Jim Stafford

A Stafford Family Christmas

2011-11-25T06:49:00.001-06:00

By Tyler Francke, Branson Tri-Lakes News
Christmas is a time to be around loved ones for many and it’s the same story in Branson, though it sometimes plays out a bit differently for the city’s performing families.

The holiday season means more family time for longtime Branson entertainer Jim Stafford, partly because his whole family joins the show, including his wife, Ann.

“I always like the Christmas show, because the whole family’s in it,” Stafford said after a performance at his theater Wednesday. “My wife’s not in it during the regular season, but she does it during Christmas.”

Of course, the Staffords’ son, Shea, now 18, and daughter, G.G., now 14, have been performing at the Jim Stafford Theatre virtually their entire lives.

Read the rest of the story here:
http://www.bransontrilakesnews.com/news_free/article_9a419580-1796-11e1-9ab5-001cc4c03286.html

Top 10 Rock and Roll Revue moves to Jim Stafford Theatre; Moe Bandy will not perform at theater.

2011-05-29T07:54:00.001-05:00

by Tyler Francke for Branson Tri-Lakes News

Longtime Branson entertainer Moe Bandy has decided he will not perform at the Jim Stafford Theatre this season as he had planned, and the “Top 10 Rock and Roll Revue,” a tribute show that recently began its third season at the Branson Mall, will take his place.

Cindy Merry, Bandy’s publicist, said his touring schedule and some other projects he is working on forced him to push his opening date at the Jim Stafford Theatre back to Sept. 4. Merry, who is also Stafford’s marketing consultant, said the theater was having difficulty finding an act that would agree to perform at the time slot only for the next few months.

“Moe Bandy and the Staffords are really good friends,” Merry said. “And when Moe found out nobody wanted the spot if they couldn’t go all year, he was gracious enough to give it up.” Read the rest of the story here: http://bransontrilakesnews.com/entertainment/article_4db8354c-8327-11e0-bf89-001cc4c002e0.html

With Jim Stafford you can't hold the laughter in ... about Jim's Branson Show

2011-05-07T15:25:00.000-05:00

By Gary Groman for Branson Tourism Center
BRANSON, Mo. “Laughter has its own way out if you try to hold it in,” says Jim Stafford as he begins two hours of making it just about impossible not to laugh. As I was reviewing a recent performance of the Jim Stafford Show for the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, it was easy to see how this remarkable entertainer has gained iconic status in Branson over his 22 years of entertaining Branson audiences with his unique brand of humor, charisma, and musical talent.

Jim’s comedy is the mainstay of the show and is worked in throughout to keep the audience in a constant state of anticipation and laughter. He has a unique style and ability that gets the audience involved in the humorous stories he is telling about things to which we can all relate. For example, most of us have all been in a hot tub at one time or another, but after hearing about Jim’s hot tub escapade it is doubtful any of us will ever get into a hot tub again without chuckling.

The shows first number, “Let the Good Times Roll” really tells the story of what is going to be happening for the next two hours as the audience experiences one of the most unique comedy and musical presentations on any stage in Branson. It’s not just the music or the humor, although that would be enough, but it’s the way it is combined to flow effortlessly from one segment to the next along with great special effects.

From lighting and sound to holography, black light and 3D, this show is packed with special effects. This writers favorite and one that really appealed to the kids in the audience, was the “black light” presentation in conjunction with Jim’s performance of “Spiders and Snakes.” The shows use of 3D in the second half was another segment that, while entertaining the whole audience, just had the kids mesmerized.

I could not help, but notice that the show held the interest of the whole audience, including children, as it effortlessly went from one exciting segment to another. While being primarily an adult show its special effects, surprises like the “stampede” and the tossing of cow patties make this an ideal show for both adults and children.

