An iconic Branson property, the former Moon River Theatre featuring late singer Andy Williams, is under new ownership, with a new Bible-based attraction underway.
On Tuesday, August 6, creation education ministry Answers in Genesis hosted an information session at the theater describing their partnership with Mindscape Creative, which has developed the Truth Traveler virtual reality attraction at AIG’s Ark Encounter in Kentucky. AIG staff, including founder Ken Ham, joined Wes Bowen of Mindscape Creative to introduce Mindscape Truth Traveler Branson LLC, as the new theater owner/operators bringing the attraction to Branson. A third location is also planned for Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
The experience will feature animated 5D virtual reality including motion benches and haptics for a “full sensory experience.” Addressing community leaders and ministry supporters gathered for the theater tour, Bowen reiterated an earlier press release that stated, “Recognizing the vibrant tourism in Branson, the decision was made to expand the attraction to this location.” Branson Mayor Larry Milton also spoke to the group, saying the Truth Traveler, based on the biblical account of Creation and world history, will be “a great fit” with Branson’s emphasis on faith, family, freedom and fun.
Later in the evening on August 6, Answers in Genesis also hosted dinner at Chateau on the Lake, where attendees received more detailed information about the ministry of AIG. Several in attendance had been familiar with or donated financially to the ministry for years, and some said it had been instrumental in their own faith journey by solidifying their trust in the biblical account, through numerous resources based on extensive research that shows science as supportive, rather than contradictory, of the Bible. Others, including this Globe writer, had used AIG materials in conjunction with homeschooling their children. Many have visited the Creation Museum and Ark Encounter attractions in Kentucky and are looking forward to seeing how the new technology opens even more avenues of educational, inspirational fun with children and grandchildren.
Founder Ken Ham shared how his experiences as a science teacher in his native Australia led to concern for students whose evolution-based textbooks might lead to doubt in their faith. He began getting involved in creation research and eventually moved to the U.S., where he founded Answers in Genesis, the Creation Museum which opened in 2007, and the Ark Encounter.
Following Ham’s remarks, AIG staff shared additional details, including the development of AI-processing technology to ensure that questions asked by visitors in the Truth Traveler experience are answered by pulling from biblically-based resources, classic Creation-based writings, and the Bible itself. Guests were shown a short video of a guest encounter with a Noah avatar answering actual questions. The evening concluded with opportunities to get involved; anyone wishing to donate to the Answers in Genesis mission of providing Biblical and scientific answers to those seeking truth is invited to visit https://answersingenesis.org for information. You’ll also find timely articles showing how the latest scientific discoveries continue to support the foundational truths in the Bible.
A 1,200-seat theater area will remain in operation as part of the new attraction, for live performances and special events. Following renovations to accommodate the virtual reality experience and a facelift to update the exterior while preserving its natural fit with the surrounding landscape, Truth Traveler in Branson is set to open in March 2025.
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