Branson Theater Happy to be Back in Business With New Ownership

One of Branson's favorite entertainment destinations is under new ownership.

The Branson Tri-Lakes News reported last week that the Redmon family of Springfield has purchased the Andy Williams Performing Arts Center and Moon River Theatre in Branson.

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According to John Redmon, "We are very excited about it. The Redmon family are long time residents of the Ozarks, and have owned and operated Redmon's Candy Factory on I-44 in Phillipsburg, Missouri for 26 years. We intend to continue Andy Williams' legacy of bringing quality family friendly entertainment to Branson."

On a personal note - having traveled Interstate 44 many times between Lebanon and Springfield coming and going from Branson. I have driven by the Redmon Candy Store and stopped in a time or two. But, when I think of Redmon's, what comes to mind are the endless billboards along that stretch of the interstate, with the cartoon of the boy with his hands in the air, shouting things like, "World's Largest Gift Store," "Candy Factory," "Clean Restrooms," etc.

Since Andy Williams death in 2012, his theatre was owned and operated by Jimmy Osmond until health issues forced him to put the complex back on the market in 2018. There was more than one report of potential buyers, but nothing definite came about until the Redmond's stepped up.

After being empty for most of the 2021 season, illusionist Rick Thomas and Beatles' tribute band The Liverpool Legends have already committed to performing at the Moon River Theatre for 2022.