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Free Showing Of The Classic Film – Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn This Monday

  • dateDecember 5, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Historic Downtown Branson Community Improvement District is pleased to partner with Branson Regional Arts Council to offer FREE Classic Holiday Films at the Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S Commercial St., Downtown Branson.

  • Holiday Inn (1942 – featuring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire)

Everyone is invited to join us this Monday, December 11th at 7pm and relive the nostalgia of great holiday movies at the Historic Owen Theatre with your family and friends!

FREE ADMISSION – SEATING IS LIMITED

Holiday Inn is a 1942 American musical film starring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire, with Marjorie Reynolds, Virginia Dale, and Walter Abel. It was directed by Mark Sandrich with music by Irving Berlin. The composer wrote twelve songs specifically for the film, the best known being “White Christmas”. The film features a complete reuse of the song “Easter Parade”, written by Berlin for the 1933 Broadway revue As Thousands Cheer and used as a highlight of the 1948 film Easter Parade, starring Astaire and Judy Garland.

The film received a 1943 Academy Award for Best Original Song (Berlin’s “White Christmas”), as well as Academy Award nominations for Best Score (Robert Emmett Dolan) and Best Original Story (Irving Berlin).

No reservations required, but seating is limited and on a first come basis. Doors open at 6:30pm and the films start at 7:00pm. The concession stand will be open with fresh popcorn, refreshments and other tasty treats available.

“We are excited to partner with BRAC to offer free Christmas 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!” – Cris Bohinc, Administrator Historic Downtown Branson CID

We recommend you arrive early for best parking, then take some time before the films to shop, dine and explore downtown! Take in the dazzling lights with fantastic displays including an impressive 102 custom fixtures featuring over 100,000 LED lights that will glow south of Business 65 along Main, Commercial, and Sycamore streets.  Directly behind the Historic Owen Theatre, you’ll see the new Chiefs Kingdom Ozark Mountain Christmas Tree in Liberty Plaza. From Main Street in downtown, you can look on the hill across Lake Taneycomo to see Branson’s oldest Christmas tradition since 1949, The “Adoration” Nativity scene.

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, the Christmas light displays, 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 in the Spring!

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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Free Showing Of The Classic Film – It’s A Wonderful Life This Monday

  • dateDecember 2, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view697 Views

The Historic Downtown Branson Community Improvement District is pleased to partner with Branson Regional Arts Council to offer FREE Classic Holiday Films at the Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S Commercial St., Downtown Branson.

  • It’s A Wonderful Life (1946 – featuring James Stewart and Donna Reed)

Everyone is invited to join us this Monday, December 4th at 7pm and relive the nostalgia of great holiday 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 6:30pm and the films start at 7:00pm. The concession stand will be open with fresh popcorn, refreshments and other tasty treats available.

It’s a Wonderful Life is considered to be one of the greatest films of all time and among the best Christmas films. It was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and has been recognized by the American Film Institute as one of the 100 best American films ever made. It was #11 on the American Film Institute’s 1998 greatest movie list, #20 on its 2007 greatest movie list, and #1 on its list of the most inspirational American films of all time.

“We are excited to partner with BRAC to offer free Christmas 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!” – Cris Bohinc, Administrator Historic Downtown Branson CID

We recommend you arrive early for best parking, then take some time before the films to shop, dine and explore downtown! Take in the dazzling lights with fantastic displays including an impressive 102 custom fixtures featuring over 100,000 LED lights that will glow south of Business 65 along Main, Commercial, and Sycamore streets.  Directly behind the Historic Owen Theatre, you’ll see the new Chiefs Kingdom Ozark Mountain Christmas Tree in Liberty Plaza. From Main Street in downtown, you can look on the hill across Lake Taneycomo to see Branson’s oldest Christmas tradition since 1949, The “Adoration” Nativity scene.

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, the Christmas light displays, 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 in the Spring!

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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Auditions for The SpongeBob Musical Announced

  • dateNovember 27, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council announces open auditions for its 2024 season opening production of The SpongeBob Musical!

Directed by Kyle Bradley, the auditions will be held at the Historic Owen Theatre (205 S. Commercial St., Branson, MO 65616) on Tuesday, December 5th 2023 from 5pm – 8pm. 

  • Auditions are open to performers ages 8 and up. (limited children’s roles available). 
  • Main Cast and Featured Ensemble roles ages 16 and up. 

WHAT TO BRING: Those auditioning are asked to bring: A music cut, no longer than a minute, in the style of the show. Songs from the show are acceptable and are even preferred if you’re auditioning for a specific role. Bring your own music tracks on phone or player to connect to sound board (no accompanist provided) 

Auditionees are free to leave after their vocal audition. 

