The Shepherd of the Hills has always been the heartbeat of Branson’s historic entertainment scene. While the legendary Outdoor Drama still brings Harold Bell Wright’s classic novel to life on a stage the size of a football field, 2026 is bringing an absolute powerhouse lineup of brand-new productions to the homestead.
Whether travelers are looking to jumpstart their morning with the family, dive into a hilarious plate of comfort food, or experience a spooky autumn night, three major new shows have been added to the Branson itinerary this year. Visitors can secure tickets to all of these exciting new experiences directly through Branson.com.
1. The Branson Comedy Bash Dinner Show
For those who love the high-energy, fast-paced variety of 1960s and 70s television, this all-new addition to the Playhouse Theater is the perfect choice. The Branson Comedy Bash is a 90-minute variety explosion that blends stand-up comedy, outrageous sketch routines, catchy live music, and mind-boggling illusions.
The award-winning cast features some of Branson’s absolute favorite personalities—including Mike Bliss, Blake Walker, and Shannon Thomason (as AppleJack). Even better? Acclaimed improv magician-comedian Christopher James and legendary ventriloquist Jim Barber join the lineup for select 2026 dates, ensuring that no two nights feel exactly the same.
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The Dinner: While the audience laughs, a hearty meal is served featuring Italian Beef Rita Pasta, Chicken Alfredo, green beans, and a decadent Chocolate Cake for dessert.
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Get Tickets: Ready for a night of nonstop laughter? Book Branson Comedy Bash Tickets at Branson.com.
2. The Amazing Kids Show
Trying to find an activity that keeps toddlers, teens, and grandparents equally entertained can feel like a magic trick in itself. Enter The Amazing Kids Show, a one-hour morning production at 10:00 AM built from the ground up for families.
Hosted by multi-award-winning comedic magician (and 22-year Branson veteran) Christopher James alongside his daughter, Cassie, this is the complete opposite of a “sit back and watch” performance. It’s an up-close, highly interactive magic and illusion show where the kids in the audience step into the spotlight and actively help make the magic happen.
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Pro-Tip: Show-only tickets are available, or families can bundle them with a Shepherd’s Grill meal voucher and Adventure Park passes to turn a great morning into a full day of ziplining, mountain coasting, and exploring.
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Get Tickets: Kickstart the morning with family-focused magic! Book The Amazing Kids Show Tickets at Branson.com.
3. Sleepy Hollow: The Headless Horseman Rides Again
When autumn arrives in the Ozarks, the historic Thurman Old Mill Outdoor Theater transforms for the fall season into the eerie, mysterious village of Sleepy Hollow. This brand-new live outdoor production brings Washington Irving’s classic tale of Ichabod Crane and the terrifying Headless Horseman to life under the dark night sky.
Audiences can expect a stunning, immersive production complete with period-accurate costuming, flickering lanterns, atmospheric staging, and high-energy chase scenes featuring galloping hooves echoing through the hills. It strikes the perfect balance of family-friendly thrills and suspense.
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Make it a Day Trip: An evening at Sleepy Hollow is the perfect finale to a full autumn day at the homestead. Guests can spend the afternoon playing at PumpkinFest (which features more than 30 fall activities), and as dusk falls, wander through Pumpkins Aglow—a magical, softly lit walking trail of whimsical, illuminated pumpkin displays.
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Get Tickets: Experience a spine-tingling autumn legend under the stars! Book Sleepy Hollow Tickets at Branson.com.
