The Branson Regional Arts Council invites the general public to attend the 2024 Spring 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, March 17, 2024 from 6-8pmEveryone is welcome! You do NOT have to be a BRAC member to attend!

This is a fun way to celebrate St. Patricks Day, so wear something green, and join us for an evening of incredible artistry! We will introduce several new works of art as well as a few new artists joining the Art Gallery Exhibition. Delicious hors d’oeuvres and a cash-bar will be available, courtesy of the Branson Convention Center.

The thirteen artists selected for this six-month exhibition include: Bethanie Adams, Meike Aton, Sissy Blakslee, Diana Bogardus, Jennifer Buttell, Lee Copen, Andelyn Crawford, Peggy Dyke, Ivan Edson, Vic Mastis, Audrey Bottrell-Parks, Gary Parks and Mike Wallace. Their creative works will be on display and available for purchase through mid-September 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. 

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.

The Branson Regional Arts Council presents their second stage production of the 2024 season. The Learned Ladies is a hilarious adaptation of the 1700’s french comedy by Molière that is translated and adapted by Freyda ThomasThis show provides a unique opportunity for the company to update a timeless classic for a 21st century audience. The production is Directed by Jeremiah Reeve with Assistant Director David Hewitt and Stage Manager Dimitri Tsahiridis.

Director Jeremiah Reeve

This story is one I’ve wanted to tell since I first read it.  Even though it was written in the 1600’s in a different language for a different culture, there is so much in it that rings true today.  I suspect that it will be like that tomorrow –  and a couple hundred years from now, too.

Some things remain the same.  There are always people who get overzealous when new freedoms are released.  There are always people who were already happy with the way things were.  And there are always people willing to do and say anything to access money and power.  The well-meaning get swallowed up by the swindlers; those wanting to learn get led astray by the liars.

It was true in 17th century France, it’s true today, and (unfortunately) it will be true tomorrow.
Jeremiah Reeve – BRAC Director

It may be a literary classic, but some things do change.  The language of this production has been updated for a modern audience.  The set and costumes point to different eras, and there will be things that the audience never expects to see in a traditional, historical piece. For that matter, the director promises elements that even Molière himself, may not have imagined. However, over everything else, the comedy has not changed.  “Sometimes, the only way to face the truth is to laugh your way through it,” says director Reeve,  “and today’s story is that kind of story.  A comedy that is funny because you see your world (and maybe a little of yourself) in it.  Whether you enjoy change or not, I hope the humor of this timeless story makes you glad you came.”

The cast of The Learned Ladies includes: Abby Reeve (Belise),  Anna Brayman (Henriette),   Dorothie Goode Deornehis (Armande), Joshua McGeough (Lycandre), Claire Denton (Arista), Loran Polson (Martine),  Kyle Denton (Chrysale),  Mindy Law (Philamente), Wyatt Jacobsmeyer (Trissotin), Rachel Sager (Vadius / Emelie), Christian Anthony (Judge) and Brittony Tiger (Amelie).

Performance Dates of The Learned Ladies are Fridays (7pm), Saturdays (7pm) and Sundays (2pm) from March 15 – 24, 2024.

Advance Reserved Tickets are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Historic Owen Theatre Box Office at 417-336-4255.

Photo by Marshall Meadows

Molière, born Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, was an actor, playwright and director who became one of France’s best-known writers for his work that ranged from simple farces to sophisticated satires. He was born in Paris on January 15, 1622. He was educated at the College de Clermont, a Jesuit institution, and received a law degree in 1642 from the University of Orleans. His father was a member of the bourgeoisie who purchased the title of Court Upholsterer. Moliere would have inherited his father’s title, but the theatre captured his imagination from an early age. While Moliere was regarded as the greatest French comedic writer and by many as the greatest of all French writers; he reestablished comedy to a place of honor in his time.

Buy-A-Seat At The Historic Owen Theatre

Give a lasting gift in the name of a loved one (or yourself) to show support of the arts in our community by sponsoring a Historic Owen Theatre seat! Your custom engraved plate will be secured to the back of your seat and will permanently remain in place. This tax deductible donation benefits the Branson Regional Arts Council efforts to preserve and maintain the Historic Owen Theatre. Select any available seat now, and your memorial plate will be engraved and installed for all to see. 

