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Matilda The Musical Audition Announcement!

The Branson Regional Arts Council announces open auditions for its 2025 season opening production of Matilda the Musical!

Directed by Kyle Bradley,  Music Direction by Julie Brinkman,  Choreographed by Jake Deck

Auditions will be held at the Historic Owen Theatre (205 S. Commercial St., Branson, MO 65616).

Initial Auditions will take place Sunday December 8th 6:00pm-8:00pm (Ages 8-12) 8:00pm-10:00pm (Ages 13 & up)

Or Monday December 9th 5:00pm-7:00pm (Ages 8-12) 7:00pm-9:00pm (Ages 13 & up)

WHAT TO BRING: Those auditioning are asked to bring: A cut of a musical theatre song, no longer than a minute, in the style of the show. Songs from the show are acceptable and are even preferred! Auditionees ages 8-12 should sing the beginning of “When I Grow Up” (Music for that track will be provided at the audition). Bring your own music track to connect to a Bluetooth speaker. No accompanist will be available. Auditionees are asked to stay after their vocal audition for a dance call audition.

Callbacks will take place Tuesday December 10th 5pm-9pm. Those called back will receive scenes & songs to prepare by Monday night. If you have any questions, please call 417-336-4255 or edu@bransonarts.org

Accepting video submissions for those unavailable for in person auditions. Email kylebradley8913@gmail.com

Performance dates at the Historic Owen Theatre are: Feb 13-23 (Th, Fr, Sat @ 7pm, Sun @ 2pm)

ROLE BREAKDOWNS:
Matilda Wormwood (Lead)– Female. Age 10-12. An imaginative girl who is clever and wise far beyond her years. She has a thirst for learning that cannot be quenched and is a fantastic storyteller. Matilda must be mature, and ready to handle a demanding leading role. Strong singer and actor. Vocal range: A3- D5

Miss Agatha Trunchbull (Lead)– Male or Female. Age 30-55. The tyrannical headmistress at Matilda’s school who despises children. Once a famous athlete, she is described as a “gigantic Holy terror”, a “fierce tyrannical monster” who “marches like a storm trooper with long arms swinging” with an “aura of menace”. Must be a strong actor with an imposing presence. Vocal range: A2- G4

Miss Honey (Supporting)– Female. Age 20-40. Matilda’s kindhearted teacher. She befriends Matilda. She is tired of living in fear under Miss Trunchbull. A mild, quiet person who never raises her voice and seldom seems to smile- yet possesses the rare gift of being adored by every small child under her care. She should have a curious warmth that is almost tangible. Vocal range: F3- D5

Mr. Wormwood (Supporting)– Male. Age 35-45. Matilda’s uncaring father. A slimy, greedy used-car salesman. “A mean crooked crook.” Strong comedic acting needed. Vocal range: D3 A4 Mrs. Wormwood (Supporting)– Female. Age 30-45. Matilda’s self-absorbed, negligent mother and an amateur ballroom dancer who is obsessed with her amateur Ballroom dancing partner
and her looks. She has an over-the-top personality who resents Matilda and often berates her. Strong comedic actor, singer & dancer needed. Vocal range: A3- F5

Michael Wormwood (Featured)– Male. Age 12-18. Matilda’s older brother. He is not very bright and favored by their parents. Comedic Actor. Needs good deadpan comedy and the ability to find a character during a lot of stage time with few words.

Mrs. Phelps (Featured)– Female. Age 25-45. The kind Librarian who takes a liking to Matilda. THETEENS/YOUNG ADULTS: (Ensemble)– Male & Female. Ages 12-18 and beyond- A very STRONGgroup of dancers and singers. They are the tough kids at the school and perform the show’s biggest singing and dancing numbers. Speaking, dancing, and singing parts–may play dual roles.

THE ELEMENTARY KIDS (8):

Matilda’s classmates. Various singing, dancing, and speaking roles;

• Bruce (Featured)– Male. Age 8-14. Matilda’s classmate. He is subject to extreme punishment by Miss Trunchbull. Strong singer. Vocal range: C4- E5

• Lavender (Featured)– Female. Age 8-12. Matilda’s classmate and self- proclaimed best friend. Big personality.

• Amanda (Ensemble)– Female. Ages 8-12 Strong dance and vocal ability.

• Alice (Ensemble)– Female. Ages 8-12. Strong and Bold. Strong dance and vocal ability

• Hortensia (Ensemble)– Female. Ages 8-12. Feisty. Strong dance and vocal ability

• Eric (Ensemble)– Male. Ages 8-12. Small. Strong dance and vocal ability.

• Nigel (Ensemble)– Male. Ages 8-12. Spoken dialogue. Strong dance ability.

• Tommy (Ensemble)– Male. Ages 8-12. Strong dance and vocal ability.

ENSEMBLE (10 + Adults, Young Adults, Older Teens) :

Other featured parts with solos & lines. These characters may play numerous roles in the show. Acting, singing, and dance needed for these roles.

