Every year Branson freshens its entertainment scene with a handful of changes and new productions, and 2008 may be bringing some of the most anticipated new shows, and exciting changes, to come to Branson in years! In particular, the Sight and Sound Theatre has arrived, and will be showcasing its popular production of Noah The Musical beginning May 24. From September 3 through December 12, country music superstar Joe Diffie will be hosting an extended, limited engagement, bringing yet more star power to Branson’s entertainment scene. Even some of Branson’s more tenured shows such as Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede and the Oak Ridge Boys are changing pace a bit, offering new twists on familiar favorites. So whether you were just in Branson last winter or haven’t been in a decade, 2008 is definitely the year to come out and experience the exciting changes in Branson, MO!

Noah The Musical at Sight and Sound Theatre 

The Sight and Sound Theatre has been presenting top-notch presentations of tales from the Bible in Lancaster, PA since 1976, and is branching out with a second theater for the first time in its history. The first production set for the Sight and Sound Theatre in Branson is Noah The Musical, and if the show’s reception in Lancaster is any indication it could very well be the 2008 hit for Branson, MO. Noah The Musical directly follows the classic tale from the Bible, depicting Noah as he follows God’s orders and begins to build an ark to house the many animals of Earth during the upcoming flood that God has forewarned Noah of. And while it is doubtless that the majority of us know this tale by heart, it is shown at the Sight and Sound Theatre like never before, complete with trained animals, a cast of dozens, laser lighting special effects and 3D imaging all placed on a massive wrap-around stage!

Joe Diffie 

Joe Diffie first found the spotlight in 1990 when his debut-single, “Home,” reached number one on the Billboard Country Charts. Ever since, Joe has been reeling off hit after hit, entertaining fans with an eclectic mix of serious ballads and light-hearted novelty material. From “Ships That Don’t Come In” and “Home” to “LeRoy the Redneck Reindeer” and “Bigger Than the Beetles,” Joe has amassed an extensive collection of recognizable songs that will keep both country fans and the casual listener entertained. Just remember, Joe is only performing in Branson for a limited time in 2008, so be sure to get your tickets before they’re gone!

Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede 

While the Dixie Stampede is certainly a familiar staple of the Branson entertainment scene, the popular dinner show has made some adjustments for 2008 that are sure to put a unique spin on its classic format. In particular, the Dixie Stampede has added a new segment titled “Journey West.” This new segment will tie in aspects of the untamed west as it was during the Civil War, complete with a longhorn steer stampede and settlers traveling by wagon!

Oak Ridge Boys 

Having been recognized through Grammys, CMA Awards and an induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, the Oak Ridge Boys have amassed a variety of accolades throughout the music world, earning them a noted reputation as a group that can entertain regardless of your personal tastes. With unmatched harmonies and a song catalogue that stretches into the realms of country, gospel and even pop and doo-wop, the Oak Ridge Boys truly bring a little of everything to their performance. And with their new home at the 3,200 seat Mansion Theatre, the Oak Ridge Boys have found a theater in Branson that can meet the demand of their popular show.

The Smoky Mountains offers a wide variety of family entertainment ranging from general outdoor activities and theme park excitement to engaging area tours, but with Gatlinburg’s array of dinner shows guests get a one-two combo with great entertainment and a fulfilling meal. Below we’ve highlighted a few of the different dinner shows currently available in Gatlinburg – Pigeon Forge to give potential travelers a few ideas to build their vacation around.

Black Bear Jamboree Dinner & Show

The Black Bear Jamboree Dinner & Show presents a Broadway-style performance that encompasses bluegrass, country, gospel, oldies and more. The brisk pace of the entertainment will ensure that attention is kept at high as guests are taken through the many cultural sounds of the area. The food is also an authentic representation of the Smokies with southern style chicken, hickory pit barbecue ribs, corn on the cob, creamy vegetable soup and much more! Those looking to fill up on fun and food are sure to find a great time waiting at Black Bear Jamboree Dinner & Show.