Callbacks and Dance Call Audition will take place Wednesday Dec. 6th. (See information below) 

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

Anticipated Rehearsal Schedule linked here: Rehearsal Schedule – SpongeBob BRAC

Performance Dates: February 8th-25th, 2023 – Thu (7pm), Fri (7pm), Sat (2pm & 7pm), Sun (2pm) 

Dance Call Auditions: Wednesday December 6th – 6:00-7:00pm

  • All those auditioning are called to return to the Owen Theatre to learn and perform a dance combination. Come dressed and ready to move. 

Callback Auditions: Wednesday December 6th – 7:00-10:00pm

  • Those asked to remain will stay after the dance call to complete singing and reading for specific characters from the show for a callback audition (you will be contacted individually if you are needed at callbacks)

Video Submissions: Accepting video submissions until Tuesday December 5th at 9pm. Those unable to attend initial auditions can send in a video submission (One minute cut of a music theatre song or song from the show) with head shot, resume, and dance reel (if applicable). Please also list any conflicts with rehearsals or shows throughout the process (see linked rehearsal schedule for dates/times).

  • Email video submissions to director Kyle Bradley at kylebradley8913@gmail.com

ROLE BREAKDOWNS: 

SpongeBob SquarePants (Tenor): optimistic, innocent, and boyish; energetic and sometimes hyperactive. This performer should have the ability to move well and be physically agile. Naturally funny with great comedic skills and precision. Strong pop tenor vocals. 

Patrick Star (Tenor): Well-intentioned but lacking common sense or skills; kind and somewhat clueless, an innocent; a big softie, who can also be prone to sudden child-like fits of rage or frustration 

Sandy Cheeks (Female, Lead, Mezzo-Soprano, Alto): A brainy and athletic Texan squirrel who came to Bikini Bottom for a research project. She acts as SpongeBob’s most trusted ally on their quest to stop the volcano from erupting, using her vast amount of scientific knowledge and brilliant inventions to aid the mission. 

Squidward Q. Tentacles (Tenor, G# belt) Grumpy, cynical, dry, short- tempered, generally negative but lovable! This Actor must move well and TAP dancing skills are a plus. 

Sheldon Plankton (Male, Lead, Tenor): His personality outweighs his size- slick, scheming, nefarious; has the ability to charm; determined, he will do anything to get ahead in life; very greedy, but his heart is still open enough to rekindle a romance with his wife. This character will need to dance and rap skills a plus. 

Karen the Computer (Female; Supporting; Soprano, Mezzo-Soprano): Glamorous, a robotic housewife of Plankton. She’s been there for Plankton’s every scheme and plot and has become jaded – she’s been there and done that. Strong comic actress, as well as Singer and Mover. 

Pearl Krabs (Female, Supporting, Mezzo-Soprano): Mr. Krabs’ bratty teenage daughter. This is a character role with Gospel vocal overtones. 

Eugene Krabs (Male, Lead, Baritone): The greedy owner of the Krusty Krab, and employer of SpongeBob and Squidward. While everyone is off panicking about Bikini Bottom’s imminent doom, he decides to strike the iron while it’s hot and puts on a huge “apocalypse sale” at his restaurant, exploiting the fear of his fellow fish to make him even richer. 

Patchy the Pirate: Male, Featured, Baritone. Leader of the pirate crew featured song at the top of Act 2. (Potentially doubling in ensemble) 

Electric Skates (Male, Featured, Tenor, Baritone, Bass): Rock and roll band members, the Skates are hard-core, grungy, heavy metals meet World Wrestling. Strong Dancers, ability to do skateboard tricks a plus. Also open to rollerblade or inline skating, with tricks available. 

Featured Roles:

Mayor of Bikini Bottom: Female, Mezzo 

Perch Perkins: Male, Featured, Bass 

French Narrator: Ensemble, Spoken 

Sardines: Ensemble, All Voice Parts 

Security Guards: Ensemble, Spoken 

Old Man Jenkins: Ensemble Baritone/Bass 

Mrs. Puff: Female, Ensemble, Mezzo 

Larry the Lobster: Male, Ensemble 

Ensemble: A variety of character types to play several featured ensemble roles, performers with comedic timing, strong pop/rock or contemporary musical theatre voices, tap and Hip-hop skills and experience a plus! 

The Foley Artist Fish: a staged role that produces all sound effects specified in the script and score using percussion instruments, triggered digital effects, and other creative sound makers. As envisioned by Tina Landau, “The show is meant to be performed with a FOLEY ARTIST FISH playing sound effects live, and within view of the audience, to accompany the stage action. This could include footsteps for SpongeBob and Squidward (as in the Broadway Production), dings for objects appearing, whacks for hits, and so on.”

 

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We’re Adding To Our Production Staff… Calling All Directors, Choreographers, Technicians and More!

  • dateNovember 27, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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  • view1441 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council is reaching out for qualified, area talent to participate in our exciting musical theatre and play productions at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson, Missouri. We are currently assigning positions for our 2024 Theatre Season and have been receiving interest from new talent, so wanted to give others the opportunity to possibly get involved as well.

