Jill VanMeter guest stars on ‘Gene Williams Show’

Rising country star Jill VanMeter, who has opened for the likes of Ty Herndon and T. Graham Brown, can now add guest starring on the award-winning "Gene Williams Country Television Show" to her list of achievements.

Sponsored by Lucas Oil Products, taped live in Branson, Mo. and broadcast to 20.5 million homes nationwide, the "Gene Williams Show" features celebrity guest stars performing with Gene’s Country Junction Band and in up-close-and-personal interviews.

"Jill’s performance of ‘Unchained Melody’ had the studio audience on its feet," said Gene Williams, the star of the "Gene Williams Country Television Show." "Jill has a great future in country music in front of her. Her show which was taped live in Branson, Mo., will be broadcast on the Saturday, April 23, and Sunday, April 24."

Branson, MO KCZ/UPN 15 Saturday 6 a.m.

Branson, MO KCZ/UPN 15 Sunday 6 a.m.

Branson, MO* KWBM/WB 31 Sunday 10:30 p.m.


Co-host Katie Lynn has received the Branson Entertainment Awards Best Support Vocalist twice for her work in the "Mickey Gilley Show." She performs solos each week with Gene's band, the Country Junction Band.

The next taping of the "Gene Williams Country Music Television Show" will be in a new location, Ain’t Misbehavin’ at 625 Hwy. 165, on Sunday, May 8 at 2 p.m. Among the scheduled guests are Grand Ole Opry stars Charlie Louvin and Jan Howard. Three half-hour shows will be taped live before a studio audience. Admission is free. Doors to the theater open at 1 p.m. For more information go to genewilliamscountry.com.

 

Young fiddler to perform in OKC concert

When the Oklahoma City bombing happened 10 years ago, Eric Dysart was only two years old and he didn’t start playing the fiddle until four years later; yet this week, the talented youngster will perform in a benefit concert with Vince Gill and Toby Keith to honor rescue workers, survivors and family members of victims of the 1995 catastrophe.

Originally from Disney, Okla., Dysart joins Gill, Keith and other Oklahoma natives, Ty England, Jimmy Webb, Byron Berline and Katrina Elam, for the concert. Very aware of the historical significance of the benefit concert which sold out in 16 hours, Dysart is comfortable with his role as opening act for the nationally-known celebrities. A member of American Kids Inc., the nation’s only little league of entertainers, he lives part time in Branson, Mo., where he can be found performing on many stages around the entertainment town. In addition, he is Oklahoma State Junior Fiddle Champion the past two years, plays the piano and guitar, sings and dances, has performed all over Oklahoma and holds a myriad of performance honors.

"The April 22 concert at the Ford Center in downtown Okahoma City is part of a weeklong commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in downtown Oklahoma City called the National Week of Hope. Even though I was very young when the bombing occurred, I understand how this event changed the lives of the entire nation. I especially want to remember the 168 who were killed, honor those who survived and say thank you to the emergency responders," said Dysart.

This week’s performance will be his first performance with a potential to bring him national recognition, but it is not the first time Dysart has performed to state recognition. In 2002 he was invited to play for the Oklahoma House of Representatives for Bob Wills Day.

Because of his involvement with the non-profit group American Kids Inc., which has a large membership of Oklahoma kid entertainers, Dysart has been guided to share his talent, according to Dr. Dale Smith, American Kids Inc. founder, and one of Dysart’s mentors.

"We are very proud of Eric and his involvement in this memorial concert," said Smith. "He is a model for others and an example of the goals set in our organization that through entertainment we encourage the highest potential of every child, nurture fairness and respect for all, share our talent gifts for the benefit of others and honor the commitment of those who gave us our freedom."

Founded in 1982, American Kids Inc. began in Oklahoma and was involved in various aspects of the events in the days following the Murrah Building bombing including honoring and performing for emergency workers at ground zero, according to Smith.

