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The Reviews Are In… The Marvelous Wonderettes Are A Hit

With only three performances left, The Marvelous Wonderettes has proven to be a smash hit with audiences at the Historic Owen Theatre and also with those watching via live-stream at home.

Here are some of the many great comments we’ve received since this show opened:

“Loved the performance. Really enjoyed it. Great singing from all the girls. Will definitely be back to see more.” – Robin F

“Watched the Live Stream Last Night! Excellent Show and Very Talented Cast! Bravo!! Standing Ovation from Rockford IL! Excellent Performance.  They Sang their Hearts Out.” – Matt H

“We saw it and THOROUGHLY enjoyed it.  Those ladies could take that show on the road.  The humor was slapstick as intended, but the vocals were SERIOUS; seriously impressive!”  – Larry D

“Fun!!   Put this on your to do list.” – Mike P

“Awesome! We saw the Marvelous Wonderettes last week. So many great songs.” – Debbie D

“Super impressive!!  The livestream is fantastic!  The vocals, choreo, acting, lighting is superb!  Thoroughly enjoying the show!” – Kim H

“It is fabulous!!! The live streaming is a wonderful option for those off us who are homebound! You should all be so proud of what you’ve accomplished with this production!”  – Lisa M

“Holy Cow they are GREAT?? ” – Jeannie D

“Wonderful show.  Had a great time!” – Kathy B

“Saw this Friday night… Great Performance!” – Mike B

It’s not too late to see this outstanding comedy musical before the curtain closes.  In house, socially distanced seats can be reserved at BransonArts.org/tix and live-stream watch at home tickets can be purchased at BransonArts.org/stream.

GET TICKETS FOR WONDERETTES  GET STREAMING TICKET NOW

The Marvelous Wonderettes is a jukebox musical comedy by Roger Bean. This exciting musical has played off-Broadway at the Westside Theatre in New York, and is now playing at the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson from January 28 through February 14, 2021. The show, which features pop songs from the 1950s and 1960s as a vehicle to tell its story, pays homage to the high school Songleader squads of the 50s. When called upon to perform at their senior prom as a last minute replacement, Springfield High Songleaders Betty Jean, Cindy Lou, Missy and Suzy, rally together to entertain their classmates in four-part harmony.

The musical includes the songs “Lollipop”, “Dream Lover”, “Stupid Cupid”, “Lipstick on Your Collar”, “Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me”, “It’s My Party”, and “It’s In His Kiss (The Shoop Shoop Song)” and over 25 more beloved tunes that audiences will love!

The season kick-off production at the Historic Owen Theatre is directed by Jacob Estes, and stars Tami Cooper (as Suzy Simpson), Mesa Mitchell (as Cindy Lou Huffington), Caitlin Secrest (as Betty Jean Reynolds), and Macy Watts (as Missy Miller). Swing actresses for the production are Liz Sambol and Seanna Bounds.

Production crew includes: Karie Dykeman, Kim Hale, Lisa Murphy (Producers), Justin Ables (Artistic Director), Delyla Uebel (Musical Advisor), Sean Neil Myers (Stage Manager), Caitlin Secrest (Vocal Captain), Lorie Best (Assistant Producer), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Mac Hill (Technical and Sound Director), Jacob Estes (Choreography, Costume and Wigs), Corey Mitchell (Set Design), and Jim Barber (Marketing, BRAC Executive Director).

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Did You Know You Can Be A Missouri Arts Advocate?

Did you know that YOU can be an Arts Advocate and make a difference in how the Arts impact business in Missouri?

The Branson Regional Arts Council is an active member of Missouri Citizens For The Arts (MCA), and we are inviting all of our great patrons, volunteers, and arts supporters to participate in Missouri Arts Advocacy Week is February 1-5, 2021.

The purpose of the event is to engage in important conversation with our State and local elected officials with one simple message… “SUPPORT THE ARTS IN MISSOURI”.

A vibrant creative economy is vital and benefits all Missourians – it is a key component to revitalizing the state’s economy.

Join us as we take our message directly to legislators via virtual meetings, coordinated conference calls, and organized print and social media campaigns. We’re getting creative and will use 2021 to establish and renew relationships with elected officials! Click here to sign up for email updates on the State of the Arts in Missouri!

Please share this message via social media using the graphics in this article and the hashtags #MOArtsAdvocacyWeek and #MO4Arts.

