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Branson, Missouri

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My name is Sally Reinhardt and you see before you a transplanted woman from the big city of St. Louis, MO. I never imagined I would one day be living in the Ozarks, much less reviewing shows in Branson. This, of course, just proves it is best to keep life's options open.

We discovered our home in Monett, MO strictly by accident or "fate," as I believe it is called. Rather than taking our usual route to Eureka Springs, AR some nine years ago for our annual biker week, we opted for an alternate route and as they say, "The rest is history." I have found here an entirely new outlook; and a new set of sights, sounds and friendships.. There is an open invitation to view life from a difference perspective. Perhaps it is my imagination but as I pass cattle in the fields and they stop a moment to gaze at me, I'm just sure they are smiling at me over the fence. Learning to slow down for turtles aiming for the other side of the road or free range chickens on their quest for the perfect meal has become a priority for courteous and careful driving.

The ironic result of this part of my life's journey is that it has proven to be the Land of My Dreams without my even realizing I was headed this way. Isn't it just like the Great Dream Maker to provide even beyond our expectations?

Sally Reinhardt, Editor

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Sally's Latest Review

HAMNER-BARBER

March 31, 2009

You are in for a real treat the moment you step into the lobby of the Hamner-Barbara Theater. Before the show even starts and you are seated in the audience, there is a gathering in the lobby where the art of magic is demonstrated up close and personal. Dave Hamner tells us that he has been doing magic since the age of eight and his perfection and joy in the craft is certainly evident.

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Hamner-Barber Variety Show

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From start to finish this is a variety show that mesmerizes you and places you on the edge of your seat. Dave Hamner and his wife, Denise, enthrall the audience with their award winning and original feats of magic performed around the world. Among the rewards they have justifiably received are the prestigious “Featured Performance” honors in the Branson area, “Magic Masters Award” in Las Vegas, along with several national and international awards in recognition for their outstanding skills.

They are best known for the act in which they produce several beautiful Macaws and Cockatoos amid flying cards, flaming swords, falling coins and jewels. This incredible performance takes these birds on a flight over the audience before gracefully returning to the stage. There is no lack of surprise with original illusions and audience participation by some on stage, or shared by those while remaining in their seats.

Ventriloquist/singer/comedian Jim Barber plays an equal and satisfying role in the enjoyment of the evening. He has been recognized as one of the world’s great performers, and honored as the “International Ventriloquist Entertainer of the Year” by a National Association. His creative and innovative approach to the art is unsurpassed.

All of this talent, combined with superb dancing and singing, will certainly leave you with a feeling of having been richly entertained.

Sally Reinhardt, Editor

ROY ROGERS JR. & THE HIGH RIDERS

March 31, 2009

Stepping through the doors to the Roy Rogers/Dale Evans Happy Trails Theater & Attractions is your opportunity to “Relive the Spirit of Yesteryear.” This year Roy’s son, Dustin, joins the group as they perform some of the best cowboy music around. Some of Roy’s favorite family stories about mom and dad are shared, along with an insight into what it was like growing up in a household of nine children.

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Roy Rogers Jr. & The High Riders

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A wonderful overwhelming number of items are display in the Museum to highlight your tour and presents an understanding of the remarkable movie, television and recording careers of the King of the Cowboys and the Queen of the West. For your viewing there is an incredible display of photographs, sports memorabilia, guns, costumes and, of course, Trigger, Buttermilk and Nellybelle are ever present.

Comfortable seating, situated in the shape of a horseshoe, is arranged for an up close and personal experience. Offered for your musical enjoyment is the talented High Riders band. There are several family home movies and video shows from the past; including the This Is Your Life episode in which Roy was caught unawares in 1953 as the honored guest.

“Everyone felt like they knew them, and through it all, they never lost sight of who they were or where they came from – family values could be defined by the Rogers family.” What are your memories of Roy and Dale? It is definitely a trip down memory lane for seniors and young alike.

Sally Reinhardt, Editor

YAKOV SMIRNOFF - “From Russia with Laughs”-

July 29, 2008

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.”

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Yakov Smirnoff Show

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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

NOAH – The Musical

July 5, 2008

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.

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NOAH - The Musical

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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

THE DIVAS!

June 6, 2008

Don’t be surprised if you find yourself engaged in conversation with people you meet for the very first time here. It will seem only natural as you wait for the curtain to rise; settling into comfortable seats, with a perfect view of the stage. Branson is a friendly and welcoming place to visit and the atmosphere lends itself to such an exchange. The Imaginary Theater itself has an intimate setting and, as the name implies, offers several opportunities for laughter and amazement. For instance, in the same locale you will find Justin Flom, who received the People’s Choice Award for 2007, conjuring up stunning and intimate magic. Bob Nelson dishes up his own brand of humor during his Comedy Show presentation. Viewing special, contemporary or seasonal exhibits in the Museum and Gallery of American History is also a delightful option as you enter the building.

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