Shea and G.G. perform Chariots of Fire

Jim is also a talented musician on a number of instruments, particularly the acoustical guitar. His rendition of “Malaguena” is simply beautiful and I loved his rendition of the old country classic “Wildwood Flower, but it should be remembered that in this show laughter could be but a note away. Jims two children, his daughter GG and son Shea play a variety of music throughout the show from GG’s unique version of the old rhythm in blues standard “Get Your Kicks on Route 66″ to Shea’s rendition of the fiddle classic “Orange Blossom Special.” This writer’s personal favorite was their version of “Chariots of Fire” with Shea on the piano and GG on the harp.Perhaps the words of Patina and Don, from Maine, who attended the same show I did, sum up the Jim Stafford Show experience best. “When we came to the show, we were in a blah mood because of the rain, clouds and no sun, but we’re in a light hearted sunny mood now. He’s really funny and so personable. His son and daughter are so fantastic on the piano. I loved the whole show and his guitar playing, but my favorite part is when he tells his jokes. We definitely recommend this show, it’s fantastic.” And to that this writer would say, “Amen.”

A tip from AYMag on Branson's Best:

2011-04-30T14:12:00.004-05:00

Angela E. Thomas in writing for AYMag talked about Branson's Best and had this to say about Jim's show:

"Don't miss Jim Stafford's Comedy Show. It is a combination of musical talent, hilarity and energy!"

Thanks Angela!

Jim Stafford - out of his mind and in to your heart in Branson, Missouri

2011-03-15T14:57:00.004-05:00

Written by Linda Burlingame for Shepherd of the Hills Gazette
Tuesday, 01 March 2011 07:06

Jim Stafford - out of his mind and in to your heart!

I’m not sure who came up with that, but it is funny. It goes along with what I have said, “Jim wakes up in a new world every day!” Meaning you never know what to expect, things change … but you can always count on fun. That’s the way I feel about the Jim Stafford Show, it’s always new and fun. As many times as I’ve seen it since 1990, I always enjoy it, always laugh, and always love watching the audience reaction.

Jim’s show really is fun, and funny, whether it’s the music, the comedy songs — Cow Patty is one of my favorites! — the black light number, 3-D adventure, or something as simple as “Roll Call.” Practice makes perfect, playing the guitar or doing comedy. Jim practices both. He told me when he began doing comedy, he put up mirrors all around the room and practiced in front of them. He perfected his expressions and timing: how long to pause between lines; how long to maintain eye contact; is it a nod of the head or a body turn? A myriad of emotions and tiny motions make all the difference!

Jim is one of the most talented guitarists anywhere. Whether he’s playing Mason Williams’s Classical Gas or his own Spiders and Snakes, it’s magnificent. Jim has been “makin’ a living” with his guitar since he was 16 years old. Jim is in good company when it comes to hit songs. Spiders and Snakes (1974) sits in the top 50 of Billboard’s Hot 100 Country Songs, along with the hits of Elvis, Glen Campbell, Faith Hill, Shania Twain, Marty Robbins and other recording artists.

Shea and G.G., Jim and Ann’s two children, are still part of the show. They’re growing up, turning into seasoned performers. Shea and G.G. have been part of the show since they were babies. Sheaffer is now 18 and G.G. is 14. (I remind everyone again, we don’t get old as fast as our kids.)

Jim will never stop practicing. I’ll never stop enjoying The Jim Stafford Show! And I’m betting you won’t either. Enjoy!

Jim Stafford Offers University of Central Missouri students advice on music, life

2011-03-14T10:09:00.000-05:00

By Anna Jones for the digitalBurg - A Warrensburg community news service of the Muleskinner at The University of Central Missouri

WARRENSBURG, Mo.--Guitar players at the University of Central Missouri were treated on Friday to a one-on-one chance to meet and have some instruction by guitar playing comedian Jim Stafford.

At the session on Friday, sponsored by the University’s Performing Arts Series, Stafford had simple advice for UCM students.

“You have to have dream goals and practical goals. Dream goals are the big dreams of what you want from your career; practical goals are so that you can still make a living,” he said.

Stafford has had a long and successful career entertaining his audiences not only with his musical talent but also with his comical presence on stage.

Read the rest of the story here: http://www.digitalburg.com/artman2/publish/Top_Story_94/Jim_Stafford_offers_UCM_students_advice_on_music_life.shtml

Jim Stafford at the Taj Mahal - comments by South Jersey Local News

2011-02-17T23:29:00.000-06:00

In a story about Pemberton Seniors in the South Jersey Local News, their trip to see Jim Stafford was mentioned:

Over 50 seniors headed to Atlantic City on Wednesday to see the Jim Stafford Show at the Taj Mahal. Favorite driver Marty Gravenstein escorted the group. The weather was pleasant, but cold and some how they managed to find a day without snow or sleet.