If you are interested in being considered for our upcoming production staff as a Director, Music Director, Choreographer, Stage Manager, Set Builder or even a Lighting or Sound Technician, this is an opportunity to add your name to our talent pool. Potential candidates will be contacted for an interview with our producers. Any positions that may be available during the season would be on an individual contract basis and payed a nominal stipend for your efforts.

Click here to see a list of our 2024 theatre season productions.

How To Apply:

Please send a letter of introduction stating your background and interest areas, along with a resume of previous experience to info@bransonarts.org. Please include your best contact information, and the phrase “Production Staff Application” in the subject area of your email.

We encourage anyone who may have applied in the past to submit again as some time has passed since our last call for Production Staff. Thank you!!

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Save 15% on 2024 BRAC Theatre Season Passes

  • dateNovember 20, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view2616 Views

ORDER YOUR 2024 SEASON PASSES TODAY

CLICK THE BUTTON BELOW TO ORDER ONLINE or call 417-336-4255 for assistance.

NOTE: All 2024 SEASON PASS SALES END ON FEBRUARY 25, 2024 (5pm).

This Pass is for 8 Mainstage Productions Only. Other special events throughout the year will be individually sold or available to BRAC Members. Show Tickets may be exchanged to other mainstage shows or dates during the 2024 Season. No Refunds, except in case of emergency.

2024 FULL SEASON PASS (See 8 Productions)

GET SEASON PASS THEATRE TICKETS

  • $136.00 – Adult (18+), $81.60 – Youth (4-17) note: some shows rated PG-13
  • Reserve your preferred seat for all 8 shows in our 2024 season.
  • SAVE 15% On Your Purchase
  • Makes a GREAT GIFT for a loved one that LASTS THROUGH THE YEAR!
  • All Pass Tickets Discounted! This is our best value pass!

NOTE: BRAC has no plans to alter this line-up, but show schedules and titles are subject to change.

2024 FAMILY PASS (See 4 Productions all Rated G)

GET SEASON PASS THEATRE TICKETS
  • $68.00 – Adult (18+), $40.81 – Youth (4-17)
  • Reserve your preferred seat for all 4 shows (Rated G) in our 2024 season.
  • SAVE 15% On Your Purchase
  • Makes a GREAT GIFT for a loved one that LASTS THROUGH THE YEAR!
  • All Pass Tickets Discounted! This is our best value family pass!

NOTE: BRAC has no plans to alter this line-up, but show schedules and titles are subject to change.

2024 INDIVIDUAL SHOW TICKETS (Select One Show at a Time)

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS
  • $20.00 – Adult (18+), $12.00 – Youth (4-17, lap children with adult free)
  • Reserve your preferred seat for one or more shows at our regular ticket rate. 

The SpongeBob Musical

Dates: Feb 8 – 25, 2024 (15 shows)

Rated G | Family Favorite

Who lives in a pineapple under the sea and became the hottest star on Broadway? Why, it’s SpongeBob SquarePants! And now he’s ready to ride the wave to the Historic Owen Theatre! 

This is a one-of-a-kind Broadway musical with original songs written by Yolanda Adams, Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith, Sara Bareilles, Jonathan Coulton, Alexander Ebert of Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, The Flaming Lips, John Legend, Lady Antebellum, Cyndi Lauper, Panic! At the Disco, Plain White T’s, They Might Be Giants, T. I., and a song by David Bowie. With additional lyrics by Jonathan Coulton and an additional song by Tom Kenny and Andy Paley.

Plunge into this stunning all-singing, all-dancing, dynamic stage show! When the citizens of Bikini Bottom discover that a volcano will soon erupt and destroy their humble home, SpongeBob and his friends must come together to save the fate of their undersea world. With lives hanging in the balance and all hope lost, a most unexpected hero rises up. The power of optimism really can save the world!

The Learned Ladies

Dates: March 15 – 24, 2024 (6 shows)

Rated PG | Mild Adult Themes

Henriette and Clitandre, are two young people in love who, in order to marry, must successfully navigate Henriette’s demanding and overeducated family.
With the help of Henriette’s father and uncle, along with a host of saucy servants who favour the marriage, the couple must convince the rest of the family that the match is a good one.
This zany web of love stories, farcical romps and battle of the sexes keeps true to Moliere’s original while providing a smorgasbord of modern treats for contemporary audiences.

Legally Blonde The Musical JR

Dates: April 12 – 14, 2024 (5 shows)

RATED G | Family Favorite

The Branson Regional Arts Council’s Staccato Show Choir (ages 14-18) presents a fun and upbeat adaptation of the hit film and award-winning Broadway musical.
Based on the award-winning Broadway musical and the smash hit motion picture, Legally BlondeThe Musical JR. is a fabulously fun journey of self-empowerment and expanding horizons. The show’s instantly recognizable songs are filled with humor, wit and sass — leaving cast members and audiences alike seeing pink! Legally Blonde JR. follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes, snobbery and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. When Elle’s boyfriend, Warner, dumps her and heads to Harvard, claiming she’s not “serious” enough, Elle takes matters into her own hands, crafting a showy song-and-dance personal essay and charming her way into law school. Befriending classmate, Emmett, and spunky hairdresser, Paulette, along the way, Elle finds that books and looks aren’t mutually exclusive. As Elle begins outsmarting her peers, she realizes that law may be her natural calling after all.