"Our roots are in Oklahoma. We began as a small group of talented young performers involved with Oklahoma’s Diamond Jubilee celebration and have grown to a large group celebrating what’s right about America. We promote drug-free lifestyles, patriotism and community service using entertainment as the means," said Smith. "Today we have offices in Branson, Mo., and Oklahoma City. In 1995, we had our main office in downtown Oklahoma City and lost many friends that day including the father of one of our young performers. It is fitting that one of our members is performing in this benefit concert and will be involved with an American Kids alum, Katrina Elam, in the concert as well."

Doug Gabriel’s Branson Spotlight auditions set for St. Louis

Vocalists compete for top prize of $5,000, recording session

March 19, 20, Westfield Shoppingtown® Crestwood

Branson's Doug Gabriel is holding auditions in St. Louis on March 19 and 20 at Westfield Shoppingtown Crestwood in Sears Court beginning at 11 a.m. on Saturday and noon on Sunday for his premiere late night hit showcasing vocalists competing to win a top prize of $5,000. The Shoppingtown is conveniently located on Watson Road just east of the intersection of I-270 and I-44.

Those wishing to audition are encouraged to register in advance to secure a spot. Call toll free 1-866-234-4365 for registration information. The St. Louis auditions, sponsored by Westfield Shoppingtown Crestwood, are the last of a series of auditions held in Kansas City, St. Joseph and Lebanon, Mo., and Tulsa.

From the auditions, singers are cast in the weekly Branson Spotlight competitions that begin Friday, April 8 in its 11 p.m. time slot at the Jim Stafford Theatre, according to Gabriel, the show's creator, producer and director. Performers compete in preliminaries, semifinals and finals for an array of prizes, personal appearances such as KRZK's Grand Country Saturday Night and The Doug Gabriel Show, a recording session and the $5,000 grand prize sponsored by Pepsi. Each one-hour show will feature six contestants.

"Branson Spotlight has a contest format with guest entertainment legends and the audience as the judges. We've changed the name from last year’s Branson Idol to better describe that the show spotlights new talent as well as all the wonderful shows in Branson. Not many shows are in this 11 p.m. time slot in Branson and we are excited to offer this alternative as the Friday night place to go after the shows," Gabriel said.

"We focus on vocalists, and many are waiting in the wings for that chance to shine on stage. Branson Spotlight provides that opportunity. Our 2004 winner, Carrie Joy Andreas of Edwardsville, Ill., is enjoying the opportunities our show has given her. We are currently working on her recording session in Nashville. After one season, two contestants are working as professional entertainers in Branson. Yolanda Fletcher is with the World Famous Platters and Wendy Sewell is in '50s at the Hop," he said.

"Our celebrity judging format with the audience selecting the winner each week is very popular. Guest celebrities for the new season will change weekly and be interviewed up close and personal. Judges last season included the legendary Jim Stafford, Tony Orlando, Ronnie McDowell, Moe Bandy, Mickey Gilley, Larry Gatlin, Merle Osmond and Pam Tillis. The guest celebrity will join me and my judging team of ‘The Lady Outlaw’ Jessica James and a favorite Branson comedian Terry Sanders who will judge each week as my Grandma," Gabriel said. Vocalists may also submit an audio and photograph or videotape. For more information check out the website at .

K-Life of Taney County (30 years of ministry as Youth Life now partnered with K-Life), a non-profit organization which offers unconditional friendship for youth, assists each week at the competition. Part of the proceeds from each show will again be donated to the group that provides positive alternatives to local youth through weekly clubs, small group Bible studies, sports, activities and trips. The K-Life staff builds relationships with the students and earns the right to share the gospel and then introduces them to a local church of their choice for discipleship.

In addition to Branson Spotlight, Gabriel stars in his award-winning morning show The Doug Gabriel Show that will be presented at 10 a.m. at the Jim Stafford Theatre, 3440 Hwy. 76 W., for his 12th Branson season. Doug’s wife Cheryl is an integral part of The Doug Gabriel Show and serves as emcee for Branson Spotlight.

March Military Madness showcases 16 Branson entertainers

Branson Veterans Task Force benefit

The non-profit organization which honors the nation’s veterans every day is being honored by 16 Branson entertainers in what is being billed as March Military Madness on Monday, March 21, at the Musical Palace (#1 Hits of the 60's), 2353 W. Hwy. 248 in Branson at 7 p.m.