Missouri Arts Council Funding & Cultural Partners

In fiscal year 2020, Missouri’s Department of Revenue collected more than $30 million in new funds from the income tax on professional non-resident athletes and entertainers who work in Missouri. By statute, 60% of that is to be allocated to the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency. The Non-resident Athletes & Entertainers Tax (A&E Tax) is a personal income tax on professional athletes and entertainers when they play or perform in Missouri. It is collected by the state and, by statute (Section 143.183 RSMo), a designated amount is to be distributed among five Cultural Partners: Missouri Arts Council Trust Fund (60%); Missouri State Library Networking Fund (10%); Missouri Humanities Council Trust Fund (10%); Missouri Public Broadcasting Corporation Special Fund (10%); and the Missouri Historic Preservation Revolving Fund (10%).

Missouri Fine Arts Academy

Missouri Citizens for the Arts requests that the Governor and Legislature support funding for the June 2022 Missouri Fine Arts Academy (MFAA) at $500,000. MFAA is a three-week residential program at Missouri State University for 150 rising high school juniors and seniors who are gifted in the arts. Arts Education in Missouri Schools Missouri Citizens for the Arts encourages the Missouri State Board of Education to support comprehensive fine arts instruction (dance, drama/theatre, music, and visual art) in elementary, middle and high schools.

Capital Improvement Projects

Missouri Citizens for the Arts supports state funding for capital improvement projects for visual and performing arts spaces in Missouri.

Arts Advocacy Week Schedule

January 25, 12:30pm: MCA Arts Advocacy Training! MCA will train arts advocates using video and other virtual tools. Your region may also be hosting an advocacy training! Find out more about these events on the Missouri Citizens for the Arts Facebook page!

Week of January 25: Use MCA’s Adopt-a-Legislator signup to select the Representative(s) and Senator(s) you’re able to contact; watch your email and MCA’s social media for the link to the online sign-up!

February 1-5: Schedule Virtual meetings and conference calls with your legislators.

Week of February 8: MCA will provide follow-up materials that will help you to stay in touch with your legislators about the importance of statewide support of the arts.

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2021 Historic Owen Theatre Season Kicks Off With The Marvelous Wonderettes

The Marvelous Wonderettes at the Historic Owen Theatre

The Marvelous Wonderettes at the Historic Owen Theatre

The Branson Regional Arts Council has selected a marvelous production to kick off their 2021 Season of musicals and plays at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

The Marvelous Wonderettes is a jukebox musical comedy by Roger Bean. This exciting musical has played off-Broadway at the Westside Theatre in New York, and is now playing at the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson from January 28 through February 14, 2021. The show, which features pop songs from the 1950s and 1960s as a vehicle to tell its story, pays homage to the high school Songleader squads of the 50s. When called upon to perform at their senior prom as a last minute replacement, Springfield High Songleaders Betty Jean, Cindy Lou, Missy and Suzy, rally together to entertain their classmates in four-part harmony.

[fac_icon icon=”video-camera”] The following performances will also be available to view via livestream from your home computer or smart device: Feb 6th (7pm), 7th (2pm), 11th (7pm), 12th (7pm), 13th (7pm), and 14th (2pm). Visit BransonArts.org/stream for streaming ticket information.

GET TICKETS FOR WONDERETTES  GET STREAMING TICKET NOW

The musical includes the songs “Lollipop”, “Dream Lover”, “Stupid Cupid”, “Lipstick on Your Collar”, “Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me”, “It’s My Party”, and “It’s In His Kiss (The Shoop Shoop Song)” and over 25 more beloved tunes that audiences will love!

The season kick-off production at the Historic Owen Theatre is directed by Jacob Estes, and stars Tami Cooper (as Suzy Simpson), Mesa Mitchell (as Cindy Lou Huffington), Caitlin Secrest (as Betty Jean Reynolds), and Macy Watts (as Missy Miller). Swing actresses for the production are Liz Sambol and Seanna Bounds.

Production crew includes: Karie Dykeman, Kim Hale, Lisa Murphy (Producers), Justin Ables (Artistic Director), Delyla Uebel (Musical Advisor), Sean Neil Myers (Stage Manager), Caitlin Secrest (Vocal Captain), Lorie Best (Assistant Producer), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Mac Hill (Technical and Sound Director), Jacob Estes (Choreography, Costume and Wigs), Corey Mitchell (Set Design), and Jim Barber (Marketing, BRAC Executive Director).

Per the City of Branson mandate, all patrons and staff must wear masks while inside the theatre, however patrons may remove their mask once seated. All theatre seats are socially distanced, so space is limited.  Advance tickets are highly recommended by calling the box office at 417-336-4255 or online at BransonArts.org/tix.

