Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Drama - The Story of the Ozarks
Overview
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Enjoy the Story of the Ozarks in an action-packed live reenactment of the novel by Harold Bell Wright, The Shepherd of the Hills. This beautiful story tells of life in the rugged Ozark Mountains in the late 1800's and created tourism in the Branson area when the book was written in 1907. Performed on a stage the size of a football field, this show includes over 90 actors and actresses, horses, sheep, mules, and donkeys.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This is an outside theatre so please dress appropriately
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
All taxes, fees, and handling charges
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting points
End points
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
The Shepherd of the Hills
During the 1800's, the Ozark hills were wild and untamed. Crime was rampant and law enforcement had a difficult time. Eventually, a group formed to help law-abiding citizens. Soon enough, this group became so powerful they were bending the laws for their own gain and they became worse than the criminals they originally formed to fight against. This two-hour long production features a shoot-out, the actual burning of a log cabin, a mystery, a love story, and a moral message that is as true today as it was a century ago. You will be introduced to fascinating characters as they arrive on wagons or horseback including the pillar of the community, Old Matt as well his son, Young Matt. Other characters include beautiful Sammy Lane, villain Wash Gibbs, the mysterious Shepherd, and the vigilante Baldknobber gang.
Options
Outdoor Drama 8:00pm
Outdoor Drama Ticket. Show starts at 8:00pm.
Reviews
299 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A Must See While in Branson
Minden T,
Jun 5, 2025
- Viator
5.00Great production with live animals! A must see in Branson given the book was written in Branson and inspired by actual people from the area. The popularity of the book led to Branson becoming a tourist attraction. Inspiring story with historical significance.
The play was very good. ...
Judy R,
Oct 29, 2024
- Viator
4.00The play was very good. I gave it a 4 because I did not enjoy the food. The story has made me want to read the book Ordering my tickets through Viator was a great experience. I would highly recommend them.
Worth the Wait!
Cynthia D,
Oct 20, 2024
- Viator
5.00The whole cast and employees were very kind and helpful! I read the book several times and have been wanting to visit Matt's cabin for many years. It was well worth the wait!
Excellent
Stephanie E,
Oct 11, 2024
- Viator
5.00Actors did an excellent job of reenacting the book. My boys especially enjoyed Ollie whom they said they hadn't liked in the book. In the drama he was hilarious. An inspirational drama.
An Authentic and Honest Ozark Experience
Scott G,
Jun 16, 2024
- Viator
5.00Harold Bell Wight’s Shepherd of the Hills is a beautifully crafted novel that tells an authentic part of the regions past. This production wonderfully brings his words to life weaving drama, action and comedy in a formula that will entertain the entire family. As a fan of the novel, I enjoyed the parts where dialogue was directly picked up from the book, those words practically sing. Everyone, especially children, will be delighted by the real life action and effects. The production is masterfully crafted taking full advantage of the natural setting as if goes from dusk to nightfall with use of stage and practical lighting. It’s just magical to see the story come to life in an authentic setting. This production represents the classic entertainment tradition that allows the Branson region to grow into the destination it is today. I find it walks the line between portraying the “hillbilly” in a comical entering manner and a deeper more authentic one. There’s enough substance in the material to carry the comic relief and an authentic love for and respect of the heritage.
Related Experiences
Operated by The Shepherd of the Hills