A Christmas Story – Dinner Show at The Shepherd of the Hills

A Christmas Story – Dinner Show at The Shepherd of the Hills offers an entertaining way to celebrate the holiday season in Branson, Missouri. For $59 per person, you get approximately two hours of holiday cheer, including a hearty Christmas meal and a lively performance that brings the beloved film A Christmas Story to life on stage. Located at the historic Shepherd of the Hills, this show aims to capture the warmth and humor of the classic holiday tale with a mix of live acting, familiar scenes, and festive atmosphere.

We love the intimate setting, especially if you’re seated close enough to see the expressions on the actors’ faces—seating in the third row, as some reviewers have experienced, offers a particularly good view. The fact that the show is performed locally with “good local talent” adds a touch of authenticity and charm that’s often missing from large-scale productions. Another highlight is the inclusion of a traditional Christmas dinner, which adds to the holiday feel and makes for a more complete experience.

A possible drawback is that some guests found the show shorter than expected, with one reviewer mentioning it was “considerably shorter than advertised.” The food, while warm and hearty, has also received mixed comments, with some feeling it was just acceptable rather than outstanding. For travelers who prioritize top-tier entertainment and gourmet meals, this might be a consideration.

This experience is best suited for those looking for a family-friendly, holiday-themed outing that combines nostalgia and local theater. It’s also ideal for visitors wanting a casual, festive evening in Branson without the hefty price tag of larger productions.

Key Points

• Intimate Venue: The smaller theater layout provides good viewing angles, especially if you get close seats.
• Authentic Local Talent: The performers engage with enthusiasm, fostering a warm, homegrown vibe.
• Holiday Atmosphere: The show captures the spirit of Christmas with familiar scenes and festive ambiance.
• Shorter Duration: Expect around two hours, but be aware it might feel brisk or shorter than advertised.
• Mixed Food Reviews: The meal is included but may not impress everyone, with some finding it just warm and average.
• Accessible and Near Public Transit: Conveniently located at 5585 W 76 Country Blvd.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Location and Accessibility

Set at The Shepherd of the Hills, this dinner show benefits from a prime spot on Branson’s busiest strip—W 76 Country Blvd. The venue’s proximity to public transportation makes it accessible without the hassle of parking. The meeting point is straightforward: ticket redemption occurs at 5585 W 76 Country Blvd. Since most travelers can participate, the tour maintains a broad appeal, especially for families or groups seeking an easy, festive outing.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

This experience is quite straightforward—once you arrive, you’ll check in and settle into a smaller theater setting. Your ticket includes admission to the show and a Christmas meal. The show itself is a lively adaptation of A Christmas Story, complete with familiar scenes like Flick’s tongue on the flagpole and the iconic leg lamp. Expect the actors to perform comedic, nostalgic scenes that highlight Ralphie’s quest for a Red Ryder BB gun and other memorable moments from the film.

While the duration is approximately two hours, one reviewer noted that the show felt shorter than expected, which could be a plus or minus depending on your preferences. The performance is lively and engaging but not overly long, making it ideal for those with young children or limited patience for lengthy shows.

The Meal: A Festive Touch

Included in the ticket price is a Christmas dinner. Though specific menu details aren’t provided, reviewers mention that the food was “just warm” and “not that good,” indicating it’s perhaps more about convenience and atmosphere than gourmet fare. It adds a comforting, holiday touch to the experience, making it a good option for families or those seeking a full evening of entertainment and dining without extra hassle.

The Theater and Seating

The smaller theater setup offers good sightlines, especially in the middle rows. One reviewer enjoyed sitting in the third row middle, which allowed them to see all the expressions and actions clearly. If you value close-up views and a cozy setting, this is a significant plus. However, it’s uncertain how the view might compare from the back or further sides.

The Audience and Atmosphere

Expect a friendly, festive vibe. The local talent adds authenticity, with performers clearly enjoying their roles. The show’s tone is lighthearted and family-friendly, perfect for holiday gatherings or a fun night out. The atmosphere is cheerful, with holiday music and décor enhancing the experience.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Many appreciate the local talent and the intimate theater, describing it as “pretty good for local talent” with a “really good view” if seated well. The small size of the venue means you won’t be lost in a sea of seats, and the proximity enhances the connection with performers.

On the other hand, some guests felt the show was too short and the food unimpressive. One review candidly states, “Wished we had spent the money on a different show,” highlighting that if you’re seeking a top-tier performance or gourmet meal, you might want to look elsewhere. Nonetheless, for those who prioritize atmosphere, humor, and holiday spirit, this can still be a memorable outing.

Pricing and Value Analysis

At $59 per person, the experience is reasonably priced for a dinner show in Branson, especially considering it includes both a meal and a live performance. The value lies in the convenience—combining entertainment and dining in one outing—and the festive charm it brings during the holiday season. However, if your expectations lean toward gourmet food or a longer performance, you might feel a bit short-changed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This show is ideal for families, couples, or groups seeking a lighthearted, Christmas-themed experience. If you love nostalgic holiday stories, enjoy local theater, or simply want a cozy evening out, you’ll likely find this enjoyable. However, if you’re after a high-end meal or a lengthy, polished production, you might prefer to explore other options in Branson.

Final Thoughts

A Christmas Story Dinner Show at The Shepherd of the Hills offers a charming, accessible way to celebrate the holiday spirit. Its intimate theater, local talent, and festive atmosphere create a warm environment perfect for creating holiday memories. While the food and show length might not impress everyone, the overall experience provides good value and genuine local flavor.

Travelers who enjoy a casual, nostalgic, and family-friendly outing will find this a worthwhile addition to their Branson holiday itinerary. It’s especially well-suited for those wanting to combine a taste of Christmas cheer with a taste of local performance talent—making for a fun, relaxed evening that captures the heart of the holiday season.

FAQs

Is the dinner included in the ticket price?
Yes, your ticket covers both the show and a Christmas meal, making it a convenient bundled experience.

What is the approximate duration of the show?
The performance lasts around two hours, though some guests have found it to be shorter than advertised.

Can I get a good view of the stage?
Yes, especially if seated in the middle rows. Some reviews mention that third-row middle seats provide excellent visibility.

Is the theater accessible for most travelers?
Yes, the venue is located near public transportation, and most travelers can participate.

What kind of food is served?
While specific menu details aren’t provided, reviews suggest the food is warm but not exceptional.

Are tips included?
No, gratuity for servers is not included and should be considered separately.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Given its family-friendly, holiday-themed content, it’s well-suited for children and families.

To sum it up, this dinner show offers a cozy, festive way to enjoy Branson’s holiday season, blending local talent, nostalgic scenes, and a simple meal into a memorable evening. It’s best for visitors seeking a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere rather than a high-end or lengthy performance. If you’re after a taste of Christmas fun with a touch of local flavor, this could be just the ticket.