Most Recommended Show!

Grand Crowne Resorts promotes the Hamner Barber Variety Show as one of their “most recommended shows” in Branson, and the interview with Emmons includes a lively discussion of the incredible magic illusions, beautiful tropical parrots, and original comedy ventriloquism that can only be found at the Hamner Barber Theater.  This is also a rare opportunity to watch Jim Barber speak in the vocal style of his ventriloquism characters Chico Pete, Baby and Seville, without having the actual puppets in hand.

The Hamner Barber Variety Show is a proud marketing partner with Grand Crowne Resorts who offer exciting vacation entertainment packages for travelers visiting great destinations like Branson, Missouri; Biloxi, Mississippi; and Pidgeon Forge, Tennessee.

Interviewer Kent Emmons is a well respected radio and television producer based in Los Angeles, California with a mountain of credits to his name including being the founder of the popular National Lampoon Radio Network along with the network’s shareholders and close advisors Barry Levinson (producer), Budd Friedman (Improv Chairman/Founder), Richard Belzer (comic/actor), George Schlatter (producer) and management legend Eric Gardner.  Emmon’s official website offers much more insight into the creative ventures of this multifaceted entrepreneur.

Tickets available at the Jim Stafford Theatre Box Office the day of the event!

Hamner Barber Theater’s own Jim Barber will return as this year’s Master of Ceremonies along with his sidekick, famed illusionist Dave Hamner, who is also returning to judge the great and not-so-great acts that will be competing.

Last year’s Gong Show was a smash success, but how could it not be with the volunteer efforts of several fearless performers, three wacky judges, two beautiful “hoopa” girls, one sparkling scorekeeper, a wonderful warm-up man, and a crazy comedian host.

Branson Gong Show Producer Harry Watterson

Harry & Carolyn Watterson are the producers of the Branson Gong Show and together, they have created one of the most entertaining benefit shows ever to reverberate the Live Music Show Capital of the World.

Christine Thompson, Director of the Branson Senior Center for whom the charity event is staged, reported that last year’s show was a huge success not only for the great audience turnout, but also for the “Meals on Wheels” program that they sponsor. The 2010 Branson Gong Show netted around $4,000 with proceeds going to the various programs through the Southwest Missouri Office on Aging.

“We had such a great crowd, it was just awesome. It was sort of like a wedding in that we did all this planning and practicing, and it was over in a flash. Those funds will help so many programs for seniors, not only in this area, but all over Southwest Missouri.”

Christine Thompson – from Branson Tri-Lakes News Article

Branson Gong Show Host: Jim Barber

Celebrity host Jim Barber will keep things flowing and sooth the fragile emotions of the unfortunate performers who may hear the smashing of the gong, generously donated for use at the event by Reliable Toyota of Springfield, Missouri.

Speaking of Jim Barber, the guy did a smooth job of keeping all the zanies at bay and keeping the show moving at a good pace. We had thought the show would run long, however, after beginning at 6:49pm, the Gong Show concluded about 9:15pm.

Ronnie Page – Entertainment Editor – Branson Daily Independent

The other two celebrity judges returning to join Dave Hamner are the amazing impressionist Bob Anderson, and the multi-talented singer, guitarist and impersonator George Trullinger from Legends in Concert.

Jim Barber with Branson Gong Show Judges: George Trullinger, Bob Anderson & Dave Hamner

Those judges by the way… had an unenviable task of judging and gonging some of the acts. Don’t ever ask this writer to be a gong show judge. I just couldn’t do it. Incidentally, the “gong” used for the show was donated by Reliable Toyota. Barber was quick to point out that when the gong was hit, it just kept on going.

Ronnie Page – Entertainment Editor – Branson Daily Independent

Mi Foo Ling

The beautiful Branson area entertainer and comedy ventriloquist Patty Davidson will be keeping score as one by one, the talented (and not-so-talented) performers take their turn on stage. The incredible vocal impressionist Jeff Brandt will be serving as this year’s celebrity announcer.