One of our long term goals of is to restore and modernize the Historic Owen Theatre, thereby preserving the legacy of former Branson Mayor Jim Owen who built the venue as a movie theatre in 1936.  Theatre patrons and area businesses are invited to “Buy-A-Seat” at the Owen Theatre as a way of showing their support and appreciation of the arts in our community.

“There are 203 cushioned theatre seats available for adoption in our Buy-A-Seat campaign. For a $500 deductible donation to the Arts Council, each donor will received an engraved brass plate with their name, the name of their business, or a dedication to a loved one; permanently fixed to the back of their seat. Their support of the arts will be on display for as long as the Branson Regional Arts Council has ownership of this historic facility. We hope that will be for generations to come!” – Jim Barber – Executive Director, Branson Regional Arts Council

To submit a tax-deductable donation to “Buy-A-Seat” at the Historic Owen Theatre, mail a check to: BRAC, PO Box 2004, Branson, MO 65615 and notate the seat number you wish to “adopt” in the memo line.  If donors would prefer to pay via any major credit card, please click on this link and select your seat via our online ticketing system.

BUY-A-SEAT NOW

The seating chart below shows which seats are currently available for adoption.  Once a seat is “adopted” by a donor, it will never be available to anyone else. We thank everyone who has “adopted” a seat to date….

Current Buy-A-Seat Patrons include:

  • A1 – DELYLA & RICK UEBEL
  • A2 – RICH & SUE SPOLEY
  • A3 – PAUL A SLICER (by Patty Slicer)
  • A4 – VENEDA B SLICER (by Penny McDermott)
  • A5 – SUE R HEAD
  • A6 – HAYDEN HEAD
  • A7 – DIANE W BARBER (by Jim & Jessica Barber)
  • A8 – ROBERT (BOB) COHN (in memory by BRAC)
  • A9 – JEAN CANTWELL (in memory by BRAC)
  • A10 – RON & DIANE MATHES
  • A11 – THE HALE FAMILY
  • A12 – SMITH BROOKHART (by Gail Brookhart)
  • A11 – MEREDITH MIZELL (in memory by BRAC)
  • B4 – CDR JAMES R WALKER (by Barbara Walker)
  • B5 – ALAN “CHIP” MASON
  • B6 – DAWN ERICKSON
  • B7 – BONNIE HERRMANN
  • B8 – BARBARA COHN
  • B9 – DARLENE REA
  • B10 – DARLENE REA
  • B11 – GRANDMA SANDY PLATE (by Kim & Art Hale)
  • B12 – GLENN & ARDIE BARBER (by Jim Barber)
  • C5 – ANN M McDOWELL
  • C6 – ROBERT F McDOWELL
  • C7 – JORDAN KENDRICK (by “Nana”)
  • C8 – STEVE & RAEANNE PRESLEY
  • C9 – GLEN AMUNDSEN
  • C10 – LEA TRIMBLE
  • C11 – MARK TRIMBLE
  • D5 – DYLAN PRATT
  • D6 – JOY MERRILL
  • D7 – SUSIE & JEFF TURNER
  • D8 – JEFF & SUSIE TURNER
  • D9 – SHERRY HERSCHEND
  • D10 – JACK HERSCHEND
  • D11 – DIANE WALLAHAN BARBER (by Mary Jane Wallahan)
  • D12 – CLARK C. KELLOGG
  • D13 – MARY LOU KELLOGG
  • E8 – JOHN W MIZELL
  • E9 – SHIRLEY MIZELL
  • E10 – MEREDITH J MIZELL
  • E11 – BRANSON’S SONG OF HOPE
  • F3 – RUTH & BOB ABBOTT
  • F4 – BOB & RUTH ABBOTT
  • F9 – FRED PFISTER
  • F10 – FALECIA PFISTER
  • F8 – BETH WYMAN (by Lacey Eyberg)
  • F11 – FAY PFISTER
  • K5 – AMERICANNA MAGNESS (in memory by BRAC)

The Branson Regional Arts Council is holding auditions for it’s 2024 Special Abilities Showcase talent event on Sunday, March 24, 2024 at 5:30pm at the Historic Owen Theatre.

