What's New in Branson, Missouri, for Summer 2009
Airport Debuts, Cathy Rigby Performs in Peter Pan, Waterpark Opens
Apr 27, 2009
The entertainment mecca of Branson, Missouri, has a lot going for it all year round. But the summer months bring plenty of opportunities for visiting families to enjoy the great outdoors. (Sure, it might get hot and humid in the middle of July, but that's what refreshing lakes and waterpark features are for – too cool off!)
Besides the options for swimming, fishing and boating in area lakes, and hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking on area trails, man-made attractions abound. Visitors this summer will enjoy plenty of new offerings in Branson, which, in 2009, marks the 50th anniversary of its very first show. Here's a quick peek:
Brand-new Commercial Airport in Branson
The Branson Airport welcomes two low-cost carriers to the region when it opens officially for business on May 11. AirTran will fly nonstop to and from Atlanta, Georgia, daily (with 54 connecting destinations through Atlanta). Meanwhile, Sun Country will fly nonstop to and from its hub in Minneapolis/St. Paul. This is a huge boon to visitors who live more than a day's drive from Branson – or who have little interest in road-tripping to Missouri. Enterprise rental-car agency will be on site at the airport. For more information, check out this informative article about the new Branson Airport or visit the official airport website.
Cathy Rigby as Peter Pan
Beginning in May, accomplished U.S. gymnast Cathy Rigby will play Peter Pan in the Mansion Theatre's version of the famous musical. Rigby first portrayed the little boy who never wants to grow up in a touring production in 1974, and then on Broadway (as well as more tours) through the 1990s. Rigby is scheduled to perform in Branson through the 2009 holiday season.
Castle Rock & Waterpark Replaces Atrium Inn
This renovated and expanded property has a new name, as well as 100 more suites. But what will likely appeal most to families is the indoor waterpark, featuring a twisting corkscrew slide and tube ride, lazy river, toddler slides and zero-depth entry pool, and a giant dumping bucket. Book a room with a waterpark package for included entry into the water-play area. Choose from Tower rooms adjacent to the indoor waterpark, or Atrium rooms that require guests to walk outside to get to the waterpark.
Wedding Italiano Debuts at Branson Landing
Sounding suspiciously identical to Tony n' Tina's Wedding, the longest-running off-Broadway show that now has permanent show locations throughout the country, Wedding Italiano invites the audience to become guests at an Italian couple's wedding reception. The dinner show features an Italian buffet and wedding cake. Hilarity ensues when feuding families at the reception cause trouble; the audience actually helps determine a surprise ending that changes every show. Wedding Italiano opens in mid-June.
For more information, visit the Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau website.
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