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Stephen Sondheim’s Musical Comedy Company Opens At Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateMay 8, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to present the fourth mainstage production of the 2024 season, Stephen Sondheim’s Company! From one of musical theatre’s most renowned composers, Company is a musical comedy that tackles timeless situations and themes in a funny, thought-provoking, and catchy musical.

Performances are May 16 – 26, 2024 with shows on Thursday (7pm), Friday (7pm), Saturday (7pm), and Sunday (2pm). NOTE: Sunday May 19th is at 7pm only.

Company is rated PG|13 as the production contains adult situations and some language.

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).

Director Loran Polson is making her BRAC Directorial Debut with Company and says, “I’m so excited to be able to bring this show to the BRAC stage & share this story. What’s fantastic about the Branson Regional Arts Council is that there is so much talent in this town!” Loran adds, “This cast is incredible and I am so thrilled with the story they are able to tell. I hope this story makes you laugh, think, and maybe even cry a little bit. That’s the beauty of theater, you can watch art being performed & feel all the complex emotions of life.”

The talented cast of Company includes: Josiah Sims (Robert), Kellsey Bradley (Sarah), Kyle Bradley (Harry), Briana Moody (Susan / Kathy),  Jeremiah Reeve (Peter), Melinda Prince (Jenny), David Hewitt (David), Madison Hewitt (Amy), Joshua McGeough (Paul), Heather Marie Petersen (Joanne), Kyle Denton (Larry / Music Director), Madison Hatfield (Marta), and Dorothie Goode DeOrnellis (April).

The production team includes: Kristine Brown, Karie Dykeman (Producers), Josh Boulden (Assistant Producer), Loran Polson (Director / Set Designer), Abby Reeve (Assistant Director / Costume Designer), Kyle Denton (Music Director), Dimitri Tsahiridis (Stage Manager), Emily Hanner (Choreographer), Myles Stevens (Audio Engineer), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Juanita Wilson, Bella Whittington (Spotlight), Lacey Kellett (Social Media), David Hewitt, Darin Moody, Melinda Prince (Set Construction), Kyle Blanchard (Theatre Manager / Set Construction), Josh Silvy (Theatre Inventory), Marshall Meadows (Photography), and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director / Marketing and Design).

About the show…

On the night of his 35th birthday, Bobby contemplates his unmarried status. Over the course of dinners, drinks, and even a wedding, his friends share their pros and cons for being married causing Bobby to question his bachelorhood during hilarious and heartwarming interactions with all the friends he holds dear.

This Tony Award winning musical with book by George Furth and music & lyrics by Stephen Sondheim gives audiences everywhere a reflection of themselves in at least one of these beloved characters. The musical was originally produced and directed on Broadway by Harold Prince, with orchestrations by Jonathan Tunick.

Company is presented through special licensing arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.MTIShows.com

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Hold Everything… Auditions For Urinetown The Musical On May 19th

  • dateMay 7, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council is holding open auditions for our summer production of, Urinetown The Musical!

(Adult, pre-teen, and teen roles available)

Audition Information

Initial Auditions will be held at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson on Sunday, May 19, 2024, 1:00pm – 4:00pm on a first-come basis.

Callbacks will occur on Tuesday, May 21st, 6:00pm – 10:00pm.

If you are unable to attend the auditions in person, please send a self-taped audition, including dance if possible, to Events@BransonArts.org. Also please notify us by email if you’re only available one of the two evenings.

Please prepare 16 Measures, or about 45 Seconds, of a musical theater song in the style of the show; selections from Urinetown are welcome if you are auditioning for a specific role. Be willing to play with different choices if the director asks; 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.

Bring dance attire, as you may be asked to stay for a dance call, time-permitting.

About the Show

This award winning Broadway musical is rated PG-13 and is under the direction of Kyle Blanchard with eight public performances from July 25-28 and August 1-4, 2024 at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson. Advance reserved seats are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255.

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

Urinetown Character Breakdown

→ Bobby Strong – Male, 20 to 35. The rebellious everyman who works for Miss Pennywise at the poorest, filthiest town urinal. He becomes an unsuspecting protagonist and romantic hero when he starts a revolution. Vocal Range: Bb2 – Ab4 (B4 optional) A clear high tenor; a nimble falsetto is a plus.

