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A huge LED screen at one end of the Dixie Stampede arena projects gorgeous scenery of the

Ozarks and America, always changing. This is the patriotic salute near the end of the show.

Dixie Stampede, Showboat Branson Belle

Remain Favorite Ozark Dinner Shows

                      by Pat Lindsey

No matter how many times you’ve been to Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede or the Showboat in Branson, each visit provides new entertainment experiences and delicious dinners for a reasonable price. The shows are always new and improved, but the welcoming Ozark hospitality is the same.

Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede, with its North and South rodeo-like competitions and colorful musical productions, is especially appealing to families. The show actually begins with a stroll from the parking lot along the Horse Walk where 32 magnificent horses are in their stalls waiting to perform. Then, there’s the Carriage Room Pre-Show before everyone enters the immense arena and prepares to chow down on a meal of creamy vegetable soup, Cornish hens, smoked pork loin, potatoes, corn on the cob, hot rolls, and apple turnovers. No eating utensils are allowed.

And while everyone is eating, the North and South rise again in horse-riding competitions, pig races, pole-climbing and log-rolling contests, and much more, in addition to a stirring patriotic salute, “Color Me Beautiful.” A huge LED screen at one end of the arena projects gorgeous scenery of the Ozarks and America. The Dixie Stampede is a perfect venue for kids, because they get to hoot and holler at the top of their lungs, eat with their hands, and be in the same space with live animals, western settlers, and Native American legends. What more could they want?

For reservations or more information, call 800-520-5544 or go online at www.dixiestampede.com.

     The paddle-wheeler Showboat Branson Belle on Lake Taneycomo offers five different types of cruises throughout the year and each of those has different departure times. We were accompanied on our 8 p.m. Saturday night “Celebrate” cruise by a large group of teens who were having their prom on board. Those special passengers in their prom dresses and tuxedos added an extra element of elegance to the stately décor of the big and beautiful Branson Belle.

Throughout dinner, comedian emcee Christopher James keeps the show moving with his quick quips and introductions of the male vocal group, The ShowMen; vocalist Cassandre’ Faimon-Haygood; the male tap dance troupe, Rhythm; and the band, the Rockin’ Dockers. The performers feature musical renditions from the ‘70s, ‘80s, and Broadway and the movies in their acts while guests enjoy a three-course meal of salad, rolls, pot roast, chicken, mashed potatoes, vegetables, and apple cinnamon torte. Intermission provides an opportunity to walk off some of that meal and take a stroll on the ship’s three upper decks.

This summer, June 12-Aug. 7, the Showboat will add more Princess & Pirate cruises. Little pricesses and pirates will be invitd to wear their favorite costumes and participate in a meal and entertainment and activities, including a dance party on the top deck, tiara and hat-making.

For more information on additional types of cruises, go to www.ShowboatBransonBelle.com or call 800-775-BOAT (2628).

Branson singer Cassandre now performs on the Branson Belle along with the talented  Group The Showmen)

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