Last year, the winners clearly stood out from a few of the strange and wonderful gong-worthy acts. At times, the crowd jeered the judges to take a swing at even some of the better acts, yet when the smoke cleared there were three winners. This year’s competition promises to be even bigger and better.

Be sure to put this event on your MUST DO LIST for this Wednesday evening in Branson!

Sarah Rackley

See many more photos of the 1st Annual Branson Gong Show courtesy of Meadows Images.

In an recent article published in the Shepherd of the Hills Gazette entitled Variety Is An Understatement!, author Linda Burlingame describes the amazing amount of variety entertainment to be found in the Hamner Barber Show in Branson.

The Branson magic show is celebrating it’s eighth smash season at the beautiful Hamner Barber Theater and has become popular as one of Branson’s premiere magic and comedy shows for audiences of all ages.

The Hamner Barber Variety Show offers song and dance, magic, ventriloquism, animals — real and “not so real!” — comedy, a heartfelt and tender tribute to America’s Veterans, and I’m not sure the definition of “variety” covers all that. (I should look up “variety.” It may say, “See Hamner Barber Show!”) - Linda Burlingame

The article discusses the amazing and original magical elements of the show as presented by The Hamners who headline the show along with comedian ventriloquist Jim Barber.

Dave Hamner does a “variety” of magic, from sleight of hand with cards, coins, and newspaper (watch what flies out of the torn silhouette of a bird in the newspaper!) to large scale productions like “Vertigo: The Fall of Death!” (Aauugh!) But Dave and his wife Denise are best known for the illusions they do with their sweet, gorgeous Macaws and Cockatoos. These brilliant and brainy birds magically appear from flaming swords, playing cards, coins … then after a smooth, awe inspiring swoosh over the audience they return to the stage. Dave calls Denise the Bird Wrangler; the wonderful creatures are part of their family! – Linda Burlingame

Jim Barber’s act is unlike any other ventriloquist in the world, and the article goes on to explain a few elements of Jim’s unique performance.

Jim Barber’s “assistants” are part of his family, too. “Chico Pete,” “Baby,” “Barber and Seville” are, well, dummies. But they come to life with Jim’s talented voice. They can all sing together, dance together; and Jim even appears to be the dummy at one point. (I’m sorry, Jim, you know what I mean!) His cast of witty, clever dummies can be loud and overbearing, while tugging at your heartstrings. You’ll laugh as you are amazed by Jim’s talent. Sometimes it’s easy to forget Jim is part of the equation. (I keep feeling I should apologize, sorry Jim!) - Linda Burlingame

The article also discusses how the Hamner Barber Variety Show has been honored with several performance awards as well as been featured on national television appearances.  The magical, multimedia tribute to Veterans also was impressive to the author.

The Hamner Barber tribute to Veterans is extraordinary. There are taped interviews with three survivors of the flag-raising at Iwo Jima. Their remarks and the amazing illusion with the statue, make it a poignant segment of the show. - Linda Burlingame

To read the entire article, visit the Shepherd of the Hills Gazette online.

Branson

]]> http://www.hamnerbarber.com/2011/02/18/branson-magic-show-making-news/feed/ 0 http://www.hamnerbarber.com/2011/01/21/branson-magic-show/ http://www.hamnerbarber.com/2011/01/21/branson-magic-show/#comments Fri, 21 Jan 2011 22:39:15 +0000 Hamner Barber Theater http://www.hamnerbarber.com/?p=2319 Enjoy Hot Winter Fun with Branson’s best show for all ages!

The Hamner Barber Variety Show features amazing magical illusions of The Hamners and hilarious vocal comedy of ventriloquist Jim Barber.  Add in some

hot dance routines and great music, and  you’ve got a show that appeals to audiences of all ages. Read more about the show here!

Spend Valentines Day Weekend in Branson!

Friday, February 11, 2011 is opening night and marks the beginning of the 8th season of comedy and magic at the Hamner Barber Theater in Branson, Missouri. Make it a memorable weekend and bring your special Valentine to see this fun production featuring comedy, magic and a heart-felt tribute to American Veterans that you’ll never forget! Reserve your tickets by clicking here!

