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Hello,
My husband and I have been vacationing in the Branson area since 1979! While browsing the web in 2005, I discovered the Branson Critic Online Magazine website and began sending my own show reviews to count toward their yearly awards.
I’ve been with Branson Critic as an Editor since 2006 and an Administrator since 2007.
I enjoy writing reviews and meeting the artists and their fans.
Originally from Brookings, South Dakota, I’ve lived most of my life on one side of the line or the other in the Kansas City area (Kansas or Missouri). Upon retiring in January, 2010, my husband, Sandy, and I will be moving to Lampe, Missouri. We are looking forward to attending as many of the Branson area shows and events that we can possibly squeeze into our retirement schedule. We are excited!
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Sandi McKim's Latest Reviews
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EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARD BEST TRIBUTE ARTIST TOM MULLICA
October 29, 2009
On Thursday, October 29, 2009, Chad Ray presented the Editors' Award for Best Tribute Artist 2009 to Tom Mullica who portrays Red Skelton at the Mansion Theatre. Also on hand were Kathy and Joe Bennett. Kathy recently wrote regarding Tom's portrayal.....
Tom's resemblance to Red Skelton is remarkable. He has Red's voice, expressions, and timing down pat. My husband,Joe, is a huge Skelton fan and almost cried when he saw him; and I almost cried from laughing so much. He is most deserving of this recognition!! Congratulations, Tom!
Tom, our other editors are in total agreement - congratulations from Branson Critic Online Magazine!
Sandi McKim, Editor
p.s. I think Red approves, too!
Photos courtesy Kathy and Joe Bennett
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2009 Branson Critic Awards
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Mary Duff Voice Of An Angel
May 25, 2009
Yes, “Voice of An Angel” is a perfect description of Mary Duff!! It is actually the title of Mary’s newest spiritual album and a definite truth!! What an amazing voice and talent!
Irish comedian, George Casey, opened the show and had everyone laughing and in good humor with his clean, comedic Irish storytelling.
Mary, who comes from Ireland, has been singing since she was 12 years old. She’ll tell you she is doing what she always wanted singing for an audience. She loves ballads and love songs but mixes in a few country standards and gives you a taste of her newest album selections as well. Some will make you smile while others may bring a sweet memory to mind or even a tear to your eye.
[Read full review]
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COME TOGETHER with the Liverpool Legends
April 10, 2009
COME TOGETHER….and join the party at the Starlite Theatre with the Liverpool Legends!!
“One and one and one is three,” as the song goes……..now, add one more because a brand new fourth has very recently been added to the Liverpool Legends! His name is Bob Beahon, and he is their “new Paul!” Welcome to Branson, Bob!
I was more than a little bit anxious to see whom it was Louise Harrison picked to fill Paul’s space onstage. Great job, Louise I was pleasantly surprised. I think you all will be, too!
The guys have stepped up the list of songs and every song I heard was a favorite of mine the very first time this has really happened. The first song, “I Wanna Hold Your Hand,” started the show.
[Read full review]
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TONY ROI & THE ELVIS EXPERIENCE
BEST SELF-NAMED SHOW & ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR 2008
December 13, 2008
And the winner is……….Tony Roi!!
Music City Centre was rocking on the afternoon of November 20, 2008 as Branson Critic representatives converged on the Tony Roi & the Elvis Experience Show to present awards to the only show to receive two awards in 2008 one for Best Self-Named Show and one for the prestigious Entertainer of the Year!
Another outstanding season of being entertained “Tony style” rallied both Elvis and Tony fans to vote Tony and his fantastic cast and crew to the top of Branson Critic's 2008 Awards recipient list.
An amazing first half included both Elvis and Tony song favorites, and had the fans applauding, screaming and repeatedly standing in ovation for Tony, his lovely Angel Singers, and his TR Powerhouse Band.
[Read full review]
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THE HAYGOODS! Best Show Family 2008
November 30, 2008
On Wednesday, November 19th, Music City Center was filled to the balcony level as the Best Show Family hit the stage at 3:00pm. The first half showcased the seven brothers and one sister as they all took turns singing and playing their different instruments. Many of the sets included fantastic choreography and delightful shenanigans from the siblings as well.
After intermission, Chad Ray presented the award for Best Show Family 2008. He read the following fan quotes:
“From beginning to end, you will be coming out of your seat with excitement! This family of 7 brothers and 1 sister family are overflowing with pure talent and energy. The show is unmatched in entertainment. You will enjoy violin, guitar, drums, piano, harp, (to name a few), along with unparalleled dancing, tap, gymnastics, and of course singing. You will leave feeling GREAT and knowing you definitely got more than your moneys worth. Sasha"
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John Wayne and America’s Yodeling Sweetheart!
August 2, 2008
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?
[Read full review]
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LEGENDS IN CONCERT
May 16th, 2008
Legends In Concert showcases some of the most famous superstars of the past and present what more does one need to be entertained for 2 whole hours! I happened to catch the first line-up of the season on the last night of their performance in Branson!! And I must say the entire cast gave it all they had what fantastic performers!!
George Trullinger as singer songwriter and pioneer rock and roller, Buddy Holly, got everyone REVVED UP wielding his guitar from one end of the stage to the other, singing Buddy’s 1950’s rockabilly signature hit songs, and providing the initial comedy in the show.
As George took the stage, he had the whole theater rocking to “Oh, Boy!” Just as we were all clapping along, he shouted, “Let’s rock and roll!!” and launched into the well-known “Peggy Sue.” He then joked about looking like a “geek” with his greasy, slicked-back hair, big horned-rim glasses and white socks, and had us all laughing before delivering a medley of “It’s So Easy,” “Maybe Baby,” and “That’ll Be The Day,” during which he had us all singing along.
[Read full review]
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STRAIT from the IMAX Little Opry Theatre!
May 18, 2008
Showtime 5:00pm
George Strait Country, that is, as performed by James Garrett and company!! Add to the musical mix a little bluegrass and a little gospel, and this promises to be a recipe for another hit show at the IMAX Little Opry Theatre!!
The Little Opry is a very intimate theatre, tucked away in back and to the right of the ticket booth area. If you sit on the front row, you can put your feet up on the stage or reach out and shake each performer’s hand. There really isn’t a bad seat in the house and they’re comfortable; the lighting and sound are wonderful; and everyone at the theatre is friendly and welcoming. It’s true, there are so many things to fill your time at the IMAX and it could be your one-stop for an entire day, but I especially love the live shows!
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OPENING NIGHT AT THE STARLITE starring the LIVERPOOL LEGENDS
April 25, 2008
Starlite Theatre April 1, 2008 The Liverpool Legends gave us all a night full of surprises! The excitement was in the air from the moment we arrived at the theatre about 2 hours early. Everyone was on pins and needles wondering what the night held for us! Exciting really doesn’t begin to say it!
Once inside the Starlite, one can’t help but look up to admire the immense lobby with all the glass windows. And there, hanging near the rafters, are several large Liverpool Legends banners to welcome you. Hanging on the walls, too, are black and white framed photos of the real Beatles John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr. Compare each of the members of the original band with each member of the Liverpool Legends and you will be amazed at the resemblances. Towards the front is a new souvenir shop with Beatles t-shirts, magnets, etc. all situated around a 1960’s Volkswagen bus painted in the love and peace, flower power motif from that era.
Step into the café to see booths now coordinated with the Union Flag colors for backdrops. More black and white photos of The Beatles which I’m told will be for sale are hanging on the walls. Be sure and take a walk-through and get yourself a dip of ice cream or a soda to enjoy before or during the show!
[Read full review]
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Sandi McKim, Editor
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