Thursday, July 3, 2008

Branson's Broadway Brings New York Glitz to Country Music Capital

Reviewed by Ashley of ReserveDirect.comBranson is known for its country music scene, but there are many other shows in the area catering to different tastes. Broadway in Branson, MO is one of those shows, and it highlights all of Broadway’s most famous productions. The show began in a fast-paced and energetic fashion, opening with “So Glad You Made It,” and the energy level continued throughout the show. With very few transitions or interludes, the stage was constantly filled with singing, dancing or both!

I was seated 12th row center, where I was pleasantly surprised by my great view of the stage, and throughout the entire performance, I felt like I was in the midst of a tried and true Branson production. The performers at Broadway really know what they are doing, and the two stars of the Show, Gene and Darbie, have powerhouse, operatic type voices that really carry the Broadway songs they perform. Broadway also veers away from the “Branson Formula,” and they do not try to mix in comedy or gospel. Instead, they stick to what they know, and in doing so, create a production audiences continue to rave over. While I watched the show, every member of the audience was engaged and during intermission everyone was talking about how much they enjoyed the show so far.

With more than 15 Broadway productions featured, Branson’s Broadway captured my attention best during their performances of “Cabaret,” “Chorus Line,” & “Chicago.” The “Cabaret” segment featured an elaborate stage, flashy costumes and some tongue-in-cheek songs like “Don’t Tell Mama.” “Chicago” was entertaining due to its songs and showmanship, including a Jail scene featuring “Cell Block Tango (He Had It Coming)”. “Chorus Line” lit up the stage with a Cityscape backdrop, leg kicks and plenty of Glitz.

Tips: The parking lot is a sloping hill, so drop off older patrons at the door so they won’t have to walk the steep incline.

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