Home to a wide selection of popular Branson shows is Americana Theatre, which offers a dynamic breadth of live entertainment. Originally, Americana Theatre was the historical Plummer Family Theater, only the third live music theater on 76 Country Boulevard. The Leap Day tornado that struck Branson in 2012 damaged much of the theater. This obstacle, unfortunate as it was, presented an opportunity for progress; the theater received structural, technical, and aesthetic renovations as a result. The shows now appearing at Americana Theatre are C.J. Newsom’s Classic Country and Comedy; Awesome 80s; Elvis: Story of a King; America’s Top Country Hits; The Best of Motown and More; Broadway to Bublé starring George Dyer; Classic Rock Icons; British Invasion; and the theater's brand-new show, Once Upon a Fairytale. Between the talented performers and engaging storylines, the quality of the productions at Americana Theatre takes Branson entertainment to new heights.
Awesome '80s
Chris Newsom works as the general manager at Americana Theatre, as well as operating light and sound for their shows. He also prioritizes working closely with the theater’s cast and crew to further elevate its productions. Newsom holds a degree in chemical engineering and worked in that industry for a time before changing course to work in a magic shop at Silver Dollar City. He went on to open several magic shops of his own in the Branson area. When the opportunity to work in the Branson theater space presented itself, he began managing and producing live shows. Currently, he enjoys his work at Americana Theatre because he gets to work with good people, produce high-quality live entertainment, and hear music that will put anyone in high spirits.
Something noteworthy about the shows presented at Americana Theatre is their multi-dimensional quality. New to the theater are live instruments being featured in select shows. Live instrumentals, gorgeous vocals, energetic choreography, engaging storylines, funny commentary, and interesting trivia all work together to capture the undivided attention of audiences. On the topic of one particular show of theirs, Awesome ‘80s, Newsom goes into the process of bringing this show to fruition. “I really wanted to get into the ‘80s. It’s really good timing for it. It’s [similar] to the ‘50s, where everyone knew ‘50s music. It’s one of those things where the music was so good, everyone [knew it].” The songs in the show are supremely singable and the cast is quite charismatic, bringing forth productions that are full of life.
Once Upon a Fairytale
Establishing a camaraderie with the people one works with is always important, and it is especially crucial to have this sense of comfortability when live performance is involved. Performers need to be in sync with each other to achieve artistic triumphs, and cast bonding is a main component that makes those triumphs possible. Newsom discusses this philosophy, saying, “[We all] have to have the same goal and mindset and travel in the same sort of direction,” then continues, “That’s one thing I really strive to [have] at this theater. Trying to have a good culture.” Likewise, forging these friendships lends itself to strengthening the technical caliber of the shows at Americana Theatre. “A lot of times, there’s a lot of dissension between the people on stage and the tech side. “[Problems arise] when [the cast and crew] don’t understand each other’s roles. Understanding the limitations of each other’s positions really helps a lot.” A handful of the performers will sometimes run sound for the shows, deepening creative cohesion. This is a unique factor that really places Americana Theatre on a different level of artistry.
Newsom sincerely wants audiences to enjoy themselves at Americana Theatre, saying, “I love being able to get the crowd into it through the production aspect of [the shows].” Another element is highlighting and showcasing the performers’ talents and hard work, and Newsom says, “When you run sound, it’s your job to make it sound absolutely amazing, because [the performers] are putting out the product, and I’ve got to take all that [into consideration].” Ultimately, offering excellent entertainment is what Americana Theatre is all about. Part of this includes audiences leaving shows in a cheerful mood. In Awesome ‘80s in particular, Newsom says, “We play ‘Walking on Sunshine’ on the way out for a reason. This is a happy, feel-good, wonderful time. You’re just going to have a great time at the show.”
Visitors to Branson will not want to miss the chance to see shows at the venue that housed some of Branson’s original live entertainment, and continues to put out amazing shows. The shows are outstanding; the cast and crew at Americana Theatre are anticipating an exciting show season, and Discover Branson shares this sentiment. For more information about planning your vacation, show schedules, and to purchase tickets, contact Discover Branson.
