We didn’t realize Springfield was so close to the live music mecca of the Ozarks: Branson, Missouri. We took care of work stuff early, and head on down. It was a must to see a show while in town, especially since outdoor activities were not an appealing option in the 100 degree weather. From among options like Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede, the Baldknobbers Jamboree Show and Yakov Smirnoff’s Dynamite Russian Comedy, we chose the New Shanghai Circus Acrobats of China show. After a look around town, a frozen custard and a quick photo with the world’s largest banjo, we head to the theater. Branson has over 40 of them, with 60,000 seats and over 70 live shows.

The show was impressive. It included amazing feats of balance, strength, contortion and coordination. The acrobats spend eight months a year right there in Branson, returning to China for the other four months. Click here for some photos of Branson.