→ Hope Cladwell – Female, 20 to 30. An innocent, romantic optimist who becomes vengeful and determined after being exposed to her father’s evil. Vocal Range: A3 – Ab5 Soprano. Needs a lovely Eb5

→ Caldwell B. Cladwell – Male, 50+. The president and owner of the Urine Good Company. A tyrant who both gleefully exploits the poor and genuinely believes he is helping the city. Vocal Range: A2 – F4. Baritone; needs crisp diction.

→ Officer Lockstock – Male, 30 to 60. A corrupt policeman and the tongue-in-cheek narrator of the story. Bold and brash, quite possibly evil. Vocal Range: A2 – G4 An authoritative voice, with rich low notes but a firm G4.

→ Officer Barrel – Male or Female 30 – 60. Lockstock’s patrol partner. A thuggish and aggressive policeman/woman. Vocal Range: Bb2 – Eb4.

→ Mr. Mcqueen – Male, 20-60. Cladwell’s sycophantic lackey. A cowardly and servile assistant. Vocal Range: A4 – B2.

→ Senator Fipp – Male (possibly female), 40+. A greedy and sleazy politician in Cladwell’s pocket. Vocal Range: F4 – C#3.

→ Penelope Pennywise – Female, 40 to 65. The tough, jaded warden of the poorest, filthiest town urinal. Vocal Range: A3 – G5 (C6 optional) Needs to be clear / shrill up to a G5.

→ Little Sally – Female, 10 to 30 (to play pre-teen). A precocious and irreverent street urchin. A quasi-narrator who often questions Lockstock and the play’s logic. Vocal Range: A3-D5. Has a child’s voice – because she is a child.

→ Joseph “Old Man” Strong / Hot Blades Harry / UGC Staff / Cop – Male, 20+. Bobby’s rebellious father; his refusal to follow abusive laws ultimately launches the revolution. / One of the city’s Poor; violent and unpredictable. / Strong Dancer. Vocal Range: D3 – F4

→ Tiny Tom / UGC Exec. 1 / Cop – Male, 20-60. One of the city’s Poor; immature and confused. / Dancer. Vocal Range: Adjustable

→ Robby the Stockfish / UGC Exec. 2 / Cop – Male, 20-50. One of the city’s Poor; curious and eager, probably on drugs. / Dancer. Vocal Range: Adjustable

→ Hidalgo Jane / Dr. Billeaux / Cop – Female, 15-40. One of the city’s Poor, a literal hobo. / Head of Research and Development at Cladwell’s company UCG. / Dancer. Vocal Range: A3 – E3

→ Little Becky Two-shoes / Mrs. Millennium / Cop – Female, 20-40. One of the city’s Poor, rebellious and impulsive. / Cladwell’s greedy secretary at UCG. / Stong Dancer. Vocal Range: D4 – G5 – Soprano

→ Soupy Sue / UGC Staff / Cop – Female, 20-40. One of the city’s Poor. Kind and anxious …and very pregnant. / Dancer. Vocal Range: B4 – Bb5

→ Josephine “Old Ma” Strong / UGC Staff / Cop – Female, 50+. A strong-willed woman with fight, and a better ability than most to deal with the hard hand life has dealt her. / Proficient mover. Vocal Range: Bb3 – D5

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Second Summer Youth Theatre Institute Added Due To Popular Demand – Registration Now Open

  • dateApril 30, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
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By popular demand, the Branson Regional Arts Council is adding a SECOND Summer Youth Theatre Institute and is now accepting student registrations for it’s June 24 – July 14 classes and production of Disney’s Peter Pan Jr. 

When we announced our regular Summer Institute registration, we had no idea that we would completely fill our young cast show in LESS THAN A DAY! In order to give more youth in our area the opportunity to experience this exciting summer theatre camp, we are announcing this SECOND SUMMER INSTITUTE with an equally exciting production!

