Dick Clark's American Bandstand in Branson, Missouri
Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater is a Branson
entertainment complex that includes not only a venue for music but also
several other attractions and amenities as well. Located on the famous
Branson Strip, the facility welcomes millions of visitors every year and has
a companion theater in Pigeon Forge,
The theater at Dick Clark’s establishment is not large;
it holds less than 1,000 people, making it one of Branson’s more intimate
entertainment venues. As the name of the theater might suggest, the music
hear is mostly rock-and-roll themed, a genre in which Dick Clark built an
empire. Theater patrons not only have an opportunity to hear live
performances but are also treated to clips and vintage footage from the many
years of American Bandstand, which aired from 1952 to 1989. (Clark was host
from 1957 until the show ended.) Performers at the “Legends in Concert”
show, one of the longest running in Branson, are impersonators that mimic
some of
Also on site is Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Grill, a restaurant that is reminiscent of a 1950s eatery. The menu is extensive and features everything from burgers and chicken sandwiches to soup and salad to much more sophisticated entrees like sirloin steaks and fresh grilled salmon. Signature cocktails with rock-and-roll names are also popular here, like the Purple Haze, Proud Mary, or the Blue Suede Shoes.
Those searching for some nighttime fun can head to the
onsite Club ’57. This 21-and-over nightclub features live music from
Thursday through Saturday and it also has karaoke on Wednesday evenings.
Happy Hour occurs every Tuesday through Saturday from
In keeping with the theme, Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater complex also offers Area ’57, an outdoor space that accommodates a number of festivals, concerts, and other events all year long, but especially during the summer. Situated within the 26-acre complex, this area is available for rent and is an especially popular place for antique car shows and motorcycle rallies. The 5.5 acre area also has a stage and is often used as a drive-in theater for the showing of vintage “B” movies of the 50s, 60s, and 70s. The general public is welcome to attend.
Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater complex was also once home to a unique car museum called ’57 Heaven, but the museum closed down in fall 2009 and all the cars and other items in the museum were sold to private parties or other museums.
Tickets for shows at the theater can be ordered in advance of a visit to Branson. During the summer months, shows sell out quickly as this is one of the most popular shows in the city. Reservations are also suggested for the restaurant during busy times of the year.
Useful Links:
http://www.dickclarksabbranson.com/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1DNSQR2-jzg
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