Footloose auditions are this weekend, Saturday, May 31 from 6:00pm – 9:00pm, and again on Sunday June 1 from 6:00pm – 9:00pm, and we want to make sure that you are as prepared as you can be! Here are links to videos for the dance that will be used at auditions. You will find an instructional video, a slowed down version, and a full speed version.
*Note – You do not need to know the dance prior to auditions. These are just here to help you feel prepared and confident. Amari will be there to answer questions and there will be opportunities to run through the combination as a group.
If you are unable to attend auditions in person, you may send a video audition to joshwilliams75@icloud.com
We are excited to see you all this weekend! This is going to be a lot of fun.
Branson Regional Arts Council is seeking writers and directors for our 3rd annual 10-Minute Play Festival.
The 10-Minute Play Festival is returning to the Historic Owen Theater on August 24, 2025 and we need your original plays and creative minds!
We 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 up to ten plays lasting no longer than 10 minutes, in a variety of styles.
The shows will be presented to the community on Sunday, August 24th at 7:00 p.m. Admission is free, but donations will be accepted to support the programs of the Branson Regional Arts Council.
SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS FOR WRITERS: • Please submit your finished script (or at least a completed draft) to BransonPlayFestival@proton.me by June 30th. Final selections will be made by July 15th.
• 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 a statement of interest by June 30th including any relevant experience to BransonPlayFestival@proton.me (No experience necessary to apply).
• Directors will be selected by the first week of July. Directors will be selected on an as-needed basis as playwrights will be permitted to direct their own pieces.
• A meeting for directors will be scheduled (likely July 13th).
• Directors are responsible for selecting actors and scheduling rehearsals. Once shows are selected and directors are assigned, dates and times for rehearsal at the Owen Theatre will be made available, but you may use your own space for rehearsals. Group auditions will be scheduled if needed.
• Final Tech/Dress Rehearsal will be on Sunday, August 24th from 1pm to 5 pm
• The Performance will be on Sunday, August 24th at 7pm
We hope you will join us in an evening of inspiring original works!

🌟 Update: Wizard of Oz Summer Institute 🌟

Due to high demand, we’re opening up our older group (ages 13–18) to include 12-year-olds who weren’t able to join the younger group.

This is a great opportunity for more young performers to be part of this magical production and gain valuable experience on stage.

If you have any questions or need more information, please call the box office at 417-336-4255. We’re happy to help!

Audition Information

Auditions for Footloose will be held at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson on Saturday, May 31 from 6:00pm – 9:00pm, and again on Sunday June 1 from 6:00pm – 9:00pm. They are open to everyone ages 16 and up.

Callbacks will occur on Monday, June 2, 6:00pm – 9:00pm and will be held at the Jones Theatre on the campus of College of the Ozarks. Participants of callbacks will be invited to attend following auditions. Cold readings from the script will be held at this time. Some roles may not require callbacks.

If you are unable to attend the auditions in person, please send a self-taped audition including dance, if possible, to Edu@BransonArts.org. Please submit no later than May 31st.

Please prepare 16 Measures or one minute of a song in the style of the show; Pop/Contemporary is encouraged. Be willing to play with different choices if asked; big and committed acting choices are a plus!

There will be no accompanist provided, so please come with a recording or YouTube link of your selection, cued to the correct timestamp. There will be an aux cord, iPhone & USB-C dongle, and Bluetooth speaker available.

 

Dress appropriately to be ready to dance/move. A video link with a dance combination will be made available on May 26th. This will help prepare you for auditions.

 

*Please bring a headshot and resume if you can.

 

*Please be prepared to provide all conflicts from June 8th through the show dates.

 

Rehearsals will start on Sunday June 8 and will follow a Sunday-Thursday schedule (evenings). Tech week is July 26-30 and performances are July 31-August 3 and August 7-10, 2025. Cast members must be at each performance and all tech week rehearsals.