GET TICKETS FOR WONDERETTES  GET STREAMING TICKET NOW

After several date changes and adjustments due to the 2020 pandemic, the Arts Council is excited to announce their newly updated 2021 season schedule. [download 2021 schedule pdf]

  • The Marvelous Wonderettes (musical) Jan 28-Feb 14, 2021
  • BRAC Cabaret Show (musical) Mar 7, 2021
  • BRAC Cabaret Show (musical) Apr 11, 2021
  • The Complete Works of Williams Shakespeare – Abridged (comedy play) Apr 30 – May 3, 2021
  • The Glass Menagerie (dramatic play) June 3, 6 & 7, 2021
  • Peter Pan Jr. (Youth Troupe Musical – Chad A Fuqua Memorial Park, Hollister) July 15-18, 2021
  • Mamma Mia! (musical) Aug 5-15, 2021
  • 9 to 5 The Musical (musical) Sep 9-19, 2021
  • The Tempest – Shakespeare In The Park (Chad A Fuqua Memorial Park) Sep 26-27 & Oct 3-4, 2021
  • The Hunchback of Notre Dame (musical) Oct 14-24, 2021
  • The Sound of Music (musical) Dec 2-12, 2021

 

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Video Audition Submissions Now Open For Staccato Show Choir

Audition Submissions for the Branson Arts Council’s 2021 Staccato Youth Show Choir are now underway. 

The Branson Regional Arts Council’s Youth Conservatory Program is seeking male and female performers to fill out our current cast of Staccato Show Choir members.

Interested students between the ages of 12-18 are invited to submit a digital video clip singing a song with music playing in the background. 1-3 minutes in length would be fine. Please introduce your self on the video, and say the name of the song you will be singing. 

Send an email that includes your contact information and audition video link (example: youtube, or google drive files) to edu@bransonarts.org. Videos sent as file attachments should be emailed to bransonarts@gmail.com.

Tuition and schedule information will be provided if student is accepted for the program. Scholarships may be available to residents of Branson, but any students in the region are invited to audition.

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. In 2020, students met both outdoors and inside the Historic Owen Theatre to study advanced music theory, vocal warm up, stage etiquette, presence and showmanship, as well as multi-part choral music with vocal director Delyla Uebel.

 

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Enjoy Our Musical Christmas Gift To You

Merry Christmas from everyone at the Branson Regional Arts Council. We hope you enjoy this virtual online version of our 3rd Annual Holiday Showcase Concert starring Staccato Show Choir as recorded in the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson, Missouri. Hosted by Jim Barber, BRAC Executive Director. Running time: 45 minutes.

CLICK VIDEO BELOW TO PLAY THE CONCERT

CLICK VIDEO ABOVE TO PLAY THE CONCERT

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. This year, students met both outdoors and inside the Historic Owen Theatre to study advanced music theory, vocal warm up, stage etiquette, presence and showmanship, as well as multi-part choral music with vocal director Delyla Uebel.

 

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3rd Annual Holiday Showcase Concert Features Staccato Show Choir

Support the BRAC Youth Education Fund by attending and donating to our 3rd Annual Holiday Showcase!

Enjoy this special, one-of-a-kind Christmas Concert to raise funds for the Branson Regional Arts Council’s Youth Education Fund.

UPDATE: This concert will be recorded live and available for online viewing to all registered donors!

For the safety of our patrons, students and staff, we have decided not to have an audience inside the theatre for this event. All registered guests will be sent a link for online viewing at any time during the Christmas season.

The concert will be recorded live on Thursday, December 17th at 7pm at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson, then made available for online viewing to all registered donors a couple of days later. All virtual seats are a minimum donation of $10 with proceeds benefiting the BRAC Youth Education Fund, which provides performing opportunities for area youth between the ages of 8 and 18.

GET YOUR HOLIDAY SHOWCASE SEAT

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. This year, students met both outdoors and inside the Historic Owen Theatre to study advanced music theory, vocal warm up, stage etiquette, presence and showmanship, as well as multi-part choral music with vocal director Delyla Uebel.

Please reserve your seat(s) in advance online at BransonArts.org/showcase.

Enjoy this sample Staccato performance video to get you in the mood for our 3rd Annual Holiday Showcase!

The Branson Regional Arts Council is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization and provides a wide variety of artistic events and theatrical programs for all residents in the Ozarks. Financial support for many of these programs is provided by the Missouri Arts Council, the City of Branson, and through the generous contributions of private donors and Arts Council members.
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Early Bird Registration For Youth Summer Institute Announced

Branson area youth ages 6-18 have an exciting opportunity to participate in the Branson Regional Arts Council’s Youth Summer Institute production of Peter Pan Jr.

Tuition for the three week summer musical theatre camp is normally $135 per student. Register at BransonArts.org/institute.

REGISTER FOR THE SUMMER INSTITUTE

Early Bird Registration Bonus…
[fac_icon icon=”star”] BRAC is offering an early-bird discounted rate of $120 for those who register by December 28, 2020.