Audition Date: Sunday, March 24, 2024 – 5:30pm

Historic Owen Theatre – Downtown Branson

This audition is open to performers of any age with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, or other types of developmental disability who have a love of singing, acting, dancing, playing an instrument, etc.  The production will be under the direction of Kyle Blanchard, with two public performances scheduled for Saturday, April 27, 2024 and Sunday, April 28, 2024 at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

Interested parties are encouraged to RSVP to attend the audition with Karie at the Branson Regional Arts Council in advance by calling 417-336-4255 or via email at events@bransonarts.org.

For auditions please prepare 30 seconds of a song, monologue or whatever performance piece you might like to perform at the event.

BRAC is excited to celebrate the extraordinary talents of this special cast of performers who will be taking the stage, and daring to dream!

 

Who lives in a pineapple under the sea and became the hottest star on Broadway? Why, it’s SpongeBob, of course, and he’s bringing his hilarious, high energy musical to downtown Branson for FIVE FINAL PERFORMANCES at the Historic Owen Theatre!

Shows run through February 25, 2024 with perfomances on Thursday (7pm), Friday, (7pm), Saturday (2pm & 7pm), and Sunday (2pm). Advance reserve tickets are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Box Office at 417-336-4255.  Ticket prices are: $20 (Adults 18+) and $12 (Youth 4-17), lap children are free.

GET SPONGEBOB MUSICAL TICKETS HERE!

Jacob Deck is SpongeBob at the Historic Owen Theatre in Downtown Branson, Missouri

Families will love The SpongeBob Musical for several reasons. It’s a colorful and lively production that brings the beloved characters of the animated television series to life on stage. The musical features catchy songs, energetic dance numbers, and a storyline that celebrates friendship, teamwork, and resilience, all of which are great themes for families to enjoy together. Additionally, the show’s humor appeals to both kids and adults, making it a fun experience for the whole family!

This Branson Regional Arts Council production features irresistible characters, magical choreography, dazzling costumes, with wave after wave of original songs by the World’s most iconic Rock and Pop Artists including Yolanda Adams, Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith, Sara Bareilles, Jonathan Coulton, Alexander Ebert of Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, The Flaming Lips, Lady Antebellum, Cyndi Lauper, John Legend, Panic! At the Disco, Plain White T’s, They Might Be Giants and T.I., and songs by David Bowie, Tom Kenny and Andy Paley. Additional lyrics are by Jonathan Coulton, with additional music by Tom Kitt. The musical production was conceived by Tina Landau

This musical Branson show is under the direction of Kyle Bradley with musical direction by Julie Brinkman.

The talented cast of The SpongeBob Musical include: Jake Deck (SPONGEBOB),  Kyle Denton (PATRICK STAR), Kellsey Bradley (SANDY), David Hewitt (SQUIDWARD Q. TENTACLES),  Mike Sager (SHELDON J. PLANKTON),  Madison Hatfield (KAREN THE COMPUTER), Sarah Williams (THE MAYOR), Lacey Kellett (PEARL KRABS), Sean Myers (MR. EUGENE KRABS),  Lucas Dahlgren (PERCH PERKINS), Jeremiah Reeve (PATCHY / OLD MAN JENKINS), Somer Dean, Jen Frost, Josiah Sims (ELECTRIC SKATES), Joshua McGeough ( BUSTER BLUE TANG), Richard Marks (LARRY THE LOBSTER), Abby Reeve (MRS. PUFF), Reagan Hoagland (GARY THE SNAIL), and Nathan Spurling / Josh Williams (FOLEY ARTIST FISH).

photos by @snappyredhead

The Adult Ensemble include: Velvet Dougharty, Melinda Prince, Madison Hewitt, Cyrsten Rainey, Rachel Sager, Mindy Law, Juanita Wilson, Loran Polson, Antoinette St. John and Christian Ross.

The Teen Ensemble include: Jael Frost, Josslynn Silvy, Jason Prince, Caleb Spurling and Hallie Groff.

