The Branson Regional Arts Council invites the public to attend the 2024 Annual Member Meeting and 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, September 22, 2024 from 6-8pm

Everyone is welcome! You do NOT have to be a BRAC member!

The annual member meeting will run until approximately 6:30pm, and will provide an opportunity for elections of new board of directors as well announcements regarding several new, exciting events and theatrical performances slated for 2025. Outgoing Executive Director Jim Barber, who has held the position since April 2017, will be honored at this event by the BRAC Board of Directors and special guests!

The short meeting will be followed by an evening of incredible artistry, as we introduce several new artists joining the Art Gallery Exhibition.

The local area artists selected for this six-month exhibition include: Bethanie Adams (Thirkell), Mary Arneson, Meike Aton, Diana Bogardus, Jennifer Buttell, Jack Clutter, Lee Copen, Ketty Diaz, Peggy Dyke, Ivan Edson, Jasmine Hutton and Vic Mastis. Their creative works will be on display and available for purchase through mid-March 2025.

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. Refreshments will be available as well.

Bring yourself, or a group of friends and enjoy this FREE community event!

 

Photo Above: Deceased Board Member and Beloved Friend of the Arts, Robert Cohn, enjoyed an earlier Artist Reception. His dedication and hard work to initiate and develop the Branson Convention Center Art Gallery will not be forgotten.

The Branson Regional Arts Council brings an amazingly powerful stage production to the stage of the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson, Missouri.

The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Rated PG) is a musical based on the Victor Hugo novel and songs from the Disney animated feature, The Hunchback of Notre Dame showcases the film’s Academy Award-nominated score, as well as new songs by Menken and Schwartz. Peter Parnell’s new book embraces story theatre and features verbatim passages from Hugo’s gothic novel.

Eight public performances are scheduled from October 17-27, 2024 with showtimes at 7pm (Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays) and 2pm (Sundays). Advanced reserved tickets are recommended, and may be purchased online at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255.  This is community theatre at it’s best and tickets are $20* (18+) and $12* (4-17). Lap children under the age of 4 are free. (*$3 ticketing service fee applies to all tickets)

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

The musical begins as the bells of Notre Dame sound through the famed cathedral in fifteenth-century Paris. Quasimodo, the deformed bell-ringer who longs to be “Out There,” observes all of Paris reveling in the Feast of Fools. Held captive by his devious caretaker, the archdeacon Dom Claude Frollo, he escapes for the day and joins the boisterous crowd, only to be treated cruelly by all but the beautiful Romani woman, Esmeralda. Quasimodo isn’t the only one captivated by her free spirit, though – the handsome Captain Phoebus and Frollo are equally enthralled. As the three vie for her attention, Frollo embarks on a mission to destroy the Roma – and it’s up to Quasimodo to save them all.

A sweeping score and powerful story make The Hunchback of Notre Dame an instant classic. Audiences will be swept away by the magic of this truly unforgettable musical.

The production team includes Kristine Brown and Karie Dykeman (Producers), David Hewitt (Director) , Tom Cartwright and Julie Brinkman (Co-Music Directors).

The cast includes: Christian Anthony Ross (Dom Claude Frollo), Michael Sager (Jehan Frollo), Maddie Hewitt (Florika), Joseph Schumacher (Father Dupin), Josiah Sims (Quasimodo), Tate Gettling (Clopin Trouillefou), Joshua McGeough (Phoebus De Martin), Josh Reed (Frederic Charlu), Kayla Pepper (Esmeralda), River Furgerson (King Louis X), Mindy Law (Madame), Hampton Muse (Saint Aphrodisius), and Jerry Ray Cook, Julie Brinkman , Charis Boulden, Sarah Sutherland, Dimitri Tsahiridis, Juanita Wilson, Brittony Tiger, Cyrsten Rainey-Felley, Rachel Sager as the Congregation.

