Branson News Guide

RFD-TV announced today that it will record and air all performances from the 2007 BransonFest in a new, weekly one-hour prime time television show, BransonFest, beginning in May.

Each show will feature 4 or 5 of the individual performances performed on the Welk Resort Theatre stage, and will air three times each week on RFD-TV premiering at 9pm on Friday evening, with repeats scheduled for Sunday afternoon at 4pm, and again Monday at 1pm (all times Eastern). RFD-TV is currently seen in over 30 million homes in all 50 states on DIRECTV (channel 379), DISH Network (channel 231), and numerous cable systems including Mediacom, Charter, Bresnan, NCTC, and locally in Branson on Suddenlink (channel 4).

“This will be a tremendous opportunity for viewers across the nation to see for themselves a sample of the outstanding talent performing in Branson for the 2007 season,” stated Patrick Gottsch, Founder & President of RFD-TV. “We believe that once these viewers see BransonFest, they will want to travel to Branson to see these shows and attractions for themselves in the coming year. Again, this is a great example of why RFD-TV recently moved to Branson, as this new production is sure to be a big hit with our audience.”

BransonFest and Branson Theatre Showcase are sponsored on RFD-TV in part by the Branson Convention and Visitors Bureau. In addition, the Welk Resort Theatre, Presley Theatre, and Silver Dollar City run commercial spots in the programming to promote their own attractions.

It’s a little-known fact that each year proceeds from BransonFest go toward assisting many people in our community that need help. One of the key concepts that originated some 15 years ago in planning for BransonFest was the desire to help support local charities. Over the last five years, $80,531.03 has been contributed to Habitat for Humanity and Mountain Country Homes of Hope. Many more in our area are helped with monies raised at BransonFest by the Kiwanis, Taney County Library volunteers and the Branson Arts Council. New this year is an opportunity to partner with Christian Action Ministries (CAM) and attend opening night, which is also Local Appreciation Night, at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 10. For residents of Taney and Stone Counties, just $15 and two food items is your admission. In addition to getting a discounted ticket, you can feel good about adding to the pantry at CAM and participating in the food drive. CAM Executive Director Joan Westfall notes, “We presently have a wonderful supply of vegetables, but could really use some peanut butter and jelly. We are so blessed by the generosity of the people of Branson.”

Selected as one of the Top 100 Events in North America by the American Bus Association, BransonFest 2007 is slated for April 10-14 at the Welk Resort Theatre. You’ll enjoy world-class performances, sample genuine Ozarks cuisine, and be able to see and buy wares from local artisans and craftsmen. The Welk Resort Theatre has daily showcase concerts featuring 10 Branson shows and some of the best entertainment in town, including Pam Tillis, Yakov Smirnoff, Les Brown & His Band of Renown, The Gatlin Brothers, Jim Stafford, Mickey Gilley, The Lennon Sisters, Darren Romeo, Clay Cooper, Best of Motown and many more. The talent overflows into the outside tent with a variety of free performances by local and regional entertainers.

The Expo area offers dozens of booths featuring contests, giveaways, show information and autograph sessions with some of Branson’s most popular stars and performers. You can get a Taste of Branson in the food tent with samples of traditional Ozarks’ cuisine and lots of good eats from Branson’s finest restaurants. Visitors will also have the opportunity to observe the work of nationally recognized Branson artists, authors and musicians in the Arts, Culture and Heritage tent.

BransonFest 2007 runs daily, April 10-14. Free outdoor tent activities are noon to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, April 10; and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, April 11-13 and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 14. Daily concerts in the Welk Resort Theatre are at 7 p.m., Tuesday, April 10; and at 2 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday, April 11-14. The Welk Resort Theatre is located on State Hwy 165 in Branson.

BransonFest 2007 is sponsored by the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce. As one of the country’s leading tourism destinations, Branson offers visitors of all ages a wide variety of entertainment throughout the year. Someone you love is always playing in Branson.