The Branson Regional Arts Council announce open auditions for The Tempest by William Shakespeare and under the Direction of Justin Ables.

  • When: Monday, August 9th 2021
  • Where: Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S. Commercial St., Branson, MO 65616
  • Time: 7-9 PM
  • What to Bring: 30 Second Monologue preferably Shakespeare. Actors may be asked to read for roles the same evening

If you cannot make the audition, please submit online and send your audition to Justin.Michael.Ables@gmail.com

Four  public performances will take place on September 26-27 and October 3-4, 2021 in Chad A. Fuqua Memorial Park in Hollister, Missouri.

Shakespeare’s comedy about a major act of betrayal, ill treatment, the development of magic arts and a plot of revenge.

Twelve years ago, Prospero was Duke of Milan. Being of a bookish disposition, he withdrew more and more into his studies, leaving the management of his state to his brother Antonio. Eventually, with the help of Alonso, King of Naples, and the King’s brother Sebastian – inveterate enemies of Prospero – Antonio usurped the dukedom for himself. Prospero and his baby daughter Miranda were put to sea in a rotten boat and eventually landed on a distant island once ruled by the witch Sycorax but now inhabited only by her son, Caliban, and Ariel, a spirit.

The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to announce the opening of the smash Broadway musical, Mamma Mia! Reserved tickets are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson at 417-336-4255.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

There will be eight performances at the Historic Owen Theatre from Thursday, August 5th through August 15th. Shows are each Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings at 7pm as well as 2pm Matinee performances on Sundays.

Under the direction of Jacob Deck, Mamma Mia! tells the hilarious story of a young woman’s search for her birth father. This sunny and funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago.

The story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship, creating an unforgettable show. The musical includes the hit songs “I Have A Dream,” “Honey, Honey,” “Money, Money, Money,” “Thank You For The Music,” “Chiquita,” “Dancing Queen,” “Lay All Your Love On Me,” “Super Trouper,” “The Name of the Game,” “Knowing Me, Knowing You,” “The Winner Takes It All,” “I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do,” and many, many more!

A large talented cast, non-stop laughs and explosive dance numbers combine to make Mamma Mia! a trip down the aisle that Branson audiences will never forget!

The cast of Mamma Mia! include: Jen Frost (Donna Sheridan), Aline O’Neill (Sophie Sheridan), Katy Kohler (Tanya Cresham-Leigh), Jennifer Kersey (Rosie Mulligan), Tom Baker (Sam Carmichael), Michael Franklin (Harry Bright), Sean Neil Myers (Bill Austin), Patrick Sturm (Sky), Joey Blackwood (Pepper), Ben Polk (Eddie), Jeremiah Reeve (Father Alexandrios), Haley Moore (Lisa), Molly Tennison (Ali), and Liz Sambol, Savannah Turner, Megan Rodgers, Somer Dean, Carter Hendrickson, Abby Reeve, Sophia Wilson, Loran Polson, Joseph Bartkowiak (Ensemble).

Production crew of Mamma Mia! include: Jacob Deck (Director/Set Designer), Karie Dykeman, Kim Hale, Lisa Murphy (Producers), Caitlin Secrest (Music Director), Michelle Baker (Music Assistant), Loran Polson (Stage Manager), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Mac Hill (Technical Director), and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director, Marketing and Design).

 

Peter Pan Jr at the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson

Peter Pan Jr at the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson

The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to announce that it is finally presenting it’s BRAC Summer Youth Theatre Institute production of Peter Pan Jr., after being postponed for more than a year due to the pandemic. Fifty-six dedicated cast members between the ages of 6 and 18 are participating in the 2021 Institute and have been rehearsing since June 28th with the BRAC educational staff of directors, choreographers and instructors. The large group of actors has been divided into two casts, and will present a total of six performances at the Historic Owen Theatre from Thursday, July 15th through Sunday the 18th. Reserved seats are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

Based on J.M. Barrie’s classic tale and featuring an unforgettable score by Morris “Moose” Charlap and Jule Styne with lyrics by Carolyn Leigh and Betty Comden and Adolph Green, Peter Pan is one of the most beloved and frequently performed family favorites of all time. This high-flying Tony Award-winning musical has been performed around the world and delighted audiences for 60 years and is now adapted for young performers in this Branson Regional Arts Council production at the Historic Owen Theatre.