 

Rated G | General Audiences & School Students

The Branson Regional Arts Council presents an encore performance of, The Comedy of Errorsone 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.

ONE PUBLIC PERFORMANCE – $10 AREA APPRECIATION

  • Wednesday, August 28, 2024 at 10am

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):
Josh Boulden – 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
David Clark – 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

  • Ryan Hippe – 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

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 one public encore performance of this production on Wednesday, August 28, 2024 at 10am. Interested school groups who would like to bring their students  should contact BRAC at 417-336-4255.

 

 

 

Monday Movies Are Back this Summer at the Historic Owen Theatre!

The Historic Downtown Branson Community Improvement District is pleased to partner with Branson Regional Arts Council to present a series of Classic Films that were actually shown at the Historic Owen Theatre when they first came out in the 30’s and 40’s. Everyone is invited to join us this Monday, September 2, 2024 at 7pm as we relive the nostalgia of great classic movies at the Historic Owen Theatre with your family and friends!

FREE ADMISSION – SEATING IS LIMITED

No reservations required, but seating is limited and on a first come basis. Doors open at 6:30pm and the film starting at 7:00pm. The concession stand will be open with fresh popcorn, refreshments and other tasty treats available.

Monday, September 2nd – 7pm – I’m No Angel (1933 – starring Mae West and Cary Grant)

I’m No AngelSharp, seductive and emotionally guarded Tira (Mae West) is a lauded and much-adored circus performer. Her newest suitor, a married New York City socialite named Kirk Lawrence (Kent Taylor), showers her with gifts. Kirk’s cousin, Jack Clayton (Cary Grant), goes to Tira to try and convince her to end the affair. The two fall for one another, but when love and happiness risk taking Tira from the stage, her boss plots to break off the engagement and shackle her to the circus forever. This film was written by and stars Mae West herself!

 

The publicity photo above was digitally restored in color, and was taken the day before the film opened at the Owen Hillbilly Theatre. Jim Owen arranged for the Branson Fire Department to receive the film and make a “Fire Proof Delivery” to the theatre because it was a “Red Hot Film” and would be shown for “Three Heated Days!” He even arranged to have “Fire Insurance” Sponsored by I. M. Thompson (misspelled in the sign) of Branson.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR MORE MONDAY MOVIES THIS SUMMER!

  • September 9th– 7pm – Henry Fonda in That Certain Woman (1937) 1:33min
  • September 16th– 7pm – Steven Spielberg’s Jaws (1975) 124min

“We are excited to partner with BRAC to offer free classic films. BRAC and the Historic Owen Theatre are a vibrant part of our community and history. It’s always a pleasure to work with our friends and neighbors!  We recommend you arrive early for best parking, then take some time before the films to shop, dine and explore downtown!” 

– Cris Bohinc, Administrator Historic Downtown Branson CID

In 2006, downtown Branson worked with the city and state to form the Historic Downtown Branson CID. The purpose was to help Historic Downtown generate more visitors when its new neighbor arrived; The Branson Landing. The downtown CID started the first public transportation system in Branson and operated within a “Community Improvement District”. The FREE trolleys join Historic Downtown with The Landing!

The “District” provides many things. Several trolleys that are free for riders and paid for by a 1-cent sales tax collected by businesses in the district. Also, Christmas light displays in November and December, lots of advertising on TV, social media, website and so much more!!

The District also partners with the DBBA to get out over 200,000 downtown brochures annually and other needs. The CID is currently working with the city to make upgrades to the public Awbery bathroom and to have the downtown’s landscaping completely redone!

The Historic Downtown Branson CID’s only goal, is to bring more business and beauty to downtown!!

Visit RideSparky.com for updates, the live trolley tracker and much more!

Announcing the 2024-2025 BRAC Crescendo Troupe!

Thank you so much to all those who auditioned for our upcoming cast of Crescendo Youth Performance Troupe! – we loved seeing everyone’s personalities and talents shine through!