•The Escapologist (Ensemble)– Male. A character in a story Matilda tells to Mrs. Phelps who comes to life in their imagination. Appears in several numbers. Vocal range: C3- E4

• The Acrobat (Ensemble)– Female. A character in a story Matilda tells to Mrs. Phelps who comes to life in their imagination. Vocal range: D4- A4

• Rudolpho (Ensemble)– Male. Mrs. Wormwood’s ballroom dance partner. Strong singer & dancer. Vocal range: D#3- A4

• Doctor (Ensemble)– Male. Mrs. Wormwood’s Doctor when she goes into labor with Matilda. An optimistic and naïve persona. Vocal range C3- A4

• Children’s Entertainer (Ensemble)– A party entertainer at the start of the show. Any “Clown tricks” are a plus. Vocal range: F#3-Eb4

• Cook, Henchman 1, Henchman 2, Henchman 3, Parents

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New Adult Theatre Workshops Announced At Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateSeptember 11, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council’s Conservatory of the Arts Program announces three exciting, new adult education workshops at the Historic Owen Theatre. These workshops are designed for students ages 16 and up.

Unarmed Stage Combat will be taught by Josh Boulden, and will teach you everything you know to safely take a tumble or fight on stage without getting hurt! Acting Through Song will be taught by Nicole Horton, and will help your inner voice learn to sing out strong! Finally, our Musical Theatre Audition workshop will be taught by Justin Ables who will show you how to master your fears of rejection, and land that next audition!

Registration is NOW OPEN and CLASSES BEGIN SOON!

Sept. 19th – Unarmed Stage Combat Workshop
Teacher – Josh Boulden

  • 7-9pm – Historic Owen Theatre
  • $30 per student
  • Limited to 10 students

Unarmed Stage Combat 
From throwing fist a cuffs, to taking a tumble an actor needs to know how to tell a compelling story during a fight on stage and keep themselves and everyone else safe. This beginner workshop will introduce you to the world of simulated violence for the stage with a focus on safety, partner work, building trust, and biomechanics, while learning some introductory fight moves and choreography.

Josh Boulden is a professional actor, acting coach, and fight choreographer from Annapolis, MD. He trained at the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Academy at The George Washington University in Washington D.C. where he studied stage combat under the direction of Fight Master, Robb Hunter with the Society of American Fight Directors. Josh has over 20 years of experience with stage combat, historical swordsmanship, and fencing. Starting at a young age with the Calvert Arundel Historical Swordsman Josh has spent the last 12 years training with the Society of American Fight Directors (SAFD). As an SAFD member and certified Actor Combatant he has since directed and choreographed fights for various film and theatrical productions in the southern MO area, and currently performs with Sight & Sound Theatres in Branson.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE STAGE COMBAT WORKSHOP

Sept 26th – Acting Through Song Workshop
Teacher – Nicole Horton

  • 7-9pm – Historic Owen Theatre
  • $25 per student
  • Limited to 8 students

Acting Through Song
The old saying goes that in musicals people talk until the emotion gets too big and then they sing. Acting Through Song is one of the most exciting parts about musical theatre! This class will help you unlock the clues the composer and lyricist have put in the song. We will discuss why the character is singing and what they want from the song. Bring a 90 second cut of your favorite audition song or just a song you’ve always wanted to work on. Please provide your own accompaniment tracks.

Nicole Horton holds a BFA in musical theatre performance from Western Michigan University. She has been a professional actor for almost 20 years and has spent 10 of those years at Sight and Sound Theatres. She’s professionally music directed productions of They’re Playing Our Song, You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown, and Beauty and the Beast. Directing Credits include Peter and the Starcatcher, A Murder is Announced, and Much Ado About Nothing. BRAC audiences may know her from music directing Peter Pan Jr or acting in Glass Menagerie and The Tempest.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE ACTING THROUGH SONG WORKSHOP

Oct 10th  – Musical Theatre Audition Workshop
Teacher – Justin Ables

  • 7-9pm – Historic Owen Theatre
  • $25 per student
  • Limited to 10 students

Musical Theatre Audition Workshop

In this audition Master Class, Justin will help prepare you to shine your best in the audition room!

We will be going over the many tools an actor can use to show directors the best they have to offer. We will be tackling audition cuts, how to find audition material, how to best present yourself in an audition room, what should be in your audition book, and more!

If participants choose too, they can also be coached on a short audition cut in the masterclass and get some feedback!

Materials for class:

  • Anything to take notes with
  • Audition book if you have one
  • 16 Bar cut of a song if you would like to be coached 

Justin Ables has worked as a professional actor, director, and educator in the world of theatre for the past 13 years. He holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Coastal Carolina University and has a passion for the arts and educating fellow artists. 

Some of his favorite credits include: Tevye-“Fiddler on the Rood” (Woodstock Playhouse), Hegai-“Queen Esther” (Sight and Sound Theatres), Porthos -“The Three Musketeers” (Woodstock Playhouse), Marryin’ Sam-“Lil Abner” (Snowcamp Outdoor Theatre) and more! Justin can currently be found performing at Sight and Sound Theaters where he has called home for 10 years. 

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE AUDITION WORKSHOP

 

Educational events like these workshops are made possible by the Branson Regional Arts Council, our generous patrons, and a grant from the Missouri Arts Council.

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We Love Our Theatre Patrons And Appreciate Your Continued Support

  • dateSeptember 10, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council has always strived to present the highest quality theatrical productions possible at the Historic Owen Theatre, while at the same time, keep our ticket prices as affordable as possible for the community. This announcement is to inform our patrons that we will be implementing a modest service fee to each theatre ticket sold beginning October 1, 2024.

Over the past few years, we have dramatically increased the quality of your theatre experience by upgrading the venue with new flooring, improved lighting, new sound equipment, upgraded costumes and sets, and the reaction from all of our patrons has been simply incredible!  Thank you!

During this same time, our expenses to provide these musical productions and plays have also increased dramatically. Everything from our show licensing rights, music rights, construction materials, electricity and other utilities, insurance and much more have increased substantially.