The benefit show for the Branson Veterans Task Force (BVTF) is a cooperative effort between Steve Weyher from Branson’s Golden Corral who serves as BVTF’s community liaison and the Women Veterans' Welcoming Committee. In addition to a vast amount of talent, a vast amount of door prizes will be part of the evening’s entertainment.

"We have come together to invite the public to a fund-raiser for the Branson Veterans Task Force, a not-for-profit organization that is known for its years of dedication to veterans' causes in and around Branson. The BVTF is especially known for creating and hosting Branson Veterans Homecoming Week during the month of November. Begun in 1995, the event has become the nation's largest veterans' celebration. Last year approximately 100,000 veterans and their families came to Branson during the week leading up to Veterans Day on Nov. 11," said Mary Slivka, chairman of the Women Veterans' Welcoming Committee.

Among the entertainment scheduled to perform are members of American Kids Inc., the nation’s only little league of entertainers, Bob Anderson, Circle B Chuckwagon and Cowboy Music Show, Doug Gabriel, From Patsy to Present, John Tweed, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, The Lennon Brothers & Gail Lennon, #1 Hits of the 60's, Ronnie Prophet, The Braschlers Music Show, Tony Roi of The Elvis Experience and Two Fluffy Ladies. Jim Owen, Dalena Ditto and Les Brown Jr. are serving as masters of ceremony.

Door prizes include a color television, a child’s bicycle, tickets to a Kansas City Chief’s game, Silver Dollar City passes, Celebration City passes, White Water passes, restaurant gift certificates, a free overnight stay in Branson and more, according to Weyher.

Slivka said she is proud of the entertainment line-up which puts Branson’s entertainment community’s "best foot forward" and will include a military salute to veterans. She encourages every to "come say thank you to the Branson Veterans Task Force."

Ticket prices are $20 for adults and $8 for children under the age of 13. Call 417-339-1960 or toll free 866-339-1960 for tickets.

Comedian Lord Carrett Appears In Branson March 22-26 (Tuesday-Saturday) at the Branson Mall Music Theatre with special guest Mark Matusof. Please take a peek at Lord Carrett's site "http://www.LordofLaughs.com" 

Charlie Louvin returns as guest on ‘Gene Williams Show’

Charlie Louvin, who recently attended his 50th anniversary celebration on the Grand Ole Opry, returns as the next guest on the award-winning "Gene Williams Country Music Television Show" sponsored by Lucas Oil Products and taped live in Branson, Mo.

"My friend Charlie Louvin treats the audience with reports on his 50h anniversary celebration. He won two Grammy Awards in 2004 and is continuing as a spokesperson for Lucas Oil Products in 2005. He has committed to return as a guest on my show four times in the next year," said Gene Williams, the star of the "Gene Williams Country Television Show." "Charlie holds membership in the Country Music Hall of Fame and Country Music Songwriter Hall of Fame and continues to create fresh recordings which remain true to the country music tradition."

Williams, too, remains true to his country music roots by taking traditional country to television audiences and broadcasts his show to more than 20.5 million homes nationwide weekly. The show features guest stars performing with Gene’s Country Junction Band and in up-close-and-personal interviews. Louvin’s show will be broadcast on the Saturday, March 26, and Sunday, March 27.

Branson, MO KCZ/UPN 15 Saturday 6 a.m.

Branson, MO KCZ/UPN 15 Sunday 6 a.m.

Branson, MO* KWBM/WB 31 Sunday 10:30 p.m.


The next taping of the "Gene Williams Country Music Television Show" is Sunday, March 27, at 2 p.m. at Branson Mall Music Theatre with Ernie Ashworth, Grand Ole Opry star who recorded the hit "Talk Back Tremblin’ Lips" in the late ‘60s, the World-Famous Platters and Tim Hadler who performs a Hank Williams tribute show at the IMAX Theatre in Branson. Three half-hour shows will be taped live before a studio audience. Admission to the tapings is free. Doors to the theater open at 1 p.m.
 