Jim Stafford’s son, Shea Stafford was with him for the performance at the Taj. His son is a talented young man who plays the piano and violin. The audience really enjoyed his performance. Some have described Shea as playing with a Jerry Lee Lewis piano style. Jim plays the classical guitar and tells jokes. Some have described him as the “Victor Borge” of guitar players. Both are so talented. Jim has his own theatre in Branson, Missouri. After a full day, the seniors returned to Acme by 7:15 p.m

by Ebba Liguori

Heat to fun with Hot Winter Fun In Branson Missouri

2011-01-18T07:04:00.001-06:00

Here's one of Jim's songs that he created to help promote Branson. We're open for fun in 2011! See Jim's schedule for shows in February and March

A letter to Jim Stafford from Dr. Ott

2010-10-17T15:41:00.000-05:00

This letter was received from Dr. Lou Ott from Kansas. He wrote it Jim on 16 Sept., 2010. There are copies of the original letter posted here: http://20thanniversary.jimstafford.com/2010/10/great-letter-to-jim-from-true-fan-and.html and below is a "paraphrase of the letter" for ease of reading. Jim and Ann were especially touched with these comments and in particular his comment that "... you have the ability to change their inner smile --- the smile of the heart." Thanks Dr Ott!
Mr. Stafford,

For 21 years our "old Navy ship", the USS Sphinx-ARL 24, has held their annual reunion in Branson, and for 19 of those years I have had the privilege of attending your show (each year). I know that you have had many thousands of people tell you they have enjoyed the show, but I often wonder if entertainers really know how some of them can affect the individuals?

I practiced general Dentistry for 38 years and I know the monotony of repeating the same thing time after time, but I'm working up close and personal with each patient, one on one. You, however, are working one on thousands each time.

I know several entertainers personally and ask them if they ever get bored doing the same thing time and again, and the answer is always yes ------- if so, I tell them to look out at the people and see them standing and applauding and look at the smiles on their faces or perhaps the tears in their eyes.

Jim, in every audience that you have there are many who are hurting, and I do mean really hurting and you are by far the best thing that has happened to and for them in a long time, and I assure you the feeling does not disappear when they leave the theater. If ever you feel that, I would say that makes for a good day, and you must have many of them.

I always felt that I had the ability to perhaps change each person's physical smile, but you have the ability to change their inner smile --- the smile of the heart. I certainly enjoyed seeing and hearing your children "doing their thing" and hope they'll continue to make people feel good --- like their father does; they are quite good at it.

I carve many decorative duck decoys, and on the bottom of each I write some "sayings" -- one of my favorites is: "Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Others stay awhile and leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never the same." You, Mr. Jim Stafford, are certainly one of them.

I didn't really mean to rant and rave so long, but just wanted you to know how one of the "old farts" (81 yrs) out in your audience feels each time I see you.

Stay well; love yourself, and tell those around you that you love them too ------

Respectfully,
Louis J. Ott

Todd Oliver & Friends Bring New Show to Jim Stafford Theatre

2010-08-11T15:25:00.000-05:00

Talking Dogs, Real Dummies, & The Smiling Eyes perform with Todd Oliver in Branson, MO

(Tuesday, August 10, 2010 ~ Branson, MO) Nationally known comedian Todd Oliver will appear at the Jim Stafford Theatre in Branson, Missouri in his own show, Todd Oliver & Friends, in 2011. Todd Oliver & Friends shows begin on Tuesday, March 1, 2011, and will run through December 30, 2011. Todd Oliver, known for his amazing talking dogs and hilarious comedy, says, “Along with my canine friends – Irving, Lucy, and Elvis – I’ll be joined by a ‘real’ cast of characters like Pops, Miss Lilly, Joey, and my outstanding Smiling Eyes Band. We’ve got a lot of audience participation segments, original music, and outrageous comedy.” Irving the talking dog adds, “We’re gonna turn everyday K-9 experiences into a howling good time!” While Todd Oliver has developed his show over the course of several years, this is the first time that his full show will be available to Branson audiences. Shows are at 12 noon and include a lunch served prior to the show. There will also be some 6:00pm shows in December with dinner served prior to the show.