[fac_icon icon=”star”] Register before Dec 12th and receive access to (2) 1-hour online Peter Pan Workshops (Dec 12th & 19th – 11am-12pm) where participants will have fun getting to know their castmates and BRAC education staff through fun games, songs and more! Links to these chaperoned zoom video parties will be provided upon completion of registration.

Tuition Scholarships Available For Branson Residents…
[fac_icon icon=”star”] Through special arrangement with the City of Branson, BRAC is offering FULL TUITION SCHOLARSHIPS for youth who reside within the 65616 Branson zip code. You must contact the BRAC Education Department at 417-336-4255 or edu@bransonarts.org to participate in the scholarship program.

Register your child (ages 6-18) to experience the Branson Regional Arts Council’s outdoor summer theatre camp at Chad A Fuqua Memorial Park in Hollister, Missouri. The theme for this session is Peter Pan Jr. with classes on Monday thru Friday, 8:00am -12:00pm from June 28 thru July 14). There will also be a mandatory parent/student meeting on Friday, June 25th from 6:00pm – 7:00pm (at the Historic Owen Theatre).

[fac_icon icon=”star”] No auditions or previous experience required to register!

[fac_icon icon=”star”] This would be a great Christmas Gift for your child or grandchild!

The students will learn acting, dancing, singing, and stage movement culminating in a magnificent stage production of Peter Pan Jr. with six public performances on the outdoor pavilion stage at Chad A Fuqua Memorial Park in Hollister, Missouri on July 15-18, 2021.

The BRAC Summer Institute Staff includes: Kim Hale (Director of Education), Lisa Murphy (Education Advisor), Jacob Estes (Director), Jake Deck (Director), Karie Dykeman (Educational Administrator), Delyla Uebel (Music Director), Jonathan Crum (Costumer), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Designer), Mac Hill (Technical Director), Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director), and many more to be announced later.

“All you need is Faith, Trust, and a little Pixie Dust.”
– Peter Pan

IMPORTANT NOTE: After you pay your tuition, please download the Parent/Student Packet from the link in your receipt which you should receive in an email immediately after the transaction.

PREFER TO PAY BY CHECK OR CASH? Please contact us at 417-336-4255 or edu@bransonarts.org for further instructions.

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12 Ways To Support The Arts Without Spending A Dime

12 ways to support the Arts without spending a dime

The Branson Regional Arts Council is thankful for our donors, theatre patrons, students, educators, and volunteers! Without your participation and assistance we wouldn’t be able to provide the quality of community arts education and theatrical events that we have hosted each year.  2020 has been an especially difficult year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, yet we have managed to keep our organization running on a shoestring budget, while continuing to provide online arts education classes and a few live theatrical productions.

We look forward to a better year in 2021, but in the meantime, we must extend our hand and ask for your extra support in order to get through this unusual time. Of course, the best way to assist us financially is to become an active member of the Branson Regional Arts Council (as little as $20/year), Buy-A-Seat in the Historic Owen Theatre ($500 donation), or to make a tax deductible donation of any amount for your year-end giving.

However, we completely understand that most of you are also feeling the financial effects of the pandemic, so we wanted to share twelve ways you can truly make a difference in supporting the efforts of the Branson Regional Arts Council without having to contribute a single dime!

We hope that you will find it in your heart to do one or more of these simple, but powerful tasks that will help us spread the news of what we are providing to all residents of our area communities!

01 – [fac_icon icon=”facebook-official”] CREATE A FACEBOOK FUNDRAISER FOR BRAC

You can easily start your own facebook fundraiser to support BRAC at: facebook.com/fund/BransonArts/

02 – [fac_icon icon=”envelope”] SUBSCRIBE TO OUR ARTS NEWS E-MAIL LIST

No Spam! Just Fresh Arts News occasionally delivered to your mailbox! Sign up at: http://eepurl.com/dfSq_H

03 – [fac_icon icon=”heart”] SIGN UP TO BE A HELPING VOLUNTEER AT BRAC

Interested in helping us in a variety of ways as a BRAC Volunteer? Sign up at: http://eepurl.com/ddTptP

04 – [fac_icon icon=”facebook-official”] LIKE AND FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK

Please visit both of our official facebook pages… Branson Regional Arts Council and Historic Owen Theatre

05 – [fac_icon icon=”instagram”] LIKE AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

Please visit our official Instagram page… Branson Regional Arts Council 

06 – [fac_icon icon=”twitter”] FOLLOW US AND SHARE ON TWITTER

Please visit our official Twitter pages… @BransonArts and @OwenTheatreArts 

07 – [fac_icon icon=”youtube”] SUBSCRIBE TO OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL

Please subscribe to our official YouTube Video Channel… Branson Regional Arts Council YouTube Channel

08 – [fac_icon icon=”file-image-o”] BECOME A PROMOTIONAL POSTER PARTNER

Would you hang our theatre show posters in your business window or lobby? Let us know…BRAC Poster Partnership

09 – [fac_icon icon=”share-alt”] SHARE OUR POSTS ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Please share our website articles and social media posts to your own social network of friends!