The BRAC production of Peter Pan Jr is directed by Jacob Deck and Jacob Estes. The production team includes: Karie Dykeman, Kim Hale and Lisa Murphy (Producers), Jacob Deck (Choreographer), Delyla Uebel (Music Director), Phyllis Pasley (Assistant Music Director),  Somer Dean (Education Specialist), Kristine Brown, Pamela Meadows, Corbin Rich, Tiffany Rich, MJ Szumowski, and Molly Zettel (Education Assistants), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Director), Mac Hill (Technical Director) and BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber (Marketing and Design).

In the story, 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 56 young cast members of Peter Pan Jr. include: Abby Wheeler (Peter Pan ),  Sophie Douglas (Wendy),  Jack Brown (John – Cast 1), Indy Griffith (John – Cast 2), Zoey Viola (Michael – Cast 1), Lee Brown  (Michael – Cast 2), Molly McNeill (Liza – Cast 1), Georgia Griffith (Liza – Cast 2), Roxas Pace (Nana – Cast 1), Emma Chandler (Nana – Cast 2), Maddison Moore (Mrs. Darling), Pace Gillman (Mr. Darling), Renee Elkady (Captain Hook), Olivia Buttram (Smee – Cast 1), Emily Rivere (Smee – Cast 2), Ava Belin (Tiger Lily), Tayton Boyd (Crocodile – Cast 1), Korey Brown (Crocodile – Cast 2), Jael Frost (Nibs – Lost Boys – Cast 1), Mercy Griffith (Nibs – Lost Boys – Cast 2), Caleb Spurling (Slightly – Lost Boys – Cast 1), Duncan Brown (Slightly – Lost Boys – Cast 2), Millie Stauffer (Curley – Lost Boys – Cast 1), Sylvie Barbour (Curley – Lost Boys – Cast 2), Judson Coffman (Twin #1 – Lost Boys), James Coffman (Twin #2 – Lost Boys), Elizabeth Bohner (Tootles – Lost Boys – Cast 1), Piper Brown (Tootles – Lost Boys – Cast 2), Roman Serfaty (Ensemble – Lost Boys), Seth Bounds (Ensemble – Lost Boys – Cast 1), Henry Osban (Noodler – Pirates), Mcartney Young (Jukes – Pirates), Brennan Bilberry (Starkey – Pirates), Selah Osban (Cecco – Pirates), Truly Rich (Ensemble – Pirates), Lexi Keaton (Ensemble – Pirates), Spencer Coffman (Ensemble – Pirates), Owen Harsh (Ensemble – Pirates), Remy Ziegelbauer (Ensemble – Pirates – Cast 1), Myles Mitchell (Ensemble – Pirates – Cast 2), Lindan Seaman (Ensemble – Pirates – Cast 2), Kate Sutherland (Small Brave Girl – Cast 1), Charlee Mitchell (Small Brave Girl – Cast 2), Ashley Rodgers (Brave Girl #1 – Cast 1- Ensemble – Cast 2), Kylee Chandler (Brave Girl #1 – Cast 2- Ensemble – Cast 1), Bekah Williams (Brave Girl #2 – Cast 1 – Ensemble – Cast 2), Vivian Redington (Brave Girl #2 – Cast 2- Ensemble – Cast 1), Hallie Groff (Ensemble – Brave Girls/Boys), Gianna Daniels (Ensemble – Brave Girls/Boys – Cast 1), Lundyn Mitchell (Ensemble – Brave Girls/Boys – Cast 2), Lexi Spinning (Ensemble – Brave Girls/Boys – Cast 1), Addy Williams (Ensemble – Brave Girls/Boys – Cast 2), Jemma Braica (Ensemble – Brave Girls/Boys – Cast 1), Abigail Ray (Ensemble – Brave Girls/Boys – Cast 2), Shamarah Bounds (Ensemble – Brave Girls/Boys – Cast 1), Sofe Bounds (Ensemble – Brave Girls/Boys – Cast 1).