 

About the Show

When Ren and his mother move from Chicago to a small farming town, he is prepared for the inevitable adjustment period at his new high school. But he’s not prepared for the rigorous local edicts, including a ban on dancing instituted by the local preacher, who is determined to exercise control over the town’s youth. When the reverend’s rebellious daughter sets her sights on Ren, her roughneck boyfriend tries to sabotage Ren’s reputation, with many of the locals eager to believe the worst about the new kid. The heartfelt story that emerges pins a father longing for the son he lost against a young man aching for the father who walked out on him.

Footloose is backed by a soundtrack of ‘80s pop anthems. The musical is a stage adaptation of the popular 1984 film and is under the direction of Josh Williams. Tom and Kristin Cartwright will oversee music direction, and choreography will be led by Amari Snead and Ozark Javier Nunez. Performances are July 31-August 3 and August 7-10, 2025 at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

 

Footloose Character Breakdown

Ren McCormack: (Lead) – Male. Energetic, emotional, rebellious, likeable; teenage boy from Chicago. Tenor (D3-C5)

 

Rev. Shaw Moore: (Lead) – Male. The minister of Bomont; strict, stern, and solemn. Baritone (A2-F#4)

 

Ariel Moore: (Lead) – Female. Smart, a bit of the bad girl with an edge, the rebellious teenage daughter of Rev. Moore. Mezzo-Soprano/Pop (G3-Eb5)

 

Vi Moore: (Supporting) – Female. Reverend Moore’s loving, supportive, resilient wife. Mezzo-Soprano (A3-Db5)

Rusty: (Supporting) – Female. Big pop voice. Ariel’s best friend. Soprano (A3-F#5 (opt. F#6)

Willard Hewitt: (Supporting) – Male. Ren’s friend, a country boy with a big smile. Tenor (Bb2-Ab4)

Ethel McCormack: (Supporting) – Female. Ren’s mother; would do anything for her son. Mezzo-Soprano (A3-D5)

Chuck Cranston: (Supporting) – Male. Local bad boy and Ariel’s boyfriend. Tenor (F#3-B4)

Cowboy Bob: (Featured) – the lead vocalist at the Bar-B-Que (Range: E3-C5)

Wendy Jo: (Featured) – Female. Ariel’s friend. Mezzo-Soprano (E3-C5)

Urleen: (Featured) – Female. Ariel’s friend. Soprano (A3-D5)

Lulu Warnicker: (Featured) – Female. Ren’s Aunt.

Wes Warnicker: (Featured) – Male. Ren’s uncle.

Roger Dunbar: (Featured) – Male. High school gym teacher.

Eleanor Dunbar: (Featured) – Female. Roger’s wife.

Lyle: (Featured) – Male. Chuck’s friend.

Travis: (Featured) – Male. Chuck’s friend.

A Cop: (Featured) – Male.

Betty Blast: (Featured) – Female. Owner of the Burger Blast.

Principal Harry Clark: (Featured) – Male. High school principal.

Bickle: (Featured) – Male. Ren’s Friend.

Jeter: (Featured) – Male. Ren’s Friend.

Garvin: (Featured) – Male. Ren’s Friend.

Ensemble: Townspeople and High School Students

UPDATE: High school students with a valid student ID are now eligible too!

Are you a student in the Branson or Springfield area? Don’t miss your chance to see Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella at a special discounted rate of $15!

Simply bring your valid student ID to the Historic Owen Theatre on Friday, May 2nd or Saturday, May 3rd between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM, and you’ll receive a student discount on your ticket.

Whether you’re in high school or college, this magical performance by the Branson Regional Arts Council is one you won’t want to miss. Join us for an unforgettable evening at the theatre!

2025 BRAC #2 Summer Institute Presents Junie B. Jones The Musical JR

The Branson Regional Arts Council is thrilled to announce that registration is NOW OPEN for our 2025 Second Summer Institute at the Historic Owen Theatre! 

Experience the Magic of Theatre – No Experience Required!

Calling all young performers ages 6-13! Whether your child is new to the stage or already has theater experience, this three-week immersive experience is the perfect way to build confidence, make lifelong friends, and explore the world of theatre.