Company – A Musical Comedy

Dates: May 16 – 26, 2024 (8 shows)

RATED PG-13 | Parental Guidance

Sondheim’s game-changing musical is a sophisticated and honest look at modern adult relationships. From musical theatre’s most renowned composer, Company is largely regarded as a trailblazer of the dark-comedy, modern-musical genre and the winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Score, Best Lyrics and Best Book.

On the night of his 35th birthday, confirmed bachelor, Robert, contemplates his unmarried state. Over the course of a series of dinners, drinks and even a wedding, his friends – “those good and crazy people [his] married friends” – explain the pros and cons of taking on a spouse. The habitually single Robert is forced to question his adamant retention of bachelorhood during a hilarious array of interactions. Company features a brilliantly brisk and energetic score containing many of Stephen Sondheim’s best known songs. The strength of the piece lies in its vivid yet real characters, meaning impressive technical aspects aren’t necessary to convey the story. It can be told as effectively with a cavalcade of automated set pieces as it can with a chair or two. Every audience member will see reflections of themselves in at least one of the characters onstage.

Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR (BRAC’s Summer Youth Institute)

Dates: June 20 – 23, 2024 (6 shows)

Rated G | Family Favorite

From classic literature to the Academy Award-winning film and Broadway musical, Ariel’s undersea journey is a beautiful love story for the ages.

Journey “under the sea” with Ariel and her aquatic friends in Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR., adapted from Disney’s Broadway production and the motion picture (featuring the enormously popular Academy Award-winning music and delightfully charming book and lyrics). Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories, Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR. is an enchanting look at the sacrifices we all make for love and acceptance.
In a magical underwater kingdom, the beautiful young mermaid, Ariel, longs to leave her ocean home — and her fins — behind and live in the world above. But first, she’ll have to defy her father, King Triton, make a deal with the evil sea witch, Ursula, and convince the handsome Prince Eric that she’s the girl whose enchanting voice he’s been seeking.
NOTE: The 7pm shows are the older kids (13-18) and the 2pm shows are the younger kids (6-12) – subject to change

Urinetown The Musical

Dates: July 25 – Aug 4, 2024 (8 shows)
PG-13 | Parental Guidance

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. Winner of three Tony Awards, three Outer Critics Circle Awards, two Lucille Lortel Awards and two Obie Awards, Urinetown is a hilarious musical satire of the legal system, capitalism, social irresponsibility, populism, environmental collapse, privatization of natural resources, bureaucracy, municipal politics, and musical theatre itself!
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!

 The Hunchback of Notre Dame          

Dates: October 17-27, 2024 (8 shows)

Rated PG | Musical

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 musical begins as the bells of Notre Dame sound through the famed cathedral in fifteenth-century Paris. Quasimodo, the deformed bell-ringer who longs to be “Out There,” observes all of Paris reveling in the Feast of Fools. Held captive by his devious caretaker, the archdeacon Dom Claude Frollo, he escapes for the day and joins the boisterous crowd, only to be treated cruelly by all but the beautiful Romani woman, Esmeralda. Quasimodo isn’t the only one captivated by her free spirit, though – the handsome Captain Phoebus and Frollo are equally enthralled. As the three vie for her attention, Frollo embarks on a mission to destroy the Roma – and it’s up to Quasimodo to save them all. A sweeping score and powerful story make The Hunchback of Notre Dame an instant classic. Audiences will be swept away by the magic of this truly unforgettable musical.

 

White Christmas The Musical

Dates: December 5-15, 2024 (10 shows)

Rated G| Family Favorite

Veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis have a successful song-and-dance act after World War II. With romance in mind, the two follow a duo of beautiful singing sisters en route to their Christmas show at a Vermont lodge, which just happens to be owned by Bob and Phil’s former army commander. With a dazzling score featuring well-known standards including “Blue Skies,” “I Love A Piano,” “How Deep Is the Ocean” and the perennial title song, White Christmas is an uplifting, wholesome musical that will delight audiences of all ages.
Paramount Pictures released the movie musical White Christmas in 1954. Directed by Michael Curtiz, the film starred Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen, and featured 17 songs by Irving Berlin. The top moneymaker of 1954, White Christmas set a new record as Hollywood’s all-time highest-grossing musical.
The stage adaptation of White Christmas opened on Broadway at the Marquis Theatre on November 4, 2008, after several successful engagements throughout the United States. Directed by Walter Bobbie and starring Stephen Bogardus, Jeffry Denman, Kerry O’Malley and Meredith Patterson, the show was an audience favorite; it returned to Broadway the following year, starring James Clow, Tony Yazbeck, Melissa Errico and Mara Davi.
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Enjoy Free Classic Christmas Films at the Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateNovember 16, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view2078 Views

The Historic Downtown Branson Community Improvement District is pleased to partner with Branson Regional Arts Council to offer more Christmas fun with FREE Classic Holiday Films at the Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S Commercial St., Downtown Branson.