10 – [fac_icon icon=”truck”] HELP US MOVE SCENE PROPS IN YOUR TRUCK

Do you own a truck or trailer? We always need assistance in moving theatrical scenery to and from our warehouse!

11 – [fac_icon icon=”tripadvisor”] SUBMIT A REVIEW OF OUR PRODUCTIONS

Tell the world what you thought of our musicals or plays on TripAdvisor or Google!

12 – [fac_icon icon=”commenting”] TELL YOUR FRIENDS ABOUT WHAT WE ARE DOING

Word of mouth is the best promotion we could ask for! Let your friends and family know of the outstanding theatre arts education programs available both online and in-person at the Historic Owen Theatre. We offer Arts Education Classes for both youth and adults in acting, voice lessons, dance, piano, watercolor painting, charcoal drawing, and much more.  We offer a Conservatory of the Arts Program with several new workshops in Musical Theatre Auditions and more! Our Staccato Show Choir is a fantastic way for young performers to learn from excellent instructors as well as have the opportunity to perform at a number of area events to appreciative audiences throughout the year. Our Summer Youth Institute provides an unforgettable three week opportunity for young actors to build their self esteem and performing abilities, culminating with standing ovations as they perform an amazing broadway style junior musical for sold out audiences. Our professional level Community Theatre Series of Musicals and Plays is keeping the tradition of Tri-Lakes Community Theatre alive and well for generations to come at the Historic Owen Theatre. Once you’ve attended one of our productions, you’ll want to purchase a full season pass! Finally, don’t forget to let your friends know about the many talented local area artists that we feature at the Branson Convention Center Art Exhibition, the Artist Wall at Chateau on the Lake Hotel, and the Rock Room Art Gallery inside the Historic Owen Theatre in Downtown Branson.

THAT’S IT FRIENDS! NOW… LET’S TELL THE WORLD!

If you could do any or all of the above twelve suggestions, you will be doing a great service by helping us continue and promote our mission of providing arts opportunities to everyone in our community. Thank you and many Blessings to you and yours this holiday season from everyone at the Branson Regional Arts Council.

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Online Musical Theatre Audition Master Classes Now Accepting Students

The Branson Regional Arts Council is offering a new online Musical Theatre Audition Master Class!

The first session of classes begin December 7th and are designed for adult students age 18 and up.

The second session of classes begin January 9th and are designed for youth students between the ages of 12 – 18.

REGISTER FOR THE ADULT CLASS NOW  REGISTER FOR THE YOUTH CLASS NOW

Need help preparing for your next audition? Do you need new music cuts? New monoloque material? Do you want feedback on your current audition package? Are you curious how to prepare music, resumes, and outfits? If your answer is yes, then join BRAC instructors Justin Ables and Traven Harrington for our brand new Musical Theatre Audition Master Class!

In this new masterclass series, we will be delving into audition technique for auditioning in musical theatre. Each participant will be given coaching time to develop new song and monologue cuts to help prepare them for any auditions coming up in 2021. Instructors will be on hand to coach in both areas of acting and singing as well as give recommendations for monologue and songs for students.

We hope you will join us in the new series where we strive to prepare our students to nail their next audition!

This class will be held in (2) 2-hour sessions, for ages 18 and older.
Dates and Times: (2) Mondays: December 7 & 14, 2020
Times: 6:30PM – 8:30PM Central Standard Time (2 hours)
Location: Online via Zoom Video (links provided at registration)

Registration Info:
Cost per student (includes both weeks): $50.00
Students may register via credit card, or personal check (made payable to BRAC).
Class sizes are limited to 18-20 students per class.