Blackwood Breakfast Variety Show

The Blackwood Breakfast Variety Show is the perfect way to meet the day with energy and enthusiasm. Hilarious comedy and moving gospel numbers will combine for a full entertainment experience, while the breakfast will ensure you have the energy needed to fully participate and meet the day head-on. Everything from biscuits and sausage to cheese omelets and fruit salad will be served up alongside smooth vocals and laugh-out-loud comedy during the Blackwood Breakfast Variety Show for a morning like you’ve never experienced.

Hoot ‘n’ Holler Dinner Show

Italian dining and 20th century, vaudeville-inspired song and dance combine at Hoot ‘n’ Holler Dinner Show. Hilarity and audience participation will be on the menu in terms of entertainment while the Italian feast will ensure that no one in the audience is left hungry. And for those looking for a complete day of fun, Hoot ‘n’ Holler Dinner Show tickets can also be purchased in combination with WonderWorks admission!

With a lively downtown area, blossoming sports franchise and ever-busy music industry Nashville is very much alive and well in the present, but for those visiting the area there is also a number of ways to relive Nashville’s interesting past as well. From presidential homes and immaculate plantations to “The Mother Church of Country Music,” there are a number of ways to explore the history of Nashville during your next Tennessee vacation.

Ryman Auditorium

Ever tied to the Grand Ole Opry, the Ryman Auditorium has a special place amongst the hearts of country music fans and Nashville locals alike. And with a tour of the historic building you’ll be able to relive the glory days of country as you stroll past various artifacts belonging to the likes of Hank Williams and Minnie Pearl, and even get a chance to take to the actual Ryman stage!

Belle Meade Plantation

The Belle Meade Plantation offers a taste of gentile plantation life during the mid 19th century. Along your tour of the Belle Meade you’ll experience a wide array of plantation life including the actual antebellum mansion, outbuildings and log cabins. And for those that are horse racing enthusiasts, you’ll also view stables that are linked to the lineage of Secretariat, Seabiscuit, Smarty Jones and other renowned horses.

The Hermitage

The Hermitage, home of President Andrew Jackson, offers not only a pristine look at early 19th century architecture, but also at Andrew Jackson himself. From Andrew Jackson the plantation owner to Andrew Jackson the soldier to Andrew Jackson the president, a visit to The Hermitage can offer insight into every facet of the historic man’s life.

Please Note: The Grand Ole Opry does not release final lineups until the Wednesday prior to each performance. This list will be updated weekly as new performers are confirmed and added to the lineup.

Friday, February 29 - Order Tickets

Jeannie Seely
The Whites
Jack Greene
The Grascals
Jimmy Dickens
Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys
John Conlee
Trent Tomlinson
Bill Anderson
Jan Howard
Jimmy C. Newman
Marty Stuart
Connie Smith
Del McCoury Band

Saturday, March 1 - Order Tickets

6:30 performance

Jimmy Dickens
John Conlee
Joe Diffie
Ricky Skaggs
Terri Clark
James Otto
Elizabeth Cook
Marty Stuart
Jimmy C. Newman
The Whites
Opry Square Dancers
Bill Anderson
Mike Snider
Jim Ed Brown
Del McCoury Band

9:30 performance

Jimmy Dickens
Mike Snider
James Otto
Ricky Skaggs
Jeannie Seely
The Whites
Terri Clark
Marty Stuart
Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
Elizabeth Cook
Opry Square Dancers
Bill Anderson
Jim Ed Brown
Del McCoury Band

Starting this March 28 and running through December 31, 2009, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum will be hosting the special exhibit Family Tradition: The Williams Family Legacy. The special exhibit is set to span 5,000 square feet, and will focus on the lives and music of both Hank Williams and Hank Williams Jr. The exhibit will be included with the price of admission to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and should turn out to be a strong addition to the normal collection of artifacts housed throughout the museum.

Fans of the Williams family will get an inside look into not only the music Hank and his son created, but will also find an interesting look into the oft troubled personal lives of Hank Williams and Hank Williams Jr., learning the inspiration behind much of their hit songs.

Even if you’re not a huge fan of country music, Hank Williams has risen above his genre to the status of a national icon, and his story is sure to offer an intriguing time of historical exploration for all Nashville visitors!