Register your child (ages 6-13) to experience the Branson Regional Arts Council’s exciting summer theatre camp at the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson. The theme is Fun Education Continues and we are an entirely separate Summer Institute production limited to 35 students.

No auditions or previous experience required to participate!

Tuition is $225 per student for all 3 Weeks of Fun!

Tuition includes all classes, performances, personal script and logo t-shirt. 

 

NOTE: Students Should Be Age 6-13 on June 24, 2024

Students (age 6-13) will attend classes on Monday thru Friday, 8:00am – 12:00pm from June 24th thru July 11th, culminating with (4) public performances of Peter Pan JR on Friday, July 12 (7pm), Saturday, July 13 (2pm & 7pm), and Sunday, July 14 (2pm).

Register for Summer Institute 2

Note: There will be an important parent/student meeting for everyone on (date to be determined) at the theatre!

CALL FOR MORE INFO: 417-336-4255 or edu@bransonarts.org

The students will learn acting, dancing, singing, and stage movement culminating in a magnificent stage production of Disney’s Peter Pan Jr. with public performances July 12-14, 2024. Reserved seat tickets for Peter Pan JR are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix. (These tickets were not included in Season Passes, please purchase separately!)

Peter and his mischievous fairy sidekick, Tinkerbell, visit the nursery of the Darling children late one night and, with a sprinkle of pixie dust, begin a magical journey across the stars that none of them will ever forget. In the adventure of a lifetime, the travelers come face to face with a ticking crocodile, the fierce Brave Girls, a band of bungling pirates and, of course, the villainous Captain Hook.

Featuring the iconic songs, “I’m Flying,” “I’ve Gotta Crow,” “I Won’t Grow Up” and “Never Never Land,” and a rousing book full of magic, warmth and adventure, Peter Pan JR. is the perfect show for the child in all of us… who dreamed of soaring high and never growing up.

The BRAC Summer Institute Team includes:

  • Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director)
  • Kimberly Hale (BRAC Director of Education)
  • Kristine Brown (BRAC President, Producer)
  • Karie Dykeman (BRAC Executive Assistant, Producer)
  • Josh Williams (Director)
  • Sarah Williams (C0-Director)
  • Nicole Horton (Music Director)
  • Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design, Education Assistant)
  • Myles Stevens (Audio Technician)

2024 Summer Institute 2 – Class and Performance Schedule will be as follows:

  • Monday June 24 – 8:00am – 12:00pm
  • Tuesday June 25 – 8:00am – 12:00pm
  • Wednesday June 26 – 8:00am – 12:00pm
  • Thursday June 27 – 8:00am – 12:00pm
  • Friday June 28 – 8:00am – 12:00pm
  • Monday July 1 – 8:00am – 12:00pm
  • Tuesday July 2 – 8:00am – 12:00pm
  • Wednesday July 3 – 8:00am – 12:00pm
  • Thursday July 4 – NO CLASS
  • Friday June 5 – NO CLASS
  • Monday July 8 – 8:00am – 12:00pm
  • Tuesday July 9 – 8:00am – 12:00pm
  • Wednesday July 10 – 8:00am – 12:00pm
  • Thursday July 11 – 8:00am – 12:00pm
  • Friday July 12 – Call Time 5:00 pm, Performance at 7:00pm
  • Saturday July 13 – Call Time 12:00pm, Performance at 2:00pm
  • Saturday July 13 – Call Time 5:00pm, Performance at 7:00pm
  • Sunday July 14 – Call Time 12:00pm, Performance at 2:00pm
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Enjoy Watching Our 2024 Special Abilities Showcase Performers Now

  • dateApril 30, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view5340 Views

On Saturday, April 27th and Sunday, April 28th, two talented casts of 37 area residents performed in an entertaining and heart warming talent showcase at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

The Branson Regional Arts Council presented the 2nd Annual Special Abilities Showcase featuring talented performers with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, and other types of developmental disability who have a love of singing, acting, dancing, playing an instrument, and more.

This outstanding community event was presented in coordination with national Autism Acceptance Month! The Arts Council Board of Directors formed the Special Abilities Committee in 2018 with the intention of providing inclusive creative and performance opportunities for area youth and adults dealing with various physical or mental challenges.

