Branson's Got Talent winner named

Some of the area's best up-and-coming performers competed in the recent Branson's Got Talent event.

Held at the Hamner Variety Theater on Saturday, the Branson's Got Talent competition featured 12 gifted entertainers taking the stage to showcase their talent, with each dreaming of taking home first place honors.

The competition was announced in late spring, and auditions were held in June. Following the auditions, a total of 12 finalists were selected to compete in front of judges and a live audience.

The 12 finalists were Jaidyn Laborde, Kelly Robinson, Raegan Miller, Luke Acker, Lindsey Jackson, Colony Hannon, Marilyn Kirchner, Ron Scott, Jaden Witt, Shayla Conway, Neil Bernard and Levi Besser.

A last-minute substitution was made with Hannah Witt stepping in to replace Besser. Witt and the other 11 finalists each brought their unique talent and style to the stage in hopes of winning the contest, a fundraiser for 4OzarkSeniors.

Luke Acker and family (via Facebook)

The entertainment was stellar and the competition fierce, but the judges ultimately awarded Ron Scott third place. Shayla Conway was the second place winner, and Luke Acker took home the first place honors. In addition to receiving a cash prize, Acker will be featured in a guest appearance on Hamners' Unbelievable Variety Show.

"Thank you to our host Dave Hamner and our judges Luke Menard, Jackie Menard, Dean Zeligman and Christina Lingo-Tabuchi," noted a Branson's Got Talent representative. "Also, a huge shout-out to Nicole Starling for an amazing and touching rendition of our National Anthem. And, thank you to everyone who attended.  What a great audience."

Plans are already underway for the 2026 Branson's Got Talent Show. Watch the Branson's Got Talent Facebook page for details.