🎟️ Registration Details: 

  • Ages: 6-13
  • Dates: June 30 – July 20, 2025 (No meeting on July 3 or 4)
  • Cost: $275 per student for the full 3-week session
    • (Card payments include a $10 convenience fee — Total: $285)
  • Includes: All classes, public performances, personal script, and logo t-shirt
  • Location: Historic Owen Theatre, Branson, MO
  • NO auditions or prior experience required!

 Class Times: Monday–Friday, 8:00am – Noon (12 pm)

(No class on July 3 or 4)

Performance Dates:

  • Friday, July 18 – 7:00pm
  • Saturday, July 19 – 2:00 pm
  • Saturday, July 19 — 7:00 pm
  • Sunday, July 20 – 2:00pm

       REGISTER HERE

  

📅 Important Dates:

  • Parent/Student Meeting: Friday, June 20, 6:30–7:30 pm at the theatre
  • Classes: Mon – Fri, June 30 – July 18, 2025 (No class on July 3 or 4)
  • Public Performances: July 18 – 20

🎶 About the Show:

From Marcy Heisler and Zina Goldrich, the creators who brought you Dear Edwina and Dear Edwina JR., comes Junie B. Jones The Musical JR. – a delightful adaptation of four of Barbara Park’s beloved books, created specifically for Broadway Junior performers. 

Join Junie B. on her first day of first grade, where many changes are in store: Junie’s best friend Lucille has found new best friends -— and Junie B. makes friends with Herb, the new kid at school. While in Mr. Scary’s class, Junie has trouble reading the blackboard — and she may need glasses. Add in a friendly cafeteria lady, an intense kickball tournament and a “Top-Secret Personal Beeswax Journal,” and first grade has never been more exciting.

Featuring many lovable characters and fun-filled songs, Junie B. Jones JR. will capture your audiences’ and Broadway Junior performers’ hearts — just as the books captivated an entire generation of students.

 

🎟️ Reserved seat tickets are available now at BransonArts.org/tix

 

👨‍🏫 Meet the Institute Team:

  • Luke Menard – BRAC Executive Director
  • Kristine Brown – BRAC President, Producer
  • Karie Dykeman – BRAC Executive Assistant, Producer
  • Adora Snead – Director
  • Nicole Horton/Kristin Cartwright – Music Director
  • Amari Snead   Choreographer
  • Pamela Meadows – Lighting Design/Education Assistant
  • Myles Stevens – Audio Technician
  • Loran Polson – Media Assistant

🎭 Don’t Miss the Crescendo & Staccato Youth Showcase This Weekend!

Join us for a vibrant celebration of young talent at the Crescendo and Staccato Youth Showcase, happening this weekend at the Historic Owen Theater in downtown Branson!

🗓 Showtimes:

  • Opening Night: Friday, April 25th at 7:00 PM

  • Final Performance: Saturday, April 26th at 2:00 PM

Come and be inspired by the incredible talent of our local youth, brought to you by the Branson Regional Arts Council. These young performers have worked hard to bring their best to the stage, and you won’t want to miss the energy, creativity, and passion they bring to every moment.

🎟 Admission is free!
Donations are gratefully accepted and will go directly to our Education Fund, helping us continue to nurture and support the arts for youth in our community.

Let’s come together to support the next generation of artists—we promise you’ll leave amazed!

Announcing Our Second Summer Institute!! Junie B. Jones The Musical JR. for Ages 6-13

Thanks to the incredible response to The Wizard of Oz, we’re excited to offer a SECOND Summer Institute featuring Junie B. Jones The Musical JR. This fun-filled, Summer Production runs June 30 – July 18, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with no sessions on July 3rd and 4th.

Junie B. Jones will have 4 performances:

Friday, July 18 at 7:00 PM

Saturday, July 19 at 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM

Sunday, July 20 at 2:00 PM

Registration opens Tuesday, April 29th for those not currently enrolled in our first Institute. Stay tuned to our Facebook page or our website for registration details.