The Branson Regional Arts Council is holding open auditions for it’s first musical of the fall; Dolly Parton’s beloved classic 9 to 5 The Musical.

9 to 5 The Musical, with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and book by Patricia Resnick, is based on the seminal 1980 hit movie.

Set in the late 1970s. This hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era is outrageous, thought-provoking and even a little romantic. Pushed to the boiling point, three female coworkers concoct a plan to get even with the sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot they call their boss. In a hilarious turn of events, Violet, Judy and Doralee live out their wildest fantasy – giving their boss the boot! While Hart remains “otherwise engaged,” the women give their workplace a dream makeover, taking control of the company that had always kept them down. Hey, a girl can scheme, can’t she?

This high-energy show is sure to be a blast for those on the stage and in the audience! With its jubilant score and easily relatable characters, 9 to 5 is the perfect show to bring to our community.

AUDITION DATES

  • Friday, July 9th: 6:00-9:00pm
  • Saturday, July 10th: 2:00pm-5:00pm
  • Callbacks: Sunday, July 11th: 2:00-6:00pm

Location: Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S Commercial St., Branson, MO 65616

AUDITION REQUIREMENTS

  • Casting strong singers, actors, and dancers ages 16 and up!
  • An up to date headshot and resume.
  • A conflicts list from first cast meeting through performance dates.
  • A 1 minute cut of a musical theatre song. Preferably in the style of the show. Bring tracked accompaniment/karaoke. Accompanist will NOT be provided.
  • Clothes and shoes you can move and dance in. Tennis shoes, jazz shoes, character shoes, etc. for a group Dance Call.
  • Auditioners may be asked to cold read upon request.
  • If you are unable to attend scheduled auditions please contact Director, Kyle Bradley: kylebradley8913@gmail.com

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

  • Rehearsal schedule will be determined after casting.
  • First rehearsal and cast meeting/rehearsal; Sunday July 18th at 2:00pm.
  • Non-negotiable dates: Tech Week- Sept 5-8 and Performance Dates.
  • Performance dates are Sept 9-12 & 16-19, 2021 (8 performances)

CHARACTER BREAKDOWNS:

Violet Newstead
The company’s Head Secretary and Mr. Hart’s Administrative Assistant, she is a single mother and typically stands up for what she believes in. Attractive, strong, ambitious. Age: 40 to 50 Vocal range top: D5-F3

Doralee Rhodes
A young, sexy spitfire who works at Mr. Hart’s office. She is proof that there is more to a woman than just her looks. Age: 20 to 30 Vocal range top: E5-G3

Judy Bernly
The “new” girl at the firm, she has been burned by her husband’s affair and is searching for personal empowerment. Insecure, determined, and hopeful. Age: 30 to 35 Vocal range top: F5-Ab3

Franklin Hart, Jr.
One of the firm’s executives and a notorious chauvinist. He is capable of faking charm but usually shows his true colors as an arrogant, self-absorbed boss. Age: 45 to 50 Vocal range top: Gb4-C3

Roz Keith
The attentive office gossip queen and snitch. She has an unrequited love for Mr. Hart and will do anything she can to win his approval. Age: 35 to 45 Vocal range top: C5-G3

Joe
A handsome, young office accountant. Genuine and nice, and smitten with Violet. Age: 25 to 35 Vocal range top: G4-B2

Dwayne
Doralee’s attractive husband. He is very supportive of her professional pursuits. Age: 25 to 30 Vocal range top: G4-E2

Josh Newstead
Violet’s awkward teenage son. Age: 15 to 18 Missy Franklin Hart’s wife, clueless to her husband’s true nature. Age: 20 to 35

Maria
A young and vibrant secretary in Hart’s office. Age: 20 to 30 Vocal range top: D5-F4

Dick
Judy’s soon-to-be ex-husband. An average guy, he is sporting a little less hair and a little more paunch than he did ten years ago. Age: 35 to 45

Kathy
A secretary in Hart’s office with a tendency to gossip. Age: 30 to 40 Vocal range top: D5-G4

Margaret
A secretary in Hart’s office with a tendency to drink. Age: 30 to 40 Tinsworthy Franklin Hart’s boss and Chairman of the Board. A good man, who may be wiser to Hart’s ways than he lets on. Age: 50 to 65

ENSEMBLE
Office employees, police officers, hospital employees, etc. The ensemble plays a wide variety of roles. We are seeking a full range of male and female voices including excellent low-reaching Altos, experienced Mezzo and Sopranos, Basses, Baritones and Tenors.

