by VICTORIA HENLEY
CTFashionMag.com
One of the most widely recognizable, nationally buzzed about, and longest running production shows in the city of Branson , Clay Cooper’s Country Express has been serving up some of the finest quality grand scale productions in the “Music Capital of the World” for over 38 years, highlighting world class vocalists, dancers, comics, and more.
Starring legendary country singer/songwriter, Clay Cooper, whose very name is synonymous with “entertainment” among locals, Clay Cooper’s Country Express also heavily features the magnanimous talents of his lovely wife, Tina, his teenage son, Colt, as well as an expansive cast of some of Branson’s brightest stars, backed by a full, award-winning band, bringing to life not only some of the foremost landmark country hits throughout the decade.
World class impressions and tributes to some of the industry’s greatest stars in a myriad of genres outside the country field, including pop, rock, and much more are also showcased onstage at this dynamic show.
Matt Gumm, an unbelievably gifted triple threat vocalist, musician (who can effortlessly play nearly any instrument imaginable), comic and impersonator, is heavily involved in the production elements of this award-winning show, as well as serving as a featured headliner. Gumm’s distinctively unique comedic prowess is exquisitely showcased and brought to life in the opening segment of Clay Cooper’s Country Express: “Horsin’ Around.”
“Horsin’ Around” is an ode to the silent Western films that dominated movie screens, featuring vaudeville style physicality, pitch perfect comic timing, and Gumm’s signature lighthearted, boisterous flair for which he has rapidly grown to be known.
Adorned in dazzling costumes, The Country Express Cloggers stay right on the beat as they gracefully tap and fiercely stomp to an array of rousing, rampaging country hits, while tributes to superstars ranging from Little Jimmy Dickens, to Dolly Parton, all the way to the iconic Righteous Brothers, come together as key elements of a tremendous two hour music and variety entertainment spectacular .
Duet enthusiasts need not dismay as numerous tributes are performed, paying exquisite homage to some of the most popular country music duets to top the charts throughout music history, including one of the most exquisitely performed Jonny Cash and June Carter Cash duet tributes you’ll ever witness in the live theater (starring Cooper and his wife, Tina) as well as stunningly executed nods to the beloved mother -daughter country duo, The Judds.
A consummate professional, a seasoned showman, Clay Cooper offers a stellar line up of additional opportunities to witness award winning, top rated, world class shows all under one roof at the beautiful Clay Cooper Theatre, so be sure to follow the theater by name on all major social media platforms, and check the website frequently, for show dates, touring artist information, and all the exclusive inside scoop!
Special thanks to the incredible Matt Gumm for facilitating our visit for this spotlight feature.
WEBSITE: www.claycoopertheatre.com
PHONE NUMBER: (417)332-2529
INSTAGRAM: @claycoopertheatre