REGISTER FOR THE ADULT CLASS NOW

Meet Instructor Justin Ables

Justin is excited to be working with Traven to teach this new Musical Theatre Audition Master Class. A native to Baltimore, Maryland, Justin holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Coastal Carolina University in Conway, SC and has been performing professionally for 10 years. Over the last six years, Justin has been working as a performer for Sight and Sound Theatres here in Branson. Some shows you may have seen him in are Noah, Samson, Miracle of Christmas, Moses, and Jonah. Some of his favorite regional credits include: Fiddler on the Roof (Tevye), Jesus Christ Superstar (King Herod), The Three Musketeers (Porthos), Lil’ Abner (Marryin’ Sam), Bigfoot and Other Lost Souls (Donny McGreggor), The Reluctant Dragon (Dragon/LeadPuppeteer), The Sword in the Stone (Merlin), The Music Man (Ensemble/Marcellus u.s), Les Miserables (Fueilly/The Foreman/Brujon), Legally Blonde (Kiki/Dewey/Ensemle), and The Who’s Tommy (The Specialist/The Harmonica Player). Justin also serves as the Artistic Advisor for BRAC as well as one of the Mainstage Directors for the theatre. For BRAC, he has directed The Diary of Anne Frank, Into the Woods, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Romeo and Juliet, and Hamlet.​

Meet instructor Traven Harrington

​​​Traven A. Harrington, is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. While there, he studied in the voice studio of Dr. Jeff Price. Currently, he is under the vocal tutelage of Dr. Alissa Deeter! Throughout his life, Traven has had a number of opportunities to perform a number of styles of vocal music. From gospel, rhythm& blues, pop to jazz, he has been afforded with these life appointments that have helped set him up for this opportunity. He has trained in the classical/operatic realm, as well as the musical theatre world! Having performed in a number of productions and studied for a number of years, it is his belief that singing is a full body experience, and he absolutely loves every moment and every opportunity he is able to engage in doing just that! You may have seen him in “Into the Woods” in 2019, as The Wolf/Cinderella’s Prince or at “Villa Vista” in the Showstoppers Cabaret. Traven absolutely loves being able to help others make vocal discoveries and achieve their musical goals! It is a passion of his to see others grow into the best musicians that they can be. With application, practice, and direction, he is looking forward to helping those who want it! “Let’s work! Let’s sing!” Be it Musical Theatre or classical or another genre, he is absolutely excited and grateful for this opportunity and looking forward to working with you!​

Youth Musical Theatre Audition Master Class is the Branson Regional Arts Council’s new online conservatory series focusing on auditions for students ages 12-18!

These classes offer the same training as the class described above, however it is specially tailored to youth performers!

*instructors subject to change

This class will be held in (2) 2-hour sessions, for ages 12 to 18.

Dates and Times:
2 Saturdays: Jan 9 & 16, 2021
Times: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Central Standard Time (2 hours)
Location: Online via Zoom Video (links provided at registration)

Registration Info:
Total cost per student: $50 (includes both 2-hour classes)
Students may register via credit card, or personal check (made payable to BRAC). 
Class sizes are limited to 18-20 students per class.

REGISTER FOR THE YOUTH CLASS NOW

[fac_icon icon=”star”] Scholarship opportunities for youth residents of Branson, Missouri (please inquire at edu@bransonarts.org).

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Yes Virginia The Musical Ready For Home Viewing

The Branson Regional Arts Council is offering families everywhere a unique opportunity to watch an online presentation of a previously recorded live Holiday theatrical production called Yes Virginia – The Musical.

Yes Virginia The Musical is the heartwarming story of a little girl who taught the world to believe. Share this Holiday message of hope with your family!

On Dec 12, 2015, Tri-Lakes Community Theatre presented the musical at the Branson Star Theatre with a cast of 28 young performers. Now that the  TLC organization has merged into the Branson Regional Arts Council, it is being offered as a 2020 Holiday Season fundraising event in leu of a live stage production during this year’s pandemic at BransonArts.org/yesvirginia.

Music is by Wesley Whatley, with Book and Lyrics by William Schermerhorn. This stage production was adapted from the animated special and storybook by Chris Plehal by Macy’s Department Stores, who then, made it available to schools and community theatres across the nation, royalty-free.

Access to watch the streaming video is available for a $3.00 (or more) donation. The musical will be available for personal viewing through Dec. 31, 2020.

DONATE TO WATCH YES VIRGINIA NOW

The musical tells the story behind the story of one of the world’s most famous letters to the editor. In 1897, an 8-year-old girl named Virginia O’Hanlon wrote to the editors of The New York Sun, asking whether Santa Claus was real. The unsigned editorial printed in the Sept. 21 edition of the Sun has become one of the most reprinted editorials in history. Using prose-filled, positive philosophy and bold belief, the editorial writer affirmed the existence of the jolly old elf and how he can be seen in the love and generosity that exists during the holidays.