“Many of these individuals would not have an opportunity to perform in a traditional theatre setting, but through this Special Abilities Program, they can build their confidence and self-esteem through creative social interaction, music, dance and theatre. BRAC’s Theatre & Special Events Director, Kyle Blanchard, along with the Arts Council, has stepped up these efforts to include productions like Special Abilities Showcase as a way to bridge the gap for these extraordinary cast members who are taking the stage, and daring to dream!” – Jim Barber, BRAC Executive Director

Saturday, April 27, 2024 Cast members in order of appearance include: Ethan Powell, Will Blankenship, Camden Lampkin, Jesse Bielby, Nicky Rush, Jaime Magnusson, Dewayne Tennison, Joy Geyer, Sam Lesch, Kyle Moeskau, Emmy Schaller, Stephen & Ron Donhardt, Ethan Underwood, Logan Iseley, Kara Lewis, and Jakota & Jerrica Clemons.

Pre-Show Music for both performances was performed by Ethan Powell. (Same selection shown in both videos)

Sunday, April 28, 2024 Cast members in order of appearance include: Katie & Joan Wright, Stephanie Evans, Dylan Pratt, Maria Hildreth, Jason Hoggett, Spencer Coffman, Thomas Pearson, Jen Schiavone-Whorton, Izzy Trower, Gabbie Galvin, Seth Roland, Luke Whitten, Brian Reed, Eric Pemberton, Eli Reimer, Tiffany Burgess, and Elizabeth Schopp.

Pre-Show Music for both performances was performed by Ethan Powell. (Same selection shown in both videos)

The production team includes Kyle Blanchard (Director), Delyla Uebel (Music Director), Jenn Schiavone-Whorton (Vocal Coach), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Operator), Myles Stevens (Sound Operator), Cyrsten Rainey-Felley (Music Operator), Juanita Wilson (Spotlight Operator), and M.J. Szumowski (Audition Assistant) and Jim Barber (Video Production).

The Branson Regional Arts Council would like to extend special thanks to the board and staff of Barnabas Prep who assited with the event, in addition to an extra special thank you to the families, friends, and support staff of each performer for everything they do to encourage these amazing individuals.

Thank you for supporting local arts and for encouraging these spectacular performers to excel!

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2024 Summer Youth Institute Registrations Now Open For Students Ages 6-18

  • dateApril 27, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view7504 Views

The 2024 BRAC Summer Youth Theatre Institute is now accepting student registrations for it’s June production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr.

Register your child (ages 6-18) to experience the Branson Regional Arts Council’s exciting summer theatre camp at the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson. The theme is Fun Education and this year we are expanding the program to include two performance groups limited to 35 students in each group.

No auditions or previous experience required to participate!

Tuition is $225 per student for all 3 Weeks of Fun!

Tuition includes all classes, performances, personal script and logo t-shirt. 

 

NOTE: Students Age on June 3, 2024 determines which group you enroll in.

 The younger group (age 6-12) will attend classes on Monday thru Friday, 8:00am – 11:30am from June 3rd thru June 19th, culminating with (4) public performances of The Little Mermaid JR on Thursday, June 20 (7pm), Friday, June 21 (5:30pm), Saturday, June 22 (10am), and Sunday, June 23 (2pm).

SORRY THE AGE 6-12 CLASS IS SOLD OUT

Please call 417-336-4255 to be added to a wait list, and watch for additional programs this summer for your kids!

The older group (age 13-18) will attend classes on Monday thru Friday, 12:00pm – 3:30pm from June 3rd thru June 19th, culminating with (4) public performances of of The Little Mermaid JR on Friday, June 21 (8pm), Saturday, June 22 (2pm & 7pm), and Sunday, June 23 (7pm).

REGISTER FOR INSTITUTE AGE 13-18

Note: There will be an important parent/student meeting for everyone on Thursday, May 30 from 6pm-7pm at the theatre!

CALL FOR MORE INFO: 417-336-4255 or edu@bransonarts.org

The students will learn acting, dancing, singing, and stage movement culminating in a magnificent stage production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr. with public performances June 20 – 23, 2024. Reserved seat tickets for The Little Mermaid JR are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix.

