Tuesday, August 11, 2009

The Carolina Opry: More from Myrtle Beach


It's been a very busy and fun-filled few days. I've been running around trying to see and experience as much as possible during my trip to Myrtle Beach.

Despite my best efforts, there's no way I'm going to be able to see everything. There's just so much to do here in terms of attractions, shows, spas, shopping and dining opportunities. Plus, there's golf, beaches and all sorts of other land and water-based activities which are suitable for people of all ages.

Today, I had the pleasure of experiencing an incredible spa treatment at the new Cinzia Spa at North Beach Plantation in North Myrtle Beach. This is much more than a traditional day spa. It also serves as a destination spa (for people who want to spend several days or a full week here). The spa offers traditional and extremely exotic treatments that you won't find elsewhere. In addition, the spa has teamed up with top doctors and specialists to offer an array of medical treatments, in addition to the regular spa offerings (massages, facials, body wraps, manicures, etc.).

At the spa, I enjoyed the signature "Fijian Ritual," which offers two full hours of relaxation and pampering. The Cinzia Spa is new (having opened in March 2009), but the 17,000-square-foot facility has already developed an incredible reputation for helping its guests achieve health, fitness and overall well-being.

As for local entertainment, since I arrived here in Myrtle Beach, I've been seeing all sorts of ads and billboards for the many shows offered here. Variety shows, Las Vegas-style shows, comedy, magic and interactive dinner shows are among the many offerings which will appeal to people of all ages.

Tonight, I attended The Carolina Opry (800-843-6779), one of the most famous and popular shows here in Myrtle Beach. Having seen so many "variety shows" all over the country, I've become cynical and really didn't have high expectations for tonight's show. I figured it would include bad lip-syncing musical acts, unfunny comedians, and not-too-impressive dancing. Well, I couldn't have been more wrong! In a word, this show was amazing!



The Carolina Opry was one of the most entertaining, fast-paced, upbeat, impressive and fun shows I've seen in a long time. The entire cast of singers, dancers, entertainers, musicians and comedians are extremely talented and entertaining. This show is suitable for the entire family and features different genres of music from the past and present, plus funny comedy skits and energetic and perfectly synchronized dance performances by All That! (from NBC-TV's America's Got Talent).

Unlike many shows in Las Vegas, Atlantic City, Orlando and other tourist areas, this one features all live music and vocal performances. There's no lip-syncing whatsoever. Thus, it's easy to see just how talented the cast members are.

I really enjoyed the performance and strongly recommend it to anyone and everyone who visits the Myrtle Beach area.

In October 2009, The Carolina Opry presented its 6,560th performance. While the show has been around for more than 23 years, it's constantly updated to keep it timely. So, even if you've seen the show in years past, it's well worth seeing again, because the musical numbers and acts change annually.

In addition to the talented cast, the 2,200-seat theatre is impressive onto itself, offering a state-of-the-art sound and light system, impressive sets, and comfortable seating - all of which contribute to the overall quality of the show itself.

During the summer and holiday seasons, you'll want to book tickets in advance, since performances sell out. Even with tickets, you'll want to arrive at least 20 minutes early for the pre-show.

During the Christmas season, The Carolina Opry features a special holiday show that's also been extremely popular for more than 23 years in the Myrtle Beach area.

If you're looking for a fun, uplifting and highly entertaining way to spend an evening in Myrtle Beach, reserve tickets for The Carolina Opry! You won't be disappointed. Adult ticket prices range from $34.95 to $49.95. To order tickets online, click here.