BRANSON, Mo (Oct. 17, 2024) – The Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Drama has been delighting audiences with a true-to-novel adaptation of the book, The Shepherd of the Hills, written by Harold Bell Wright, since opening in 1960. An estimated 8 million theatergoers have taken a seat for this iconic performance, playing their own part in America’s longest-running privately owned outdoor dramas.

 In 2025, the drama will celebrate a major milestone, embarking on its 65th season of retelling this beloved story. Over 90 Ozark native performers and livestock will again bring to life the characters in the story containing romance, action, mystery, and so much more, all set on an outdoor stage featuring the beauty of the Ozark Mountains as the backdrop.
 
“The heritage at Shepherd of the Hills doesn’t just belong to us on property, but to every business and person that calls the Branson area home,” said Jeff Johnson, co-owner and general manager. “Seeing the Outdoor Drama reach its 65th anniversary brings a great sense of honor and reverence to all of our past and current employees who have worked so hard all of these years to bring the story of the Ozarks to life.”
 
At one time, in many of America’s classrooms, The Shepherd of the Hills novel was required reading. While this is not the case today, The Shepherd of the Hills believes that children of this generation have much to learn from the classic novel. In 2025, to encourage literacy and the love of storytelling, all children’s ticket purchases for the Outdoor Drama will include a free copy of The Shepherd of the Hills.
 
To celebrate the historic 65th season, Shepherd of the Hills will host a full panel of special events and activities to commemorate and honor the drama. Details of the events will be announced on the company website, www.theshepherdofthehills.com, and social channels in early 2025.
 
There are only a few more performances remaining this year, and the Outdoor Drama will drop the curtain on the 64th season on Oct. 26. Information and tickets can be found online at www.theshepherdofthehills.com or by calling 417-334-4191.

The above press release is from The Shepherd of the Hills.