There’s magic in the air, but it doesn’t stop there…

Dave and Denise Hamner are famous around the world for their seemingly impossible act where they make cards, coins, silk scarves and several beautiful tropical parrots appear out of nowhere and fly over the heads of the astonished audience. The Hamners have created several spectacular and original magic illusions that can only be seen at the Hamner Barber Theater.  No where else on the planet will you experience the amazing magical routines that they have produced for this show.

In addition to Branson, the Hamners have headlined performances at Hollywood’s Magic Castle, Disneyland in California, Magic Island in Huston, TX and in several major resort hotels across the country.  Read more of the Hamners biography here!

Jim Barber is not only one of the country’s top comedy ventriloquists, he has also earned a reputation as a great singer with his multi-octave vocal range. His cast of wacky characters and vocal impersonations will have you laughing out-loud and leave everyone talking!

Before coming to Branson to perform with country music legend Glen Campbell, Jim toured with his act all across the Nation and in over 15 foreign countries with the USO entertaining our military troops.  As a ventriloquist, Jim was the featured variety act aboard the General Jackson Showboat in Nashville, TN before taking his show to nearly 2,000 college and university campuses over a ten year period.  Read more of Jim Barber’s biography here!

Show producer Harry Watterson pulled all the strings backstage to create one of the most entertaining benefit shows to hit the Live Music Show Capital of the World.

Producer Harry Watterson

Christine Thompson, Director of the Branson Senior Center for whom the charity event was staged, thought the show was a huge hit not only for the crowd but for the “Meals on Wheels” program that they sponsor.  The Branson Gong Show netted around $4,000 with proceeds going to the various programs through the Southwest Missouri Office on Aging.

“We had such a great crowd, it was just awesome.   It was sort of like a wedding in that we did all this planning and practicing, and it was over in a flash.  Those funds will help so many programs for seniors, not only in this area, but all over Southwest Missouri.”

Christine Thompson – from Branson Tri-Lakes News Article

Gong Show Host: Jim Barber

Celebrity host Jim Barber kept things flowing and soothed the emotions of the unfortunate performers who felt the wrathe of the gong, generously donated for use at the event by Reliable Toyota of Springfield, Missouri.

Speaking of Jim Barber, the guy did a smooth job of keeping all the zanies at bay and keeping the show moving at a good pace.  We had thought the show would run long, however, after beginning at 6:49pm, the Gong Show concluded about 9:15pm.

Ronnie Page – Entertainment Editor – Branson Daily Independent

The three celebrity judges were magical illusionist Dave Hamner of the Hamner Barber Variety Show, amazing impressionist Bob Anderson, and the multi-talented singer, guitar player and impersonator George Trillinger.

Jim Barber with Judges: George Trullinger, Bob Anderson & Dave Hamner

Those judges by the way… had an unenviable task of judging and gonging some of the acts.  Don’t ever ask this writer to be a gong show judge.  I just couldn’t do it.  Incidentally, the “gong” used for the show was donated by Reliable Toyota.  Barber was quick to point out that when the gong was hit, it just kept on going.

Ronnie Page – Entertainment Editor – Branson Daily Independent

Mi Foo Ling

The beautiful and talented Dalena Ditto kept score as one by one, the talented (and not-so-talented) performers took their turn on stage.  The winners clearly stood out from a few of the strange and wonderful gong-worthy acts.  At times, the crowd jeered the judges to take a swing at even some of the better acts, yet when the smoke cleared there were three winners.

The grand prize went to 11-year old April Ash from Rockaway Beach.  April takes home a grand prize check for $500 and a great big “thank you” from the Branson Senior Center.  The second prize winner was a fellow just known as “Harold” who came on like a real nerd but sho turned into a real rocker with a hopping version of “Long Tall Sally.”  Harold Nino is employed by Branson High School as a paraprofessional.  Third place went to a relatively newcomer to Branson, Brian Wurst, who got everyone’s attention when he kicked off his shoe, pulled off his sock and proceeded to put it on his left hand like a glove.  Brian is a chiropractor in the Branson West area and was the recipient of a jab by host Jim Barber who noted that Brian could be the “Wurst chiropractor in the area.