Jim Stafford, theater owner and comic-genius, says, “I’m thrilled about having Todd Oliver at my theater. Todd’s got a fall-down funny, hip comedy style and a totally different show that audiences of all ages love. Not only have Todd and I been great friends throughout the years, we’ve talked about what great fun it would be to perform in the same theater. Now that this place is going to the dogs, I’m just happy Irving isn’t a Chihuahua.” Todd adds, “At least they can talk and have had their shots. On an important note, these dogs are family pets, some of whom have been adopted, and they wag their tails while they work like a dog.”

Another unique aspect to Todd Oliver & Friends is that a picnic lunch is included in the show ticket and is served prior to the show. Lunch includes your choice of sandwich, hotdog, or PB&J (for kids), and beverage choices, as well as seasonal side items like potato salad, chips, baked beans, cookies, cupcakes, strawberry soup, and more. Table seating for lunch is provided. Stafford adds, “Doggie bags are optional.”

Todd Oliver’s national appearances on “The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson”, “The Today Show”, “Late Show with David Letterman”, “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno”, “The Howie Mandel Show”, “Walker Texas Ranger”, "CNN Entertainment News”, and others along with his consistent touring schedule around the world at major clubs, corporate meetings and conventions have kept his unique show current with today’s audiences. David Letterman proclaimed Todd one of the “Top 5 Ventriloquists in the World.”

As a featured performer on Branson’s Showboat Branson Belle since 1998, Todd has performed with his three live, one-of-a kind talking dogs as part of the Showstoppers! Show. "We have enjoyed a 13-year relationship with Todd as a highly-talented performer and a good friend of the Silver Dollar City family," said Jim Moeskau, General Manager of The Showboat Branson Belle. "We think it's exciting for Branson that Todd and his repertoire of talent will be showcased in his own show at the Jim Stafford Theatre in 2011. This move for Todd is another great example of how Branson introduces and then nurtures talented performers who become favorites with our 8 million visitors." Irving the talking dog adds, “Leaving the Showboat Branson Belle is a big step for this little dog, it’s a good thing I’m going with Todd as he needs all the help he can get. Just look at the whole talking thing…I’ll admit that Todd talks for me, if he’ll admit I think for him.”

Tickets for Todd Oliver & Friends for the 2011 season go on sale this week. For tickets and more information call 417-335-8080 or visit http://www.toddoliver.com/

Jim Stafford Still Mixing Music and Comedy in Branson MO

2010-08-10T10:35:00.000-05:00

Posted: Tuesday, August 10, 2010 4:45 pm
By Joshua Clark Entertainment Editor for Branson Tri-Lakes News

Last week, I attended Jim Stafford's show, which has always been one of my favorites.

In addition to being one of the most talented musicians in the area, Stafford has always been one of the funniest personalities.

I saw the Christmas show last season, which was great, so I was a bit curious to see exactly what Stafford had in store for his guests this season. There were some bits that were old and some that were new and the show really played like a "Greatest Hits" package.

Since Stafford is celebrating his 21st year in Branson, he has a plethora of material to choose from. "Spiders and Snakes" and "Cow Patty" are still highlights of the show, along with the 3-D video he shot and produced himself several years ago.

"We shot that here and then went to the house to edit it, so we're pretty much self contained," he said. "We also do all of our brochures and commercials, which is great because it gives me the chance to fool around with it and it's fun. We're also working on a new 3-D portion of the show too."

It is also a very big thrill to see how the Stafford children, Shea, 17, and G.G., 13, have grown, not only into young people, but accomplished musicians. Shea still plays the piano and fiddle and sings a few tunes, while G.G. also plays piano and harp. Stafford sees the entertainment business as a viable option for both children, but for G.G. especially.

"Ever since she was a small child she has been very aware of her surroundings here at the theater," he said. "She knows what goes on out front, she knows how things work backstage and she also knows how to put a show together. I think she could run a theater."

