New York, NY (Top40 Charts) The city of Branson is one of the most visited locations in all of Missouri, and it's not hard to see why. Famed for its theater district, live entertainment, awesome eateries, luxurious hotels, and family-friendly attractions, there's a lot to see and do in Branson, giving tourists many potential reasons to pay a visit.
The city attracts people from all over the US and even further afield, with some visitors stopping off in Branson while touring the US from other countries too, and one of the must-do things for any visitor to Branson is to see at least one of the city's many theatrical shows. But with so many options, which show should be at the top of your list? This guide will cover some of the top-rated shows in Branson.
Dolly Parton's Stampede
There's no way we can start a list of the best shows in Branson without kicking things off with Dolly herself. Dolly Parton's Stampede is one of the main reasons that a lot of people visit Branson. A mind-blowing, family-friendly entertainment and dining extravaganza, Dolly Parton's Stampede features dog relays, racing pigs, 32 horses, country music, folk music, and so much more, complete with an amazing meal to boot.
Shanghai Circus
Featuring the Amazing Acrobats of Shanghai, Shanghai Circus is one of the most extraordinary acts you'll see in all of Missouri. Honoring the heritage and history of Shanghai culture, Shanghai Circus really shines the spotlight on the amazing talents of its acrobats as they leap, dance, and dive across the scene. Magic, comedy, and art all play their part in this truly unforgettable show.
Clay Cooper's Country Express
Country music fans won't want to miss out on Clay Cooper's Country Express. A true homage to all things country, this show features 24 amazing entertainers all strutting their stuff on the stage and showing off an array of song, dance, and comedy skills too. Clay Cooper's Country Express is a fully family-friendly show, and you'll be able to enjoy country, rock 'n' roll, gospel, and other kinds of music too from Clay and the gang.
Branson's Famous Baldknobbers
One of the longest-running shows in all of Branson, Branson's Famous Baldknobbers have been entertaining audiences for several decades already and were around even before Branson developed its reputation as a live entertainment hub. Back in the day, the Baldknobbers gave performances down by Lake Taneycomo. Now, they have their own theatrical venue on Branson's very own strip, blending comedy and music in some of the most entertaining shows in town.
Branson's Christmas Wonderland
If you happen to be visting the Branson area for the holidays, you won't want to miss Branson's Christmas Wonderland. A true festive feast of entertainment, Branson's Christmas Wonderland is one of the biggest holiday productions in the city, featuring a stunning cast of entertainers, complete with magical scenery, creative costumes, and wonderful songs that even the likes of Scrooge and the Grinch would dance along to.
Doug Gabriel
There's no one quite like Doug Gabriel. One of the greatest performers ever to appear in Branson, Doug has won awards for his talents over the years and continues to impress and amaze audiences of all ages with his powerful voice and strong showmanship. His "#1 Hits Tribute Show" has been a real success in Branson and features Doug performing a huge range of hits from throughout the years, from the days of The Bee Gees right up to modern songs from Taylor Swift.
Reza Edge of Illusion
If you're looking for something spectacular and want to have your senses fooled and your mind blown during your time in Branson, Reza Edge of Illusion is the show for you. Reza is one of the most popular illusionists of modern times, touring the world and wowing audiences of all ages with his skills. His new show, Edge of Illusion, features some of his greatest magic yet, coupled with amusing comedy and world-class production.
Buckets N Boards
Buckets N Boards, also known as the Buckets N Boards Comedy Percussion Show, is one of the most inventive comedy musicals the world has ever seen. Matt Levingston and Gareth Server, the co-creators of Buckets N Boards, are sure to delight audiences of all ages as they put their silly skills to the test, making music from the simplest of items.
The Ultimate Elvis
You'll feel like the King himself has been reborn and is performing on stage before your very eyes in Dean Z's The Ultimate Elvis. A lively and energetic musical, The Ultimate Elvis covers the entire career of Elvis Presley himself, charting his extraordinary rise to the top and honoring his many achievements, featuring an 11-piece band and Dean Z himself, widely-regarded as one of the greatest Elvis tribute artists on the planet.
The Haygoods
More than six million tickets have been sold for The Haygoods over the years, making this by far one of Branson's most popular and beloved shows. Featuring one of the most special sets of siblings the world has ever known, the show itself involves music, singing, and dancing with over 20 different instruments and a lot of fun along the way. The Haygoods originally started out performing at nearby Silver Dollar City when they were just children, but now, they're some of the city's biggest stars.
Mansion of Dreams
Rick Thomas is yet another of Branson's most mind-blowing entertainers, and his show, Mansion of Dreams, is arguably the greatest work of a storied career that has seen him perform in more than 50 countries worldwide and headline shows in Vegas and Broadway alike. Blending comedy, magic, dance, and storytelling, Mansion of Dreams is a show that will stay with you, long after the final curtain has fallen.
Final Word
These are just some of the many, many shows that are running in Branson right now, and if you're heading to the area, it really is in your best interests to try and catch at least one of them.