Here is the official musical soundtrack to help get you in the groove for the audition!

[fac_icon icon=”youtube-play”] 9 to 5: The Musical (Original Broadway Cast Recording)

 

The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to announce that Jim Barber, is going public in a big way to further help promote arts and entertainment here in the Ozarks as host of his own radio show and internet webcast.

“The Barber Shop with Jim Barber” will broadcast locally on Branson radio station KCAX 98.1 FM or AM 1220 as well as stream-cast live video from the studio across the world wide web on Branson4U.com or audio via the free Tune In Radio App on your smartphone.

Beginning Monday, May 17, 2021, the show will air live, every Monday through Friday from 9am – 1pm Central Standard Time, and Jim will discuss current and upcoming arts and entertainment events, live shows and celebrity interviews, all geared for area residents and traveling visitors to the Live Music Show Capital of the World.

“My very first radio interview in Branson was in 1994 on the Steve & Janet in the Morning show, and I am so honored that Steve Willoughby, now the General Manager, has asked me to join the outstanding production team at Ozarks DynaCom which has 3 radio stations in Branson, Missouri (Legends 106.3 KRZK; My 100.1; Classic Hits 98.1 FM/AM1220) and 2 radio stations in Harrison, Arkansas (1029 The Z; The Original KHOZ 49.9FM/AM900).

I’m also thrilled to be sharing the all-new 98.1 FM Branson4U studio with my fellow Branson entertainers James Sibley (weekdays 6am-9am), and Jeff Brandt (weekdays 3pm-7pm).”
– Jim Barber

[fac_icon icon=”facebook-official”]  Click here to follow The Barber Shop – Branson4u on Facebook!

Jim has served the Branson community as the Executive Director of the Branson Regional Arts Council (BRAC) since April 2017, and he sees this new broadcasting platform as an incredible opportunity to bring even more awareness to the Arts Council’s efforts in developing visual and performing arts opportunities for everyone. He will continue in his role as Executive Director and thanks the BRAC Board of Directors and Box Office Manager/Executive Assistant Karie Dykeman for their support in taking on some of his duties in order to allow him the time necessary to take on this new venture.

BRAC creates educational opportunities for area residents in all aspects of the arts including acting, vocal studies, dance, music, visual arts, directing, lighting and audio design, as well as targeted youth arts education through their Conservatory of the Arts programming which began in 2018.  Each year, BRAC also presents a series of high-level musical theatre and stage plays at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson. (Visit BransonArts.org for more info.)

The Branson Regional Arts Council is extremely proud of the hard work by the dedicated students and faculty of the BRAC Conservatory of the Performing Arts which has provided youth education opportunities in music, theatre, vocal studies, acting, and the visual arts since 2018 at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

2020 was an especially difficult year due to the pandemic, and our 2020-2021 Staccato Show Choir students had to audition and perform in extremely challenging conditions that included online video sessions from home, outdoor practices, and socially distanced rehearsal sessions while wearing face masks much of the time.

We decided to present our 2021 Spring Concert as a virtual performance by recording group and solo segments (without an audience) on the stage of the Historic Owen Theatre, then presenting it online as a digital video for all to enjoy at their leisure.

Staccato Show Choir is an energetic advanced musical group that combines a challenging music repertoire with entertaining choreography. Under the direction of Jacob Estes, the choir focuses on elevating and applying its formal training into lively, breath taking “show” style performances. Students study advanced music theory, vocal warm up, stage etiquette, presence and showmanship, as well as multi-part choral music with vocal director Delyla Uebel.

“What a year it has been! I couldn’t be prouder of each and every one of my students for going on this journey with me. After all the challenges of the pandemic, I’m so grateful we were able to still keep the arts alive!” – Jacob Estes, Staccato Director

Branson-Springfield area youth ages 12-18 who are interested in participating in the 2021-2022 cast of Staccato Show Choir are encouraged to contact BRAC at edu@bransonarts.org or 417-336-4255.

