By Becky Tipton BDN Entertainment Editor Visit Branson Daily News Online The Hamner Barber Variety Show at the Victorian Theater has ingenious comedy and outstanding illusions. Jim Barber, and Dave and Denise Hamner have returned to Branson this season to bring us a wonderful show with lots of laughs and fascinating illusions. During a show that I went to, Barber had the audience laughing in the aisles as he introduced some new characters - along with some familiar ones. Barber did the "Barber of Seville" act, handling two puppets, singing three parts to the song - all while keeping a smile on his face. I get breathless just trying to write all that. Also, he brought to the stage a new character that the children adored who shared a part in the banana phone song. Later, comedian and ventriloquist Barber did the Chico dance with his dog, Chico, who is so funny and adorable. It's a sure bet he has his own fan club. Barber also brought the little baby puppet back, too. And grandmas and children alike laughed and cheered the little poo-poo factory. Illusionists Dave and Denise Hamner had some surprises in store, too. They have all of their fabulous, vibrant birds with them - and some new ones, too. The feathered friends magically appear, circle over the audience and fly back to the Hamners as the audience looks above with awe and squeals of delight. The dancers, Tim Lewis, Ken Brown and A.J. Heard, perform throughout the show and bring about all of the drama needed to add just the right "oomph" to every illusion. They are singing in the new show and each had his or her own special part - as does Dave Hamner, who sings "Magic of the Night." I never knew he could sing. What a treat. The Hamners have added some pigeons to the show - spectacular white ones - and they all gather on a large tree at the end of the show for a beautiful finish to a great variety show. Visit Branson Daily News Online