Through much thought and deliberation, we are excited to announce this year’s BRAC Crescendo Troupe!

  • Lexi Carr
  • Mia Hatten
  • Reagan Hoaglund
  • Luke Johnson
  • Maggie Marks
  • Xia McElwee
  • Alton Prince
  • Kate Sutherland
  • Gwen Tsahiridis

We are so excited about this group and can’t wait for all the learning, fun, and growth that will happen!

If your child is a part of the troupe, please be on the lookout for an invitation to the BRAC 2024-2025 Crescendo Facebook Page where all communication about the group will occur.

We look forward to seeing everyone at our first class on Monday, August 26th at 4:30pm. Parents, there will be a short parent meeting for the directors to cast vision for the semester and meet the directors.

We are so proud of each and every student who came to audition. It takes a ton of courage and we applaud you! We hope you will continue to look for opportunities to grow and pursue your passions. There will be upcoming opportunities with BRAC, including voice lessons, classes, shows, and summer institutes – so be on the lookout for the next opportunity!

BRAC Crescendo Directors, Kellsey Bradley and Julie Brinkman

Monday Movies Are Back this Summer at the Historic Owen Theatre!

The Historic Downtown Branson Community Improvement District is pleased to partner with Branson Regional Arts Council to present a series of Classic Films that were actually shown at the Historic Owen Theatre when they first came out in the 30’s and 40’s. Everyone is invited to join us this Monday, August 19, 2024 at 7pm as we relive the nostalgia of great classic movies at the Historic Owen Theatre with your family and friends!

FREE ADMISSION – SEATING IS LIMITED

No reservations required, but seating is limited and on a first come basis. Doors open at 6:30pm and the film starting at 7:00pm. The concession stand will be open with fresh popcorn, refreshments and other tasty treats available.

Monday, August 19th – 7pm – They Gave Him A Gun (1937 – featuring starring Spencer Tracy)

They Gave Him a Gun is a 1937 American crime drama film directed by W. S. Van Dyke and starring Spencer Tracy, Gladys George and Franchot Tone. The picture bears a resemblance to later films noir, with its dark theme regarding the struggles and failures of a man trying to take a criminal shortcut to the American dream.  Come enjoy this classic film about a World War I veteran who married the girlfriend of his presumed-dead war buddy falls into the racketeering business.

The photo above was taken when the film was shown at the Owen Theatre in 1937.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR MORE MONDAY MOVIES THIS SUMMER!

  • September 2nd– 7pm – Mae West in I’m No Angel (1933) 87min
  • September 9th– 7pm – Henry Fonda in That Certain Woman (1937) 1:33min
  • September 16th– 7pm – Steven Spielberg’s Jaws (1975) 124min

“We are excited to partner with BRAC to offer free classic films. BRAC and the Historic Owen Theatre are a vibrant part of our community and history. It’s always a pleasure to work with our friends and neighbors!  We recommend you arrive early for best parking, then take some time before the films to shop, dine and explore downtown!” 

– Cris Bohinc, Administrator Historic Downtown Branson CID

In 2006, downtown Branson worked with the city and state to form the Historic Downtown Branson CID. The purpose was to help Historic Downtown generate more visitors when its new neighbor arrived; The Branson Landing. The downtown CID started the first public transportation system in Branson and operated within a “Community Improvement District”. The FREE trolleys join Historic Downtown with The Landing!

The “District” provides many things. Several trolleys that are free for riders and paid for by a 1-cent sales tax collected by businesses in the district. Also, Christmas light displays in November and December, lots of advertising on TV, social media, website and so much more!!

The District also partners with the DBBA to get out over 200,000 downtown brochures annually and other needs. The CID is currently working with the city to make upgrades to the public Awbery bathroom and to have the downtown’s landscaping completely redone!

The Historic Downtown Branson CID’s only goal, is to bring more business and beauty to downtown!!

Visit RideSparky.com for updates, the live trolley tracker and much more!

