talent, and Paula nails it with every yodel – as evidenced by her own award-winning career. I loved hearing her sing “I Just Gotta Be A Cowgirl,” “Cowboy’s Sweetheart,” and “Ladies Cattle Call” which Paula wrote in answer to the famous Eddy Arnold “Cattle Call.”

There are several wonderful patriotic songs that Paula sings intermittently while Ermal does a recitation. Bound to bring a tear to your eye are “God Bless America,” “Shenandoah,” and “God Bless the USA.” And I’ve always loved John Wayne’s recitation “America, Why I Love Her.” A flag salute brings the show to an end as Ermal and Paula have definitely expressed their love for God and our great country!

During the show, we enjoyed hearing the tales from “The Quiet Man,” “She Wore A Yellow Ribbon,” “Stagecoach,” “Sands of Iwo Jima,” and “True Grit.” Of all the fabulous movies he left for us, I’d have a difficult time picking a favorite. Before we left the theater, though, I had to ask Ermal what his favorite John Wayne movie was to which he answered (without hesitation in his best western John Wayne drawl), “Well, Ma’am, that would likely be “The Searchers.” That’s one of mine, too, Ermal! I recommend everyone “search” out the Owen’s Theater and see award-winning Ermal and Paula perform as America’s Favorite Actor and America’s Yodeling Sweetheart!

Sandi McKim, Editor

The COMETS!

Sandi — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 09:45:08 +0000

Fifty-some odd years ago, a phenomena hit our atmosphere so strong that the face of our music, our culture-our very world was changed forever. This phenomenon was a group of young men who formed a group and called themselves The Comets. Guess what, folks? They are still going strong-rocking and rolling at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater. And they are every bit as impressive as their collective name implies.

I’m ashamed to admit that I hadn’t made it to see this legendary group of performers before now. But, we got an opportunity to go see the Diamond Dave Somerville and The Comets show and latched onto it!

When you first enter the lobby, you’re greeted by helpful, courteous staff. You are immediately struck by your 1957 era surroundings and it’s almost as if you’re transported back to the early days of rock and roll and cool cars…Yep, back to those “Happy Days!” The facilities (which, by the way, are roomy, well-supplied, and clean) are located conveniently to the right of the entrance. Also located on the right side of the lobby is the ticket office. On the left, you have a concession area and the theater entrance. Toward the rear of the lobby is the gift shop, a place you will definitely want to visit while you’re there. We had no trouble getting our tickets and getting to our seats in the ample theater.

For the first hour or so, you’re wonderfully entertained by Mr. Dave Somerville (of the famous Diamonds). He shares some time with the beautiful and talented McKenna Medley. Following is an intermission. After that, The Comets take the stage by storm.

What can you say about The Comets? You sit there amazed at their energy and superb musicianship. I need to mention here that there are only three original Comets appearing onstage. However, Dave Byrd (the “Bird Man”), vocals and piano, and Jackson Haney, also known as “Baby Comet”, baritone and guitar are well qualified to fill the gaps. The three core Comets are Marshall Lytle, vocals and upright bass, Joey Ambrose, vocals and sax, and Dick Richards on drums. During the show you’re treated with original numbers like “Rock This Joint”, “See You Later, Alligator”, and, of course, “Rock Around The Clock.” Did you ever wonder how it all started? You’ll hear first-handed gems of rock and roll history from these true pioneers of the music industry. You’ll be astounded at the energy and love the playful antics. Marshall ‘wrote the book’ on how to use your upright bass for a prop onstage. Joey’s expertise on the sax is unrivaled. In my opinion…He’s the best! And Dick Richards overwhelms you with a drum solo that will blow your socks off!

Something else impressed me greatly. After the show, you get a chance to purchase a souvenir like a picture, cd, or a T-shirt. They will sign autographs. But these guys are truly nice people. A musician friend of mine once told me that “The bigger they are, the nicer they are.” This certainly holds true for The Comets. You can’t get any bigger (or more legendary) than the “First Band of Rock and Roll.” And you can’t get any nicer than these guys!

You really don’t want to miss the chance to see these “crazy cats” perform in person. The Comets are appearing daily in all their blazing glory Tuesdays-Sundays at 2:00 p.m. at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater, 1600 W. Hwy 76 in Branson. You can call for current schedule info and to make reservations at 1-417-332-1960 or 1-800-985-3144.

Kathy Bennett–Editor

YAKOV SMIRNOFF - “From Russia with Laughs”

Sandi — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 09:33:45 +0000

This show has been a Branson favorite for many years, and after seeing it you will understand the reasons. With its lively music, informal atmosphere and setting in Branson, you could describe it as a “Russian Hoe Down.”

It has been quite a journey for the man, who became an American Citizen on July, 4, 1986. He has grown to become a command performer at the White House, a respected comedic voice, cultural observer and family man. As Yakov often says, “What A Country,”

Since his 1992 arrival in Branson, MO, this Two-Time Comedian of the Year has played host to over three million visitors. His entire comedic style is grounded within his mission statement, “to experience happiness and teach it with passion through comedy and sensitivity.” His comedy focuses on the dynamics between men and women, the happiness that can be found inside oneself and a celebration of the spirit of life. This inspiring show, with its Russian dancers and musical presentations delivers humor for the heart over and over again.