And now… please enjoy the many talented students who are Staccato Show Choir!

SPRING SHOWCASE LINE-UP (69 minutes)

  • STACCATO (Baby One More Time)
  • JORDAN KENDRICK with accompanist DELYLA UEBEL (Think Of Me)
  • THOMAS FERGUSON (Corner Of The Sky)
  • ASHLEY RODGERS (All That Jazz – dance)
  • CARTER HENDRICKSON (Never Ever Getting Rid Of Me)
  • STACCATO (Feel It Still)
  • ABBY WHEELER (Hopelessly Devoted To You)
  • CARTER HENDRICKSON (The Moon And Me)
  • LIYA RIVERE & THOMAS FERGUSON (First Date/Last Night)
  • RENEE ELKADY (What Baking Can Do)
  • STACCATO (When The Party’s Over)
  • SEANNA BOUNDS (On My Own)
  • SOPHIE DOUGLAS & ABBY WHEELER (You Don’t Know Me)
  • LIYA REVERE & CARTER HENDRICKSON (More Than Words)
  • MEGAN ROGERS (Imagine – dance)
  • PACE GILLMAN (A Million Dreams)
  • STACCATO (Happy Days Are Here Again)
  • SOPHIE DOUGLAS (Wondering)
  • SEANNA BOUNDS (She Used To Be Mine)
  • LIYA RIVERE (My Man)
  • RENEE ELKADY (Once Upon A Time)
  • JORDAN KENDRICK (In My Dreams)
  • STACCATO w/ Delyla Uebel (Rainbow – live audience)

The Branson Regional Arts Council presents it’s 3rd production of the 2021 season with the Tennessee Williams classic drama, The Glass Menagerie. Four performances will take place at the Historic Owen Theatre on Thursday, June 3rd (7pm), Sunday, June 6th (2pm & 7pm), and Monday, June 7th (7pm).

No Rating – All Audiences

Advance socially distanced seats are available now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255.

The play, under the direction of Justin Ables, stars Josh Bouldon (Tom Wingfield), Nicole Horton (Amanda Wingfield), Charis Bouldon (Laura Wingfield), and Joey Faggion (Jim O’Connor).

Justin Ables – Play Director

The Glass Menagerie was Tennessee Williams’ first successful play. After an initial Chicago premier in 1944, the production moved to Broadway and won the New York Drama Critics’ Circle Award in 1945, catapulting Williams from obscurity to fame. He went on to become one of America’s most highly regarded playwrights.

The play has strong autobiographical elements, featuring characters based on its author, his histrionic mother, and his mentally fragile sister Laura. In writing the play, Williams drew on an earlier short story, as well as a screenplay he had written under the title of The Gentleman Caller.

Amanda Wingfield is a faded remnant of Southern gentility who now lives in a dingy St. Louis apartment with her son, Tom, and her daughter, Laura, who has a physical handicap and debilitating shyness. The father has left home; Tom supports his mother and sister with a shoe-factory job he finds unbearable. When Amanda convinces Tom to bring home from his workplace a “gentleman caller” for Laura, the illusions that Tom, Amanda, and Laura have each created in order to make life bearable collapse about them.

 

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

PERFORMANCE DATES

  • Thursday, June 3th: 7:00pm
  • Sunday, June 6th: 2:00pm
  • Sunday, June 6th: 7:00pm
  • Monday, June 7th: 7:00pm

Location: Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S Commercial St., Branson, MO 65616

The Branson Regional Arts Council is holding open auditions for it’s big summer musical Mamma Mia! directed by Jacob Deck.

ABBA’s hits tell the hilarious story of a young woman’s search for her birth father. This sunny and funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago. The story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship, creating an unforgettable show. A large cast, non-stop laughs and explosive dance numbers combine to make Mamma Mia! a guaranteed smash hit for Branson audiences. A mother. A daughter. Three possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget!

AUDITION DATES

Thursday, May 13th: 6:30pm-9:00pm
Saturday, May 15th: 10:00am-12:00pm & 6:30pm-9:00pm

Location: Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S Commercial St., Branson, MO 65616

AUDITION REQUIREMENTS

Casting strong singers, actors, and dancers ages 15 and up!