The Guppies (Young Ensemble) include: Gwen Tsahiridis, Lee Brown, Maggie Marks and Reagan Hoagland.

photos by @snappyredhead

The production team include: Karie Dykeman, Kristine Brown (Producers), Kim Hale, Joshua Boulden (Assistant Producers), Kyle Bradley (Director), Julie Brinkman (Music Director), Jacob Deck (Choreographer), Claire Denton (Stage Manager), Nathan Reinke (Assistant Stage Manager), Tiffany Jones (Youth Manager), Myles Stevens (Sound), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Kellsey Bradley (Costumes), Madison Hatfield (Assistant Costumes), Leslie Austin (Props), Lacey Kellett (Social Media Promotions), Jim Barber (Marketing and Design), Josh Silvy (Theatre Inventory), Kristen Ables aka “The Snappy Red Head” (Promo Photography) and Marshall Meadows (Live Show Photography).

 

This is an urgent casting notice of sorts for area makeup artists and actors of all ages!

Imagine if you were cast as an extra on a new blockbuster film. Your big scene includes a major plane crash. Now imagine that that scene actually takes place in your own backyard at the Branson Airport. Well, this isn’t a Hollywood film, but it is a very important emergency drill that could potentially save lives in the event of an actual plane crash emergency.

The Branson Airport is seeking volunteer makeup artists and area actors to play the role of “victims” in a simulated large aircraft crash. The full-scale emergency exercise is planned for Saturday, April 13, 2024 from 7:00am – 1:00pm at the Branson Airport.

  • Theatrical blood and makeup will be provided for the makeup artists.
  • They will be creating quick bruises and blood on approximately 75 volunteer actors for this drill.
  • Each victim makeup session should take about 60 seconds to complete.
  • If that isn’t exciting enough, there will also be free donuts and lunch served to all selected participants.

Interested participants are asked to contact Jesse Fosnaugh, Airport Deputy Director ( jfosnaugh@flybranson.com ), right away to “book your flight” aboard this exciting and beneficial drill for the safety of our community. Please include your full name and contact information in your email request.

“This exercise will be a full deployment of all of the mutual aid, fire, ems in the area. We are especially in need of makeup artists and actors to participate. Makeup artists will assist in applying stage makeup and special effects to create realistic looking wounds on the actors.” – Jesse Fosnaugh, Deputy Director; Operations & Maintenance – Branson Airport

Please share this information with anyone you think might be interested in assisting! Thank you in advance for your participation in this safe, but exciting simulated emergency event.

Please let us know if you are interested right away so we can “reserve your seat”! 

IMPORTANT UPDATE: Due to illness, we have postponed performances of The SpongeBob Musical from Sunday, Feb 12 – Sunday, Feb 18th. Performances will resume on Thursday, Feb 22th – Sunday, Feb 25th. Thank you for your support and understanding. If you have any questions, please call the box office at 417-336-4255.

Who lives in a pineapple under the sea and became the hottest star on Broadway? Why, it’s SpongeBob, of course, and he’s bringing his hilarious, high energy musical to downtown Branson for three weeks of performances at the Historic Owen Theatre!

Shows run February 8 – 25, 2024 with perfomances on Thursdays (7pm), Fridays, (7pm), Saturdays (2pm & 7pm), and Sundays (2pm). Advance reserve tickets are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Box Office at 417-336-4255.  Ticket prices are: $20 (Adults 18+) and $12 (Youth 4-17), lap children are free.

GET SPONGEBOB MUSICAL TICKETS HERE!

Jacob Deck is SpongeBob at the Historic Owen Theatre in Downtown Branson, Missouri

Families will love The SpongeBob Musical for several reasons. It’s a colorful and lively production that brings the beloved characters of the animated television series to life on stage. The musical features catchy songs, energetic dance numbers, and a storyline that celebrates friendship, teamwork, and resilience, all of which are great themes for families to enjoy together. Additionally, the show’s humor appeals to both kids and adults, making it a fun experience for the whole family!

This Branson Regional Arts Council production features irresistible characters, magical choreography, dazzling costumes, with wave after wave of original songs by the World’s most iconic Rock and Pop Artists including Yolanda Adams, Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith, Sara Bareilles, Jonathan Coulton, Alexander Ebert of Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, The Flaming Lips, Lady Antebellum, Cyndi Lauper, John Legend, Panic! At the Disco, Plain White T’s, They Might Be Giants and T.I., and songs by David Bowie, Tom Kenny and Andy Paley. Additional lyrics are by Jonathan Coulton, with additional music by Tom Kitt. The musical production was conceived by Tina Landau

This musical Branson show is under the direction of Kyle Bradley with musical direction by Julie Brinkman.