2025 BRAC Summer Institute Presents The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition 🎭

The Branson Regional Arts Council is thrilled to announce that registration is NOW OPEN for our 2025 Summer Institute at the Historic Owen Theatre! This year’s magical production? None other than the timeless classic, The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition!

✨ Experience the Magic of Theatre – No Experience Required!

Calling all young performers ages 6-18! Whether your child is new to the stage or already has theater experience, this three-week immersive experience is the perfect way to build confidence, make lifelong friends, and explore the world of theatre.

🎟️ Registration Details: 6-12 Age Group is SOLD OUT 

(To be placed on the waiting list, call box office at 417-336-4255)

  • Ages: 6–18
  • Dates: June 9–26, 2025
  • Cost: $275 per student for the full 3-week session
    • (Card payments include a $10 convenience fee — Total: $285)
  • Includes: All classes, public performances, personal script, and logo t-shirt
  • Location: Historic Owen Theatre, Branson, MO
  • NO auditions or prior experience required!

Two Age-Based Casts:

🚨 Note: Age is determined as of June 9, 2025 

🌟 Group 1: Ages 6–12 SOLD OUT 

(To be placed on the waiting list, call box office at 417-336-4255)

 Class Times: Monday–Friday, 8:00am – 11:30am

 

  • Performance Dates:
    • Thursday, June 26 – 7:00pm
    • Friday, June 27 – 2:00pm
    • Saturday, June 28 – 10:00am
    • Sunday, June 29 – 2:00pM

 

🎭 Group 2: Ages 13–18 – NOW REGISTERING AGES 13-18

  • Class Times: Monday–Friday, 12:00pm – 3:30pm
  • Performance Dates:
    • Friday, June 27 – 7:00pm
    • Saturday, June 28 – 2:00pm & 7:00pm
    • Sunday, June 29 – 7:00pm

 

REGISTER HERE FOR AGES 13-18

 

📅 Important Dates:

  • Parent/Student Meeting: Friday, May 30, 6:30–7:30pm at the theatre
  • Classes: Monday, June 9 – Thursday, June 26
  • Public Performances: June 26–29, 2025

🎶 About the Show:

Based on the beloved novel by L. Frank Baum and MGM’s classic 1939 film, The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition features Dorothy, Toto, and all your favorite characters — from Glinda the Good Witch to the Wicked Witch of the West. With unforgettable songs like “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and “Follow the Yellow Brick Road,” this heartwarming tale is brought to life by our talented youth performers.

Follow Dorothy’s journey through the Land of Oz as she meets the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion — discovering the power of friendship, bravery, and believing in yourself.

🎟️ Reserved seat tickets are available now at BransonArts.org/tix

👨‍🏫 Meet the Institute Team:

  • Luke Menard – BRAC Executive Director
  • Kristine Brown – BRAC President, Producer
  • Karie Dykeman – BRAC Executive Assistant, Producer
  • Kyle & Kellsey Bradley – Co-Directors, 13–18 cast
  • Julie Brinkman – Music Director, 13–18 cast
  • TBA – Choreographer, 13–18 cast
  • Jake Deck  – Co-Director, Co-Choreographer, 6–12 cast
  •  Lara Menard – Co-Director, Co-Choreographer 6-12 cast
  • Lizzy Hinton – Music Director, 6–12 cast
  • Pamela Meadows – Lighting Design, Education Assistant
  • Myles Stevens – Audio Technician
  • Loran Polson – Media Assistant

📞 Questions? Contact Us!

Phone: 417-336-4255
Email: edu@bransonarts.org

✨ Don’t miss this opportunity to help your child shine on stage and be part of a legendary production! Sign up today and let their journey down the Yellow Brick Road begin!