And while Family Tradition: The Williams Family Legacy will be running through December of 2009, it is still a limited exhibit, so be sure to start planning your visit to Nashville before it is too late. Click here to learn more about the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and purchase admission online.

Sight and Sound Theatre has built quite a reputation in Lancaster, PA as a premiere, Christian-based, theater that can rival even the top Broadway shows in terms of production value, and it is now expanding to Branson, MO in 2008! With its first show set for May 24, Sight and Sound Theatre will unveil its popular “Noah The Musical” to Branson visitors.

“Noah The Musical” accurately depicts the tale of Noah and the Ark from the Bible, complete with live animals, special 3D video imaging enhancements, and a towering set design that includes a four-story ark! Nothing will be held back at the Sight and Sound Theatre as a cast of dozens, constantly changing stage design and superb lead acting all come together to paint a thrilling experience that will have theater goers feeling as if they are right beside Noah throughout his trials.

Of course, hearing by word-of-mouth and actually seeing for yourself are two completely different things, and words can’t even begin to give Sight and Sound Theatre its true recognition. That’s why we’ve posted this great video of highlights from Sight and Sound Theatre. This way, you’ll be able to experience for yourself the level of detail Sight and Sound Theatre puts into its productions before reserving your ticket!

Learn more about Sight and Sound Theatre and purchase tickets for its Branson production of Noah The Musical here, and view the video below:

Please Note: The Grand Ole Opry does not release final lineups until the Wednesday prior to each performance. This list will be updated weekly as new performers are confirmed and added to the lineup.

Friday, February 22 - Order Tickets

The Whites
Jim Lauderdale
Ashley Monroe
Jimmy C. Newman
Jack Greene
Emerson Drive
George Hamilton IV
Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys
Kathy Mattea
Jim Ed Brown w/ Helen Cornelius
T. Graham Brown
Joe Nichols

Saturday, February 23 - Order Tickets

6:30 performance

Jim Ed Brown w/ Helen Cornelius
Jack Greene
Dan Tyminski Band
Jo Dee Messina
Keith Anderson
Tracy Byrd
Randy Owen
The Whites
Jan Howard
The Time Jumpers
Opry Square Dancers
George Hamilton IV
Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys
Restless Heart

 9:30 performance

Jim Ed Brown w/ Helen Cornelius
Dan Tyminski Band
Keith Anderson
Jimmy C. Newman
Randy Owen
Jo Dee Messina
The Whites
Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
Tracy Byrd
Opry Square Dancers
George Hamilton IV
The Time Jumpers
Restless Heart

Featuring 40,000 square feet of country music memorabilia, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a must visit attraction for all country music fans passing through Nashville, TN. From the amazing architecture of the building itself, which includes numerous symbolic odes to country music’s past, to the unbelievable video clips, recordings and artifacts housed in the museum, every step offers a captivating experience.

However, there is rarely a time when the regular attractions of the Country Music Hall of Fame are the only reasons to stop by. In fact, it’s a regular occurrence to find live performances, special activities and more taking place, offering an electric atmosphere at the official shrine of country music. Below, we’ve highlighted the various special events taking place at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum through February to help you decide on your last minute travel plans. And best of all, each event featured is included with admission to museum!

Special Events at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Through February, 2008

Saturday, February 16

• Song Writer Session with Thom Schuyler – 12 p.m.
• Nashville Cats: A Celebration of Music City Session Players with Jerry Kennedy – 2 p.m.
• Autograph Signing with Jerry Kennedy – 3:15 p.m. 

Sunday, February 17

• Banjo Demonstration with Charlie Cushman – 1 p.m.

Saturday, February 23

• Songwriter Session with Rich Fagan – 12 p.m.
• In-Store Performance and Autograph Signing with Nash Street – 12:30 p.m.
• Family Program: Musical Petting Zoo – 1 p.m.
• In-Store Performance and Autograph Signing with Charlie Louvin – 2 p.m.
• In-Store Performance and Autograph Signing with Jim Lauderdale – 3:30 p.m.