Though we have decided to keep our ticket prices at our affordable $20 Adult (18+) and $12 Youth (4-17) through the end of the season, we will be implementing a $3 per ticket service fee to compensate for new requirements from our professional ticketing service. This service fee goes back to help pay for the use of our ticketing software, and some new features that will hopefully provide an even better online experience for our patrons who purchase their tickets via our website BransonArts.org/tix or directly from our box office at 417-336-4255.

SAVINGS NOTE: If you haven’t purchased tickets yet for The Hunchback of Notre Dame – A New Musical (Oct 17-27) or Irving Berlin’s White Christmas – The Musical (Dec 5-15), you can order them now without paying the new service fee which goes into effect on October 1, 2024.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

We appreciate your support and applause as we continue to improve our community arts in Branson!

 

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Incredible Theatre Can Happen In Just 10 Minutes! Join Us This Sunday!

  • dateSeptember 3, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The “10-Minute Play Series” returns to the Historic Owen Theater on Sunday,September 8, 2024 at 7:00pm.
We invite YOU to attend and show your support and applause for these original plays and very creative minds!
The evening will consist of seven, family-friendly plays lasting no longer than 10 minutes, in a variety of styles and will be followed by a “Talk Back” segment where the audience can ask questions of the writers, directors and actors. This event is presented to help encourage local writers and directors of all skill and experience levels to practice their art in a low-stakes, low-commitment and safe environment.
Admission for the event will be a $10 suggested donation at the door to benefit the educational programs at the Branson Regional Arts Council.
The Seven Featured 10-Minute Plays Are:

Room 205

  • Written by Jennifer Buttell
  • Directed by Darrel Priddle
  • Co-directed by Allison Priddle
  • Featuring Jennifer Buttell, Jan Fitzgerald, Ginny Severs, Randall Simone, and Bob Uthoff, Jr.

Mover and Shaker

  • Written by Roland Netzer
  • Directed by Mindy Law
  • Starring Jeremiah Reeve, David Hewitt, & Josh McGough

Heard Mentality

  • Written by Allison Fradkin
  • Directed by Jeremiah Reeve
  • Starring Juanita Wilson, Michael Prince, & Amber Carr

Sunsets

  • Written & Directed by Cameron Ulmer
  • Starring Anna Hayes & Trystan Brown

Time Clock

  • Written & Directed by Peyton Montgomery
  • Featuring Jordan Smith, Payton Sieg, Anahi Astorga, & Kylie Birdsong

Triune Tale of Diminutive Swine

  • Written by John Branyon
  • Adapted & Directed by Aaron Munn
  • Starring Sara Boehm, Jon Michael Thompson, Natalie Hensarling, Aaron Munn, & Nathan Crowther

A Nice Cold Shower

  • Written & Directed by Jeremiah Reeve
  • Starring Abby Reeve & Mindy Law
This Branson Regional Arts Council Special Event is coordinated by Kyle Blanchard, with technical assistance from Pamela Meadows, Myles Stevens, Bella Whittington, and Bee Rice.
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Auditions For Irving Berlin’s White Christmas At The Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateAugust 22, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council announces open auditions for it’s December 2024 production of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas!

Directed by Jacob Deck, the auditions will be held at the Historic Owen Theatre (205 S. Commercial St., Branson, MO 65616)

  • Thursday, September 12, 2024 from 6pm – 8 pm
  • Saturday, September 14, 2024 from 2pm – 4pm
  • Saturday, September 14, 2024 from 6pm – 8pm

We’re seeking talented singers, dancers, and actors to bring this beloved holiday musical to life. Auditioners should prepare a song in the style of the show, no longer than 1 minute, and be ready for a dance audition.

Please bring jazz shoes, character shoes, or tennis shoes, and tap shoes if you have them.

If you have any questions, please call 417-336-4255 or edu@bransonarts.org.

Anticipated Rehearsal Schedule will be discussed at auditions.

Performance dates at the Historic Owen Theatre are December 5 – 15, 2024. Thu (7pm), Fri (7pm), Sat (2 pm and 7pm), Sun (2pm).

ROLE BREAKDOWNS:

CHARACTERS

  • Bob Wallace – late 20’s to mid 30’s, a superb singer with a crooning style who moves well
  • Phil Davis – late 20’s to mid 30’s, strong jazz and tap-dancing needed – a song-and-dance comic performer
  • Betty Haynes – mid to late 20’s, a female singer of quiet beauty and charm who must move well
  • Judy Haynes – early 20’s, strong jazz and tap-dancing needed – a major song-and-dance performer
  • General Henry Waverly – late 50’s to mid 60’s, with the exception of one line, a non-singing role
  • Martha Watson – late 40’s to mid 60’s, a winning, appealing character-comedienne
  • Susan Waverly – 9 years old, she must have an excellent belt voice and be able to move well
  • Ralph Sheldrake – mid to late 30’s
  • Rita – mid 20’s to early 30’s
  • Rhoda – mid 20’s to early 30’s
  • Ezekiel Foster – mid 40’s to late 50’s
  • Mike – mid 20’s to late 30’s
  • Tessie
  • Jimmy
  • Cigarette Girl
  • Snoring Man
  • Mrs. Snoring Man
  • Train Conductor
  • Dance Captain
  • Seamstress
  • Assistant Seamstress
  • Ed Sullivan Announcer
  • Regency Room Announcer – offstage voice
  • Sheldrake’s Secretary – offstage voice

ENSEMBLE
Large singing-dancing ensemble consisting of ‘Jimmy’s Back Room’ Clubgoers, Train Passengers, Inn Guests, Chorus Kids, Patrons of the Regency Room

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Encore Performance of Shakespeare’s A Comedy Of Errors Next Week

  • dateAugust 22, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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Rated G | General Audiences & School Students

The Branson Regional Arts Council presents an encore performance of, The Comedy of Errors, one of William Shakespeare’s early plays. It is his shortest and one of his most farcical comedies, with a major part of the humour coming from slapstick and mistaken identity, in addition to puns and word play. It has been adapted for opera, stage, screen and musical theatre numerous times worldwide.