The talented cast of The SpongeBob Musical include: Jake Deck (SPONGEBOB),  Kyle Denton (PATRICK STAR), Kellsey Bradley (SANDY), David Hewitt (SQUIDWARD Q. TENTACLES),  Mike Sager (SHELDON J. PLANKTON),  Madison Hatfield (KAREN THE COMPUTER), Sarah Williams (THE MAYOR), Lacey Kellett (PEARL KRABS), Sean Myers (MR. EUGENE KRABS),  Lucas Dahlgren (PERCH PERKINS), Jeremiah Reeve (PATCHY / OLD MAN JENKINS), Somer Dean, Jen Frost, Josiah Sims (ELECTRIC SKATES), Joshua McGeough ( BUSTER BLUE TANG), Richard Marks (LARRY THE LOBSTER), Abby Reeve (MRS. PUFF), Reagan Hoagland (GARY THE SNAIL), and Nathan Spurling / Josh Williams (FOLEY ARTIST FISH).

photos by @snappyredhead

The Adult Ensemble include: Velvet Dougharty, Melinda Prince, Madison Hewitt, Cyrsten Rainey, Rachel Sager, Mindy Law, Juanita Wilson, Loran Polson, Antoinette St. John and Christian Ross.

The Teen Ensemble include: Jael Frost, Josslynn Silvy, Jason Prince, Caleb Spurling and Hallie Groff.

The Guppies (Young Ensemble) include: Gwen Tsahiridis, Lee Brown, Maggie Marks and Reagan Hoagland.

photos by @snappyredhead

The production team include: Karie Dykeman, Kristine Brown (Producers), Kim Hale, Joshua Boulden (Assistant Producers), Kyle Bradley (Director), Julie Brinkman (Music Director), Jacob Deck (Choreographer), Claire Denton (Stage Manager), Nathan Reinke (Assistant Stage Manager), Tiffany Jones (Youth Manager), Myles Stevens (Sound), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Kellsey Bradley (Costumes), Madison Hatfield (Assistant Costumes), Leslie Austin (Props), Lacey Kellett (Social Media Promotions), Jim Barber (Marketing and Design), Josh Silvy (Theatre Inventory), Kristen Ables aka “The Snappy Red Head” (Promo Photography) and Marshall Meadows (Live Show Photography).

 

Who lives in a pineapple under the sea and became the hottest star on Broadway? Why, it’s SpongeBob, of course, and he’s bringing his hilarious, high energy musical to downtown Branson for three weeks of performances at the Historic Owen Theatre!

Shows run February 8 – 25, 2024 with perfomances on Thursdays (7pm), Fridays, (7pm), Saturdays (2pm & 7pm), and Sundays (2pm). Advance reserve tickets are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Box Office at 417-336-4255.  Ticket prices are: $20 (Adults 18+) and $12 (Youth 4-17), lap children are free.

Families will enjoy seeing The SpongeBob Musical for several reasons. It’s a colorful and lively production that brings the beloved characters of the animated television series to life on stage. The musical features catchy songs, energetic dance numbers, and a storyline that celebrates friendship, teamwork, and resilience, all of which are great themes for families to enjoy together. Additionally, the show’s humor appeals to both kids and adults, making it a fun experience for the whole family!

This Branson Regional Arts Council production features irresistible characters, magical choreography, dazzling costumes, with wave after wave of original songs by the World’s most iconic Rock and Pop Artists including Yolanda Adams, Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith, Sara Bareilles, Jonathan Coulton, Alexander Ebert of Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, The Flaming Lips, Lady Antebellum, Cyndi Lauper, John Legend, Panic! At the Disco, Plain White T’s, They Might Be Giants and T.I., and songs by David Bowie, Tom Kenny and Andy Paley. Additional lyrics are by Jonathan Coulton, with additional music by Tom Kitt. The musical production was conceived by Tina Landau

This musical Branson show is under the direction of Kyle Bradley with musical direction by Julie Brinkman.

