This is one of the many dinner/entertainment shows available in Orlando. Set in the replica of a huge barn, this entertaining show presents a contest between the North and South around the time of the civil war.
Upon arrival you can walk along past the stables for the shows horses and have a close up look at Palomino’s and Appaloosa’s. You are then greeted at the entrance by a bevy of Southern belles all decked out in their finery.
Once inside, your first stop is the obligatory gift shop, but you can continue straight through to the Carriage Room, where the Pre show takes place. There is a bar to buy drinks and if you buy a cocktail or draught beer it is served in your very own “boot” to take home.
The Pre show when we visited was an Australian Electric Cowboy! ! He rode into the room on his horse, both covered in tiny electric lights. He roams amongst the audience (on his horse) introducing himself and singing. There is also a video welcome from Dolly herself.
You then move into the main auditorium for the main show and dinner. Sat on benches circling the arena, your waiter/waitress brings drinks – soft drinks, beer, wine etc.
The lights dim and the show begins…. . from nowhere appears a herd of buffalo, swiftly rounded up by Native Americans on horseback. This is very cleverly done, and whilst watching it your first course appears.
The MC for the evening then divides the audience into two camps – North and South, ready for rivalries to begin. There are lots of fun and games, and challenges to win points for your “side”. There is also some audience participation, where some guests get to take part themselves while the rest of their side cheers them on.
The whole thing is good natured and entertaining. I won’t give away all the surprises but the piglet race was so cute ?
All the while the show is going on; your dinner is served course by course. This is not fine dining by any stretch of the imagination, but the food is adequate.
The Grand Finale is very patriotic and maybe a bit sappy, but the whole show is good value for money and an entertaining evening out. Children and adults enjoyed the show when we were there, but I’m not sure teenagers would find much to enjoy, it’s not what they would call “cool” ; -)