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.

The BRAC Summer Institute Team includes:

  • Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director)
  • Kimberly Hale (BRAC Director of Education)
  • Kristine Brown (BRAC President, Producer)
  • Karie Dykeman (BRAC Executive Assistant, Producer)
  • Kyle & Kellsey Bradley (Co-Directors, 13-18 cast)
  • Danielle Hardin (Music Director, 13-18 cast)
  • Emily Hanner (Choreographer)
  • Jacob Deck (Co-Director, Co-Choreographer, 6-12 cast)
  • Lara Menard (Co-Director, Co-Choreographer, 6-12 cast)
  • Julie Brinkman (Music Director, 6-12 cast)
  • Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design, Education Assistant)
  • Myles Stevens (Audio Technician)
  • Lacey Kellett (Social Media)

2024 Summer Institute Class and Performance Schedule will be as follows:

  • Thursday May 30 – 6:00pm – 7:00pm Parent Meeting
  • Monday June 3 – 8:00am – 11:030am (6-12 cast), 12pm-3:30pm (13-18 cast)
  • Tuesday June 4 – 8:00am – 11:030am (6-12 cast), 12pm-3:30pm (13-18 cast)
  • Wednesday June 5 – 8:00am – 11:030am (6-12 cast), 12pm-3:30pm (13-18 cast)
  • Thursday June 6 – 8:00am – 11:030am (6-12 cast), 12pm-3:30pm (13-18 cast)
  • Friday June 7 – 8:00am – 11:030am (6-12 cast), 12pm-3:30pm (13-18 cast)
  • Monday June 10 – 8:00am – 11:030am (6-12 cast), 12pm-3:30pm (13-18 cast)
  • Tuesday June 11 – 8:00am – 11:030am (6-12 cast), 12pm-3:30pm (13-18 cast)
  • Wednesday June 12 – 8:00am – 11:030am (6-12 cast), 12pm-3:30pm (13-18 cast)
  • Thursday June 13 – 8:00am – 11:030am (6-12 cast), 12pm-3:30pm (13-18 cast)
  • Friday June 14 – 8:00am – 11:030am (6-12 cast), 12pm-3:30pm (13-18 cast)
  • Monday June 17 – 8:00am – 11:030am (6-12 cast), 12pm-3:30pm (13-18 cast)
  • Tuesday June 18 – 8:00am – 11:030am (6-12 cast), 12pm-3:30pm (13-18 cast)
  • Wednesday June 19 – 8:00am – 11:030am (6-12 cast), 12pm-3:30pm (13-18 cast)
  • Thursday June 20 – Call Time 5:00 pm, Performance at 7:00pm (6-12 cast)
  • Friday June 21 – Call Time 3:30 pm, Performance at 5:30pm (6-12 cast)
  • Friday June 21 – Call Time 5:00 pm, Performance at 7:00pm (13-18 cast)
  • SaturdayJune 22 – Call Time 8:00am, Performance at 10:00am (6-12 cast)
  • SaturdayJune 22 – Call Time 12:00pm, Performance at 2:00pm (13-18 cast)
  • SaturdayJune 22 – Call Time 5:00pm, Performance at 7:00pm (13-18 cast)
  • Sunday June 23 – Call Time 12:00pm, Performance at 2:00pm (6-12 cast)
  • Sunday June 23 – Call Time 5:00pm, Performance at 7:00pm (13-18 cast)
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Talented Performers Shine On Stage At Historic Owen Theatre This Weekend

  • dateApril 21, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view4706 Views

On Saturday, April 27th and Sunday, April 28th  at 7:00pm, two talented casts of 37 area residents will participate in an entertaining and heart warming talent showcase at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

The Branson Regional Arts Council presents the 2nd Annual Special Abilities Showcase featuring talented performers with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, and other types of developmental disability who have a love of singing, acting, dancing, playing an instrument, and more.

This outstanding community event is presented in coordination with national Autism Acceptance Month, and the public is invited to attend and cheer on the performers!