Stafford said there will be a new portion of the show featuring the children debuting very soon.

"They're both in the process of learning a stand-alone piece to add to the show," he said, "no other musical accompany or anything. Just them playing, which is always nice to have in the show."

Even though Stafford is an accomplished musician on many different instruments, he has been known more for his comedy than anything else. I asked him if if he ever thought it was a "backhand compliment," and he gave me a very interesting reply.

"I've always been a big fan of Roy Clark, and it always seemed natural for him to be funny and play very well," he said. "I was always a fan of that type of performer, so I really appreciate the compliment."

Stafford is also in the process of recording his instrumentals and posting them on YouTube.

"That way I can at least have them archived," he said. "Most of them I've never played in public. I just work them up for myself."

Now 66, Stafford is showing no signs of slowing down.

"The people that seem to last the longest in showbusiness are the ones that do comedy, and I think about people like Milton Berle, George Burns and Victor Borge, who died when he was 92 and his family had to cancel performance dates because he was still touring," Stafford said. "I don't have any plans to retire because I'll probably have to be run off. Someone told me once I retired I'd have to find something to do for four or five hours a day and I told them that I must already be retired."

For more information on Jim Stafford, as well as his show, visit jimstafford.com.

Jim Stafford... "a new world every day!" in Branson MO

2010-07-08T06:55:00.001-05:00

by Linda Burligame, Shepherd of the Hills Gazette
July 7, 2010

You've heard it said, "He wakes up in a new world every day!" Meaning, you never know what to expect, things change ... and you can count on fun. That's the way I feel about the Jim Stafford show, it's always new!

As many times as I've seen it over 20 years, I enjoy it every time, always laugh and love watching audience reaction. Maybe that's it, the audience makes the show different each time.

Jim and Ann's two children are still part of the show: that's another change when you haven't seen the show for a while. They're growing up, still fun and even more talented. Shea and G.G. have been part of the show since they were babies. Sheaffer is now 17 (gasp!) and G.G. is 13.

Jim's show really is fun, and funny, whether it's the music, the comedy songs — Helpin' Dixie Move is one of my favorites! — the black light number, 3-D adventure, or something as simple as "Roll Call." Practice makes perfect, playing the guitar or doing comedy. Jim practices both. He told me when he began doing comedy, he put up mirrors all around the room and practiced in front of them. He perfected his expressions and timing: how long to pause between lines how long to maintain eye contact; is it a nod of the head or a body turn? A myriad of emotions and tiny motions make all the difference!

Jim is in good company when it comes to hit songs. Spiders and Snakes (1974) sits in the top 50 of Billboard's Hot 100 Country Songs, along with the hits of Elvis, Glen Campbell, Faith Hill, Shania Twain, Marty Robbins and other recording artists.

Jim is always working on something new. Not too long ago I talked with him after a show and he played a new guitar piece he was working on. It's a familiar George M. Cohen tune, but with new "licks," new chords, a whole new sound. Then he took it apart for me. "This is a Merle Travis chord." He strums; then, "this one I wrote." It's amazing to watch him up close, his fingers reaching for the intricate chords and changes.

Jim will never stop practicing. I'll never stop enjoying the show. I'm betting you won't either!

Read more stories about Branson Shows and Theaters in the Shepherd of the Hills Gazette. You may click here to go to their website: http://www.shepherdgazette.com/2010070799/July-August-2010/jim-stafford.html?ed=10

Quote from AOL Travel Story:

2010-06-20T10:34:00.000-05:00

"This has been rated as the number-one family show in Branson."

Go Cruising with Jim Stafford and Moe Bandy!

2010-06-19T10:33:00.000-05:00

Jim Stafford Keeps The Laughter Rolling in Branson, MO

2010-04-29T16:25:00.000-05:00

by Gary J. Groman

Jim Stafford is known to say, “There’s love in the room,” but if Jim is saying it there’s something else in the room “lots of laughter.” Now that’s a hard combination to beat, a room filled with love and laughter unless, of course, one factors in a large dose of “fun” and that’s exactly what happens with the 21st edition of the Jim Stafford Show.

