The New Faith of Branson

(AgapePress) - The Branson story is not a new story to many: quaint historic town becomes a tourist mecca, seemingly overnight. That line could be true of several great travel destinations, including Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Myrtle Beach. But what sets Branson, Missouri, apart?

Branson has seen its share of successes and even a few failures. That is the normal ebb and flow of business in a tourist-driven economy. Beyond the economics, what has remained is the faith in the heart of Branson and, to many, a faith in a higher purpose for the area. On the surface a new face is evident -- but dig deeper and you will find a rich vein of faith in God, and faith in family. Branson is a town where God, flag, and country take center stage. Perhaps that was the heart of Branson all along.

Back in 1990, Branson saw the arrival of a cavalcade of stars including Mel Tillis, Charley Pride, Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, Wayne Newton, and comedian David Brenner. All big names to be sure! But the muscle of the bigger names didn't keep the smaller shows from surviving. They have survived and thrived ... and have proceeded to remain atop the list of "must-see family shows" in Branson. The shows you wouldn't be embarrassed to take your family to. And that is a common denominator that 99 percent of the shows share.

It's 2006 and families are expected to pour into Branson. What does the new Branson offer? It no longer caters solely to the stereotypical Branson tourist: the "country music loving, Larry the Cable Guy tourist." Branson has found a way to embrace sophisticated baby boomers. New attractions in 2006 include a $300 million waterfront development known as the "Landing," a new Titanic exhibit, and Silver Dollar City's new expansion, The Grand Exposition.

Some 16 years after the "boom years" of the 1990s, many of the theaters also cater to a new audience -- that of church member. Many theaters in Branson have also become home to several churches. It's not uncommon to find services every Sunday morning at your favorite theater.

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