ONE PUBLIC PERFORMANCE – $10 AREA APPRECIATION

  • Wednesday, August 28, 2024 at 10am

Tickets for this special Education Series production are only $10 for all patrons. Lap children under the age of four are admitted free of charge. Advance reserved seats are available now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255.

The Comedy of Errors by William Shakespeare is a comedy about the mistaken identity of two sets of twins. Separated by a storm at sea, Antipholus of Syracuse sets out to Ephesus with his slave Dromio of Syracuse to find their twin brothers, Antipholus of Ephesus and Dromio of Ephesus, respectively. Their arrival to Ephesus immediately starts an unfortunate chain of events that results in beatings, seduction, and false-accusations. After several comedic events, the people of Ephesus realize the reason for the misunderstanding and the two families are able to reunite.

Cast Members (in photo above):
Josh Boulden – Antipholus of Syracuse
Joshua Ankabrandt – Dromio of Syracuse
Nick Carrano – Antipholus of Ephesus
Jon Michael Thompson – Dromio of Ephesus

Other Cast not pictured:
Kyra Carrano – Adriana
CarlyRae Stevenson – Luciana
Jonathan Crum – Egeon
David Clark – Angelo the Goldsmith
Connor Cagle – Duke Solinus
Charis Boulden – The Courtesan
Mariah Garret – Emelia the Abbess
Megan King – Second Merchant
Brandon Farrar – The Officer/Balthazar
Corrine Tabor – First Merchant/Jailer

BAND MEMBERS

  • Madi Trammell – Clarinet / Saxophone
  • Cole McKinney – Trombone / Keyboard
  • Jacob Jewell – Keyboard
  • Devin Farmer – Trumpet
  • Tori Hurley – Drums

PRODUCTION TEAM

  • Ryan Hippe – Director / Scenic Design
  • Madi Trammell – Music Director
  • McKenzie Marks – Costume Designer
  • Daylin Paulson – Lighting Designer
  • Casey Sharp – Sound Designer
  • CJ McElhiney – Production Stage Manager
  • David Clark – Assistant Stage Manager / Props
  • Connor Finn – Lead Carpenter
  • Sarah Briggs – Spotlight Operator
  • Nathanael Frank – Music Arrangements
  • Kristen Ables – Poster / Publicity Photos / Wigs
  • Megan King – Promotional Videos

SET BUILD VOLUNTEERS

  • Dion Castro
  • Hayden Bailey
  • Nathanael Pezzo
  • Alyssa Vella
  • Parker Leroy

MUSIC CREDITS

  • Jubilee Stomp – based on Duke Ellignton and his Cotton Club Orchestra Ca. 1928, transcribed and arranged by Scott Sproxton, further arrangement by Nathanael Frank.
  • Tiger Rag – based on Duke Ellington and his Cotton Club Orchestra Ca. 1929, arrangement by Nathanael Frank.
  • Bobcat (”He Left Me”), by David Bruce, arrangement by Nathaniel Frank, lyrics by Bucky T. B.
  • Afterburner by Christian Morris Additional original piano music by Cole McKinney and Jacob Jewell

There will be one public encore performance of this production on Wednesday, August 28, 2024 at 10am. Interested school groups who would like to bring their students  should contact BRAC at 417-336-4255.

 

 

 

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Actor Auditions For 2nd Annual 10 Min Play Series Announced

  • dateAugust 1, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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Calling all area actors… beginning or experienced! 

Have you wanted to try your hand at acting, but don’t want to take the plunge in one of our full-length productions? Or… are you just hungry to get your hands on some fresh material? Now is your chance to be cast in up to three short plays, written and directed by local creatives!
Join us at the Historic Owen Theater on Sunday, August 11, 2024 from 2 to 4 PM to audition for the 2nd Annual 10-Minute Play Series!
  • Simply come prepared with a 20-30 second monologue of your choosing!
Any questions? Please contact Kyle Blanchard at events@bransonarts.org.

The “10-Minute Play Series” performance will be at the Historic Owen Theater on September 8, 2024! 

This event is to help encourage local actors, writers and directors of all skill and experience levels to practice their art in a low-stakes, low-commitment and safe environment. The evening will consist of ten plays lasting no longer than 10 minutes, in a variety of styles. 

Admission for the event will be a $10 suggested donation to benefit the education programs at the Branson Regional Arts Council.

We hope you will come audition to be part of an evening of inspiring original works!

 

 

10 Min Vectors by Vecteezy

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The Shepherd of the Hills (1941) Marks Return Of Classic Films To Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateJuly 31, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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Monday Movies Are Back this Summer at the Historic Owen Theatre!