The next taping of the "Gene Williams Country Music Television Show" is Sunday, March 27, at 2 p.m. at Branson Mall Music Theatre. Three half-hour shows will be taped live before a studio audience. Admission to the tapings is free. Doors to the theater open at 1 p.m.

John Wain, Jennifer McCullough guests on ‘Gene Williams Show’

Branson impersonator John Wain and Branson Chamber of Commerce public relations director Jennifer McCullough are guests this week on the "Gene Williams Country Music Television Show" sponsored by Lucas Oil Products.

Broadcast to more than 20.5 million homes nationwide, the "Gene Williams Country Music Television Show" features guest stars performing with Gene’s Country Junction Band and in up-close-and-personal interviews. For the Saturday, Feb. 26, and Sunday, Feb. 27 broadcasts;


Branson, MO KCZ/UPN 15 Saturday 6 a.m.

Branson, MO KCZ/UPN 15 Sunday 6 a.m.

Branson, MO KWBM/WB 31 Sunday 10:30 p.m.

Jim  Wain, who is known as a John Wayne impersonator, entertains Williams and his studio audience as Walter Brennen. McCullough brings Williams up to date with exciting events in Branson, the live entertainment capital of the world, and talks about her family’s long-time relationship with Williams, the star and creator of the "Gene Williams Country Music Television Show."


The next taping of the "Gene Williams Country Music Television Show" is Sunday, March 6, at 2 p.m. at Branson Mall Music Theatre. Grand Ole Opry star Charlie Louvin, who is celebrating 50 years as a member of the Grand Ole Opy on Feb. 26, is scheduled as a guest. Three half-hour shows will be taped live before a studio audience. Admission to the tapings is free. Doors to the theater open at 10 a.m. .

 

Owen guest on ‘Gene Williams Show’

The incomparable Jim Owen is the guest star this week on the "Gene Williams Country Music Television Show" sponsored by Lucas Oil Products .

Broadcast to more than 20.5 million homes nationwide, the "Gene Williams Country Music Television Show" features guest stars performing with Gene’s Country Junction Band and in up-close-and-personal interviews. For the Saturday, Feb. 19, and Sunday, Feb. 20 broadcasts Town, St Station Channel Day Time:

Branson, MO KCZ/UPN 15 Saturday 6 a.m.

Branson, MO KCZ/UPN 15 Sunday 6 a.m.

Branson, MO KWBM/WB 31 Sunday 10:30 p.m.

Owen sings his hits "Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man" and "Waltz Across Texas" and brings Gene and his co-host Katie Lynn up to date on where his popular morning show will be presented this season.

"Jim has written hits for many of country's most famous stars such as Mel Tillis, Jim Ed Brown, Crystal Gayle, Jerry Reed, Roy Clark and Moe Bandy. In fact, Conway Twitty and Loretta Lynn recorded his most noted song, ‘Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man.’ Jim’s fans can see him this season in Branson at the New Country Tonite Theatre, formerly the Americana Theatre," said Williams, the star and creator of the "Gene Williams Country Music Television Show."

The next taping of the "Gene Williams Country Music Television Show" is Sunday, March 6, at 2 p.m. at Branson Mall Music Theatre. Three half-hour shows will be taped live before a studio audience. Admission to the tapings is free. Doors to the theater open at 10 a.m.

 

Doug Gabriel’s Branson Spotlight auditions set for Tulsa

Branson's Doug Gabriel is holding auditions for his premiere late night hit that showcases up and coming vocalists competing to win a top prize of $5,000 in Tulsa Feb. 19 and 20.

Doug Gabriel's Branson Spotlight, formerly Branson Idol, will hold auditions at Tulsa’s Eastland Mall 14002 E. 21st. St. starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday and noon on Sunday. This is the second year auditions have been held at this location.

Those wishing to audition should register in advance to secure a spot. Call toll free 1-866-234-4365 for registration information.