 

Now Enrolling: Private Lessons in Voice & Acting at the Historic Owen Theatre
The Branson Regional Arts Council’s Conservatory of the Arts is proud to announce the continued growth of our Education Staff, expanding opportunities for both youth and adult students to receive high-quality, individualized training in voice and acting.
We’re excited to welcome Lizzy Hinton as our Voice Instructor and Josh Boulden as our Acting Coach, both of whom bring a wealth of professional experience and passion for teaching.
Private lessons are held at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson and are scheduled on a flexible, one-on-one basis between the instructor and student.
🎭 Private Lesson Tuition:
• $50 – 60-minute class
• $30 – 30-minute class
Whether you’re just starting your artistic journey or looking to take your skills to the next level, our talented instructors offer personalized coaching to help you meet your goals.
To register a new student or for more information, please contact: Karie Dykeman
📧 edu@bransonarts.org   Or by Phone 📞 417-336-4255

Meet the BRAC Conservatory Education Staff
Lizzy Hinton – Voice Instructor
Based in Branson, Missouri, Lizzy Hinton holds a Master of Music in Vocal Performance for Musical Theatre and an Advanced Certificate in Vocal Pedagogy from New York University (NYU), as well as a BFA in Musical Theatre from Belmont University. She has also completed a Certificate of Vocology from NYU.
During her time at NYU, Lizzy served as an Adjunct Professor of Voice, teaching both Drama majors at the Tisch School of the Arts and non-majors. She currently teaches voice at Missouri State University (MSU) and College of the Ozarks (CofO), in addition to maintaining a private vocal studio.
As a Singing Voice Specialist, Lizzy has worked in collaboration with voice clinics such as the NYU Langone Voice Center, contributing to the rehabilitation of injured voices. Her scholarly work includes a published review in the NATS Journal of Singing (May 2021) on The Singing Athlete by Andrew Byrne.
An accomplished performer as well, Lizzy has appeared in regional productions across the U.S. and at BRAC in beloved roles such as Cinderella in Cinderella and Jo in Little Women.
To God always be the glory!
Josh Boulden – Acting Instructor & Fight Director
Josh Boulden is a professional actor, acting coach, and Fight Director originally from Annapolis, Maryland. With over a decade of experience in both classical theatre and musical productions, Josh brings a dynamic range of expertise to the Conservatory.
He trained at the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Academy at The George Washington University in Washington, D.C. and is currently in his eighth season as an actor at Sight & Sound Theatres in Branson, where he also serves as Fight Director. Audiences can catch him in this season’s production of DAVID.
Josh’s performance journey began with historical reenactments alongside the Calvert Arundel Historical Swordsman, and he later taught and acted with the Annapolis Shakespeare Company before relocating to Branson. He continues to share his passion by teaching and directing at both the Historic Owen Theatre and with the Institute for Cultural Communicators.
To learn more about his work, visit: bouldenstudio.com

🎭 Rogers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella – The Musical Presented by the Branson Regional Arts Council
📍 Historic Owen Theater
📅  May 1 – May 11

The Branson Regional Arts Council proudly presents Rogers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella – The Broadway Version, live at the Historic Owen Theater.

This beloved musical is sure to dazzle audiences of all ages with its enchanting story, unforgettable songs, and Broadway-quality performances. Whether you’re revisiting this timeless tale or experiencing it for the first time, this is a show you won’t want to miss!

Tickets are expected to sell quickly, so don’t wait!
Get yours today at 👉 BransonArts.org/tix   📞 Or call the box office at 417-336-4255

We can’t wait to see you at the Historic Owen Theater! 👑

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🎭 Rush Tickets Announcement! 🎭

Attention, college students! 📚🎟️ Get your Rush tickets for Arsenic and Old Lace at an unbeatable price of $15!

Show your college photo ID at the Box Office and grab your tickets for Friday, March 28th or Saturday, March 29th. Be sure to arrive 30 minutes prior to the show, which starts at 7pm, to secure your spot!

Location: Historic Owen Theater 205 S. Commercial Street Branson, MO

Don’t miss this fantastic deal and enjoy a night of great theater with friends! 🎉 Tickets are limited — take advantage of this offer while you can!