Press Release
Release Date: 6/14/07
Contact: Judith Dutton, (417) 332-2772
Jack Burke, (417) 239-1011
Attachments: Picture of Island Fire, Picture of Anelu Iakopo
Polynesia in Branson
“I felt transported to the Islands, learning about their culture and traditions and I really, really enjoyed It.” – Branson Courier Review
“Even the shows I’ve seen in Hawaii can’t compare to Island Fire”
-- Audience Member
The beat of the island drums seems to drive audiences of Island Fire into a frenzy of vocal enthusiasm, while the breathtaking Fire Knife Dancing hushes them into awed silence.
Welcome to Branson’s newest show – Island Fire at the Dutton Theater!
Island Fire, conceived by Jonathan Dutton’s beautiful Samoan wife Belle, is a troupe of 15 extremely talented Samoan performers.
From giant palm trees to a grass hut, the theater setting has been turned into a Polynesian paradise complete with coconuts that also play a part in the show. Misty fog and fiery flames at the edge of the stage further combine to transport the audience to the South Sea Islands.
Island Fire is more than a typical luau-style performance. It is more like a National Geographic depiction of Polynesia. Utilizing video to introduce the audience to numerous South Sea cultures, the performers don elaborate native costumes for the traditional songs and dances of not only Samoa, but also such other islands as Fiji, Hawaii, the Cook Islands and more.
Sizzle comes in the form of fire! Fire Knife Dancing by world-class performers is featured in both the first and the second half of the show. 2004 World Fire Knife Champion Anelu Iakopo mesmerizes audiences with his fiery performances, including a gasping reaction to his lighting of a baton with flames leaping from his tongue.
A particularly touching moment occurs when Belle Dutton takes center stage to salute the veterans and thank them for protecting her homeland during World War II. At that point the beautiful Samoan dancers move throughout the audience to personally thank our veterans in the native Samoan language.
An interactive show, one audience member even gets to drink coconut milk after an educational segment on how Samoans shuck, crack and milk a coconut. Another hilarious segment teaches volunteers from the audience on how to mix a Samoan fruit salad. The grand finale invites the audience onto the stage for the closing song and dance.
The showmanship, set design and special effects blend together into a bright, colorful and exciting new show that entertains (and educates) children and adults alike.
Island Fire will continue through December at the Dutton Theater. For show times, reservations and additional information, contact the Dutton Family Theater at (417) 332-2772 or (888) 388-8661.