Ronnie Page – Entertainment Editor – Branson Daily Independent

Sarah Rackley

See many more photos of the 1st Annual Branson Gong Show courtesy of Meadows Images.

Mark Your Calendars for This Wednesday, February 24th at 6:49PM to attend the First Annual Branson Gong Show at the Legends In Concert Theatre in the Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Complex. Then get ready to laugh your head off while raising funds to help assist our area Senior Citizens who have difficulty getting around town on their own.

There’s never been a show like this in Branson before!

Jim Barber and Dave Hamner are volunteering to raise funds for the Branson Senior Center’s Meals-On-Wheels program.  Joining them in this worth while effort as judges are one of the greatest impressionists in the world, Bob Anderson, the beautiful and multi-talented singer, Dalena Ditto, and the incredibly gifted banjo king, Buck Trent.

Under the direction of veteran TV producer Harry Waterson (“Golden Girls,” “Benson,” “Evis: Aloha From Hawaii”) the First Annual Branson Gong Show will feature a dazzling array of amazing and not-so-amazing (but great fun) family friendly acts from across the Ozarks.  The performers will be competing for cash prizes and the chance to be the reigning Branson Gong Show Champion.

Tickets prices for adults: $10, kids: $5 and family: $25. There will be giveways and surprises during the show. Cash Prizes for the winning contestants are: 1st Place $500.17, 2nd Place $101 and 3rd Place: $49.99.  This promises to be a terrific evening of fun and all for a great cause!

Related Websites: Harry Waterson Credits, Hamner Barber Variety Show, Bob Anderson, Dalena Ditto, Buck Trent, Branson Tri-Lakes News Article

Entertainment legend Andy Williams is serving as Grand Marshall and singers Jimmy Osmond and Debbie Boone are serving as Hosts for the television special being made during the 1.4 mile-long parade that ushers in the Christmas season in the Live Music Show Capital of the World. The parade route begins at White Water and ends at the Grand Village Shops.

Along with Williams, Osmond and Boone, will be country music artist Neal McCoy, the Lennon Sisters & Brothers, Tony Orlando and Cathy Rigby as Peter Pan.

Also performing on the television stage are Clay Cooper, Johnny Lonestar, Penny Gilley, Jeff Brandt, the Haygoods, Todd Oliver & Irving, and Jim Barber & Seville from the Hamner Barber Variety Show. Also featured are the Knudsen Brothers, also known as SIX; Showstoppers! from the Showboat Branson Belle; the “Spirit of Christmas” dancers; and the cast of “A Dickens’ Christmas Carol” from Silver Dollar City. The Baldknobbers, Blues Brothers from “Legends in Concert,” and the Branson High School Cheerleaders are also scheduled for stage appearances.

The television broadcast schedule is for Thanksgiving and Christmas day to an estimated 102 million plus households across the nation. In the Springfield/Branson area the parade special will be televised on KSFX Ozarks FOX. In Branson on The Vacation Channel it will be aired six times: Thanksgiving Day at 8 a.m., Nov. 27 at 8 p.m., Nov. 28 at 8 p.m., Nov. 29 at 8 a.m., Nov. 30 at 8 p.m., and Christmas Eve at 8 p.m. National broadcasts are on RFD-TV and Retro Television Network. RFD-TV is carried on several satellite and cable providers including over 625 independent cable operators to 42 million households and Retro Television Network is seen in 17 of the top 25 markets to more than 60 million households on nearly 100 stations in cities such as Pittsburg, Atlanta, Seattle, Orlando, St. Louis and Boston, according to Nielsen ratings.

Produced by Midwest Concerts & Events, LLC, the Holiday Promenade of Stars promises to be a highlight of the many Ozark Mountain Christmas events planned this November and December.

For more information: HolidayPromenadeOfStars.com, Midwest Concerts & Events