The very first issue of the Branson Tri-Lakes News for the new year of 2012 featured a cover story entitled 100 years, a look back in which staff writer Tyler Franke reports that the Branson area newspaper has just reached its 100th year of continuous publication. The Branson Tri-Lakes News is the local newspaper covering Branson, Taney County and Stone County in Missouri, and traces its roots to the oldest publications in Taney County. Read the full article here.

Hamner Barber Show Featured on Branson Tri-Lakes News

This historical milestone comes just a few months before the city of Branson celebrates it’s Centennial in the traditional grand style of the Ozarks. Branson Tri-Lakes News Publisher and part-owner Michael Schuver has announced they will release a special publication in March celebrating the 100th anniversary of the incorporation of the city.

Happy New Year, Baby!

Considering the historical importance of this particular issue of the newspaper, it was a surprise honor for the Hamner Barber Variety Show to have been selected as one of the featured photos on the front cover of the centennial edition.

Taken amidst a packed house at the second annual Hamner Barber New Year’s Eve Fiesta on December 31st, the photo shows comedian Jim Barber in a routine where he imitates “Huston Towers” as part of a comedy game show segment. The newspaper photo is captioned as follows…

JIM BARBER, a comedian and ventriloquist in Branson, does is impression of movie character Austin Powers during the “Hamner Barber New Year’s Eve Fiesta” Saturday night.  Hundreds attended the four-hour celebration, which included Mexican food, fiesta games and an extended presentation of the “Hamner Barber Show.”

- Tyler Francke | Branson Tri-Lakes News

What’s NEW in 2012 at Hamner Barber Theater?

There will be many news worthy events and updates on tap at the Hamner Barber Theater this year.  Among them are the addition of several brand new routines and illusions in the Hamner Barber Variety Show, celebrating it’s 9th season in 2012.  There will also be several guest artist performances and fund-raising events for Branson area organizations in need of assistance during the year.

In addition to a full season schedule of the Hamner Barber Variety Show, popular country music singer Dalena Ditto will return for her 11th season in Branson with a series of 59 concerts at the Hamner Barber Theater throughout the year beginning March 29th. More information on the Dalena Ditto Country Variety Show can be found here. On Friday April 27th at 2pm, the Branson Magic Bonanza will once again present it’s Magic All-Stars Show featuring magicians Greg Wilson, Tom Burgoon, Jason Hudy and Levent, along with another surprise guest performer.   The Plummer Family will return with their 6th Annual Reunion Show on Saturday, May 6th. Information on all these shows will be released closer to the events.

Fundraising events at Hamner Barber Theater this year include the 3rd Annual Branson Gong Show to raise funds for the Branson Homebound Senior Meal program of the Branson Senior Center.  Auditions for the show will be held on Monday, January 23rd from 5-8pm at the Branson Senior Center. Mark your calendars to attend the Branson Gong Show on Wednesday, February 22nd.  More information will be released soon, but you can read about last year’s event here.

In May (date to be determined) we will also be hosting our 9th Annual Vietnam Veterans Assistance Show.  This is always a powerful and highly entertaining event where many of the top Branson stars gather together at the Hamner Barber Theater in benefit of our local area Veterans who are in need of assistance.

More information on this great benefit concert will be released soon, and information regarding last year’s event can be read here.

Finally, the Hamner Barber Theater is proud to once again team up with Branson.com to present the annual Hand-In-Hand, Branson Honors Purple Heart Veterans event April 26, 27 and 28th. Since it’s beginning, Hamner Barber has hosted the opening ceremonies, public entertainment show, and closing ceremonies throughout the three day event. This year’s event promises to be the biggest and best ever, and the public is invited to participate in the activities free of charge. More information will be available at the Veterans Galleria on Branson.com.

Not only does Denise “lose her head” and find herself divided into 12 parts as part of their amazing “Stargate” illusion (pictured below), she also demonstrates the fearless ability to be suspended 15 feet above a table of deadly steel spikes, transform from a tropical parrot into herself, be impaled with a dozen light sabers and three metal tubes, and if that weren’t enough, to float effortlessly in mid-air with no strings attached!

How can this be possible? Is it real?  Is it an illusion?  You’ve got to see it to believe it!

Denise Hamner is Divided into 12 parts during the Stargate Illusion in the Hamner Barber Variety Show

A Magical Life As A Professional “Box Jumper”

Before they were married, Denise was active in many athletic sports activities such as soccer and baseball.  Her background and training in sports has served her well.  Little did she know that after teaming up with her illusionist husband, she would be involved in some of the most physically demanding activities of her entire life.

One of Dave’s nicknames for Denise is his “little box jumper,” which is an industry term for a magic assistant who is able to perform a variety of difficult physical moves in order to create the effect for the audience.

