By: Kathryn Buckstaff, Branson Chamber of Commerce

Branson formal-wear shop “Touch of Class” is proud to be dressing an actress in “Winter’s Bone,” one of the films nominated for Best Picture in the upcoming Oscar award, said shop owner Lana Johnson Nichols.

Shelly Waggoner, who plays “Sonya” in the movie, plans to select a gown from “Touch of Class,” Nichols said. Waggoner, a longtime actress, lives in Reeds Spring.

“Winter’s Bone,” a 2010 film that explores rural life in the Ozarks was shot primarily in and around Forsyth. It has been nominated for four Academy Awards including Best Picture.

According to the film’s website, “Winter’s Bone” tells the story of Ree Dolly, a 17-year-old who seeks her criminal father after he puts their house up for his bail and disappears. Ree, played by Jennifer Lawrence, must challenge her outlaw family’s code of silence and risk her own life to discover a sinister truth.
Waggener’s character, a neighbor to the Dolly family, provides a touch of mystery to the story, but is largely benevolent toward Ree. The film was written by director Debra Granik and Anne Rosellini, based on a 2006 novel by West Plains’ author Daniel Woodrell.

The 83rd Academy Awards will be broadcast Sunday, Feb. 27, at 7 p.m. on ABC.

“We are thrilled and honored to assist Ms. Waggoner with her gown at such an exciting event,” Nichols said. “We want her to feel wonderful on the red carpet.”

Nichols said a friend of Waggoner’s suggested Touch of Class, which has been specializing in bridal gowns and formal wear for 13 years. They also supply stage wear to Branson theaters, men’s formal wear, and provide custom sewing and alterations. It is located in The Shoppes at Branson Meadows, 4514 Gretna Road.

Nichols said she’s contacted companies which supply gowns for the shop and will bring in several options from which Waggoner may choose during an upcoming fitting.

“She wants to look elegant and sophisticated,” Nichols said.

Related Websites: www.TouchOfClassFormals.net, WintersBoneMovie.com