Sunday, February 24

• Steel Guitar Demonstration with Pete Finney and Jon Byrd – 1 p.m.
• Film Screening of Marty Robbins: Super Legend (1986) – 2 p.m.

Thursday, February 28

• Q&A and Book Signing for Random Memories: Don and Harold Reid of the Statler Brothers – 12 p.m.

With over 100 live shows taking place in Branson throughout the year there is always something to keep travelers entertained. And while each show featured in Branson offers quality entertainment in its own right, there are a few that go above and beyond. These select few shows offer not only an outstanding live performance, but also fill their guests with a full, mouth-watering meal! From equestrian arts to cowboy crooning, Branson’s dinner shows offer a unique experience that will truly satisfy all five senses.

Circle B Chuckwagon & Cowboy Music Show

The Circle B Chuckwagon & Cowboy Music Show offers down-home cooking complete with slow roasted beef, baked beans, applesauce, biscuits and peach cobbler. As for entertainment, you’ll be met by the wholesome comedy and sounds of the Horn family for a complete family outing. Retreat to the campfire with Circle B Chuckwagon & Cowboy Music Show as the sounds of acoustic guitars and cowboy harmonies entertain throughout the night.

Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede Dinner & Show

Known across the nation, Dixie Stampede offers a time of entertainment highlighted by a healthy mixture of comedy, dance, equestrian arts, song and lighting effects as guests travel back in time to the Civil War. Throughout the night, you’ll dine on a meal that includes rotisserie chicken, creamy vegetable soup, corn on the cob and a baked potato, all while cheering on your respective side to victory, either the North or South. Audience interaction, great dining and a thoroughly satisfying show ensure a varied time of entertainment when visiting Dixie Stampede in Branson.

Tall Timber Lumberjack Show

This unique dinner show offering presents its guests with a filling meal and healthy dose of lumberjack competitions. Much like Dixie, the crowd is split into two sides that cheer on their respective competitors throughout the show – and what a show it is! Competitions range from axe throwing to log rolling, and there are even segments where members of the audience are picked to help their teams to victory. As for the meal, it’s exactly the kind of filling meal you’d expect at a lumberjack competition. Soup, rolls, taters, coleslaw and a choice of either grilled steak or grilled chicken breast offer great taste and a satisfying smell of outdoor cooking. Just as with the other two dinner show offerings featured, you’re sure to find quality entertainment and an enjoyable meal waiting at the Tall Timber Lumberjack Show.

Spring is quickly approaching, and with the warm weather, renewal of nature and increased day light this means it is the perfect time to get away to the Smoky Mountains! From great sightseeing tours and outdoor activities to talented live shows and theme park excitement, the Gatlinburg – Pigeon Forge area paints a varied picture of a family vacation for a great way to truly meet the new year. Below are just a few of the many options you’ll have to help make this Spring an experience to remember long after the season is gone.

Dollywood Theme Park

Situated on 125-acres, Dollywood is a Theme Park experience fully inspired by native daughter, Dolly Parton. The entire park features a theme reminiscent of the culture and traditions of the Smoky Mountains, and makes for an imaginative day of wonder while visiting Gatlinburg – Pigeon Forge. As might be expected, park goers will find a wide variety of thrill rides, water rides, restaurants, live shows and other general attractions, as well as various festivals held at specific times throughout the year.

Helicopter Tours of the Smokies

While an up-close look at the Smoky Mountains can be a moving experience in itself, a panoramic view of the mountain range is the only way to truly understand the awesome majesty of the natural landmark. And with Helicopter Tours of the Smokies this moving view is but a breath away. Helicopter tours ranging from 40 mile to 80 miles are offered, ensuring that you experience as little or as much of the Gatlinburg – Pigeon Forge area from the sky as you’d like.

The Comedy Barn

It may be hard to pull yourself inside once you’re surrounded by springtime in the Smokies, but there are still a number of great shows taking place throughout the season as well. In particular, The Comedy Barn offers visitors an up-beat show marked by clean humor, exciting displays such as juggling and fire-eating, and even a few barnyard animals. If you’re looking for a lot of laughs and a little touch of variety, then you’re looking for The Comedy Barn.