The Historic Downtown Branson Community Improvement District is pleased to partner with Branson Regional Arts Council to present a series of Classic Films that were actually shown at the Historic Owen Theatre when they first came out in the 30’s and 40’s. Everyone is invited to join us this Monday, August 5, 2024 at 7pm as we kick off this Summer Film Fest, and relive the nostalgia of great classic movies at the Historic Owen Theatre with your family and friends!

FREE ADMISSION – SEATING IS LIMITED

No reservations required, but seating is limited and on a first come basis. Doors open at 5:30pm with a special Ozarks Authors Book Signing at 6:00pm, and the film starting at 7:00pm. The concession stand will be open with fresh popcorn, refreshments and other tasty treats available.

Monday, August 5th – 7pm – The Shepherd of the Hills (1941 – featuring John Wayne, Betty Field and Harry Carey)

The Shepherd of the Hills is a 1941 American drama film starring John Wayne, Betty Field and Harry Carey. The supporting cast includes Beulah Bondi, Ward Bond, Marjorie Main and John Qualen. The picture was Wayne’s first film in Technicolor and was based on the novel of the same name by Harold Bell Wright. The director was Henry Hathaway, who directed several other Wayne films including True Grit almost three decades later. The story was filmed previously in the silent era by author Wright himself in 1919, released on State Rights basis. It was filmed again, in The Shepherd of the Hills (1928 film), starring Molly O’Day at First National Pictures, and later, in color in 1964.

The photo above was taken when the film premiered at the Owen Theatre in July 1941. In response to negative public opinion that the film may not accurately reflect the original Harold Bell Wright novel, theatre owner Jim Owen created a publicity campaign that included manned picket signs reading “Paramount’s Shepherd of the Hills – Unfair to Original Characters. We Don’t Like It! – Hillbilly Local #0001.” Now, 83 years later, come see the film and judge for yourself!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR MORE MONDAY MOVIES THIS SUMMER!

  • August 5th– 6pm Book Signing Event, 7pm – John Wayne in Shepherd of the Hills (1941) 98mins
  • August 12th– 7pm – Ma & Pa Kettle Back on the Farm (1951) 80min
  • August 19th– 7pm – Spencer Tracy in They Gave Him a Gun (1937) 94min
  • September 2nd– 7pm – Mae West in I’m No Angel (1933) 87min
  • September 9th– 7pm – Henry Fonda in That Certain Woman (1937) 1:33min
  • September 16th– 7pm – Steven Spielberg’s Jaws (1975) 124min

“We are excited to partner with BRAC to offer free classic films. BRAC and the Historic Owen Theatre are a vibrant part of our community and history. It’s always a pleasure to work with our friends and neighbors!  We recommend you arrive early for best parking, then take some time before the films to shop, dine and explore downtown!” 

– Cris Bohinc, Administrator Historic Downtown Branson CID

In 2006, downtown Branson worked with the city and state to form the Historic Downtown Branson CID. The purpose was to help Historic Downtown generate more visitors when its new neighbor arrived; The Branson Landing. The downtown CID started the first public transportation system in Branson and operated within a “Community Improvement District”. The FREE trolleys join Historic Downtown with The Landing!

The “District” provides many things. Several trolleys that are free for riders and paid for by a 1-cent sales tax collected by businesses in the district. Also, Christmas light displays in November and December, lots of advertising on TV, social media, website and so much more!!

The District also partners with the DBBA to get out over 200,000 downtown brochures annually and other needs. The CID is currently working with the city to make upgrades to the public Awbery bathroom and to have the downtown’s landscaping completely redone!

The Historic Downtown Branson CID’s only goal, is to bring more business and beauty to downtown!!

Visit RideSparky.com for updates, the live trolley tracker and much more!

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Five Ozarks Authors Featured At Branson Book Signing Event – Monday Aug 5th

  • dateJuly 25, 2024
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The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to present a fun book signing event featuring five well-known published authors from the Ozarks.

Authors, Howard C. Cavner, Todd Parnell, Tom Koob, Curtis Copeland and Marilyn Whetstone will all be attending this book signing event at the Historic Owen Theatre on Monday, August 5, 2024 at 6:00pm.

  • Ozarks Authors Book Signing – FREE EVENT
  • Historic Owen Theatre – 205 S. Commercial St., Branson, MO 65616
  • Monday, August 5, 2024
  • 6:00pm – followed by the film The Shepherd of the Hills at 7:00pm

This free community event will give area locals a chance to meet the authors, and learn what encouraged them to write these wonderful books. The authors will be signing their books, and give a brief talk about how they were inspired to share the stories of the amazing people of the Ozarks, our beautiful mountains, lakes and humorous folktales! This event is a rare chance for friends and fans to connect with the authors, and for the authors to promote their work and engage with their readership.

See individual author biographies below! Make plans to join us for this exciting event!

This Ozarks Author book signing event will be followed by a 7pm showing of the film version of The Shepherd of the Hills starring John Wayne, Betty Field and Harry Carey. The supporting cast includes Beulah Bondi, Ward Bond, Marjorie Main and John Qualen. The picture was Wayne’s first film in Technicolor and was based on the novel of the same name by Harold Bell Wright. The director was Henry Hathaway, who directed several other Wayne films including True Grit almost three decades later.

The film is sponsored by the Historic Downtown Branson Community Improvement District and the public is invited free of charge. The concession stand will be serving your favorite snacks, and seating is limited to 200 people.

 

Howard Cavner – Ozark Saints

Bio: Ozark Saints is Howard Cavner’s first book of short stories.  He considers it a blessing to have lived his childhood and young adult years in Branson, Missouri, just six blocks from the Historic Owen Theater.

