My Homestead

Leah Smith • April 9, 2026

Gardening, foraging, cooking, creating.

I’ve always felt most like myself when I’m out in nature. It’s my happy place. I’m very old-fashioned and I like living with the land and being as self-sufficient as I can. On my 3.5-acre homestead, I grow fresh herbs and vegetables, take care of my chickens, and spend time foraging for wild plants and cultivating them. Feeding deer and birds is always a pleasure….and even have a live camera designed to watch the birds eating. The hummingbirds arrive with a fury and can even be fed with a hand-held feeder. It’s a simple life, but it’s a good one.

I also enjoy landscaping and creating peaceful spaces around the property. I like having quiet spots where you can sit, breathe, and just be. There’s something really satisfying about building that kind of beauty with your own two hands and working with the land instead of against it.

Foraging has become a big part of my life too. It connects me to something older. I’ve taken the time to learn what plants can help with, what can soothe and support the body. A lot of it is forgotten knowledge, the kind people used to rely on every day. Making teas, salves, and simple remedies from what grows around me just feels natural and like it’s part of my purpose here in this life. I love bringing all of that into the kitchen. Cooking with what I grow and cultivate is where my creativity comes out. Simple ingredients, pure flavors, hand-crafted food and real nutrition that nourish without pesticides or bioengineered ingredients.

I use many of these items in the “special event” charcuterie boards I make for my work at Clay Cooper Theater. It’s my way of sharing this old-fashioned lifestyle with others and giving them something that feels a little more real and thoughtful in this crazy world of convenience. My heart is happiest when I can touch someone else’s life with my talents.

Gardening, foraging, cooking, creating. Living with the land and holding onto things that could easily be forgotten. This makes all feel right with my soul.

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Malpass Week 2026

By Leah Smith • October 4, 2026

There’s something about traditional country music that feels like coming home. Maybe it reminds you of the radio playing in your daddy’s truck, a favorite record spinning in the living room, or a song you still know every word to. If that sounds like your kind of music, we’ve got something special for you to look forward to! The Malpass Brothers are coming to Clay Cooper Theatre October 5–9, 2026, bringing their signature sound, vintage style, and genuine love of traditional country music right here to Branson. Chris and Taylor Malpass have built a devoted following that stretches far beyond the Ozarks. They have headlined tours and festivals across the United States and overseas in Ireland, Scotland, and Switzerland. Appearances on the Grand Ole Opry and television favorites such as Larry’s Country Diner have introduced even more listeners to their music. Their sharp suits and unmistakable hairdos might catch your eye first, but their connection with audiences goes much deeper. Through their musical talent, humor, and down-home personalities, the brothers have earned fans across generations. Longtime country music lovers appreciate their respect for the legends, while younger listeners are discovering just how good that traditional country sound can be. The Malpass Brothers will welcome a different special guest - or group of guests - at every performance! On Monday evening, David Frizzell will bring his unmistakable voice and decades of country music history to the stage. As the younger brother of country legend Lefty Frizzell, David has created a remarkable career of his own with memorable hits including “I’m Gonna Hire a Wino to Decorate Our Home” and “You’re the Reason God Made Oklahoma.” Tuesday afternoon’s special guest will be Dion Pride, the son of Country Music Hall of Fame member Charley Pride. A talented singer, songwriter, and musician, Dion proudly carries his family’s musical legacy forward while sharing his own personality and style with audiences. Wednesday evening will feature an incredible lineup of classic-country favorites: Barbara Fairchild, Tony Booth, and Mary Lou Turner. Barbara Fairchild is known for her heartfelt delivery and signature hit, “The Teddy Bear Song.” Tony Booth helped define the classic Bakersfield sound with favorites such as “The Key’s in the Mailbox,” while Mary Lou Turner is remembered for her beautiful voice and hit recordings, including “Sometimes,” her chart-topping duet with Bill Anderson. Having all three artists together makes this a particularly special night for traditional-country fans. On Thursday afternoon, Moe Bandy will join the brothers. With a career filled with honky-tonk favorites such as “Bandy the Rodeo Clown,” “Hank Williams, You Wrote My Life,” and “Americana,” Moe remains one of country music’s most recognizable and beloved traditional voices. Closing out the engagement Friday evening will be T. Graham Brown. Known for his powerful, soulful vocals, T. Graham Brown has given country fans unforgettable songs including “Hell and High Water,” “Darlene,” and “Don’t Go to Strangers.” Whether you’ve followed The Malpass Brothers for years or you’re just getting acquainted, this is a wonderful opportunity to experience their music live, alongside an outstanding collection of special guests who have helped shape and preserve the sound of traditional country music. We’re excited to welcome The Malpass Brothers, their special guests, and country music fans from near and far to Clay Cooper Theatre! Round up your friends, bring someone who shares your love of great country music, and make an afternoon or evening of it with us. 2026 Show Dates and Special Guests • Monday, October 5 at 8:00 PM — David Frizzell • Tuesday, October 6 at 2:00 PM — Dion Pride • Wednesday, October 7 at 8:00 PM — Barbara Fairchild, Tony Booth, and Mary Lou Turner • Thursday, October 8 at 2:00 PM — Moe Bandy • Friday, October 9 at 8:00 PM — T. Graham Brown