During every performance of the Hamner Barber Variety Show, Denise goes through an exhausting array of magical stunts, dangerous falls and technical maneuvers to make the seemingly impossible… possible.

Although Denise provides the bulk of the stunts in the show, Dave also performs several physically demanding feats that allow him to vanish from one area of the stage and instantly appear far away in another.

It’s unbelievable to experience this magical team effort that developed over many years to perfect.

In one of their most spectacular effects called “Vertigo”, Dave hypnotizes Denise who is then placed on top of a Plexiglas trap door and raised fifteen feet above a bed of solid steel spikes.

There is genuine physical danger involved in this performance, and the surprise ending will take your breath away leaving you wondering how it was possible for the magical husband and wife team to pull off such a stunt.  No wonder their comedy partner Jim Barber calls Vertigo, their “most dangerous illusion”.

It’s important to also give credit to the Hamner Barber dance troupe, stage assistants, stage manager,  and lighting and technical crew who also help create the magical effects performed nightly at the Hamner Barber Theater in Branson, Missouri.  It’s truly a team effort to create something that appears effortless!

See It For Yourself!

Come experience the amazing magical stunts of The Hamners and the creative comedy of ventriloquist Jim Barber at the Hamner Barber Variety Show.  It’s Branson’s most popular magic and comedy show, and has something that appeals to every member of the family.

Click here for tickets or more information on the Hamner Barber Variety Show.

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/2010/12/30/magical-new-years-eve-branson/ http://www.hamnerbarber.com/2010/12/30/magical-new-years-eve-branson/#comments Thu, 30 Dec 2010 22:59:55 +0000 Hamner Barber Theater http://www.hamnerbarber.com/?p=2135 CALL FOR YOUR TICKETS NOW!!!

Magic, comedy, dance and delicious food from Qdoba Mexican Grill are all in store for those who attend the Hamner Barber New Year’s Eve Fiesta in Branson tomorrow night!  The theater is filling up, but there are still several great seats available for this incredible evening of fun and entertainment. There is not a bad seat in the house, and there has never been a New Year’s Eve Celebration like this in Branson before!

Family Friendly Games & Prizes!

This is the perfect way for families, couples and even singles to ring in the New Year in Branson, Missouri.  In addition to the award-winning Hamner Barber Variety Show, we’ll also have some fun games with terrific prizes for those who win.  You won’t want to miss the Qdoba Frozen T-Shirt Competition and the wild and crazy Burrito Eating Contest which will send the winners home with some fantastic prizes (can’t give it away here)!

Here’s a sneak preview of tomorrow night’s event… we hope you will join us!

The Hamners Magical Birds with Jim Barber & Chico Pete

From the moment the curtain opens on the Hamner Barber Variety Show, the audience is transported to a magical world where beautiful tropical birds appear seemingly out of nowhere, flying over the heads of the astonished audience.

With all the action, one would think an umbrella would be in order, but fortunately that isn’t the case.  Famed Illusionists The Hamners have worked diligently with their friendly flock of magical birds to ensure that an accidental blessing from above doesn’t befall an audience member.

Master Ventriloquist Jim Barber’s canine sidekick Chico Pete is another story all-together.  While he’s fairly confined to Jim himself, Chico often let’s loose with hilarious songs and frisky humor that may leave the audience rolling in the aisles.

That’s just the tip of the iceberg of incredible family entertainment awaiting you at the Hamner Barber Variety Show.  There are amazing original illusions galore that you won’t find in any other magic show in the World.  Jim Barber’s unique puppet characters and multi-octave singing voice will even have the audience becoming part of this fun Branson show.

Individually, The Hamners and Jim Barber have headlined their acts in such mecca’s of entertainment as Las Vegas, Laughlin, Reno, Atlantic City, Atlantis Resort, and even Hollywood’s Famed Magic Castle to name a few.  Together, they combine two amazing variety acts into one incredible show that can only be seen at the Hamner Barber Theater in Branson, Missouri.

By the way, the theater gift shop carries a wide array of magic tricks, photos, dvd videos, quality jewelry, and just in case… umbrellas too!

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

Hamner Barber Variety Show February – December 2010

2010 BOX OFFICE RATES Adult (18+) $ 29.50 Teen (13-17) $ 16.50 Child (4-12) $ 8.50 Infant (0-3) FREE 11.6% sales tax additional

Spring break in Branson is one of the most popular activities for school kids and their families to experience together while traveling on vacation. March is one of the busiest months of the year for a Spring break getaway and Branson, Missouri is without a doubt the most family friendly vacation destination in the country.  Whether you go to school in Missouri, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota or anywhere else… you will find your best family vacation destination is Branson, Missouri.

With over 100 shows and attractions to choose from, there is something for everyone to enjoy.  One of the most popular of the best shows in Branson for families is the Hamner Barber Variety Show featuring incredible magic illusions of The Hamner’s, the wacky comedy of ventriloquist and singer Jim Barber, and a talented troupe of amazing dancers.  This show is a hit with kids of all ages, from 2 to 92.

