Biblical history attraction planned at former Andy Williams theater

A Branson theater property tied to late singer Andy Williams is under new ownership, with plans for a Biblical attraction in the works.

Wes Bowen, partner of Germantown, Tennessee-based Mindscape Creative, said he purchased the property along 76 Country Boulevard for undisclosed terms via Truth Traveler Theater Branson LLC. It will be leased to Mindscape Truth Traveler Branson LLC, which will operate the attraction called Truth Traveler, said Bowen.

"Mindscape Creative, known for their expertise in blending cutting-edge technology with captivating narratives, has worked with the Ark Encounter to bring Truth Traveler to life at their Kentucky location and is also developing it for a third location in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee," a statement provided by Bowen reads. "Following its success at the Ark Encounter and recognizing the vibrant tourism in Branson, the decision was made to expand the attraction to this location."

Moon River Theatre, located at 1 Andy Williams Blvd., will house Truth Traveler, a virtual reality ride and attraction developed by Mindscape Creative and Ark Encounter. The latter organization operates a full-size Noah’s Ark attraction in Williamstown, Kentucky, and is connected to the Answers in Genesis ministry.

"The feature of this attraction is a custom-animated 5D virtual reality ride that takes guests back into Biblical history and is complete with motion benches and haptics for a full sensory experience," the statement reads. "The new attraction will showcase an original VR show, meticulously crafted by The Mill, a production company renowned worldwide for their exceptional expertise in creating top-tier productions that captivate audiences."

Truth Traveler in Branson is set to open in spring 2025 and include a 1,200-seat theater that also will show live performances and concerts, according to the statement.

Moreno Group Commercial Realty served as the broker for the nearly 12-acre, roughly 45,000-square-foot Moon River Theatre property purchase that closed March 8, said Caleb Moreno, who leads the brokerage. Moreno said he was the seller's broker and that Tyler Ray of Moreno Group Commercial Realty was the buyer's broker.

The property had been listed for sale at $5.7 million, Moreno said.

The seller was not disclosed by those involved in the deal. Branson Tri-Lakes News in November reported the property had been listed on the market after it was purchased in 2021 by John, Sharon, Jeff and Jennifer Redmon.

Williams, the namesake of the theater, died in 2012 at age 84 after he was diagnosed with bladder cancer. Williams opened his $12 million, 2,000-seat theater in 1992, according to Springfield Business Journal archives. Singer Jimmy Osmond, a friend of Williams, purchased Moon River Theatre in 2014, according to past reporting.