Barber named Song of Hope winner

BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

A Branson icon has been presented a tremendous honor.

Marshall Howden, founder of Branson’s Song of Hope movement and an advocate for Branson’s live music shows and theaters, presented the latest in a series of Song of Hope Awards last week.

This year’s recipient was Jim Barber. A talented performer, Jim graced Branson stages with his unprecedented comedic and ventriloquism skills for years. Barber now serves as the Executive Director of the Branson Regional Arts Council, where he strives to promote live entertainment, music and fine arts to residents of the Ozarks and visitors alike, and introduce young people to the world of performing arts. Barber is largely responsible for the many productions of the Branson Regional Arts Council held each year at Branson’s historic Owen Theater. Barber also hosts The Barber Shop each weekday on 98.1, Branson4u.com. His popular radio show highlights the hits of years gone by, promotes local talent and keeps listeners abreast of what’s happening in the Ozarks.

“Jim was an obvious choice for the 2023 Song of Hope Award,” Howden explained. “His work with the Owen Theater has been nothing short of miraculous. To take Branson’s oldest theater and transform it into this incredible ‘university’ of musicals and musical theater is a remarkable feat.”

After being taken by surprise when presented the award, Barber said, “I want to take a moment and express my sincere appreciation to Marshall Howden and the Song of Hope Organization for selecting me as their fourth annual award recipient. Marshall took me completely by surprise during his interview and the many comments from friends and family across the country have been humbling and uplifting, to say the least. I also want to acknowledge everyone associated with the Branson Regional Arts Council for allowing the opportunity to lend my experience to the vital effort to bring youth arts, education and high caliber community theatre to our area. Certainly a group effort, and one that I am proud to be associated with. I’ve loved and promoted Branson ever since Bill Maclay and Glen Campbell first opened the door to me in 1994, nearly 30 years ago. Phew, time flies. Thank you for this honor!”

The Song of Hope Award is given each year for an individual or group that works at preserving an arts economy for Branson’s future. Previous Song of Hope Award Winners include Mike Patrick (2020), Lena Hughes and The Hughes Family (2021), and Doug Gabriel (2022).