Yes Virginia cast members include: Jordan Kendrick (Virginia), Savannah Jewsbury (Miriam the Librarian), Brynleigh Hill (Ollie), Hayley Jewsbury (Scraggly Santa), Clara Gaut (Ms. Church), Jessica Barber (Charlotte), Anna Cardwell (Miss Whiskers), Alexis Fischer (Mary), Sophie McAdara (Gary), Danilyn Fox (Newsie/Chorus), Chaselyn Evans (Newsie/Chorus), Makenzie Evans (Newsie/Chorus), Courtney Poe (Newsie/Chorus), Derek Brown (Jolly Gentleman/Chorus), Kyleigh Evans (Russian Santa/Chorus), Morgan Brown (Swedish Santa/Chorus), Jamie Sill-Enno (Talin Santa/Chorus), Abigail A Skeen (French Santa/Chorus), Rachel Essary (Hawaiian Santa/Chorus), Ryan Cardwell (English Santa/Chorus), MacKenzie Evans (Dutch Santa/Chorus), Kayleigh Boss (Santa’s Kid/Chorus), Madelyn Middleton (Santa’s Kid/Chorus), Emrie Straka (Santa’s Kid/Chorus), Abbaney Holmes (Santa’s Kid/Chorus), Eden Burgess (Santa’s Kid/Chorus), Makayla Rich (Mother/Chorus), Caitlyn Holmes (Nanny/Chorus).

Yes Virginia production crew include: Kyle Bradley & Kellsey Bradley (Directors), Kimberly Hale & Lisa Murphy (Producers), Lindsey Howerton (Stage Manager), Dillion Mincey (Lighting Designer), Buster Prine (Sound Designer), Silas Engstrom (Graphic Designer), Lisa Murphy (Marketing), Kimberly Hale, Stephanie Groff, Karissa Fox (Costumes), Devan Spady, Lukus Dement, Nathaniel Finck, Melanie Block (Stage Crew), Louis Allen, Master Set Designer (Set Design), Marshall Meadows (Photography), Charyl E. Philipian, Lorie Best, Georgina Holiday, Mike Groff, Arthur Hale, KJ Soyland, Lisa Murphy, Melanie Block, Cory Block, Lori Best, Hayden Head, Sue Head, Lance Wallace, Becky Enno (Workshop Elves), Jim Barber (Video Production/Editing).

Special thanks to: Josh & Amy Hill, Josh Clark, New Beginnings Fellowship, Ronnie Page, Buster Prine, Jim & Jessica Barber, Louis Allen, Multiprinting, KOLR-10 TV, Hometown Radio.

TLC dedicated this production and the 2015 season to the loving memory of two of our beloved TLC family members… Clay Cantwell and Diane W. Barber.

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Remembering Michael Jenkins – A True Veteran Of The Arts

Residents and visitors to Branson during the mid-90’s certainly knew of Michael Jenkins.  His name was synonymous with creativity, and quality promotion of the Branson entertainment scene. Michael unexpectedly passed away on Veterans Day 2020 at the age of 73, and the Branson Regional Arts Council was both saddened and appreciative when Michael’s daughter requested that honorariums in his memory go to the Arts Council due to his longtime love and support of the arts in the Ozarks.

Michael Jenkins with Glen & Debby Campbell

“I was shocked to hear of Michael’s passing, and feel very fortunate to have appeared as a guest on his live “Radio Café Hour”, along with Glen Campbell and his daughter Debby. I was the comedian in Glen’s Goodtime Show, and recall how Michael and his crew were so friendly and easy to work with on the air. I was impressed with the format of combining a great lunch with up-close celebrity interviews in front of a live audience.  It provided an opportunity for Branson show lovers to mingle up-close with some of the biggest stars in town, in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Michael’s creativity and commitment to our community will not be forgotten.” – Jim Barber, BRAC Executive Director

BRAC would like to thank the family of Michael Jenkins, as well as Linda Burlingame and Carol & Doug Fuller for providing this obituary and related photos. We share your grief, and want you to know that Michael’s creativity will live on in our memories and through his remarkable legacy.

OBITUARY OF ROBERT MICHAEL JENKINS

Robert Michael Jenkins was born in Springfield, Missouri, October 11, 1947. He died from a heart attack November 11, 2020, in Branson, Missouri.

Michael Jenkins with Mel Tillis

Michael is survived by his sister Pam Hines of Albuquerque, New Mexico; three daughters; grandchildren, a nephew, and many nieces. Michael was preceded in death by his father, George Jenkins; his mother A. Ruth Abbott; his brother Timothy Jenkins.

Michael’s career spanned decades of service and creativity. Working at Silver Dollar City in its earliest years, as a performer and as Entertainment Director; traveling with the USO to Vietnam; serving as Director of the Public Service Commission in Jefferson City with Democratic Governor Joe Teasdale and Republican Governor Kit Bond; owning an advertising agency in Springfield, Missouri. Since the mid 1980’s Michael worked with Ingram Enterprises, serving as General Manager at Sunset Cove in Branson and working with Ingram’s other interests that include Fireworks Over America, one of the largest importers and distributors of consumer fireworks in the United States.