Once the series of auditions are held in various locations through March, the weekly Branson Spotlight competitions will begin Friday, April 8 in its 11 p.m. time slot at the Jim Stafford Theatre, according to Gabriel, the show's creator, producer and director. Performers compete in preliminaries, semifinals and finals for an array of prizes, personal appearances such as KRZK's Grand Country Saturday Night and The Doug Gabriel Show, a recording session and a $5,000 grand prize sponsored by Pepsi. Each one-hour show will feature six contestants.

"Branson Spotlight has a contest format with guest entertainment legends and the audience as the judges. We've changed the name to better describe that the show spotlights new talent as well as all the wonderful shows in Branson. Not many shows are in this 11 p.m. time slot in Branson and we are excited to offer this alternative as a place to go after the shows," he said.

"We focus on vocalists, and many are waiting in the wings for that chance to shine on stage. Branson Spotlight provides that opportunity. Our 2004 winner, Carrie Joy Andreas of Edwardsville, Ill., is enjoying the opportunities our show has given her. We are currently working on her recording session in Nashville. After one season, two contestants are working as professional entertainers in Branson. Yolanda Fletcher is with the World Famous Platters and Wendy Sewell is in '50s at the Hop," said Gabriel.

"Our celebrity judging format with the audience selecting the winner each week is very popular," said Gabriel. "Guest celebrities for the new season will change weekly and be interviewed up close and personal."

The guest celebrity will join the judging team of Gabriel, "The Lady Outlaw" Jessica James and a favorite Branson comedian Terry Sanders who will appear each week as Doug's Grandma. Gabriel's wife Cheryl and Chance Havens will return as the masters of ceremonies for the show. Cheryl is an integral part of The Doug Gabriel Show and will continue in that capacity in addition to this new emcee role. Havens is signed with Castle Records and has been seen on many Branson stages including Silver Dollar City, Starlite Theatre and Barbara Fairchild.

K-Life of Taney County (30 years of ministry as Youth Life now partnered with K-Life), a non-profit organization which offers unconditional friendship for youth, will again assist. Part of the proceeds from each show will again be donated to the group that provides positive alternatives to local youth through weekly clubs, small group Bible studies, sports, activities and trips. The K-Life staff builds relationships with the students and earns the right to share the gospel and then introduces them to a local church of their choice for discipleship.

Auditions will be held in Kansas City on Feb. 26-27 starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday and noon on Sunday at Metro North Mall, 400 NW Barry Rd. The event is sponsored by the mall. Additional audition locations in Rochester, Minn. will be announced soon. Vocalists may also submit an audio and photograph or videotape. For more information call toll free 1-866-234-4365

In addition to Branson Spotlight, Gabriel stars in his award-winning morning show The Doug Gabriel Show that will be presented at 10 a.m. at the Jim Stafford Theatre, 3440 Hwy. 76 W., for his 12th Branson season.
 

LONG-TIME MEMBER OF THE SONS OF THE PIONEERS, SUNNY SPENCER, DIES AT AGE 75

(Branson, MO) The Sons of the Pioneers and The Shepherd of the Hills Homestead and Outdoor Theatre Family are deeply saddened by the loss of long-time Pioneer performer, Robert “Sunny” Spencer, who passed away in Tucson, Arizona Saturday evening, February 5th.

As a young teenager, while working at radio station WLEX, announcer Tom Nolan nicknamed Robert “Sunny” and both the name and personality have made Sunny a favorite of friends, family, and fans alike ever since. Trail Boss Dale Warren, a 52-year member of the Sons of the Pioneers and personal friend of Sunny Spencer for over sixty years, said, “Anyone who has known or worked with Sunny, or enjoyed his music, knows that the name is the man! There is no name that could have captured the smile, musical talents, and contagious personality, other than Sunny.” The Shepherd of the Hills owner, Gary Snadon, stated, “Although Sunny and the Pioneers have only made The Shepherd of the Hills their home for one season now, Sunny had already made a place for himself in the hearts and minds of the Shepherd family. His smile, wave, outgoing spirit, and incredible stage presence will be greatly missed by all of us who had come to know and love Sunny, and looked forward to seeing him each day.”