Everyone is invited to join us on the first three Monday’s in December, and relive the nostalgia of great holiday movies at the Historic Owen Theatre with your family and friends!

  • It’s A Wonderful Life (1946) – Dec 4, 2023 – 7pm (featuring James Stewart and Donna Reed)
  • Holiday Inn (1942) – Dec 11, 2023 – 7pm (featuring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire)
  • White Christmas (1954) – Dec 18, 2023 – 7pm (featuring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye and Rosemary Clooney

FREE ADMISSION – SEATING IS LIMITED

No reservations required, but seating is limited and on a first come basis. Doors open at 6:30pm and the films start at 7:00pm. The concession stand will be open with fresh popcorn, refreshments and other tasty treats available.

We recommend you arrive early for best parking, then take some time before the films to shop, dine and explore downtown! Take in the dazzling lights with fantastic displays including an impressive 102 custom fixtures featuring over 100,000 LED lights that will glow south of Business 65 along Main, Commercial, and Sycamore streets.  Directly behind the Historic Owen Theatre, you’ll see the new Chiefs Kingdom Ozark Mountain Christmas Tree in Liberty Plaza. From Main Street in downtown, you can look on the hill across Lake Taneycomo to see Branson’s oldest Christmas tradition since 1949, The “Adoration” Nativity scene.

“We are excited to partner with BRAC to offer free Christmas 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!” – 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, the Christmas light displays, 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 in the Spring!

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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Kim Hale Honored As Branson Art Citizen Of The Year 2023

  • dateOctober 29, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view2595 Views

At various times throughout it’s 58 year history, the Branson Regional Arts Council selects an individual to receive the prestigious “Art Citizen of the Year” award. The recipients are selected by the BRAC Board of Directors due to the significant contributions they have made to the field of arts and culture in our area.

CLICK Photo for High Resolution Version of Kim Hale & Jim Barber by Marshall Meadows

This year, BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber was thrilled to present the award to Kim Hale at the first annual Arts Gala at the Branson Convention Center on October 13, 2023. Kim has been involved heavily in the Arts Council for over ten years, including several years as the Board President. Kim has been working as a physical therapist at Mercy Branson Therapy Services for over 20 years and currently is the Therapy Manager for Mercy Branson Therapy Services. She is an orthopedic physical therapist with specialty in Dance and Performing Arts Medicine providing rehabilitation to dancers and performing artists working professionally in Branson. She has a Masters Degree in Physical Therapy and a Bachelor of Arts in Human Biology. She also served on the board of Tri-Lakes Community Theatre (TLC ) as Vice-President before it was incorporated into the Branson Regional Arts Council.

Kim has co-produced over 35 musicals and plays over the past 10 years and has enjoyed the collaboration of BRAC with the community. She organized and collaborated with local school administrators for the induction Thespian Society chapters and serves as an outreach resource for local schools and the Arts community. She is passionate about continuing to bring awareness to the importance of arts education to the youth in the Tri-Lakes area.

“The Arts foster creativity and creative thinking and intellectual curiosity and BRAC offers a place in the community where the youth and adults can grow as an Arts community.” – Kim Hale

Though Kim recently stepped away from the Board of Directors after completing her 5th 2-year term, she remains as active as ever in her volunteer role of Education Director for BRAC’s Youth Theatre Arts program.  Arts and Culture are essential components of human society, contributing to our intellectual, emotional, and social well being, while also playing a vital role in the preservation of our collective heritage advancement of society.

“We recognize Kim for her excellence in youth arts education, and celebrate her with this award as a way to acknowledge her value and impact on the lives of so many young people in our area communities.” – Jim Barber, BRAC Executive Director

The Art Citizen of the Year award has been presented to several deserving individuals, though not necessarily every year. The following is a running list to date of past recipients:

  • 1997 – Bill Godsey
  • 1998 – John & Shirley Mizell
  • 2000 – Viola Hartman
  • 2001 – Jack & Sherry Herschend, Pete & JoDee Herschend
  • 2002 – Steve Wehr
  • 2003 – Andy & Debbie Williams
  • 2006 – Americanna Magness
  • 2007 – Marilyn Droke & Deb Corbin
  • 2009 – Kristin Weingertner & Mary Elizabeth Bradley
  • 2010 – Greg Hoffman
  • 2011 – Bob & Ruth Abbott
  • 2012 – Shanda Watts-Stringer, Bucky & AJ Heard
  • 2013 – Robert & Barbara Cohn
  • 2016 – Marc Mulherin & the Branson Convention Center
  • 2017 – Bonnie Herrmann (past Arts Council Executive Director)
  • 2023 – Kim Hale

A very special thank you to all of the past winners of this award, as well as to all of our generous donors, patrons, actors, directors, technical crew, students and hard working volunteers for helping us bring the arts to life in the Branson region! 