Growing up in Branson, when it was a quaint small town, allowed Howard to get to know many Ozark characters, among them Jim Owen, and be influenced by their common hill values.

An ordained progressive Christian minister, he served as an ecumenical campus minister for thirty-five years before retiring in 2018.  Howard is pictured here with his loyal Hickory.

 

Todd Parnell – The Buffalo, Ben, and Me, and Trails of the Heart

Bio: Todd Parnell is the retired President of Drury University, co-founder and retired CEO of THE BANK in Springfield, MO, civic leader, award-winning author inducted into the Missouri Writers Hall of Fame in 2012, environmental advocate as co-founder of the Upper White River Basin Foundation and retired Chair of the Missouri Clean Water Commission, and an eighth generation native of the Ozarks.

Parnell resides in Springfield with his wife of 47 years, Betty. They are blessed with four children and seven grandchildren, for whom he has great plans on the river.

His passion for engaging all in wild and natural places speaks to individual personal benefit and growth as well as new generations of environmental advocates to protect our unique resources. His commitment to clean water in the Ozarks speaks to a precious and unique natural resource that underlays a vibrant regional water based economy.

 

Marilyn Whetstone – Our Home In The Hills

One of more than twenty-five first cousins who grew up together in the Ozark Mountains, Marilyn Michel Whetstone reveals in Our Home in the Hills how she experienced first-hand the joy and comfort of being part of a large, close-knit family.

In a collection of true stories and family recipes, Whetstone shares anecdotes that provide insight into her life growing up in the popular resort mecca of the Midwest, Rockaway Beach, during the 1950’s and 1960’s and the lives of guests who visited the family resort during that time. While transporting others on a nostalgic trip back to a simpler time, Whetstone details how unselfish acts of sacrifice and kindness promoted healthy and lasting bonds among relatives and friends. She shares the ups and downs in her teenage relationships and offers a glimpse into her close walk with Jesus Christ. Included are recipes that have been passed down in her family for more than a hundred years, providing a backdrop to her delightful stories.

 

Tom Koob – Buried by Table Rock Lake

Bio: Tom Koob has lived in the Ozarks White River Hills for over thirty years.

His study of the area’s history and culture has resulted in four non-fiction books and two novels about the region.

Tom’s interaction with long-time residents has left him with an admiring respect for the strength and character of the mountain folk who have forged a good life out of the Ozarks’ hills and hollows.

 

Curtis Copeland – Mildred, Quit Hollering!

Bio: My name is Curtis Copeland. I am a lifelong resident of the Southwest Missouri Ozarks, (except for 4 years that I lived in the Arkansas/Missouri border town of Omaha, Arkansas. I graduated from Missouri State University in 1997 with a Bachelor’sDegree in Cartographic Sciences. Immediately after graduation, I was hired as a Geographic Information System (GIS) Technician for the City of Branson, Missouri. Shortly thereafter, I became the GIS Manager for the City of Branson, and have been here now for 25 years. Mapping and geographic analysis for the City has allowed for a lot of variety in my career. It’s allowed for the experience in mapping everything from utilities to zoning to crime and fire response. I’ve also had the opportunity to apply GIS skills to another one of my serious interests, Ozarks history and culture. For several years I was on the Historic Sites Committee for the White River Valley Historical Society. On the Committee, I used GIS technologies to locate and map historic sites, town sites, homesteads and structures. My career with the City of Branson has provided a great deal of experience working with other government agencies, including State, Federal and local entities. This included formulating data sharing agreements and collaborating on projects, including mapping trails and aerial photography acquisitions.

As previously mentioned, I am an Ozarks and local history buff, and therefore, I am a member of, and participate in a number of history-related organizations including: the Stone County Historical Society, the Branson Centennial Museum, The White River Valley Historical Society, and the Bonniebrook Historical Society. I am a board member of the Bonniebrook Historical Society. As mentioned previously, I was a member of the Historic Sites Committee for the White River Valley Historical Society.

I have contributed articles for the White River Valley Historical Quarterly and OzarksWatch magazine. I have co-authored twobooks: Ozarks Hillbilly: Stereotype and Reality, with Tom Koob; and Mildred, Quit Hollering! And Other Ozark Folktales, with Vance Randolph and Augustus Finch. I’m currently working on a secondbookwith Tom Koob about the history of Ozarks float fishing.

In 2023, I was selected to be a presenter at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, featuring the Ozarks. For the event, the Smithsonian asked that I produce a map that would illustrate the cultural boundary of the Ozarks. I worked with a committee for input during the development process of the map.

In 2017, I assisted in the reviving of The Society of Ozarkian Hillcrofters. An organization originally formed in 1932 for the purpose of preserving Ozarks history, folklore, culture, and conservation of its natural environment. The organization now has more than 80 members. Since 2017, we have assisted in the preservation of a historic post office building, we suggested and gained community support for the changing of the name of Ozark Mountain State Park to Shepherd of the Hills State Park, and we are currently developing a roadside park and nature trail for a historic site in Taney County. The Society of Ozarkian Hillcrofters also raises scholarships to send youth to music camps where they learn traditional Ozarks music and instrumentation.

I have a very supportive, intelligent wife and best friend, Crystal. We have two boys: Coulter, 7 and Sebastian, 15; and a daughter: Olivia, 21. We all enjoy our Missouri outdoors as a family at every possible opportunity.