  • An up to date headshot and resume.
  • A cut of a song no longer than a minute. Preferably in the style of the show. Auditioners are welcome to sing from the show.
  • Clothes and shoes you can move and dance in. Tennis shoes, jazz shoes, character shoes, etc.
  • Auditioners may be asked to cold read upon request.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

  • Callback date, if needed, will be determined.
  • Rehearsal schedule will be determined after casting.
  • First rehearsal and cast meeting June 17th at 6:00pm.
  • Performance dates are Aug 5-8 & 12-15, 2021 (8 performances)

CHARACTER BREAKDOWNS:

DONNA SHERIDAN
Attractive and free-spirited. A former lead singer in a group called “Donna and the Dynamos” who now owns and runs a hotel/casino on a Greek island. A strong feminist who also has a zany and vulnerable side.
Gender: Female; Age: late 30s-early 40s
Vocal Range: Mezzo Soprano, Alto, Belter

SOPHIE SHERIDAN
A very special young woman who is determined to find the romance and happiness she feels eluded her mother. Has a wild, zany spirit even though she pursues a conventional marriage.
Gender: Female; Age: 18-25
Vocal Range: Pop Soprano; Mezzo Soprano

SKY
Sophie’s fiancé’. Athletic, attractive – has given up his life as a successful young businessman in order to make over Donna’s tavern and marry Sophie.
Gender: Male; Age: late 20’s
Vocal Range: Tenor, Baritone

TANYA CRESHAM-LEIGH
Rich, sophisticated, acerbic, funny, and witty. One of Donna’s best friends and former member of Donna and the Dynamos. She is recently divorced from her third husband and preparing for her fourth plastic surgery.
Gender: Female; Age: late 30s-early 40s
Vocal Range: Mezzo Soprano, Alto, Strong Belter

ROSIE MULLIGAN
Also a former singer in the “Dynamos” who now writes for and runs a feminist press. She’s confident, strong, and funny on the outside but shy underneath. Kooky and fun, good comic actress, bit of a clown.
Gender: Female; Age: late 30s-early 40s
Vocal Range: Alto

SAM CARMICHAEL
May be Sophie’s father. Left Donna 20 years ago because he was engaged to another woman. Charming, successful architect.
Gender: Male; Age: 35-45
Vocal Range: Baritone

HARRY BRIGHT
May be Sophie’s father. British financier, wealthy, buttoned-up, and conservative but trying to reconnect with his freer, youthful self. Formerly known as a Head Banger, he is now a banker. Plays the guitar. Must do a very convincing English accent.
Gender: Male; Age: 35-45
Vocal Range: High Baritone, Tenor

BILL AUSTIN
May be Sophie’s father. A travel writer with no possessions or strings. Good-natured, always ready for adventure. Funny, preferably a big or imposing man.
Gender: Male; Age: 35-45
Vocal Range: Baritone

LISA
Sophie’s friend who arrives to be a bridesmaid. Very energetic and kooky. Should be African-American, Hispanic-American, Asian-American, Native American or any non-Caucasian young woman. Must be able to dance well.
Gender: Female; Age: 18-25
Vocal Range: Mezzo-Soprano

ALI
Sophie’s friend. Impulsive and fun. Should contrast to Lisa and Sophie.
Gender: Female; Age: 18-25
Vocal Range: Mezzo-Soprano

PEPPER
Sky’s friend. Helps run the hotel. Charming, loves women, always flirting. Must be a good dancer. Acrobatic skills a plus.
Gender: Male; Age: 20s
Vocal Range: Tenor, Baritone

EDDIE
Another friend of Sky and hotel worker. Laid-back, easygoing. Must be a good dancer.
Gender: Male; Age: 20s
Vocal Range: Tenor, Baritone

FATHER ALEXANDRIOS
Gender: Male; Age: 50ish
Vocal Range: Tenor, Baritone, Bass

ENSEMBLE
Actors must be exceptionally strong actors/singers who move extraordinarily well and are confident and adept at creating fully realized, strong, textured characters. The ensemble plays a wide variety of roles. We are seeking full range of male and female voices including excellent low-reaching Altos, experienced Mezzo and Sopranos, Basses, Baritones and Tenors.