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The Addams Family is a Graveyard Smash – Final Weekend at Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateOctober 24, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view2939 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council’s production of The Addams Family – A New Musical is definitely a smash hit production with audiences who attended the first week of shows. Standing ovations and rave reviews with each and every performance. With only four shows left on Thursday Oct 26th, Friday Oct 27th, Saturday, Oct 28th (7pm), and Sunday Oct 29th (2pm), this is a must see musical that the entire family will enjoy!

Tickets are $20 (Adults 18+) and $12 (Youth 4-17) and can be purchased online at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Historic Owen Theatre Box Office at 417-336-4255.

👍…one of the Best Shows ever!!! Everyone had a fun part. I say “Do Not Miss” this hilarious, well played show!! One more thing…”Lurch” was fantastic!!! Amazed at how he was able to not smile AND to be able to walk in his shoes with 3” or higher heels!! – Judy Rockenback

This musical is Rated PG-13. Parental guidance is suggested due to adult innuendo, profanity, and scenes containing comical torture.

Fantastic Show!! We went on the 21st and loved it!! Very fun, campy, engaging show. My family and I enjoyed it all. – Bethanee Bartrand

This award winning stage production features an original story and it’s every father’s nightmare: Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family– a man her parents have never met. And if that wasn’t upsetting enough, Wednesday confides in her father and begs him not to tell her mother. Now, Gomez Addams must do something he’s never done before– keep a secret from his beloved wife, Morticia. Everything will change for the whole family on the fateful night they host a dinner for Wednesday’s “normal” boyfriend and his parents.

We LOVED IT!!!!! So, so brilliant! – Brandei Harris-Clifton

Great show…even my 97 year old father thought the show was great! – Kathy Broser

In the kooky, upside-down world of the Addams Family, to be sad is to be happy, to feel pain is to feel joy, and death and suffering are the stuff of their dreams. Nonetheless, this quirky family still has to deal with many of the same challenges faced by any other family.

We truly enjoyed this show! The cast did an amazing job. – Misty Stroud

The production is directed and choreographed by Jacob Deck, along with his assistant directors Leslie Austin and Kyle Blanchard. The production team includes: Karie Dykeman, Kristine Brown and Kim Hale (Producers), Julie Brinkman (Music Director), Dimitri Tsahiridis (Stage Manager), Cyrsten Rainey (Assistant Stage Manager/Props Manager), Kyle Blanchard (Technical Director and Set Design), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Designer), Myles Stevens (Audio Technician), Lacey Kellett (Social Media), Josh Silvy (Theatre Inventory), Marshall Meadows (Photography), and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director / Marketing and Design).

Show was fabulous!!! – Denise Snider-Wilson

The cast of The Addams Family include: Kyle Blanchard (Gomez), Michelle Baker (Morticia), Kyle Denton (Uncle Fester), Jennifer Buttell (Grandma), Avery Tillette (Wednesday), Hope Menard (Puglsey), Brenna Prince (Puglsey), Joshua McGeough (Lurch), Joey Blackwood (Lucas), Kyle Bradley (Mal), Kellsey Bradley (Alice), Charis Boulden, Somer Dean, Emily Hanner, Madison Hatfield, Jason Prince, Melinda Prince and Michael Sager (Ancestors).

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The Addams Family Musical Now On Stage In Downtown Branson

  • dateOctober 16, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view2781 Views

They’re creepy and they’re kooky, Mysterious and spooky, They’re all together ooky, The Addams Family! (snap snap)

The Branson Regional Arts Council is thrilled to present The Addams Family, a comical new musical that embraces the wackiness in every family!

Live stage shows are running now through October 29, 2023. Showtimes are 7pm (Thursday, Friday, Saturday) and 2pm (Sunday). Tickets are $20 (Adults 18+) and $12 (Youth 4-17) and can be purchased online at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Historic Owen Theatre Box Office at 417-336-4255.

This musical is Rated PG-13. Parental guidance is suggested due to adult innuendo, profanity, and scenes containing comical torture.

This award winning stage production features an original story and it’s every father’s nightmare: Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family– a man her parents have never met. And if that wasn’t upsetting enough, Wednesday confides in her father and begs him not to tell her mother. Now, Gomez Addams must do something he’s never done before– keep a secret from his beloved wife, Morticia. Everything will change for the whole family on the fateful night they host a dinner for Wednesday’s “normal” boyfriend and his parents.

In the kooky, upside-down world of the Addams Family, to be sad is to be happy, to feel pain is to feel joy, and death and suffering are the stuff of their dreams. Nonetheless, this quirky family still has to deal with many of the same challenges faced by any other family.

