December 27th, 2009 by Gary J. Groman

There will be a lot of different activities and entertainment going on in Branson, Missouri to celebrate New Year’s Eve 2009. However, as Branson ends its celebration of 50 years of live music shows and prepares for the next 50, it will close out the old year and welcome the New Year doing one of the things it does best, providing some of the finest live entertainment shows available anywhere.

Paul Miller, General Manager, Branson Tourism Center and a 13 year veteran of New Year’s Eve in Branson said, “The number, variety and quality of shows available in Branson for New Year’s Eve this year is amazing. Couple that with all the shopping, attractions and all the rest of the things there is to do in Branson and the result is a unique synergy that can only be felt in Branson.”

The following is a list of some of the shows that will be open New Years Eve or New Years Eve day, showing the name and time of the show, a brief description of the shows content and a link providing additional information, pictures and ticketing information on the show. The information is provided from data bases powered by Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services and sellers of Branson show and attraction tickets and lodging.

Amazing Pets – 10:00 a.m. A great show for the whole family staring Ringleader, Sean Paul, and his trusty side “kid, ” a trained monkey named “Frankie.” Together with an amazing troupe of dogs and house cats, many which have been rescued from dog pounds and humane societies across the country, they will win you hearts as they perform for you.

Comedy Jamboree – 2:00 p.m. A comedy and musical extravaganza! The show stars funny guys, Applejack and Guppy McGee; country singer, Todd Bradshaw; pianist extraordinaire, Tracy Heaston, and a sizzling cast of singers and dancers all backed by some of Branson’s best musicians. From side-splitting comedy, floor pounding clogging and dancing, to all your country favorites, this show has it all.”

Showboat Branson Belle – 4:00 p.m. Relieve the romance and splendor of those grand old riverboat days aboard the 1890s paddle wheeler, the “Showboat Branson Belle” as it plies the water of table Rock Lake. Eat a great meal prepared on board and see a dazzling show featuring nationally acclaimed comedian and ventriloquist Todd Oliver and his talking dogs, along with some of the best musicians, singers and dancers in Branson.

Circle B Supper Show – 4:15p.m. Join the Horn family for great cowboy cooking served at the Circle B Supper Show indoor theatre. Then enjoy beautiful cowboy music and harmonies plus a chuck wagon full of cowboy fun and comedy presented by the Horns and their talented cast.

Dixie Stampede – 4:40 p.m. Enjoy a delicious four course meal Dixie Stampede style. That means enjoying your meal while watching amazing feats of horsemanship, participating in a friendly competition and all the excitement and action that is synonymous with the Dixie Stamped including its bright new Christmas Musical fantasy, “The Magic of Toys.”

Christmas on the Trail – 5:00 p.m. Celebrate Christmas on the Trail, as you join around the campfire, eat a hardy trail dinner and create a Christmas memory complete with familiar carols and unique cowboy reflections that will touch your heart and stir your memories! Then enjoy a complimentary trip through the Trail of Lights!

Acrobats of China – 9:00 p.m. Considered to be China’s most celebrated acrobatic company; the performers of the New Shanghai Circus have stunned audiences all over the world. Featuring spectacular backdrops, beautiful costuming, and state-of-the-art lighting, this show is a thrill a minute combining extraordinary and inventive feats of strength and skill, control and balance. Festivities include traditional Chinese hors d’oeuvres, party hats, party favors, balloon drop and nonalcoholic toast and dragon parade at midnight.

Grand Jubilee - 9:00 p.m. Features the power harmonies and dynamic performance of Branson’s best quartet, “New South” and the comedy of Jamie Haage. The “up-close and personal” performances of these and the many other talented performers in the show explodes with enough music, comedy and fun to satisfy any age. The celebration include noisemakers, party hats, balloon drop, party favors and a variety of appetizers.

Kirby VanBurch – 9:00 p.m. You won’t believe your eyes! This thrill-a-second production is packed full of astonishing disappearing acts, huge illusions, and exotic animals. Ring in the New Year with Kirby Van Burch, his amazing cast and his exotic BIG cats! Festivities include: delicious food, sparkling non-alcoholic wine, party favors, balloon drop at midnight. Magic! Comedy! Variety!

Legends in Concert – 9:00 p.m. What better place to celebrate New Year’s Eve than at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater in  Branson, Mo! The star studded lineup includes Buddy Holly, Patsy Cline, The Blues Brothers, Stevie Wonder and Elvis!! Show starts at 9:00 but there are a variety of packages and activities with different starting times.

Magnificent Variety – 9:00 p.m. The Magnificent Seven Variety Show Cast features Joe Tinoco and Tamra Holden and a standout cast of singers and dancers that lead you through 50 production numbers with over 300 costume changes. The celebration includes noisemakers, party hats, streamers, games, balloon drop and a sparkling cider toast.

Pierce Arrow – 9:00 p.m. Branson’s Hottest Show features a cast who brings the audience along with them to enjoy the time of their lives. Audiences love the powerful vocals of Pierce Arrow, Desta and Kim Boyce, the great comedy routines of Jarrett Daugherty and the live band. The New Years Eve show will include party favors, hats, noisemakers, streamers, games, prizes and a gourmet snack.

Jim Stafford – 9:30 p.m. This exciting show features the very funny and talented Jim Stafford with some of his best music and side-splitting comedy along with Jim’s talented kids, Shea and G.G., as well as female vocalist Lauren Heavner. The show starts at 9:30 pm and ends at midnight with a special balloon drop! Guests will receive party hats, noise makers and a special keepsake gift!