Branson entertainers, Dave Hamner and Jim Barber will be among the panel of judges for the 2008 American Kids National Finals at the Baldknobber’s Theater in Branson, July 14 – 18.  Young entertainers from across the Midwest will compete for thousands of dollars in cash in prizes and the hopes of winning the title of Performer of the Year.

Founded 26 years ago by Dr. Dale Smith, the not-for-profit American Kids, Inc. has given thousands of talented kids from across the country performance opportunities that not only help them develop as performers, but as well rounded individuals.  Several alumni kids have gone on to forge successful careers in Branson, New York, and Nashville including Blake Shelton, Kristin Chenowith and Bryan White.

Other notable judges on the panel for the 2008 National Finals include Tyree McLyn, casting producer for “America’s Got Talent;” Jason Pritchett, 2007 “America’s Got Talent” finalist; Barbara Fairchild, Grammy nominated singer and performer; Jason Yeager, 2008 American Idol finalist; Casey Ellison and Cole Currier from the Pierce Arrow Show; Opera sensation, Merideth Mizell; Gary Paxton, Grammy winner song writer, and Louise Harrison, sister of Beatles George Harrison and developer of the Liverpool Legends.

On Tuesday, July 15th some of the national finalists will be showcased in a pre-show at the Hamner Barber Theater at approximately 7:10pm, with additional showcases at various other theaters throughout the week.

Related Websites: AmericanKids.com

The April 2008 edition of 417 Magazine (Springfield, MO)includes a full-page feature story about BransonWebcast.com!

In her informative article The New Variety Show, freelance writer Jill Turner Finney interviewed the hosts regarding the technical aspects of creating their unique webcast and focuses on how they are bringing additional Branson exposure to a global audience.

It is a very positive and well written review that highlights the success of both Jim Barber and Dave Hamner and explains how they are able to maintain a very busy schedule of nightly performances, managing their own theater, and producing a weekly webcast show for the masses.

Visit the 417 Magazine website link below to subscribe or purchase an individual copy of the publication.

Related Websites: 417 Magazine Online, Digital Download Version of 417 Magazine

As a new public service, the folks at Branson.com have teamed up with web hosts Hamner & Barber to present BransonWebcast.com. Together they will syndicate and promote audio/video interviews with many of Branson’s biggest and most unique personalities. This new service will officially launch on New Year’s Day 2008.

Hosts Jim Barber and Dave Hamner are not only adept at interviewing and show production, they also star in their own Branson venue, the Hamner Barber Theater.

Our first webcast will be launched January 1, 2008.