Laughter returns to the Historic Owen Theatre next week with the Branson Regional Arts Council production of The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged).

Abby Reeve (as Jess), Amber Gathright (as Adam) and Somer Dean (as Daniel) star in this hilarious comedy play that presents all 37 plays in only 97 minutes! Under the direction of Sean Neil Myers, the three madcap players weave their wicked way through all of Shakespeare’s comedies, histories, and tragedies in one wild ride that will leave the audience breathless and helpless with laughter.

There will be six performances on Thursday, April 29 (7pm), Friday, April 30 (7pm), Saturday, May 1 (2pm & 7pm) and Sunday, May 2 (2pm & 7pm).

Socially distanced reserved seats are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix, and live-stream tickets will also be available at BransonArts.org/stream for those who wish to watch the performances from home. Please contact the box office at 417-336-4255 with any questions or ticketing needs.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS  GET STREAMING TICKET NOW

This show is best suited for most audiences ages 13 and up as there are some instances of bawdy and/or suggestive language or action.

An irreverent, fast-paced romp through the Bard’s plays, The Complete Works Of William Shakespeare (abridged) was London’s longest-running comedy.

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the classic farce, two of its original writer/performers (Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield) thoroughly revised the show to bring it up to date for 21st-century audiences, incorporating some of the funniest material from the numerous amateur and professional productions that have been performed throughout the world. The cultural touchstone that is The Complete Works Of William Shakespeare (abridged) was born when three inspired, charismatic comics, having honed their pass-the-hat act at Renaissance fairs, premiered their preposterous masterwork at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 1987. It quickly became a worldwide phenomenon, earning the title of London’s longest-running comedy after a decade at the Criterion Theatre.

Fast paced, witty, and physical, this BRAC production is full of laughter for Shakespeare lovers and haters alike.

 

The Branson Regional Arts Council invites everyone, everywhere to enjoy a free online Cabaret Show featuring a wide variety of top talent.

As our community and nation begin to emerge from the devastating effects of the pandemic, the BRAC is excited to announce a special BRAC Cabaret Show designed to provide a breath of musical fresh air and positive enthusiasm to our area residents. The theme of the show is “A Celebration of Hope & New Beginnings” as conceived by Cabaret Director Jacob Deck

Miss Branson’s Outstanding Teen 2021 Megan Rodgers

The concert will be held live at the Historic Owen Theatre on Sunday, April 11th at 7pm. Families of the performers will be welcome to attend in person, but most of the audience will be watching the live simulcast video stream.

“Donations are welcome, but we are offering folks an opportunity to enjoy this exciting show at no charge, live from the comfort and safety of their own home via live-stream video technology,” said BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber. “Any proceeds we do receive for this event will go directly towards our BRAC Youth Conservatory of the Arts fund providing educational opportunities for area youth in theatre, music, dance, and the visual arts,” he added.

GET STREAMING TICKET NOW

Cast of the Cabaret Show…

The BRAC Cabaret show will be hosted by Megan Rodgers, the recently crowned, Miss Branson’s Outstanding Teen 2021! Megan’s platform is to support and create awareness for the community arts, and she will also be performing during the event.

Other performers include: Ellie Faggion (Musical Theatre Vocalist), Molly Tennison (Aerial Hoop Acrobatics), Kristen Walker (Operatic Soprano), Madilyn Irvin (Concert Clarinetist), Cat McWhirter (Musical Theatre Vocalist), Delyla Uebel (Concert Pianist), Ava Belin (Lyrical Solo Dance) and a special performance by Staccato Show Choir under the direction of Jacob Estes.

 

The Branson Regional Arts Council announces open casting auditions for The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams on Sunday, April 18th beginning at 4:00pm at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

[fac_icon icon=”star”] Auditioners are asked to please bring a 1 minute prepared monologue. Sides will be provided the same day as the audition. Final rehearsal Schedule will be determined by the director based on the selected cast availability.

Four public performances are scheduled for Thursday, June 3rd (7pm), Sunday, June 6th (2pm & 7pm) and Monday, June 7th (7pm). Reserved seat tickets are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Historic Owen Theatre Box Office at 417-336-4255.