A $5 donation will be collected at the door, and open seating will begin at 6:30pm. Please arrive early for best seats. The concessions stand will be serving refreshments, fresh popcorn and other treats.

Card carrying BRAC Members admitted FREE.

The Arts Council Board of Directors formed the Special Abilities Committee in 2018 with the intention of providing inclusive creative and performance opportunities for area youth and adults dealing with various physical or mental challenges.

“Many of these individuals would not have an opportunity to perform in a traditional theatre setting, but through this Special Abilities Program, they can build their confidence and self-esteem through creative social interaction, music, dance and theatre. BRAC’s Theatre & Special Events Director, Kyle Blanchard, along with the Arts Council, has stepped up these efforts to include productions like Special Abilities Showcase as a way to bridge the gap for these extraordinary cast members who are taking the stage, and daring to dream!” – Jim Barber, BRAC Executive Director

Saturday, April 27, 2024 Cast members in order of appearance include: Ethan Powell, Will Blankenship, Camden Lampkin, Jesse Bielby, Nicky Rush, Jaime Magnusson, Dewayne Tennison, Joy Geyer, Sam Lesch, Kyle Moeskau, Emmy Schaller, Stephen & Ron Donhardt, Ethan Underwood, Logan Iseley, Kara Lewis, and Jakota & Jerrica Clemons.

Sunday, April 28, 2024 Cast members in order of appearance include: Katie & Joan Wright, Stephanie Evans, Dylan Pratt, Maria Hildreth, Jason Hoggett, Spencer Coffman, Thomas Pearson, Jen Schiavone-Whorton, Izzy Trower, Gabbie Galvin, Seth Roland, Luke Whitten, Brian Reed, Eric Pemberton, Eli Reimer, Tiffany Burgess, and Elizabeth Schopp.

Pre-Show Music for both performances will be performed by Ethan Powell.

The production team includes Kyle Blanchard (Director), Delyla Uebel (Music Director), Jenn Schiavone-Whorton (Vocal Coach), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Operator), Myles Stevens (Sound Operator), Cyrsten Rainey-Felley (Music Operator), Juanita Wilson (Spotlight Operator), and M.J. Szumowski (Stage Crew).

The Branson Regional Arts Council would like to extend special thanks to the board and staff of Barnabas Prep who is assisting with the event, in addition to an extra special thank you to the families, friends, and support staff of each performer for everything they do to encourage these amazing individuals.

Thank you for supporting local arts and for encouraging these spectacular performers to excel!

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BRAC Collaborates With Forsyth High School To Present The Wizard Of Oz Musical

  • dateApril 19, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view5744 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council  is excited to have served a background role in the Forsyth High School production of The Wizard of Oz, now playing at the Forsyth High School Performing Arts Center this weekend.

There will be four public performances on Friday, April 19th (7pm), Saturday, April 20th (2pm & 7pm), and Sunday, April 21st (2pm). General admission tickets are $5 at the door.

BRAC’s Director of Education Kim Hale, and BRAC Director Jake Deck were both heavily involved in bringing this collaborative effort production to the stage of the Forysth High School PAC. Several of the student cast members are also involved with BRAC’s Staccato and Crescendo Youth Performance Troupe programs.

Leading Cast Members of The Wizard of Oz include:
  • Sophie Douglas: Dorothy 👠
  • Hallie Groff: Scarecrow 🐦‍⬛
  • Pace Gillman: Tinman 🪓
  • Emily Rivere: Lion 🦁
  • Abby Wheeler: Glinda 🫧
  • Steven Rice: Oz 💚

Come join the Branson Regional Arts Council as we applaud these hard working and talented student performers!

Follow the Yellow Brick Road down to the Forsyth High School PAC this weekend to see a magical show you will never forget!! Grab some friends to bring with you because you may see some lions or tigers or bears… oh my!!