The tone of the show is set early on with its first number, “Let the Good Times Roll” followed by the first of his many comedy routines. His comedy is a subtle clever type of storytelling humor that involves the audience and keeps them in a constant state of laughter and anticipation about what’s coming next..

Many of his routines relate to things most people run into during their lives such as teaching children how to drive and teen fashions while others impart valuable lessons such as why one might not want to wear a thong into a hot tub at night, but they all have two things in common. The first, and most important, is that they are delivered in that unique smooth Jim Stafford style by a man who has the ability to relate what he is doing to his audience. The second is that they are funny.

If the Jim Stafford show stopped with just the humor that would be enough, but it doesn’t. In addition to Jims comedic talents there is music, a stampede, 3D and the dramatic use of special effects, all of which makes a fun entertainment experience even better.

The musical talents of his son, Shea and daughter GG are displayed throughout the show as they play a variety of music from gospel to rock and roll. A personal favorite of this writer was their duet performance of “Chariots of Fire” with Shea on the piano and GG on the harp. Jim is an accomplished musician and can really play that guitar as demonstrated in his playing of “Malaguena” and his own arrangement of “Yankee Doodle Dandy.” The thing to remember however, is that even as he is playing humor and laughter could be but a “note” away.

The music and comedy are masterfully woven together with action and excitement that keeps the audience not only in stitches of laughter, but wondering what is coming next. A perfect example is the shows signature stampede and Jim’s wild ride through the audience during his performance of the crowd pleaser “Cow Patti.”

The shows use of special effects, such as the “black light” while he performs his hit song “Spiders and Snakes,” what this writer call holography and the 3D segment along with great lighting and sound effects, add an additional element of excitement and variety to the show. While having adult appeal, it is guaranteed to hold the attention of kids.

Paul Miller, General Manager of the Branson Tourism Center, who has sold well over 2 million Branson show tickets said, “The Jim Stafford Show has been one of Branson’s most popular shows for over 20 years and is one of our hottest tickets.”

"Spiders & Snakes" Jim Stafford rocks in Branson MO

2010-03-28T20:36:00.001-05:00

From "On the Road with David and Rose" blog:

We laughed ourselves silly at the Jim Stafford Show. The singer/songwriter of “Spiders and Snakes” is an awesome showman, comedian and musician. He has built a 21-year career on that song’s Top 40 success as the star of his own show in Branson, Missouri.

When “Spiders and Snakes” hit the airwaves, it wasn’t a big deal with me. But it was for my younger sister, Debby. At a bar in Ft. Lauderdale, a guy struck up a conversation with her asking, “Do you like ‘Spiders and Snakes’?” She heard “spiders and snakes” the critters, not the song, and thought he was some kind of weirdo. That didn’t stop Rich from pursuing the conversation. He eventually convinced Debby that there really was a song called “Spiders and Snakes.” His come-on worked—they’ve been married for 35 years.

Watching Jim Stafford in action, I understand why he’s such a hit. He interacts with the audience, tells hilarious wholesome jokes, loves silliness and satire, and plays a mean guitar. During the intermission, he sat on the edge of the stage, posing for photos and signing autographs. Stafford ended the show playing “Malaga” on the classical guitar—I could have listened to his masterful performance for hour.

From a duct-taped guitar and cow pies to superb music and a gripping 3D movie, the Jim Stafford show entertained an audience covering nine decades of age. It looked like the kid in the booster seat was having as much fun as the World War II 63rd Infantry veterans celebrating their reunion.

They say every show varies. I can see myself going back for seconds, maybe even thirds.

Jim Stafford Is A True Branson Entertainer

2010-03-10T13:16:00.001-06:00

By Rancher Don:

Jim Stafford is sure a blessing to the entire Branson Entertainment community. I call him Gentleman Jim as he is the classiest Guy in Town and he doesn't open the show by coming out with a pair of levies with the knees sticking out, Oh No, he comes out with a beautiful tux. He is probably one of the biggest Branson supporters in town. Read the rest here:
http://www.branson-ozark-mountain-country.com//jimstafford.html

Jim Stafford to perform in Largo

2010-01-20T00:52:00.001-06:00

LARGO – Performances by Jim Stafford, The Sauce Boss, CJ Harding, The Nylons and The Association close out a busy January at the Largo Cultural Center.