 

 

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Urinetown The Musical Brings Award Winning Comedy To Downtown Branson

  • dateJuly 16, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view1925 Views

Holding out as our #1 Show of the Year, Urinetown the Musical is a sidesplitting sendup of greed, love, revolution (and musicals!), in a time when water is worth its weight in gold.

Don’t miss this Branson Regional Arts Council production of Urinetown, now playing at the Historic Owen Theatre from July 25 – August 4, 2024. Shows run Thursdays (7pm), Fridays (7pm), Saturdays (7pm), and Sundays (2pm).

Reserve your seat now for this hilarious Tony Award winning musical satire of the legal system, capitalism, social irresponsibility, populism, environmental collapse, privatization of natural resources, bureaucracy, municipal politics, and musical theatre itself! Get your tickets online at BransonArts.org/tix or call the box office at 417-336-4255. This production is Rated PG13.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

Hilariously funny and touchingly honest, Urinetown provides a fresh perspective on one of America’s greatest art forms.

In a Gotham-like city, a terrible water shortage, caused by a 20-year drought, has led to a government-enforced ban on private toilets. The citizens must use public amenities, regulated by a single malevolent company that profits by charging admission for one of humanity’s most basic needs. Amid the people, a hero decides that he’s had enough and plans a revolution to lead them all to freedom!

Inspired by the works of Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill, Urinetown is an irreverently humorous satire in which no one is safe from scrutiny. Praised for reinvigorating the very notion of what a musical could be, Urinetown catapults the “comedic romp” into the new millennium with its outrageous perspective, wickedly modern wit and sustained ability to produce gales of unbridled laughter.

Urinetown is sheer brilliance with ten Tony nominations to its name and three awards (for best book, score, and direction); but it’s not just the accolades that make this show noteworthy. Urinetown opened on Broadway the day before September 11th, 2001, and offered audiences the side-splitting escapism that they needed while also grappling with some relevant and unanswerable questions like human depravity and suffering. I discovered the show in 2007 and it will forever be special to me because it helped shape my quirky, but also seriously morbid artistic voice. This show isn’t just spoof, satire and potty humor, it’s psychology and hard truths without the ego. I’m in my happy place with this show, and I hope you’ll put your inhibitions aside and come with us to the unavoidable Urinetown!
– Kyle Blanchard – Director

The cast of Urinetown The Musical includes: Chad Ferriell (Bobby Strong), Tom Cartwright (Mr. Caldwell / B. Cladwell), Tom Baker (Officer Lockstock), Avery Tillette (Hope Cladwell), Michelle Baker (Penelope Pennywise), Jennifer Buttell (Officer Barrel), Jeremiah Reeve (Senator Fipp), Josh Silvy (Mr. McQueen), Josslynn Silvy (Little Sally), Carter Hendrickson (Joseph Strong / Hot Blades Harry / Exec. 1), Velvet Dougharty (Hidalgo Jane / Mrs. Millenium / Cop), Alivia Prince (Tiny Tom / Dr. Billeaux / Cop), Brenna Bergeron (Little Becky Two-Shoes / UGC Staff / Cop), Melinda Prince (Soupy Sue / UGC Staff / Cop), River Furgerson (Robby the Stockfish / Exec. #2 / Cop), and Macy Everett (Josephine Strong / UGC Staff / Cop).

The production team includes: Karie Dykeman, Kristine Brown (Producers), Kyle Blanchard (Director / Social Media /Costumes), Tom Cartwright (Music Director), Jacob Deck (Choreographer), Julia Wolz (Stage Manager), Dimitri Tsahiridis (Assistant Stage Manager/Stagehand), Myles Stevens (Audio Engineer), Daylin Paulson (Lighting Design), Kayra Holloway (Light Board Operator), Bella Whittington (Spotlight), Charis Boulden, Cyrsten Rainey (Set Painters/Dresser), Josh Silvy (Theatre Inventory), and Jim Barber (Marketing and Design).

 

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Auditions Announced For Hunchback of Notre Dame at Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateJuly 12, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view2358 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council invites all interested actors, singers and dancers to attend our open auditions for our October production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame!

Based on the Victor Hugo novel and songs from the Disney animated feature, The Hunchback of Notre Dame showcases the film’s Academy Award-nominated score, as well as new songs by Menken and Schwartz. Peter Parnell’s new book embraces story theatre and features verbatim passages from Hugo’s gothic novel. The Hunchback of Notre Dame is a captivating tale of love, acceptance, heroism and humanity.

Auditions will be held at the Historic Owen Theatre on Sunday, July 28th and Monday, July 29th beginning at 6pm. Please arrive as close to 6pm as possible. Out of respect for everyone’s time we will try to get done as soon as possible.

The show has roles for adults (18+) with a variety of talents and skill levels.

  • Performances are October 17-27, 2024.
  • Please be prepared to provide all conflicts from August 8th through the show dates. 
  • A theatre resume and headshot are required for those seeking named roles.

For vocal auditions, please prepare a less than 60 second cut of a musical theatre song in the style of the show that showcases your range and acting skills. You may also sing from the show. Please bring an mp3 track or youtube karaoke track cued up on your smart device. NO A CAPPELLA auditions.

Acting auditions will include cold readings from the script.  We will be looking for strong acting choices and interpretation.

Dance auditions will include learning a segment of a dance from the show. There will be an easier dance section which everyone will do, followed by a more advanced section to for potential featured dancers. Please wear appropriate clothing and shoes.