Michael Jenkins as Mark Twain

During those years Michael continued creating and sharing his love of entertainment. His Radio Café Hour, a live radio show with a café audience, hosted legendary entertainers like Johnny Cash, Mel Tillis, Tony Orlando, Charley Pride, Glen Campbell, and many more. Michael was a consummate Mark Twain entertainer and scholar. He was invited to the Mark Twain House in Hartford, Connecticut, as a guest writer. His extensive knowledge and understanding of Twain led to his on-stage creation, Mississippi Love, which starred Debby Boone.

Articulate and quick-witted, Michael was a grand storyteller. He often seemed larger than life. Those close to him will tell you Michael could be as frustrating as he was funny, as caring as he was creative. Michael took care of his mother the last several years of her life. Those who knew her understand where Michael got his quick wit.

Michael Jenkins with Johnny Cash

His focus on the job at hand was unwavering. Michael is going to be missed. He will be remembered with love, with admiration, with smiles … and with the occasional roll of the eyes.

All family and friends are invited to a graveside service at Ozarks Memorial Park Cemetery in Branson, MO, December 5, 2020, at 3 p.m. The gravesite is on the East side of the cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Branson Regional Arts Council. BransonArts.org/donate

Arrangements and cremation are under the direction of Cremations of the Ozarks. To leave an online condolence, please visit CremationsOfTheOzarks.com.

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Cast Announced For The Marvelous Wonderettes

The Branson Regional Arts Council is thrilled to announce the cast of the upcoming musical The Marvelous Wonderettes, which opens at the Historic Owen Theatre on January 28, 2021 with twelve performances through February 14th. Showtimes are 7pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday with 2pm matinees on Sunday.

This was a very challenging casting decision as we had so many incredibly talented candidates who auditioned for this production,” said the Director of the musical, Jacob Estes. “The final selections came down to finding the perfect vocal blend and acting chemistry between the four leading characters in the show,” he added.

Cast Members: Macy Watts, Mesa Mitchell, Caitlin Secrest, Tami Cooper

[fac_icon icon=”star”] The cast of The Marvelous Wonderettes are: Macy Watts (as Missy Miller), Mesa Mitchell (as Cindy Lou Huffington), Caitlin Secrest (as Betty Jean Reynolds), and Tami Cooper (as Suzy Simpson).

Alternate Swings: Seanna Bounds, Liz Sambol

Alternate swing cast members are Liz Sambol and Seanna Bounds.

“Such a Marvelous opportunity for me to be involved with these Wonderful performers,” said Vocal Coach Delyla Uebel. “Each not only brought a great vocal talent, but also such vibrancy to each character. This is going to be a ‘must see’ show!”

The production team includes: Jacob Estes (director), Sean Neil Myers (Stage Manager), Delyla Uebel (Music Supervisor & Vocal Coach), Caitlin Secrest (Vocal Captain), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Mac Hill (Technical Director), Corey Mitchell (Set Designer), Jim Barber (Marketing & Design), Justin Ables (Artistic Director), Kim Hale, Karie Dykeman, Lisa Murphy (Producers), and Lorie Best (Assistant Producer).

This smash off-Broadway hit written and created by Roger Bean, takes you to the 1958 Springfield High School prom where we meet Betty Jean, Cindy Lou, Missy, and Suzy, four girls with hopes and dreams as big as their crinoline skirts! As we learn about their lives and loves, the girls serenade us with classic ‘50s hits including “Lollipop,” “Dream Lover,” “Stupid Cupid,” and “Lipstick on Your Collar.” In act two, the Wonderettes reunite to take the stage and perform at their ten-year reunion. We learn about the highs and lows the girls have experienced in the past decade and are charmed to find that no matter what life throws their way, they will conquer it together. Featuring over 30 classic ’50s and ’60s hits, The Marvelous Wonderettes will keep you smiling in this must-take musical trip down memory lane!

All seating will be socially distanced, so when a patron selects an available seat online, they can be assured that the seats in font, behind, and on either side of their party will be left vacant. This reduces the maximum capacity of the theatre to approximately 25%, so shows are expected to sell out in advance.  Online reservations can be made now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Historic Owen Theatre box office at 417-336-4255.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS WE WOULD LIKE TO GET EVENT POSTERS CLICK HERE FOR PLAYBILL AD INFO

Persons interested in placing an ad in the official Playbill of The Marvelous Wonderettes are invited to visit BransonArts.org/adpayment for prices and ad specifications. Any area business or organization willing to display a BRAC Poster in their window or lobby, may also sign up to be a “Poster Partner” at BransonArts.org/getpress. “We appreciate the local businesses who help us promote our productions, and support the printing of these keepsake programs,” said BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber.

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