The Hamner Barber Theater offers plenty of safe, level-parking so access to and from the theater is easier and safer than many of the steep and slippery parking lots around town.  With over 600 seats in the intimate theater, even the largest groups and family reunions can sit together and enjoy the Branson show.

The Hamner Barber Concession Stand is stocked with all of your favorite candies and sodas, and many have said that it has the best tasting popcorn in all of Branson.  Kids love the Dip N’ Dots Ice Cream, Nachos, and Jumbo Dill Pickles, just to mention a few of the items available.  This year the theater is offering a one-of-a-kind 32 once Hamner Barber Souvenir Soda Cup that is dishwasher safe.  Take it home after the show and use it again and again.

The Hamner Barber Gift Shop carries an assortment of great magic tricks that will amaze friends, cute and cuddly hand puppets, DVD videos and audio CD’s as well as a large assortment of beautiful jewelry, purses, scarves, and more for Mom and Grandma.

When you make your Branson Spring Break plans, be sure to include the Hamner Barber Variety Show on your itinerary.  Thousands of students from across the country have experienced the magic, comedy, music and dance at the Hamner Barber Theater, and come back year after year with their families during their school break in the Spring and also during their summer vacations to Branson.

The educational and inspirational multimedia tribute to American Veterans is an important history lesson with a spectacular magical twist.  The family friendly comedy, award-winning original magic illusions, music and dance of our multi-talented cast will entertain every member of your family.  Come see for yourself or purchase tickets safely and securely online now by visiting our Hamner Barber Ticket Sales page.

Before the screaming jet engines and the plumes of dense smoke, there was a modestly quaint and colorful performance happening nightly over the heads of astonished Branson theater goers.  The act was called the “Pirate Parrot Act” and was developed over many years of intense training, love and dedication by professional illusionists Dave and Denise Hamner who came to the Ozarks from their ranch home in Southern California where they raised their birds by hand and tended to them kindly as if they were their own children.    In their one-of-a-kind act, a beautiful bevy of exotic, tropical parrots appear from nowhere, flying low enough over the audience as to rustle the hair of anyone in their path.  There are macaws, cockatoos and even white doves creating a seemingly endless array of feathered fun to the delight of those looking up from below.  The giddy laughs of amazement and vocal cheers from the crowd is testament to the sheer magnificence of their original routine.  Branson audiences had never seen anything like this before.

The Hamners were receiving high recognition for their magical effects, long before bringing them to Branson.  In addition to appearances across the country, they’ve performed at major attractions such as Disneyland and Hollywood’s Magic Castle.  After a performance in Las Vegas, entertainment Superstars Siegfried and Roy presented the Hamners with their prestigious Bronze Lion Award for excellence and shortly thereafter, they were asked to perform with their beautiful birds on NBC’s “World’s Greatest Magic” TV special which has been aired around the world numerous times.  Host John Ritter introduced the Hamners as “the most amazing bird act in all of magic.”

When the Hamners were hired to perform at a theater in the Mutton Hollow Theme Park in Branson, Missouri (most recently known as Celebration City), they were so taken by the beauty of the Ozarks, that  they sought out other opportunities to stay in the area.  After an invitation from Jimmy Osmond to join him and his talented brothers at the Osmond Family Theater, The Hamners began to earn a reputation around Branson as one of the most amazing support acts in town.  When their contract at the Osmond Theater expired, Dave and Denise were offered a featured role in a new production show called “Branson City Lights” which then led to an opportunity to finally headline their own “Magic of the Night” spectacular at the Remington Theatre.  A couple years later, they once again teamed up with Jimmy Osmond to perform in the “American Jukebox Show” where they shared a dressing room with comedian, ventriloquist Jim Barber who had also been cast in the new show.  Although the Hamners and Jim Barber had been friends for many years prior, this opportunity to appear in the same show brought them much closer together.

After a successful two-season run, the plug was pulled on the American Jukebox Show creating an opportunity for the performers to move on to new ventures.  Jimmy Osmond traveled to England to produce and star in various projects, and in the Spring  of 2004, Jim Barber and The Hamners were offered an opportunity to co-star in their very own “Hamner Barber Variety Show” at another venue that they now own together, the Hamner Barber Theater on Shepherd of the Hills Expressway.  In 2010, the award-winning variety show will celebrate it’s seventh-season as Branson’s most unique family show featuring magic, comedy, music and dance.

In addition to their magical feathered friends, the Hamners have also invented and developed many never-before-seen stage illusions that can only be experienced at their Branson show.  In the world of illusion, The Hamners are true originals in every sense of the word.  As long as they continue to step out onto the stage of the Hamner Barber Theater, there will be magic in the air above Branson!