Island Fire Captured by Nationally Known Photographer
Press Release
Release Date: 6/14/07
Contact: Judith Dutton, (417) 332-2772
Jack Burke, (417) 239-1011
Island Fire Captured by Nationally Known Photographer
Branson, MO…Michael Romney has known the Dutton Family for over ten years. In the early 90’s this aspiring young photographer was hired by the Duttons to take their promotional pictures. “They were a wonderful and remarkably talented family. I simply fell in love with them,” said Michael.
Over the ensuing years, Michael’s career as a photographer skyrocketed. Aside from being in demand for numerous magazine layouts ranging from food to celebrities, Michael became the official photographer for the U.S. Open in 1999. His mesmerizing black and white photo of Pinehurst’s Club House has assumed a place of honor in the Club House.
From celebrities to politicians, Michael Romney’s portfolio ranges from Hilary Clinton to Tiger Woods – and, of course, the Dutton Family.
Call it serendipity or happenstance, Michael came to Branson for a visit in June. As he told us, “I had some free time and I wanted to be around some loving friends. The Duttons were the first that came to mind and I called Sheila. Without hesitation, she extended an invitation to come stay with them. So here I am!”.
Shortly after his arrival, Michael got caught up in the excitement of the new show at the Dutton Theater – Island Fire, “I was mesmerized by the people, the costumes, the stage setting and the thrilling fire dancing. I couldn’t help myself, I had to grab my camera and start taking pictures.”
Over the course of a week’s time, Michael took nearly 3,000 pictures of Island Fire and the Samoan performers, as well as hundreds of pictures of the Duttons and recent upgrades to their theater. Michael laughed, “I even took pictures of the food at the Dutton Deli!”
Sheila Dutton puts it this way, “We knew we needed some promotional photography for Island Fire and suddenly Michael arrives. It was an unbelievable coincidence and we are so grateful to him for offering his talent to us. It will definitely help to promote the new show.”
Michael indicated that he enjoys the Branson area and hopes to visit more frequently in the future, commenting, “Maybe some of the golf courses here need a photographer for their tournaments.”