Andy Williams is a name that many are familiar with. His melodious voice and hit songs graced the top of many music charts, and his variety TV show on NBC brought smiles to the faces of many. During the latter part of his career, Andy Williams decided to make a home in Branson with his Moon River Theater. The Andy Williams Branson Christmas Show became legendary in the Ozarks, along with many other performances. Sadly, Andy Williams passed away in 2012. But this music legend left an outstanding legacy behind him, through his theater and his songs.
Andy Williams got his start in music when he was eight years old, singing in a group called the Williams Brother Quartet, a group comprised of Andy and his brothers, and put together by his parents. The Williams Brothers Quartet sang at their families’ Presbyterian church, and eventually moved up to performing on air at a local radio station. Later on, after a successful stint with a comedian as a nightclub act, the brothers all went their separate ways, and Andy moved to New York to continue pursuing music.
As his career went on, Andy made multiple appearances on The Tonight Show, and then released his first top ten hit, Canadian Sunset. A string of other hits followed, including Lonely Street and The Hawaiian Wedding Song. Up until 1991, Andy continued to wow his fans with his musical performances and his work in television. It was in 1991 that Andy first came to Branson to visit a friend. He fell in love with the town and by 1992, the Moon River Theater was completed and opened for business. Andy hosted numerous famous guests at his theater, and packed the seats when it came to his Christmas show. After his cancer diagnosis and his passing in September 2012, his theater would still host outstanding performances just as it did when Andy was alive.
Today, the Andy Williams Branson Moon River Theater hosts Illusionist Rick Thomas, who wows guests with a stunning show featuring music, dance and unbelievable special effects, The Hits starring The Osmands, a show full of both country and rock ‘n’ roll, The Lettermen, a harmonious group that won’t disappoint, and many more. Stars such as Loretta Lynn and Ronnie Millsap can also be seen for single night shows at the Moon River Theater! And don’t forget about the Andy Williams Christmas Spectacular – all the performers at Andy Williams Branson Theater come together for a show full out holiday cheer that the whole family will love.
So the next time you are visiting Branson, or looking for something new to do, make plans to check out the Moon River Theater and pay tribute to Andy Williams – the man who’s passion and musical talent made him a legend!
