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Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, Due To Open In May, To Be A ‘Musical Postcard From Mother Nature’ In The Ozarks: Exclusive
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Thunder Ridge Nature Arena – a decade in planning, development, and construction with the ambition to create America’s most beautiful outdoor amphitheater — is scheduled to open in May as a one-of-a-kind immersive outdoor “musical postcard from Mother Nature.”
Bass Pro Shops founder and noted conservationist Johnny Morris is the driving force behind the 18,000-capacity Thunder Ridge, located in Ridgedale, Missouri, just a few miles outside of the entertainment center of Branson. It will be managed and operated by ASM Global, which has partnered with Live Nation to produce live music events.
“We all love our beautiful Ozarks and feel deeply proud to be able to share the beauty of the place we are blessed to call home with others around the globe for generations to come,” Morris says in a statement. He calls the project “a gift to the people and heritage of the Ozarks.”
“A highly specialized team utilizing biomimicry architectural techniques has fused the musical showcase… into the world around it with every seat holding breathtaking views of 1,200 acres of Table Rock Lake, inlets, and infinite verdant forested Boston Mountain vistas,” according to the announcement..
Morris and his team believe Thunder Ridge Nature Arena “will be an unparalleled outdoor live entertainment experience including a never-before-seen luxury box embellishment called ‘The Nature Tower.,”
The Nature Tower rises 12 stories from the Ozark limestone and dolomite earth, and four of its floors will contain VIP suites replete with bedrooms, unobstructed views of the performing stage and panoramic nature sightlines.
Thunder Ridge’s unveiling has begun attracting the attention of superstars like Chris Stapleton, whose upcoming June appearance reportedly sold out in minutes.
ASM Global CEO Ron Bension said, “We are so pleased to join with Johnny Morris to operate this unique and spectacular venue. This remarkable creation is more than a place to see a concert. It’s a destination in itself. A true experience unlike any other.”
Live Nation’s President of U.S. Concerts Bob Roux said, “Thunder Ridge will absolutely be a must-stop for some of the biggest musical acts in the industry. The stunning surroundings, beautiful structures, and the venue itself create an extraordinary musical moment for guests.”
Morris’ vison for creating “America’s most beautiful outdoor amphitheater” is deeply rooted in conservation. The property’s land and all buildings and infrastructure have been donated and permanently set aside as part of a not-for-profit foundation committed to the cause of conservation.