Sunny, who hailed from Winchester, Kentucky, grew up with strong musical influences at home, school, and in his local church, and he established himself as an incredibly gifted musician, with an infectious warmth and energy that captivated audiences. Sunny and Dale Warren met when both men were teenagers, and their paths crossed many times over the years. In February of 1984, Dale Warren called Sunny and asked him to replace Rusty Richards with the Pioneers. He sang lead vocals, and brought his mastery of many instruments to the already potent musical arsenal the Pioneers possessed, making his “trademark” the classic song “Momma Don’t Allow No Music Playin’ ‘Round Here,” in which he played guitar, saxophone, banjo, trumpet, fiddle, “jug,” and clarinet. Warren said, “Sunny could walk out on stage and simply smile at the audience, and do more entertaining than most entertainers do in an entire show. He would absolutely win an audience over, and make them his own. He was a musician’s musician, coming to the theatre many times twice a day to “build his nest,” tune, and polish his instruments. Then when the curtain opened, he just turned on like a light, and you never knew what Sunny might be up to. He kept us all on our toes. Our younger members looked up to Sunny as a legend, and when that curtain opened, no matter how he might feel, every audience got 150% of Sunny Spencer!”

Sunny had been in Tucson with the Pioneers appearing at their winter home, the Hidden Valley Inn, and was looking forward to a return to The Shepherd of the Hills for their second season in the new Pavilion Theatre. He had become a favorite of the staff and employees at The Shepherd of the Hills.

There will be a memorial service held in Tucson on Wednesday, February 9th with funeral services being held in Branson on February 13th. Warren stated that the Pioneers will not be able to travel back to Branson for the funeral services, as they will fulfill their commitment to sell-out crowds in Tucson. If there ever was anyone who would understand and live by the old axiom, “The Show Must Go On” it would be Sunny. “He would certainly understand, and I know he wouldn’t have it any other way,” said Warren. “It’s really the greatest tribute we can give to his memory.” However, plans are underway for a community-wide memorial service in tribute to Sunny Spencer, hosted by the Sons of the Pioneers and The Shepherd of the Hills upon the return of the Pioneers to their summer and fall home, here in Branson. Details of the memorial will be released as soon as they are finalized.

Robert "Sunny" Spencer brought to the Sons of the Pioneers a depth of talent that is both unique and impressive. His fine vocal ability, his mastery of the fiddle, clarinet, guitar, banjo, mandolin, sax, trumpet, bass, fiddle, in addition to his often outlandish sense of humor, has added a unique quality to the Pioneers, as evidenced by the love of millions of fans over the twenty-one years he performed with the Pioneers. As Dale Warren described so simply, yet eloquently, “There was only one Sunny Spencer!”

The Sons of the Pioneers will open their 23rd season in Branson on May 16th.

The Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Theatre – 5586 West Highway 76 – Branson, MO 65616

(417) 334-4191 - Fax (417) 335-4473 – 1-800-653-6288 – www.theshepherdofthehills.com

Doug Gabriel’s Branson Spotlight auditions set for St. Joseph, Kansas City

Branson's Doug Gabriel is holding auditions for his premiere late night hit that showcases up and coming vocalists competing to win a top prize of $5,000 in St. Joseph and Kansas City this month.

Doug Gabriel's Branson Spotlight, formerly Branson Idol, will hold auditions in St. Joseph Feb. 12-13 starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday and noon on Sunday at the sponsor location, East Hills Shopping Center, Belt Highway and Frederick Ave.

In Kansas City, auditions will be held Feb. 26-27 starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday and noon on Sunday at Metro North Mall, 400 NW Barry Rd. The event is sponsored by the mall.

Those wishing to audition should register in advance to secure a spot. Call toll free 1-866-234-4365 for registration information.

Once the series of auditions are held in various locations through March, the weekly Branson Spotlight competitions will begin Friday, April 8 in its 11 p.m. time slot at the Jim Stafford Theatre, according to Gabriel, the show's creator, producer and director. Performers compete in preliminaries, semifinals and finals for an array of prizes, personal appearances such as KRZK's Grand Country Saturday Night and The Doug Gabriel Show, a recording session and a $5,000 grand prize sponsored by Pepsi. Each one-hour show will feature six contestants.

