Friday, August 30, 2013

Showboat Branson Belle Shines with New Shows

Reviewed by Ashley of ReserveDirect.comThe Showboat Branson Belle is a unique Branson venue highlighting not only the talent of the Midwest, but the beauty of the Ozarks.  Featuring amazing vocalists, talented musicians and laugh-out-loud humor, this Branson show entertained me from start to finish. Plus, a cruise on the Showboat Branson Belle is incredible, as the scenic beauty of the Ozark Mountains and Table Rock Lake take center stage.

I recommend any Showboat Branson Belle visitor to arrive to the boat at least 30-40 minutes prior to show time, as this gives you time to peruse the docking area, take pictures and find your seats without being rushed. Food service also begins 10 minutes prior to the actual show, as does drink service.

The Showboat infuses a combination of dance, singing, and comedy, all accompanied by a live band, creating a show known as Made in the USA.  The Showmen, the Rockin’ Dockers, Christopher James and Janice Martin are the featured performers.   The eclectic mix of talent kept the show fresh and fun, with The Showmen excelling on renditions of “Seven Bridges Road” by the Eagles and “Life is a Highway” by Rascal Flatts. Their medley of pop hits featuring everything from The Temptations to The Beach Boys to The Beatles and The Jackson 5 really got the crowd moving and was one of my favorite portions of the show. Janice Martin, a classically trained violinist, pianist and vocalist, shone while performing “Rhapsody in Blue” and “Orange Blossom Special,” but the highlight of her performance was her aerial act, during which she maneuvers gracefully though the air during a violin solo.

Christopher James, the Emcee of the show, is a hilarious addition to the Showboat Branson Belle cast. His comedic timing, magician skills and engaging manner with the audience was the glue of Encore.

Wednesday, August 14, 2013

Branson's Acrobats of China Amazes Guests

Reviewed by Ashley of ReserveDirect.comThe Acrobats of China in Branson, Missouri is a family-friendly show full of entertainment featuring the talented, acrobatic artists of China. This show amazed me from the very beginning, as these performers defy gravity, pushing their skills to new heights and generally do the impossible with their bodies.

A few of the highlights of the 2 hours Acrobats of China show were the two girls in the first 30 minutes who lock arms and maneuver each other sideways, overhead, and even into a human plank position. These girls and their ability to transcend the normal movement of human bodies was truly amazing. Another spectacular stunt featured the males of the group jumping through hoops, literally! They would run, jump, flip, or somersault into a stand of hoops, and at one point the hoop was five circles high! The way these performers gracefully swooped through these small circles, and at such a height, was unbelievable. The sash climbing segment had to be my most favorite, as it was the most “hold your breath” trick of the show. As the girl walks on stage, she holds on to sashes hanging from the ceiling, and seamlessly climbs the sash, tying it around her feet all the while, and in turn, brings the show to new heights!

Branson’s Acrobats of China features many other acrobatic tricks, including juggling a 35 pound jug, a magic trick, chair balancing and rope walking on a swinging rope.

This is a great show for families with children, as the kids in the audience were completely enthralled by the entertainers. Overall, though, it is a good choice for any Branson visitor looking to be amazed by the human body!