Sally Reinhardt, Editor

The Haygoods!

Sandi — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 18:22:09 +0000

The Haygoods
Music City Centre 1835 W. Hwy 76
website: http://www.hotbransonshows.com/

The first thing I noticed at the theatre was an usher escorting a young lady in a wheelchair. The usher guided the entire family around the line of ticket holders to a door where the wheelchair could easily be maneuvered into the theatre. This is what I like to see and in Branson I’ve seen it often. And also, the usher who lead me to my reserved seat was very friendly.

At 8:07 the Haygoods took to the stage singing “How Sweet It Is” and continued with a medley of songs made famous by the Temptations. The harmony was very good and they delivered it with enthusiasm. Their energy was impressive but I thought it could not possibly last the entire show. Boy was I wrong!

The Haygoods Show is all live music. The family; Patrick, Dominic, Shawn, Michael, Matthew, Catherine, and Aaron each play several instruments. In addition to the Haygoods there is an excellent drummer, Dino Phillips, and the very talented David Brooks on keyboard.

Catherine Haygood sang “Bubbly” (a Colbie Caillat song) in a sweet, mellow voice that was absolutely charming. And with her brothers’ backup vocals this was one of my favorites. They mentioned that she plays twice as many instruments as the boys.

I won’t be naming each brother and what he performed since I lost track of who was who. There were some very good solos but, in my opinion, the family harmonies were the best.

Their music includes all genres. Imagine three brothers and a sister sitting in a semi-circle with their violins. Now try to imagine that they proceed to play “Johann Pachebel Canon in D Major”. Bravo!!! Then a brother launches into “Great Balls of Fire” on the piano with powerful guitars, drums, and keyboard accompaniment. Awesome!!! Or, the entire family singing “Bridge Over Troubled Water” with Catherine and the youngest Haygood, Aaron, carrying the perfect tone which blends the voices into harmony.

The imagination that went into this show is brilliant. The set décor, the black light dancing to “Mack the Knife”, the use of a clip from the Vacation Channel to introduce the “Blues Brothers”, the “Stomp (tap)” segment, and much more.

If you like doo-wop, rock, swing, classical, Celtic, piano, saxophone, harp, violins, guitars etc., in other words, if you like good music along with lots of energy, I highly recommend The Haygoods. All ages were represented in this audience. I sat next to a couple from Arizona, in their 60’s, who said they really enjoyed the show. The two young boys seated behind me, about 12 years old, said the show was “great”.

I wish I could bottle just a small portion of their energy. These guys and gal put their heart into what they do and; another thing I noticed, their smiles are genuine. I will be taking my visitors to see them, especially my teenage great-niece!

Velva Cort, Editor

Rules Posted For Branson Critic Awards 2008!

Sandi — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 01:44:21 +0000

We are excited to announce the 5th Annual Branson Critic Awards. Please read below on how and where to vote, and what the rules are for 2008.

We try to make it as simple as possible for the public and the editors but remember that this is sophisticated voting. It requires a thoughtful write-up on the part of the reviewer. If we wanted a push button awards system, we would have installed it, but that minimizes our ability to know if the voter truly has seen the show, understands why they should vote, and can give a logical argument for the show/person they want to win. If someone interested in voting would read these instructions carefully, they would see clearly how to influence our decision.

Rules for the 2008 Branson Critic Awards:

1) No review under 100 words will be accepted. All reviews must be at least 100 words or more. If you wish to just make a comment about a show of less than 100 words, please do it someplace other than the vote topic area.

2) Two reviews from each computer/ip address will be allowed throughout the voting period for each show. The voting period begins 7/11/2008 and ends at midnight on October 15, 2008. Fans who have already written 2008 reviews may move them to the appropriate category or categories as they wish and according to these rules.

3) Only one (1) picture per review. Pick your favorite and attach it separately under your review in “additional options.” All pictures should be approximately 400 x 400 pixels.

4) When writing a review, you need to pick a category (see list below). You may place the same review in multiple categories. However, they won’t be counted multiple times, and won’t count double against your limit of two reviews for each show.

5) Remember to write an individual review for a specific performer. You can write a review for a show and then write a review for a specific person in that show. Why? Very few singers, comedians, or band members have their own show, so point them out to us, individually.

6) Each show, can only win one award (except they would still be eligible for Entertainer of the Year). Those with their own self-named show would NOT be eligible for singer/performer or instrumentalist of the year but would be eligible for Best Self-Named Show and Entertainer of the Year.

7) Strong suggestion - formatting reviews: Use normal formatting in a word processor document, preferably MS Word, or use www.writely.com (now google docs) or another online word processor. Copy and paste your review as a new topic in the proper category or categories at the following forum link: http://bransoncritic.com/chat/index.php#11.