"Branson Spotlight has a contest format with guest entertainment legends and the audience as the judges. We've changed the name to better describe that the show spotlights new talent as well as all the wonderful shows in Branson. Not many shows are in this 11 p.m. time slot in Branson and we are excited to offer this alternative as a place to go after the shows," he said.

"We focus on vocalists, and many are waiting in the wings for that chance to shine on stage. Branson Spotlight provides that opportunity. Our 2004 winner, Carrie Joy Andreas of Edwardsville, Ill., is enjoying the opportunities our show has given her. We are currently working on her recording session in Nashville. After one season, two contestants are working as professional entertainers in Branson. Yolanda Fletcher is with the World Famous Platters and Wendy Sewell is in '50s at the Hop," said Gabriel.

"Our celebrity judging format with the audience selecting the winner each week is very popular," said Gabriel. "Guest celebrities for the new season will change weekly and be interviewed up close and personal."

The guest celebrity will join the judging team of Gabriel, "The Lady Outlaw" Jessica James and a favorite Branson comedian Terry Sanders who will appear each week as Doug's Grandma. Gabriel's wife Cheryl and Chance Havens will return as the masters of ceremonies for the show. Cheryl is an integral part of The Doug Gabriel Show and will continue in that capacity in addition to this new emcee role. Havens is signed with Castle Records and has been seen on many Branson stages including Silver Dollar City, Starlite Theatre and Barbara Fairchild.

K-Life of Taney County (30 years of ministry as Youth Life now partnered with K-Life), a non-profit organization which offers unconditional friendship for youth, will again assist. Part of the proceeds from each show will again be donated to the group that provides positive alternatives to local youth through weekly clubs, small group Bible studies, sports, activities and trips. The K-Life staff builds relationships with the students and earns the right to share the gospel and then introduces them to a local church of their choice for discipleship.

Additional audition locations in Rochester, Minn. and Tulsa will be announced soon. Vocalists may also submit an audio and photograph or videotape. For more information call toll free 1-866-234-4365 or check out the website at www.bransonidol.com.

In addition to Branson Spotlight, Gabriel stars in his award-winning morning show The Doug Gabriel Show that will be presented at 10 a.m. at the Jim Stafford Theatre, 3440 Hwy. 76 W., for his 12th Branson season.
 

Doug Gabriel guest on ‘Gene Williams Show’

Fans of the "Gene Williams Country Music Television Show" sponsored by Lucas Oil Products are treated this week to the voice of the award-winning Doug Gabriel, Branson’s preeminent entertainer.

Broadcast to more than 20.5 million homes nationwide, the "Gene Williams Country Music Television Show" features guest stars performing with Gene’s Country Junction Band and in up-close-and-personal interviews. For the Saturday, Feb. 12, and Sunday, Feb. 13 broadcasts-

Branson, MO KCZ/UPN 15 Saturday 6 a.m.

Branson, MO KCZ/UPN 15 Sunday 6 a.m.

Branson, MO KWBM/WB 31 Sunday 10:30 p.m.

Gabriel tells Gene and his co-host Katie Lynn about his recent move to the Jim Stafford Theatre.

"Doug is returning to the theater where he started in Branson 11 years ago. His morning show which opens April 12 and his late night show, "Branson Spotlight"opens April 8. Doug’s talent has made him one of the most honored Branson entertainers with seven time male vocalist of the year, entertainer of the year and instrumentalist of the year," said Williams, the star and creator of the "Gene Williams Country Music Television Show."

Williams remains true to his country music roots by taking traditional country to television audiences. He began his career in the country music field as a DJ in Memphis on KWAM in 1957 and was named 1961 Grand Ole Opry DJ of the Year. In 1963 he started the "Gene Williams Country Junction Show" in Arkansas and syndicated it nationwide to 173 markets. He made two movies about country music which starred more than 39 Grand Ole Opry stars including Ray Price, Carl Smith, Jordanaires, Kitty Wells, Little Jimmy Dickens, Grand Ole Opry Square Dancers and the late Marty Robbins, Webb Pierce, Ernest Tubb, June Carter, Bill Monroe, Duke of Paducah and Faron Young. Williams is an inductee to the Memphis Music Hall of Fame and has been honored by the Missouri Senate and the State of Arkansas for his contributions to the tourism industry. He holds a record in Arkansas of having eight days proclaimed Gene Williams Day by five governors including three times by former President Bill Clinton.