Friday, Jan. 22, 8 p.m., WMNF presents An Intimate Evening with Jim Stafford.

This is your chance to see the star of one of the most talked-about shows in Branson, Mo. Stafford is well known for his comedy and guitar playing style. His hits include: Spiders and Snakes, Wildwood Weed" "My Girl Bill" and more.

Tickets are $25 in advance; $30 day of show.

Jim Stafford's comedy coming to Tanglewood!

2010-01-19T08:03:00.002-06:00

SEBRING - Direct from his theatre in Branson, Mo., Jim Stafford will be bringing his comedy show to Tanglewood on Jan. 24.

From Feb. 5 through Dec. 31, the Jim Stafford Theater plays to full houses in Branson. This is considered one of the best family-oriented shows in Branson and is filled with music, comedy and special effects. This variety show is particularly geared toward the child inside of everyone.

A gentle man, blessed with the gift of musical inventiveness, Stafford has risen to national prominence with such hits as "Spiders and Snakes," "Wildwood Weed," "Cow Patti" and more. He now presents a musical comedy show filled with new songs like "Don't Tell Mama I'm a Guitar Picker" and "Suite Liberty," plus a revolving line of other favorites.

Stafford was born in 1944 in Winter Haven. He first started playing guitar as a young man with his dad, sitting on their porch in the Florida sunshine. Both his parents were musically inclined and Stafford was playing in a band at the age of 14. When Stafford was 16, they formed a band called The Legends and played everywhere they could - sock hops, weddings, dances, Elks' Clubs and Jim started making a living out of something he loved doing.

After high school, Stafford moved on to Nashville and was a back-up musician when one of his drummers quit. He saved the day by creating his famous one-man-band act on the spot, which the public loved.

Successful performers did not settle in on one spot, but Stafford took the chance, which he admits was a "huge leap of faith." It has paid off even better for him than being a head writer on the Smothers Brothers Show or headlining in Vegas.

In the peaceful security of wholesome Branson, Jim Stafford has his own theater. He knows not every entertainer that tries to, makes it, in Branson. He said, "You have to work hard at what you do, here to stay here!"

And work hard is what he does best. His string of goofy country hits in the '70s and his TV successes in the '80s were his personal Magic Carpet that carried him to Branson.

"The Jim Stafford Show" will perform at 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 24 with doors and snack bar open at 6:15 p.m.

Stafford A Man of Many Talents by Josh Clark for the Branson Tri-Lakes News

2009-12-17T08:03:00.002-06:00

Stafford is wrapping up his 20th year in Branson and has always been the star of one of the more popular shows in the area. Like so many other shows in town, his Christmas show is a blend of some of the more popular bits and holiday classics.

Stafford takes the stage and gets the audience laughing almost immediately, which has become a trademark of his performances. The good people from Texas who were seated next to me had never seen the show before and had trouble catching their breath.

“I have never laughed so hard at a show before,” Susie Bush said. “He is one of the funniest people I have ever seen.”

Read the entire story at: http://www.bransondailynews.com/story.php?storyID=14171

Jim Stafford celebrates 20th anniversary

2009-11-10T01:52:00.003-06:00

Written by Linda Burlingame, Shepherd of the Hills Gazette writer
Friday, 11 September 2009 17:09

The Jim Stafford Show is always fun and fresh, as often as I’ve seen it these 20 years. When Jim opens the show and visits with the audience, it’s hilarious, different every night.

Jim has added new numbers this year. G.G. on the harp and Shea on piano do “Chariots of Fire” and it’s amazing; the audience loves it. Shea, 16, and G.G., 12, are Jim and Ann’s children and have been on stage since they were babies. They love being in the show; it’s second nature to them. They’re incredibly talented; Jim says they work hard on stage, always challenging their abilities.

Lauren Heavner is the new female vocalist, a delightful young lady with a fantastic voice. She has a charming, comfortable stage presence and is good with the audience. Lauren does the “Auctioneer Song” (fabulous) and later, dressed in a pretty fringed dress that shimmies and sways with her, an energetic version of “L Is for the Way You Look at Me” — with the help of a lucky gentleman in the audience.