 

Reminder: this production is at the Forsyth High School Performing Arts Center (178 Panther Road, Forsyth, MO  65653), and NOT at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

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Shakespeare’s The Comedy Of Errors To Play Historic Owen Theatre April 21st & 22nd

  • dateApril 4, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view6394 Views

Rated G | General Audiences & School Students

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

TWO PUBLIC PERFORMANCES

  • Sunday, April 21st at 2pm
  • Monday, April 22nd at 12:30pm

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

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

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

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

BAND MEMBERS

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

PRODUCTION TEAM

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

SET BUILD VOLUNTEERS

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

MUSIC CREDITS

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

There will be two public performances of this production on Sunday, April 21st at 2pm,and Monday, April 22nd at 12:30pm. Interested school groups who would like to bring their students  should contact BRAC at 417-336-4255.

POST PERFORMANCE UPDATE: Watch this entire production below!

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Legally Blonde The Musical JR On Stage April 12-14 In Downtown Branson

  • dateMarch 27, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view7196 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council’s Staccato Performance Troupe presents Legally Blonde The Musical JR for five exciting performances from Friday, April 12 to Sunday, April 14, 2024.

The production is Rated G | General audiences.

Showtimes are 7pm (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) and 2pm (Saturday, Sunday).

Tickets for this production are $20 (Adults 18+) and $12 (Youth 4-17), with lap children admitted free of charge. Advance reserved tickets are recommended and on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box-office of the Historic Owen Theatre at 417-336-4255.

Based on the award-winning Broadway musical and the smash hit motion picture, Legally Blonde The 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.

Director Jacob Estes leads the production in addition to being choreographer, adding one more credit to his long list of acting and directing achievements on behalf of the Branson Regional Arts Council. Jacob has also performed at Kings Castle Theatre, Silver Dollar City, The Welk Resort, Sight and Sound Theatre, and on tour nationally with Forever Young.

The Staccato Performance Troupe cast members include: Abby Wheeler (Elle Woods), Sam Baker (Emmett Forrest), Miliani Kloster (Brooke Wyndam / Delta Nu Dancer), Ember Straka (Paulette / Delta Nu Dancer), Dimitri Tsahiridis (Professor Callahan), Sophie Douglas (Vivienne Kensington / Store Manager), Cameron Donnell (Warner Huntington III), Promise Brunson (Courtney / Whitney / Chutney / Delta Ne Dancer / Law Student), Hallie Groff (Enid / Delta Nu Dancer / Law Student), Alivia Prince (Kate / Delta Nu Dancer / Law Student), Josslynn Silvy (Margot / Delta Nu Dancer / Law Student), Jack Brown (Pilar / Delta Nu Dancer / Aaron / Law Student), Kylee Chandler (Serena / Delta Nu Dancer / Law Student), Brenna Prince (Gaelen / Delta Nu Dancer / Law Student), Julien Willis (Kyle / Dewey / Law Student), Jason Prince (Winthrop / Sundeep / Grandmaster Chad / Law Student), Caleb Spurling (Lowell / Prison Guard / Law Student) and Evan Carr (Pforzhelmer / Pilot / Law Student).

Staccato Performance Troupe is an advanced show choir for area youth between the ages of 13-18 that combines a challenging music repertoire with entertaining choreography, on-stage acting, and stage performance. Through the training season, members work towards a common goal while studying advanced music theory, vocal and physical warm ups, musical theatre vocal techniques (belting, mixing, telling a story), stage etiquette, hip hop, jazz and musical theatre dance. Open auditions for new Staccato members are held each Fall, and under the direction of Jacob Estes, the students focus on elevating their “triple threat” skills and applying their formal training into a lively musical theatre presentation such as this production of Legally Blonde The Musical JR.

The production team also includes Karie Dykeman, Kristine Brown (Producers), Kim Hale, Joshua Boulden (Assistant Producers), Dimitri Tsahiridis (Stage Manager),   Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Cysten Rainey (Audio Technician), Kaleigh Degarmo (Audio Assistant), Bee Rice, Juanita Wilson (Spotlight),  Kyle Blanchard (Theatre & Special Events Manager), Josh Silvy (Theatre Inventory), and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director, Marketing and Design).

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Crescendo Youth Performance Troupe 2024 Spring Concert on Friday, April 5th

  • dateMarch 27, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view5396 Views

The public is invited to enjoy a free community event this week at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson. The Branson Regional Arts Council’s Crescendo Youth Troupe presents their Spring Concert on Friday, April 5th (7pm).

