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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEBranson’s Beloved Mr. and Mrs. Claus Bring the Magic to the Silver Screen in Award-Winning Documentary Behind the Beard: Making Santa Real
BRANSON, MO — The magic of the North Pole has found a warm-weather home in the Ozarks, and now it is heading to the silver screen! The Claus Vacation, Branson’s premier holiday entertainers, proudly announces that its very own stars, Elizabeth Ruch (known affectionately as Mrs. Lizzie Claus) and Tracy Ruch (the ever-joyful Kindhearted Santa), are featured in the award-winning documentary film, Behind the Beard: Making Santa Real.
Directed by Brandon Rice, Behind the Beard recently captured the hearts of audiences to win the coveted "Audience Favorite Documentary" award at its world premiere at the Riverside International Film Festival. Having enjoyed a highly successful festival run with multiple accolades across the country, the film offers a heartwarming, pull-back-the-curtain look at the extraordinary lives of the professionals who keep the spirit of Christmas alive all year round.
“Liz and Tracy embody exactly what Behind the Beard is about, their desire to bring magic and love to everyone they meet," shared director Brandon Rice. "I’m thrilled we get to bring the film to Branson for its Missouri Premiere and share it with their hometown audience.”
For The Claus Vacation, who have dedicated their lives to bringing joy, wonder, and holiday magic to families living and vacationing in Branson, this documentary is a beautiful celebration of their calling to spread Christmas Spirit.
"We are blessed to share a glimpse into our Christmas world," says Elizabeth Ruch, Mrs. Lizzie Claus. "While we love taking our 'vacation' here in beautiful Branson and visiting with families right in their vacation homes, being part of this documentary allows us to spread that Christmas cheer to audiences everywhere."
The Claus Vacation is a proud, active member of the Branson Christmas Coalition, an organization dedicated to growing and enhancing the region's holiday spirit. As highly-rated, award-winning performers, The Claus Vacation have become a staple of Ozark Mountain Christmas traditions, delivering unforgettable, multi-generational experiences.
Also, as a member of the Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, The Claus Vacation has increased their involvement with local Branson businesses and community events.
To perfectly capture the whimsy and wonder of Kindhearted Santa & Mrs. Lizzie Claus, the documentary features breathtaking b-roll footage provided by local Branson talent, Michaela Patterson of OneShot Photography. As an award-winning portrait artist recognized for her vivid storytelling and mastery of capturing family magic, Patterson's stunning visual contributions bring the enchanting reality of The Claus Vacation to life on screen.
The Branson community and Christmas fans alike, are cordially invited to celebrate this cinematic achievement at a special local premiere screening of Behind the Beard: Making Santa Real at the
Premiere Event Details:
• Date: Sunday, November 1, 2026
• Time: 8:00 PM CST
• Location: The Showroom at Branson Meadows
• Tickets: $10+tax per person
Join Kindhearted Santa, Mrs. Lizzie Claus, and a theater full of believers for a night of movie magic and holiday cheer.
*****Caution*****
This film will reveal the story of the helpers of Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus. Please keep that in mind for younger viewers.
To keep the Christmas magic for believing children, this may not be the film for them to attend.
For more information about the film, to secure tickets, or to invite The Claus Vacation to your next gathering, please explore the following resources:
• The Documentary: behindthebeardmovie.com
• The Claus Vacation: theclausvacation.com
• OneShot Photography: bransonsphotographer.com
• The Showroom At Branson Meadows: theshowroombranson.com
• Branson Christmas Coalition: bransonchristmas.org
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Media Contact:
Elizabeth Ruch
Mrs. Lizzie Claus
The Claus Vacation
[email protected]
417.595.7716
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Event venue
The Showroom at Branson Meadows, 4600 N Gretna Rd, Branson, MO 65616, United States
Tickets
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