Lauren is from Fayetteville, Ark., and told me she first performed with American Kids there. She was “scared” when she started singing a Shania Twain tune but by the end of the song, “I was hooked!” Lauren sent the Staffords a CD. Ann Stafford told me, “Her voice … just hits you in the heart.” Jim and Ann met with her and three days later she was in the show. (On the CD, Lauren sang “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” written by Bobby Braddock, a friend of Jim’s.)

I asked how she likes being in the show; she smiled and said, “I love it, it’s awesome!” She especially likes that they are always working on something new. She sings “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” (Lonesome Whippoorwill), with Jim on guitar, that’s beautiful.

Shea and G.G. have recently added new solo numbers. G.G. does a wonderful jazzy version of “Route 76” on the piano. Dad has new lyrics, about “Andy … Gilley or Moe Bandy!” It’s a great arrangement and she really “nails it!”

Shea’s rollicking adaptation of “This Little Light of Mine” is not like you’ve ever heard it. It’s really a demanding piece and takes Shea to the top of his game on the piano.

Russian dancers Genya and Sasha are fantastic! With Jim on guitar, their flamenco number, the gypsy number…everything they do is beautiful and amazes the audience.

I talked with Jim recently after a show and he played a new guitar piece he’s working on. It’s a familiar George M. Cohen tune, but with new “licks,” new chords, a whole new sound. Then he took it apart for me. “This is a Merle Travis chord,” he strums, “this one I wrote.” It’s amazing to watch him up close, his fingers reaching for the intricate chords and changes

It wouldn’t be the Jim Stafford Show without his chart topping “Spiders and Snakes.” I love the “Cow Patti” segment — and California thinks they have happy cows. Near the end of the show G.G. does a fun dance number with Genya and Sasha. Shea gets the audience to “Party” and it’s an anniversary celebration you don’t want to miss.

If you’re back for the holidays, there’s an all-new Christmas show and a New Year’s Eve dance party. Stay tuned for more fun at the Jim Stafford Show.

Call 417-335-8080 or go to http://www.jimstafford.com/buy-tickets.html

Jim Stafford found a home in Branson twenty years ago

2009-08-11T07:56:00.001-05:00

By Charles Biggs, Tulsa Beacon Editor

Some of the folks who are an important part of the Jim Stafford Show weren’t even alive when the singer/comedian brought his act to Branson.

Twenty years ago, Stafford decided to end his life on the road, build his own theater and settle down in the Ozarks.

Now, his show is populated with
(click here for rest of story) http://www.tulsabeacon.com/?p=2605

Jim Stafford's I Wanna See That :30 TV Commercial

2009-06-07T21:30:00.002-05:00

The Art of Body Language

2009-06-03T11:53:00.003-05:00

Dwain Walden in the Moultie Observer in his article on "The Art of Body Language" says this about Jim: "Entertainers offer us lots of body language — and I’m not talking just about exotic dancers. Comedian/singer Jim Stafford “Swamp Witch Hattie,” “Wildwood Weed,” “Spiders and Snakes”) is a master of body language. In fact, his eyes and his grin can bring a laugh even before he finishes a joke. Former President George Bush had a specific body language. It often said, “Oh my goodness, a car with bright lights is coming at me!”

If you'd like to read the whole article click here:

http://www.moultrieobserver.com/archivesearch/local_story_073221954.html

Back From Branson

2009-05-25T14:50:00.001-05:00

Blog on HotAir.com by Captain Ed Morrisey had nice things to say about Jim:

"The best overall show, however, was Jim Stafford’s. The I Hate Spiders and Snakes singer embraced the fun, goofiness, and flexbility of the variety-show format used in Branson and put on a high-energy performance. Like other Branson performers, Stafford has family in the show, and his teenage son and daughter were terrific. Stafford himself displayed his talent at classical guitar in an explosive finale. Many of the shows sell DVDs made instantly of the particular performance, but Stafford’s was the only one I felt compelled to buy. I’m looking forward to watching it again." Read the entire blog at:

http://hotair.com/archives/2009/05/24/back-from-branson-a-vacation-travelogue/