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

Since early February, the Crescendo students have been developing their performance skills under the direction of their talented and qualified instructors Jacob Deck and Julie Brinkman. The Spring Concert will feature musical presentations by these talented young performers and includes several popular songs from both stage and screen.

Performing on stage was a key aspect of both of our childhoods, continuing throughout high school and college into the present day. So much is learned on and off stage in the theater and neither of us would be who we are without the teachers and directors that invested into us as little performers. This love for performing has also created a love for teaching and instilling a love for the arts in the performers who come after us. We have so enjoyed getting to work with this amazing group of performers – their joy for life and love for others is contagious!
– Julie Brinkman & Jacob Deck – BRAC’s Crescendo Instructors

The 2024 cast of Crescendo include: Lee Brown, Lexi Carr, Emma Chandler, Xia McElwee, Maggie Marks, Katy Patton, Henley Rosecrans, and Gwen Tsahiridis.

Come enjoy these talented young performers as they sing and dance their way into your hearts! No reservations required, doors open 30 minutes before showtime, and the performance will last approximately 40 mins.

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BRAC Spring Conservatory Youth Acting Classes Now Open For Registration

  • dateMarch 21, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view7094 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to offer a series of beginning and advanced Acting Classes for area Youth as part of our Spring Theatre Conservatory program.

Registrations are now open, and class size is limited. Please call 417-336-4255 with any questions or for additional information.

Class Title: Acting with Mind and Body

Students will explore the link between the emotional and physical life of a character. Through games and activities they will gain a functional understanding of how the imagination plays its part in acting, and how it can then inform physical, observable action.

For students ages 8-12 years old.

Class Schedule: Mondays (April 22, 29, May 6, 13, 20, 27)
Time: 4:30-5:30pm

Registration Fee: $75.00 for all six classes (limit of 15 students per class)

Class Criteria: Students should have prior performance experience and/or have attended BRAC conservatory.

REGISTER FOR THESE CLASSES

Meet the Instructors: Ashlind and Ryan Hippe

Ashlind and Ryan met while studying theatre at Liberty University. Since graduating and getting married, they both have found work at Sight and Sound Theatres for several seasons: Ryan as an actor and Ashlind as the Children’s Coordinator.

They are passionate about teaching and directing the next generation of performers, and are excited to see their students shine!

Class Title: Musical Theatre Audition Prep and Song Analysis

Students will workshop two audition musical cuts in a masterclass-type setting, receiving audition feedback and vocal technique aid. Styles covered include Golden Age and Contemporary, reflecting the varying needs in Musical Theater auditions. Students will receive feedback on their headshots and resumes as well as other audition standards. My desire is that students will walk away with two fantastic cuts to set themselves up for success in auditions!

For students ages 13-18 years old.

Class Schedule: Mondays (April 22, 29, May 6, 13, 20, 27)
Time: 6:00-7:30pm 

Registration Fee: $100.00 for all six classes (limit of 10 students per class)

Class Criteria: Students should have prior performance experience, and/or have taken voice lessons. Juniors or Seniors in high school should sign up for this class unless they have never performed before/are beginners.

 

REGISTER FOR THESE CLASSES

Meet the Instructor: Lizzy Hinton

Lizzy holds a Master in Music in Vocal Performance for Musical Theatre and an Advanced Certificate in Vocal Pedagogy from NYU, and BFA from Belmont University in MT. Lizzy has taught at NYU and College of the Ozarks and maintains a private voice studio. As a Singing Voice Specialist, she works closely with voice clinics, such as the NYU Langone Voice Center in New York, as a part of the rehabilitation team of injured voices. In addition to teaching, she has enjoyed performing regionally across the nation for nearly a decade. Currently, she is performing at Sight and Sound Theatres in Queen Esther. Favorite roles include, Jo in Little Women (BRAC), Girl in Once, and Olive in Spelling Bee.

 

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New Artist Works To Be Unveiled On St. Patricks Day At Branson Convention Center

  • dateMarch 6, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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  • view6318 Views

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 6-8pm.  Everyone 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.

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