'A true gem': Missouri House votes to designate Branson state's Live Entertainment Capital

Kelly Dereuck, Springfield News-Leader
·2 min read

The Missouri House of Representatives voted to designate Branson as the "Live Entertainment Capital" of the Show-Me State.

On Wednesday, legislation from Rep. Brian Seitz, R-Branson, passed with a vote of 107-27, with nine members voting present.

Missouri State Treasurer Vivek Malek and Branson Rep. Brian Seitz speak Thursday afternoon at the Greene County Elections Center in Springfield about Seitz'z bill to require public investments, like pensions and public endowments, to divest from countries that the U.S. has sanctioned or has classified as adversaries.
Missouri State Treasurer Vivek Malek and Branson Rep. Brian Seitz speak Thursday afternoon at the Greene County Elections Center in Springfield about Seitz'z bill to require public investments, like pensions and public endowments, to divest from countries that the U.S. has sanctioned or has classified as adversaries.

"Branson has long been synonymous with world-class entertainment, drawing millions of visitors each year to experience its unique charm and hospitality," said Seitz. "By officially designating Branson as the 'Live Entertainment Capital' of Missouri, we are not only celebrating its cultural significance but also laying the foundation for sustained economic prosperity for our state."

Tourism is the primary driver of the Branson economy, as well as one of the state’s primary economic drivers. In 2022, the state brought in $18.4 billion through tourism, of which $4 billion, or about 22%, comes from Branson.

The tourist destination boasts many shows, dinner theaters, theme parks, concert venues and other natural attractions in the area, as well as one highly coveted designation from Missouri’s only remaining NFL team.

“Branson is the official vacation destination of the Super Bowl (Champions) Kansas City Chiefs,” Seitz said.

Upon passage of the legislation, House Speaker Dean Plocher also offered his support of the legislation.

"Branson is a gem in our state's crown, offering unparalleled entertainment experiences that showcase the best of Missouri hospitality and creativity," Plocher said. "With the passage of HB 2320, we affirm Branson's status as a premier destination for live entertainment, further solidifying its position as a key driver of economic growth for our state."

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However, in floor debate on Wednesday, some members of the House argued against the motion, alluding to allegations that Branson isn’t a welcoming place for diverse travelers.

“If we're going to name a live entertainment capital of this state, I would very much like it to be a part of the state where everybody, no matter what they look like, no matter who they love, feels welcome,” said Rep. Ashley Aune, D-Kansas City. “Branson is not it.”

Jamie Ray Gragg
Jamie Ray Gragg

Rep. Jamie Gragg, R-Ozark, who previously worked as a performer at Silver Dollar City for more than a decade, explained why he believes Branson is the entertainment capital, and disputed Aune’s claims that it was not inviting for all travelers.

“It is actually an entertainment capital. There are more seats in Branson, Missouri than there are on Broadway,” Gragg said. “It has actually got people working there from all around the world. It is not just for entertainment purposes. It's for historical purposes. It is a true gem of our state.”

The bill now heads to the Senate for further consideration.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: House votes to make Branson Missouri's live entertainment capital