The talented cast of The SpongeBob Musical include: Jake Deck (SPONGEBOB),  Kyle Denton (PATRICK STAR), Kellsey Bradley (SANDY), David Hewitt (SQUIDWARD Q. TENTACLES),  Mike Sager (SHELDON J. PLANKTON),  Madison Hatfield (KAREN THE COMPUTER), Sarah Williams (THE MAYOR), Lacey Kellett (PEARL KRABS), Sean Myers (MR. EUGENE KRABS),  Lucas Dahlgren (PERCH PERKINS), Jeremiah Reeve (PATCHY / OLD MAN JENKINS), Somer Dean, Jen Frost, Josiah Sims (ELECTRIC SKATES), Joshua McGeough ( BUSTER BLUE TANG), Richard Marks (LARRY THE LOBSTER), Abby Reeve (MRS. PUFF), Reagan Hoagland (GARY THE SNAIL), and Nathan Spurling / Josh Williams (FOLEY ARTIST FISH).

The Adult Ensemble include: Velvet Dougharty, Melinda Prince, Madison Hewitt, Cyrsten Rainey, Rachel Sager, Mindy Law, Juanita Wilson, Loran Polson, Antoinette St. John and Christian Ross.

The Teen Ensemble include: Jael Frost, Josslynn Silvy, Jason Prince, Caleb Spurling and Hallie Groff.

The Guppies (Young Ensemble) include: Gwen Tsahiridis, Lee Brown, Maggie Marks and Reagan Hoagland.

The production team include: Karie Dykeman, Kristine Brown (Producers), Kim Hale, Joshua Boulden (Assistant Producers), Kyle Bradley (Director), Julie Brinkman (Music Director), Jacob Deck (Choreographer), Claire Denton (Stage Manager), Nathan Reinke (Assistant Stage Manager), Tiffany Jones (Youth Manager), Myles Stevens (Sound), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Kellsey Bradley (Costumes), Madison Hatfield (Assistant Costumes), Leslie Austin (Props), Lacey Kellett (Social Media Promotions), Jim Barber (Marketing and Design), Josh Silvy (Theatre Inventory), and Marshall Meadows (Photography).

Calling All Kids Ages 7-12!!! Come be a part of Crescendo /krəˈSHenˌdō/!

The Branson Regional Arts Council is gearing up for our Spring Semester and have a few openings in our exciting educational youth performance troupe for kids who love to sing, dance and act!

Members of Crescendo meet on a regular basis after school at the Historic Owen Theatre.

If you have a student that would be interested, please contact Karie at 417-336-4255 or edu@bransonarts.org for more information!

Crescendo: “Meaning growing, as in swelling of sound, or becoming louder.”

Students will have fun developing their performance skills in the areas of voice and dance, while gaining new friendships, skills and increasing their confidence.

The students will learn and perform under the direction of their talented and qualified instructors Jacob Deck and Julie Brinkman.

 

On behalf of myself and the Branson Regional Arts Council Board of Directors, I’d like to take a moment to thank everyone who made it possible for us to present so many wonderful community arts events in 2023 at the Historic Owen Theatre in Downtown Branson.

It’s important that we express our gratitude to those who have generously supported nonprofit arts and youth theatre in our community. Your contributions play a pivotal role in sustaining our organization and ensuring that we can continue to offer valuable programs and opportunities. Through your donation, you are helping to provide access to the arts for young people who might not otherwise have the chance to participate, fostering creativity, self-esteem, self-expression, and personal growth. Your generous support enables the Arts Council to create high-quality productions, workshops, and educational initiatives that enrich our community and inspire future generations of performing and visual artists and arts enthusiasts.

I extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to these important causes, whether as a financial donor, theatre patron, arts instructor, supportive parent, student, actor, director, technician, or volunteer. None of this would be possible without you!

Our current Board of Directors include: Kristine Brown (President), Josh Silvy (Vice President), Rick Uebel (CFO), Lorie Best (Secretary), Justin Ables, Dr. Madeline Allin, EdD, Roxanne Amundsen, Leslie Austin, Kyle Blanchard, Josh Boulden, Dean Donat, Mary Jo Green, Dr. Art Hale, Lisa Muphy (Ex-Officio), Jim Myers, and Loran Polson. We also wish to recognize  Kim Hale (Past President), who termed off the board this year after 10 years of continued service to the organization. Kim remains an active volunteer as our Youth Arts Director of Education.

I also thank our small but mighty staff: Karie Dykeman (Box Office Manager / Executive Assistant), and Kyle Blanchard (Theatre & Special Events Manager).

