Mansion Theatre television taping features entertainers from across the country

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

The Mansion Theatre was the site of a live television taping that will soon be seen worldwide.

Gospel music group The Wilhites perform at The Mansion Theatre with the Springfield Symphony Orchestra.

Photo by George Kurland

Approximately 1,800 people were in attendance each night of the two-night taping that featured a wide variety of musical talent from Branson to Broadway, and everywhere in between. Featured performers included Jimmy Fortune (legendary country artist from the Statler Brothers), Steffanie Leigh (played Mary Poppins on Broadway), Michael Cavanaugh (the Music of Billy Joel on Broadway), The Wilhites (classic acclaimed gospel music group featuring Larry, Kenya and Marty Wilhite), George Clements and Brendon Smith (The Simon and Garfunkel Story – direct from London and Broadway), Robert Kerr (world renowned violinist), Jerry Williams (award winning orchestrator/producer) and the Springfield Symphony Orchestra.

“We were very excited for the outpouring of support from our community and friends,” said Kristy Adams, Vice President of Operations and Sales and Marketing for the Mansion Theatre and Mansion Entertainment Group. “This was a very exciting way for Mansion Entertainment Group to premiere a small sampling of the many projects we are developing through various growing business connections. Keep an eye on us – we are moving quickly and in many directions!”

No official date has been released for the television special, which is set to air this fall. It will appear first on Ozark Public Television, then will be released nationwide and internationally.