Callbacks will be held Wednesday, July 31st starting at 6:00 PM.  You will be invited to participate following your audition.  Some roles may not require callbacks.

PRIMARY CHARACTERS
These performers must be strong singers, and actors.

Claude Frollo
Archdeacon of Notre Dame Cathedral and the most powerful cleric in Paris, he is the reluctant caretaker of Quasimodo. He will do whatever it takes to rid the city of the Roma “vermin,” even as he lusts after Esmeralda. Calculating, manipulative, and obsessive.
Gender: Male
Age: 40 to 50
Vocal range top: D4
Vocal range bottom: E2

Quasimodo
The deformed bell-ringer of Notre Dame and Claude Frollo’s charge. Lonely and staunchly obedient to Frollo, he possesses a vivid imagination that brings to life the bells and gargoyles of the cathedral. Despite his shyness and uncertainty, he quickly befriends Esmeralda. Big-hearted, and brave when need be.
Gender: Male
Age: 20 to 30
Vocal range top: Bb4
Vocal range bottom: Bb2

Clopin Trouillefou
The clever and charismatic King of the Roma. An air of mystery surrounds Clopin, who often leaves the scene in a puff of smoke. As the master of ceremonies for the Feast of Fools, he is witty and playful, but he boasts a darker, serious nature when not performing for the crowd.
Gender: Male
Age: 30 to 40
Vocal range top: G4
Vocal range bottom: C3

Captain Phoebus de Martin
Returning to Paris after serving in the war, Phoebus takes up his new position as Captain of the Cathedral Guard. Overconfident yet charming, this handsome, strong soldier makes the ladies swoon, yet his moral compass is also strong, and he openly defies the corrupted Frollo.
Gender: Male
Age: 25 to 40
Vocal range top: Ab4
Vocal range bottom: Ab2

Esmeralda
A beautiful and free-spirited Romani woman who possesses the strong sense of justice and morality that Frollo lacks. Compassionate, she frees Quasimodo from the frenzied mob at the Feast of Fools and, against her better judgment, falls for the cocky Phoebus.
Gender: Female
Age: 20 to 30
Vocal range top: Db5
Vocal range bottom: Eb3

The Ensemble in this production is referred to as “The Congregation” or “Congregants”

Congregation
Roma, gargoyles, soldiers, and citizens of Paris.
Gender: Any
Dance: There are roles for Movers and for more advanced featured dancers

FEATURED CONGREGANTS

Jehan Frollo
Claude’s reckless younger brother. With Florika, he fathers Quasimodo, who he leaves in his brother’s care. Wild, passionate, and strong-willed.
Gender: Male
Age: 20 to 30
Vocal range top: Eb4
Vocal range bottom: G#2

Florika
A Romani woman and Quasimodo’s mother.
Gender: Female
Age: 20 to 30
Vocal range top: F5
Vocal range bottom: C#4

Father Dupin
A priest of Notre Dame and Claude and Jehan’s guardian.
Gender: Male
Age: 40 to 60
Vocal range top: A4
Vocal range bottom: C4

Lieutenant Frederic Charlus
Lieutenant of the Cathedral Guard and loyal friend to Phoebus.
Gender: Male
Age: 20 to 30

King Louis XI
King of France, nicknamed the Prudent.
Gender: Male
Age: 40 to 50

Tribunal
A judicial officer.
Gender: Male
Age: 20 to 50
Vocal range top: E4
Vocal range bottom: G2

Madam
Owner of a brothel and safe haven for the Roma.
Gender: Female
Age: 35 to 50

Saint Aphrodisius
A statue that comes to life in Quasimodo’s imagination who encourages him to be brave.
Gender: Male
Age: 30 to 50
Vocal range top: E4
Vocal range bottom: B2

There will also be a Choir of 10 additional Singers.
Gender: Any
Acting: None
Dancing: None

We hope to see you there!

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Writer and Director Submissions Now Open For Arts Council 10 Minute Play Series

  • dateJune 11, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view2490 Views

Calling all writers and directors… aspiring and experienced alike! 

The “10-Minute Play Series” is coming back to the Historic Owen Theater on September 8, 2024 and we need your original plays and creative minds! 

This event is to help encourage local writers and directors of all skill and experience levels to practice their art in a low-stakes, low-commitment and safe environment. The evening will consist of ten plays lasting no longer than 10 minutes, in a variety of styles. 

Admission for the event will be a $10 suggested donation to benefit the education programs at the Branson Regional Arts Council.

SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS FOR WRITERS: 

  • Please submit your finished script (or at least the first draft) to Kyle Blanchard at Events@BransonArts.org by July 7th. Final selections will be made by the 14th.
  • Specify whether you would also like to direct your play or if you would like another director to stage the piece.
  • The content of the play should not exceed that of a typical PG13 rating.
  • The play must be under 10 minutes in length (usually about 10 pages).

SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS FOR DIRECTORS: 

  • Please submit your resume or any relevant experience to Kyle Blanchard at Events@BransonArts.org. (No experience necessary)
  • Directors will be selected on an as-needed basis as playwrights will be permitted to direct their own pieces.
  • Directors will be selected in the week following July 14th.
  • Auditions for actors will be on Sunday, August 11th 2-4pm at the Owen Theater
  • Final Tech/Dress Rehearsal will be on Sunday, September 8th from 1pm to 5 pm
  • The Performance will be on Sunday, September 8th at 7pm

We hope you will join us in an evening of inspiring original works!

10 Min Vectors by Vecteezy

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