Kristine Brown – BRAC President

As one year ends and another begins may I wish you happiness and good tidings.I am so excited about our show list for this upcoming year. We will continue to give our community the entertainment that they have enjoyed and are excited to present some new directors and performers. We will have some new educational classes to give our community chances to join in the future. And who knows maybe even on stage. Come on out and see us this February with our opener SpongeBob the musical. 

Kristine Brown  – BRAC Board of Directors/President 

In 2023 the Branson Regional Arts Council engaged our community in a variety of ways:

  • 8 Main stage Musicals or Play Productions
  • 8 Monday Night Movies Presented in Theatre (in July, August and December)
  • Multiple Special Events with Purpose (including our Special Abilities Program, and Holocaust Education Week)
  • 6,833 Adults and 1,861 Youth Theatre Patrons
  • 265 Acting Roles Created
  • 116 Theatre Director & Crew Positions
  • 166 Theatre Volunteer Positions Filled

Josh Silvy – BRAC Vice President

I want to extend a huge thank you to our patrons, sponsors, and volunteers.

It is because of you that our community has such a great Arts Council right here in Branson, Missouri.

It is going to be another fantastic year with BRAC!

Josh Silvy – BRAC Vice President

We give extra special appreciation to the thousands of theatre patrons, and hundreds of individuals, organizations and businesses who contributed financial assistance through donations or grant opportunities. Some of our outstanding major supporters include the Missouri Arts Council, the Jean Cantwell Family, the Meredith Mizell Family, Mrs. Barbara CohnSpringfield Regional Arts Council, White River Valley Electric Cooperative, Community Foundation of the Ozarks, Titanic Museum Attraction, Herschend Family Foundation, Dr. Arthur & Kim Hale, Mercy, Sight & Sound Theatres, Stickman Family Enterprises, Inc., Tim & Valerie Brinkman, Joy Merrill, Todd Aeschliman, Wendy Youngblood, Rick & Delyla Uebel and one who asked to remain Anonymous.

Lorie Best – BRAC Board Secretary

I think in todays world, where there are so many folks out there that are constantly trying to keep people afraid of the different; different beliefs, different backgrounds, different ideas, different ways of life…community outreach is a very important way to breakdown that false fear.

By getting involved and getting to know all that difference around you, you can see just how beautiful difference makes the world and I believe that is what we do here at BRAC. We bring people together to share their love of the Arts with one another and for a brief moment in time the difference is wiped away and everyone is a collective one; laughing, crying, learning and growing as one, and in these moments people can see one another in a light that shows that the differences they have aren’t so different at all and the person next to you isn’t some big bad bogeyman coming to get you in the middle of the night; they are just a fellow human being trying to make it through the great, big, beautiful world one day at a time…just like you.

I look forward to another year of working with BRAC, reaching out and getting to know the different…I invite you to come join us and make a difference in someone’s life.

Lorie Best – BRAC Board Secretary

In October 2023, we held our 1st Annual Arts Gala at the Branson Convention Center as our primary fundraising event of the year. With approximately 200 in attendance, this new and exciting event allowed us to engage our patrons and donors in a fun, new way. We invite you to mark your calendars for Saturday, September 14, 2024 and make plans to join us for our 2nd Annual Arts Gala for an even bigger and better evening of entertainment and delicious food.

Kim Hale – BRAC Director of Education

One of the most important contributions you can make is to your own community. BRAC fosters creativity and creates a space where everyone’s contributions are valued. In a world that increasingly values digital interactions, community theatre and the arts provide a tangible and immersive experience that enriches cultural engagement. BRAC productions nurture teamwork, communication, and creative problem-solving. At the Owen Theater, volunteers, sponsors, staff, performers and audience members come together to share the joy of live theatre. The impact of BRAC extends beyond the stage, positively impacting the community as a whole. As Director of Education, I’m excited to further our community outreach efforts and the ongoing youth education programs, including our special abilities program and a campaign on how the arts impact health. Keep an eye out for many exciting youth productions in the coming year!

Kim Hale – BRAC Past President / Director of Education

Lifting The Burden Brings Long Term Sustainability!