[fac_icon icon=”info-circle”] COVID-19 Precaution: Please wear a facial mask when entering the theatre according the the City of Branson mandate.  Once seated in the theatre, and while auditioning, masks may be removed. Please do not attend if you have a fever or are feeling ill.

The BRAC play production is under the direction of Justin Ables. There is no official rating and is recommended for all audiences.

The Glass Menagerie is a memory play, and its action is drawn from the memories of the narrator, Tom Wingfield. Tom is a character in the play, which is set in St. Louis in 1937. He is an aspiring poet who toils in a shoe warehouse to support his mother, Amanda, and sister, Laura. Mr. Wingfield, Tom and Laura’s father, ran off years ago and, except for one postcard, has not been heard from since.

The cast of characters include:

Amanda Wingfield

Laura and Tom’s mother. A proud, vivacious woman, Amanda clings fervently to memories of a vanished, genteel past. She is simultaneously admirable, charming, pitiable, and laughable.

Laura Wingfield

Amanda’s daughter and Tom’s older sister. Laura has a bad leg, on which she has to wear a brace, and walks with a limp. Twenty-three years old and painfully shy, she has largely withdrawn from the outside world and devotes herself to old records and her collection of glass figurines.

Tom Wingfield

Amanda’s son and Laura’s younger brother. An aspiring poet, Tom works at a shoe warehouse to support the family. He is frustrated by the numbing routine of his job and escapes from it through movies, literature, and alcohol.

Jim O’Connor

An old acquaintance of Tom and Laura. Jim was a popular athlete in high school and is now a shipping clerk at the shoe warehouse in which Tom works. He is unwaveringly devoted to goals of professional achievement and ideals of personal success.

The Branson Regional Arts Council Board of Directors, wish to thank the many generous donors who contributed to the Give Ozarks: Rally For Recovery effort to help Restore The Historic Owen Theatre.

Approximately 150 non-profit organizations participated in the 12 hour online fundraising event sponsored by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks and Bass Pro Shops. Over 9,000 donations totalling $718,728 were received by all organizations combined.

$3,074 Raised For Restore The Historic Owen Theatre

The Branson Regional Arts Council is grateful to the many donors who contributed $3,374 to the Historic Owen Capital Campaign, which will eventually allow the Arts Council to pay-off the building and make needed repairs and renovations in order to preserve the legacy of Jim Owen and the Historic Owen Theatre.

Special thanks to the following donors who generously supported this Branson Regional Arts Council fundraising event (names from the Give Ozarks campaign site):

Community Bank of the Ozarks, Sue & Rich Spoley, Mark H Peper, Rick Uebel, Robin Jackson, Karen W Roof, RL Bartley, Josh Silvy, Dorr St.Clair, Jim Robertson, Jeanine (no last name), Gussie Mustain, Nathan and Darla Howe, Judy Rockenback, Jim Barber, Michelle Rodgers, Tammy Matney, David Dykeman, Cheryl R Campbell, Mary Adcock, Patti Berg, Madeline J Allin , Mac Hill, Cece Garceau, Howard Cavner, Marshall Howden, Ruth E Urich, Kimberly Hale , Meredith Mizell, Raeanne Presley, Dana Freeman, Roger & Susan Horsman, James Myers, Rod A Phillips, Bobby McTaggart, Melissa Rivera, August Gideon, Kristine Brown, MJ Szumowski, Ronnie L Mathes, Kelly Pratt, Loran Polson, Jim Harshberger , Jeannie Moeskau, Myron J Page, Jessica Luthardt, Katy Kohler, and Sally Richardson.

The Historic Owen Theatre was constructed in 1936 as Branson’s very first theatre, and is credited as the official place that started the live entertainment tradition that Branson is now famous for.  Lovingly referred to as “Your Community Theatre,” the Historic Owen is home to the Branson Regional Arts Council and their Conservatory of the Arts Education programs for youth as well as professional level community theatre and musicals for the community.

Anyone wishing to contribute additional tax-deductible donations for the Historic Owen Theatre or Branson Regional Arts Council will find more information by visiting the BRAC Donations and Membership page on this website.