The production is directed and choreographed by Jacob Deck, along with his assistant directors Leslie Austin and Kyle Blanchard. The production team includes: Karie Dykeman, Kristine Brown and Kim Hale (Producers), Julie Brinkman (Music Director), Dimitri Tsahiridis (Stage Manager), Cyrsten Rainey (Assistant Stage Manager/Props Manager), Kyle Blanchard (Technical Director and Set Design), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Designer), Myles Stevens (Audio Technician), Lacey Kellett (Social Media), Josh Silvy (Theatre Inventory), Marshall Meadows (Photography), and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director / Marketing and Design).

The cast of The Addams Family include: Kyle Blanchard (Gomez), Michelle Baker (Morticia), Kyle Denton (Uncle Fester), Jennifer Buttell (Grandma), Avery Tillette (Wednesday), Hope Menard (Puglsey), Brenna Prince (Puglsey), Joshua McGeough (Lurch), Joey Blackwood (Lucas), Kyle Bradley (Mal), Kellsey Bradley (Alice), Charis Boulden, Somer Dean, Emily Hanner, Madison Hatfield, Jason Prince, Melinda Prince and Michael Sager (Ancestors).

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Final Chance To Register To Attend Arts Gala 2023!

  • dateSeptember 29, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view2433 Views

This is your FINAL WEEK to register to attend the Branson Regional Arts Council’s First Annual ARTS GALA on Friday, October 13th at the Branson Convention Center.  It’s a Classic Night of Masquerade and Jeopardy that includes Delicious Dining, Excellent Entertainment, Incredible Artwork, and many surprises! 

Don’t miss out on OUR GREATEST ARTS EVENT OF THE YEAR! (Registrations close on October 9, 2023)

  • Place: Branson Convention Center (Ballroom)
  • Date: Friday, October 13, 2023
  • Doors Open at 5:00pm (Silent Auction Begins)
  • Dinner Is Served at 6:00pm
  • Jeopardy Game Starts at 7:00pm (hosted by Jim Barber)
  • Special Entertainment & Video Highlights Included

DRESS: Masquerade Mask Attire or Business Casual (*Prizes for the Best Masks)

PURCHASE YOUR GALA TICKETS

Use the button below to purchase Individual Reservations ($85 per person) or a Team Table of Eight ($680).
You may use any major credit card, or select personal or business check (payment instructions will be provided). Any questions? Call 417-336-4255 for assistance.

PURCHASE TICKETS OR TABLES NOW

Our goal is to raise funds to support the continuing creation of exceptional artistic, cultural and educational opportunities for our community. These funds will also assist in the restoration and upkeep of our community arts facility, The Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson. In order to meet this goal, we are asking for tax-deductible support from local business and patrons. Download our Sponsorship Info Sheet here!

IF YOU CAN’T ATTEND IN PERSON, YOU STILL HAVE A CHANCE TO WIN A FANTASTIC PRIZE!

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE RAFFLE TICKETS – $20 each or 3 for $50. You’ll have chances to win some outstanding high dollar items from local businesses and patrons who love and support the Arts in our community! (Raffle Tickets May Be Available At The Event Prior To The Drawings Unless Supply Is Sold Out)

In addition to dozens of amazing silent auction items that will be on display at the event, we also have some incredible prizes that will be raffled off that night and we invite you to PURCHASE YOUR RAFFLE TICKETS now for a chance to win one of these FOUR FABULOUS PRIZES:

  • $500 Cash Prize

  • Hiltons of Branson – (1) Night Stay for (2) people in Deluxe Accomodations with a $100 Meal Voucher for Level 2 Steak House (expires 9-14-24)

  • State Park Marina – All-Day Luxury Tri-Toon Boat Rental (expires 9-14-24)

  • Branson Regional Arts Council – 2024 Full Season Pass Tickets for (2) Adults

PURCHASE RAFFLE TICKETS NOW

YOU DO NOT NEED TO BE PRESENT TO WIN
RAFFLE TICKET QUANTITY IS LIMITED!

 

OUR PRESENTING SPONSOR

Special thanks to Mercy for being the Presenting Sponsor of Arts Gala 2023.

Please consider adding your business or organization here as a Sponsor of Arts Gala 2023.

 

STICKMAN FAMILY ENTERPRISES, INC.