Jim Barber – BRAC Executive Director

As we begin our 7th Season at the Historic Owen Theatre, in addition to our exciting musical theatre and play productions, youth arts education and programming for special needs individuals, we are heavily focused on paying off the balance of our mortgage on the theatre facility. Once the mortgage is paid off, the organization will no longer have to allocate funds for monthly mortgage payments which will free up a significant portion of our budget for other purposes such as programming, renovations, and future expansion. This will bring financial stability for the organization into the future. Also without the burden of a mortgage, our operating expenses will decrease, leading to more financial flexibility and the ability to invest in areas that directly benefit the organization’s mission.

We invite you to assist us in this effort by making a tax-deductible donation to the HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE FUND through the Community Foundation of the Ozarks (links below)!

  • Click Here to Donate via Credit Card:  Under Gift Designation, select “Historic Owen Theatre Fund (Branson)
  • or Mail donation check to: Community Foundation of the Ozarks, PO Box 8960, Springfield, MO 65801 (in the check memo include: Historic Owen Theatre Fund (Branson)

BY CONTRIBUTING TO THIS FUND YOU ARE ALSO PRESERVING THE RICH CULTURAL HERITAGE OF THIS VENUE BUILT IN 1936 AND THE LEGACY OF JIM OWEN!

Thank you again for your support in 2023, and from everyone at the Branson Regional Arts Council… Happy New Year!

Jim Barber – BRAC Executive Director

3 Unique Christmas Gifts That Support The Arts

Looking for something totally unique and different to give for Christmas this year? Give the Gift of the Arts!

The Branson Regional Arts Council has three fun suggestions for you to consider…

Christmas Gift Idea #1 – $136.00 per adult

GET SEASON PASS THEATRE TICKETS

Season Pass for 2024 Theatre Shows
8 Amazing Musicals and Plays will be presented during our 2024 Season. Save time and money by making a one-time seat selection. Your ticket may be used by you or anyone you wish to occupy your seat.
Best seats will go first, so order your season passes soon! A season pass to the Historic Owen Theatre is a unique gift item for a friend or loved one that will be enjoyed all year long!

Christmas Gift Idea #2 – $50.00

BRAC MEMBERSHIP

1 Year Family Arts Council Membership – Benefits include:
• Special Member Perks such as Free Popcorn or Sodas during the 2024 Theatre Season.
• Fresh Arts Emails – keeping you “in the know” about upcoming events and programs.
• Involvement in shaping the future of the arts in our community and surrounding area.
• Participation in an active and growing Arts Group.
• Satisfaction in knowing YOU are helping improve the quality of life in the Branson/Tri-Lakes area by providing quality arts programming for EVERYONE!

Christmas Gift Idea #3 – $500 (tax deductible)

BUY-A-SEAT NOW

Buy-A-Seat at the Historic Owen Theatre
Give a lasting gift in the name of a loved one (or yourself) to showing support of the arts in our community by sponsoring a Historic Owen Theatre seat! Your custom engraved plate will be secured to the back of your seat and will permanently remain in place. This tax deductible donation benefits the Branson Regional Arts Council efforts to preserve and maintain the Historic Owen Theatre. Select any available seat now, and your memorial plate will be engraved and installed for all to see. 

 

The Branson Regional Arts Council is seeking area artists to be featured in a new six-month exhibition at the Branson Convention Center Art Gallery, that officially opens on Sunday, March 17, 2024 and runs through September 22, 2024. *dates subject to change

Artist applications are being accepted now for a limited number of artists for this exciting and highly visited gallery exhibition.

Please submit digital images or portfolio of available work for any of these exhibitions by using the artist submission form or button below.

CALL FOR ARTISTS - SUBMIT HERE

  • Selected artists will be required to submit a $50 Participation Fee and also have an active BRAC Membership ($20 Annual).
  • All featured artists displayed works will be made available for sale to the public through an online version of the gallery.

[fac_icon icon=”question-circle”] For any questions, please contact Kyle Blanchard at 417-336-4255 or events@bransonarts.org.

 

Branson Convention Center – Art Exhibit

Branson Convention Center Art Exhibition

The Branson Convention Center Art Gallery is located on the second level promenade of the venue. Twelve to Fourteen Ozarks area artists are featured on a rotating basis.  All works are available for sale with a small commission benefiting the Branson Regional Arts Council. This exhibition is free to the public and open year round.

NOTE: This is a juried show, so all submissions will be reviewed by a committee before being accepted in the display.