8)Remember to use the spell-check and grammar-check options! Use periods and commas! Any review that is one giant, run-on sentence will be rejected. Do NOT write your review in all caps or all lower-case letters. Start all sentences with a capital letter. Do NOT use the smiley faces or other “characters” in your reviews as it makes for harder reading for some.

As you can see, you don’t have to be an English Major. It doesn’t have to be Shakespeare and it doesn’t have to be perfect. It does, however, have to be readable. We can tell when effort has been made. Make sure your review is FAIR. All shows have positive aspects as well as some negative. Concentrate the review on the positive and make sure any criticism is constructive or helpful. Content is most important! As best you can, try to cover all aspects of a show such as:

-Seating: Adequate, comfortable, etc.
-Music: Tell us the name of some of the songs?
-Comedy: What was funny?
-Acting: Fantastic, good, so-so?
-Hold a child’s interest?

Please tell readers of your review what to expect when they see the show. Give them some of the “goodies.” You know, the stuff you would want to know before you see a show. Tell them if you’d visit the show again and why. Have fun!

9) Points awarded:
Reviews = 2 points
Reviews with picture = 3 points
Poll Voting will used for tie-breaking, if necessary.

10) Editors have the right to accept or reject any/or all reviews.

Nine CATEGORIES for the 2008 awards:

· Best Comedian
· Best Instrumentalist
· Best Morning Show
· Best Self-Named Show
· Best Show
· Best Show Family
· Best Singer/Performer (Female)
· Best Singer/Performer (Male)
· Entertainer of the Year

Editors awards will also be awarded.

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BOB NELSON Comedy Show!

Sandi — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:26:07 +0000

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.

No longer do we have to see good comedy interrupted after just 7 - 10 minutes. In Bob Nelson’s show you get non-stop comedy for 70 - 75 minutes (more than that if you get seated about 10 minutes prior to show time). When I took my son and his family to this show, they were nearly rolling on the floor laughing before the show ever started.

The show begins with Bob giving the audience some personal history and information about the art of comedy. While doing this, he includes several hilarious remarks that require the audience to be alert to get the point. I wonder if he is gauging the audience while he does this so he can tailor his delivery during the rest of the show. He also explains the differences in the way people react to some of his comedy, and why, depending on which part of the country he is performing in. Then he moves to more straightforward comedy that nobody can miss. Once he has the entire audience laughing hysterically he treats them to some of the many characters he has perfected during 30 plus years of comedy.

I watched Bob’s show on 25 June 2008 with my wife. We were there specifically to write this review; I take the pictures and my wife takes the notes. I apologize for the pictures accompanying this review as they are second best. The best pictures didn’t get taken or were too blurred because I was laughing too hard and couldn’t hold the camera still. My wife had the same problem taking notes. She tried but did you ever try to write while you were laughing? It’s not easy, and when you’re laughing hard it’s almost impossible. Even though this was the third time we’ve seen Bob’s show in Branson we had to let the camera and notepad take a back seat as we just really sat back and enjoyed the show, again. If you’re interested in a fun place to go where you will get non-stop laughter you really should see the Bob Nelson Comedy Show. To read more about him check out his website: http://www.bobnelson.com/

Bob Cort, Editor

NOAH - The Musical!

Sandi — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 02:19:11 +0000

NOAH – The Musical

From the time you enter this new theatre you are presented with a feeling of expectation; one that is fulfilled. The Sight & Sound Theatre claim of “Inspiring Stories and Spectacular Shows,” is definitely not an understatement. While you have probably read or heard about “Noah – The Musical,” the experience that awaits you is truly spectacular. In an attempt to give you an understanding of this performance, even as I write I know that my words will be inadequate.

Since 1976, Sight & Sound Theatres, located on the east coast, has brought the most beloved stories of the Bible to life on stage including: Miracle of Christmas, Behold the Lamb, Daniel: A Dream, A Den, A Deliverer, Ruth, and In the Beginning. In the spring of 2008, one of the most popular theatres on the east coast – Sight & Sound Theatres – opened its doors in Branson, MO with Noah. Imagine a 300-foot wraparound stage with 40 foot high sets, a cast of 50 actors, elaborate costumes, breathtaking special effects, and hundreds of live and animatronic animals. The entire theatre is used in this production, including the live animals that are brought down the aisle as they enter the Ark. It is a show of unbelievable proportions.

The performances and numerous stage settings transport you from the pages of the Bible to become a member of Noah and his family; sharing the triumphs as well as the struggles. Brought to life is the very realistic human side of Noah and his family as they doubt the possibility of such a daunting task and then the gradual unfolding of the plan and its final completion. Daily routines of caring for the animals and struggles of day to day living are shared. Only their belief that this voyage was ordained by God and that He will sustain their courage allows them to complete this daunting task. With a smooth and realistic flow, the story of Noah, his family and their struggles are lifted from the pages of the Bible and place you at the very scenes from inspiration to preparation to completion. Available to you also is a behind the scenes tour which will give you an even better understanding of the scope of this production. This timeless story, you’ve always loved, will become a memory you will never forget. Yes, go ahead; build your expectations for a gala experience, presented in grand style.

Sally Reinhardt, Editor