 

MAIN SPONSORSHIP LEVELS

  • PHANTOM O/T OPERA
  • $2,000
  • Includes a Table for Eight, Eight Raffle Tickets, 1/2 Page Color Program Ad, Logo Inclusion on All Promotional Materials
  • GUYS AND DOLLS
  • $1,500.00
  • Includes Four Table seats, Four Raffle Tickets, 1/2 Page Color Program Ad, Logo Inclusion on All Promotional Materials
  • CHICAGO
  • $1,000
  • Includes Two Table seats, Three Raffle Tickets, 1/4 Page Color Program Ad, Logo Inclusion on All Promotional Materials
  • KING AND I
  • $500
  • This sponsor package includes  Two Raffle Tickets, 1/8 Page Program Ad, Logo Inclusion on All Promotional Materials

SECURE YOUR SPONSORSHIP

Tax Deductible Sponsorship Payments may also be made by Business or Personal Check to:
BRAC, P.O. Box 2004, Branson, MO 65615

Download Sponsor & Ad Sheet

ADVERTISE YOUR SUPPORT IN OUR OFFICIAL PROGRAM

$500 – Half Page Back Cover Outside Ad (Horizontal, 7″w x 4.25″h, full color)

$400 – Half Page Back Cover Inside Ad (Horizontal, 7″w x 4.25″h, full color)

$400 – Half Page Front Cover Inside Ad (Horizontal, 7″w x 4.25″h, full color)

$250 – Half Page Ad (Horizontal, 7″w x 4.25″h, full color)

$150 – Quarter Page Ad (Vertical, 3.5″w x 4.25″h, full color)

$100 – Eighth Page Ad (Horizontal, 3.5″w x 2.5″h, full color)

Please Pay Tax Deductible Program Ad Payments by Business or Personal Check to:
BRAC, P.O. Box 2004, Branson, MO 65615

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New Artist Reception and Annual BRAC Meeting September 17th

  • dateSeptember 6, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view1852 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council invites the general public to attend the 2023 Annual Member Meeting and New Artist Reception at the Branson Convention Center Art Gallery on the 2nd Level Concourse in Downtown Branson.

This FREE Community Event will be held on Sunday, September 17, 2023 from 6-8pm. 

Everyone is welcome! You do NOT have to be a BRAC member to attend!

The annual member meeting will run until approximately 6:30pm, and will provide an opportunity for elections of new board of directors as well as announcements regarding several new, exciting events!

The short meeting will be followed by an evening of incredible artistry, as we introduce several new artists joining the Art Gallery Exhibition.

The fourteen area artists selected for this six-month exhibition include: Mary Arneson, Meike Aton, Bob Bell, Verna (Sissy) Blakslee, Diana Bogardus, Jennifer Buttell, Jack Clutter, Lee Copen, Adelyn Crawford, Jared Hughes, Vic Mastis, Audrey Bottrell-Parks, Gary Parks and Mike Wallace. Their creative works will be on display and available for purchase through mid-March 2024.

Bring yourself, or a group of friends and enjoy this FREE community event!

The Branson Convention Center Art Gallery has been visited in past years by approximately 100,000 people annually. Several of the featured artists will be attending the reception to discuss their work, and members of the Branson Regional Arts Council Board will be there to answer any questions. Refreshments will be available as well.

Deceased Board Member and Beloved Friend of the Arts, Robert Cohn, enjoyed an earlier Artist Reception. His dedication and hard work to initiate and develop the Branson Convention Center Art Gallery will not be forgotten.

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Monday Movie Night features Horror Flix

  • dateAugust 22, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view1825 Views

Monday, August 28, 2023, is Horror Night at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson!

Double Header!!

House on Haunted Hill is a 1959 American horror film produced and directed by William Castle, written by Robb White and starring Vincent Price, Carol Ohmart, Richard Long, Alan Marshal, Carolyn Craig and Elisha Cook Jr. Price plays an eccentric millionaire, Frederick Loren, who, along with his wife Annabelle, has invited five people to the house for a “haunted house” party. Whoever stays in the house for one night will earn $10,000. As the night progresses, the guests are trapped within the house with an assortment of terrors.

Dead Men Walk is a 1943 American horror film produced by Sigmund Neufeld for Producers Releasing Corporation (PRC). It is an original story and screenplay by Fred Myton, starring George Zucco, Mary Carlisle, Nedrick Young, and Dwight Frye, directed by Sam Newfield. The story involves a kindly small-town physician Doctor Lloyd Clayton, who has secretly murdered his twin brother Elwyn, because of Elwyn’s deep involvement in evil practices. Only Elwyn’s hunchback assistant Zolarr suspects the good doctor of doing away with his master and confronts him, but the doctor maintains that he only acted in self-defense when his brother had become a danger to society.

Admission is a $3.00 donation at the door to benefit BRAC!

[fac_icon icon=”info-circle”] Card Carrying BRAC Members Admitted FREE!!
[fac_icon icon=”info-circle”] No Reserved Seats – Doors Open at 6:30pm!
[fac_icon icon=”info-circle”] Mark Your Calendars & Join Us For Summer Fun!

Concessions Stand will be open. Proceeds benefit the upkeep and renovation of the Historic Owen Theatre.

Experience those thrilling moments of yesteryear as the Branson Regional Arts Council concludes Monday Movie Nights!


Step back in time to enjoy some of the classic films that may have actually been shown inside the “Owen Hillbilly Theatre” after it opened 87 years ago in 1936.

NOTE: Movie titles subject to change. All films are digitally projected and in the public domain.

 

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