Co-host Katie Lynn has received the Branson Entertainment Awards Best Support Vocalist twice for her work in the "Mickey Gilley Show." She performs solos each week with Gene's band, the Country Junction Band. Band members are Gary Myers and Joey Riley from the "Mickey Gilley Show," Kelly Black, former bass player for Johnny Lee, Chuck Landry, drummer for Mel Tillis, and keyboardist Stu Maru of "14 Karat Country" and the "Denny Yeary Show."

The next taping of the "Gene Williams Country Music Television Show" is Wednesday, Feb. 16 at 11 a.m. at Branson Mall Music Theatre with guests Johnny Lee, Jim Owen, John Wain and Jennifer McCullough of the Branson Chamber of Commerce. Three half-hour shows will be taped live before a studio audience. Admission to the tapings is free. Doors to the theater open at 10 a.m.


 

Tony Roi guest stars on ‘Gene Williams Show’

Tony Roi, one of the world’s top Elvis impersonators, joins Gene Williams on the next broadcast of the Lucas Oil Products sponsored "Gene Williams Country Music Television Show" which is broadcast to more than 20.5 million homes nationwide.

"Tony fills us in on what is happening with his new show, "The Elvis Experience," which will be opening March 17 at Music City Center in Branson," said Williams, the star and creator of the "Gene Williams Country Music Television Show." "Tony has had a passion for all types of music since he was 5. He not only is one of the best Elvis impersonators, he is a great performer in his own right. His appearances include David Letterman, "All My Children," Regis & Kathy Lee and NBC Today Show."

The weekly "Gene Williams Country Music Television Show" features guest stars performing with Gene’s Country Junction Band and in up-close-and-personal interviews. The show with Roi airs Saturday, Jan. 29, and Sunday, Jan. 30 on the following stations:

Branson, MO KCZ/UPN 15 Saturday 6 a.m.

Branson, MO KCZ/UPN 15 Sunday 6 a.m.

Branson, MO KWBM/WB 31

 
Remaining true to the country music tradition, Williams began his career in the country music field as a DJ in Memphis on KWAM in 1957 and was named 1961 Grand Ole Opry DJ of the Year. In 1963 he started the "Gene Williams Country Junction Show" in Arkansas and syndicated it nationwide to 173 markets.

Williams has made two movies: "Country Music Jamboree" and the "Sound of Country Music" which starred more than 39 Grand Ole Opry stars including Ray Price, Carl Smith, Jordanaires, Kitty Wells, Little Jimmy Dickens, Grand Ole Opry Square Dancers and the late Marty Robbins, Webb Pierce, Ernest Tubb, June Carter, Bill Monroe, Duke of Paducah and Faron Young. Williams is an inductee to the Memphis Music Hall of Fame and has been honored by the Missouri Senate and the State of Arkansas for his contributions to the tourism industry.

Katie Lynn, Williams' co-host, has received the Branson Entertainment Awards Best Support Vocalist twice for her work in the "Mickey Gilley Show." She performs solos each week with Gene's band, the Country Junction Band. Band members are Gary Myers and Joey Riley from the "Mickey Gilley Show," Kelly Black, former bass player for Johnny Lee, Chuck Landry, drummer for Mel Tillis, and keyboardist Stu Maru of "14 Karat Country" and the "Denny Yeary Show."

The next taping of the "Gene Williams Country Music Television Show" is Wednesday, Feb. 16 at 11 a.m. at Branson Mall Music Theatre with guests Johnny Lee, Jim Owen and John Wain. Three half-hour shows will be taped live before a studio audience. Admission to the tapings is free. Doors to the theater open at 10 a.m.