Monday Movies Are Back this Summer at the Historic Owen Theatre!

The Historic Downtown Branson Community Improvement District is pleased to partner with Branson Regional Arts Council to present a series of Classic Films that were actually shown at the Historic Owen Theatre when they first came out in the 30’s and 40’s. Everyone is invited to join us this Monday, August 12, 2024 at 7pm as we relive the nostalgia of great classic movies at the Historic Owen Theatre with your family and friends!

FREE ADMISSION – SEATING IS LIMITED

No reservations required, but seating is limited and on a first come basis. Doors open at 6:30pm and the film starting at 7:00pm. The concession stand will be open with fresh popcorn, refreshments and other tasty treats available.

Monday, August 12th – 7pm – Ma & Pa Kettle – Back On The Farm (1951 – featuring starring Marjorie Main and Percy Kilbride.)

Ma and Pa Kettle Back on the Farm is a 1951 American comedy film directed by Edward Sedgwick. It is the third installment of Universal-International‘s Ma and Pa Kettle series starring Marjorie Main and Percy Kilbride. It was also the last completed film of director Sedgwick’s long career. The Kettles leave their ultra-modern home and return to the country looking for uranium. Ma and Tom’s mother-in-law, Mrs. Parker, fight over whether their grandchild will be raised “hygienically”.

The photo above was taken when the film was shown at the Owen Theatre in 1951. Left to right: Jim Owen, Comedian Smiley Burnette, Steve Miller)

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR MORE MONDAY MOVIES THIS SUMMER!

  • August 12th– 7pm – Ma & Pa Kettle Back on the Farm (1951) 80min
  • August 19th– 7pm – Spencer Tracy in They Gave Him a Gun (1937) 94min
  • September 2nd– 7pm – Mae West in I’m No Angel (1933) 87min
  • September 9th– 7pm – Henry Fonda in That Certain Woman (1937) 1:33min
  • September 16th– 7pm – Steven Spielberg’s Jaws (1975) 124min

“We are excited to partner with BRAC to offer free classic films. BRAC and the Historic Owen Theatre are a vibrant part of our community and history. It’s always a pleasure to work with our friends and neighbors!  We recommend you arrive early for best parking, then take some time before the films to shop, dine and explore downtown!” 

– Cris Bohinc, Administrator Historic Downtown Branson CID

In 2006, downtown Branson worked with the city and state to form the Historic Downtown Branson CID. The purpose was to help Historic Downtown generate more visitors when its new neighbor arrived; The Branson Landing. The downtown CID started the first public transportation system in Branson and operated within a “Community Improvement District”. The FREE trolleys join Historic Downtown with The Landing!

The “District” provides many things. Several trolleys that are free for riders and paid for by a 1-cent sales tax collected by businesses in the district. Also, Christmas light displays in November and December, lots of advertising on TV, social media, website and so much more!!

The District also partners with the DBBA to get out over 200,000 downtown brochures annually and other needs. The CID is currently working with the city to make upgrades to the public Awbery bathroom and to have the downtown’s landscaping completely redone!

The Historic Downtown Branson CID’s only goal, is to bring more business and beauty to downtown!!

Visit RideSparky.com for updates, the live trolley tracker and much more!

The Branson Regional Arts Council is seeking area artists to be featured in a new six-month exhibition at the Branson Convention Center Art Gallery, that officially opens on Sunday, September 22, 2024 and runs through mid March 2025. *end date to be determined

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

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

CALL FOR ARTISTS - SUBMIT HERE

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

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

 

Branson Convention Center – Art Exhibit

Branson Convention Center Art Exhibition

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

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

 

The Branson Regional Arts Council is holding auditions for the 2024-2025 Staccato Performance Troupe on Saturday, August 10, 2024 at 9 am. Auditions will be held at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson. No pre-registration required, just show up prepared to audition!
NOTICE: We will take video submissions through August 29th. Please send video links to edu@bransonarts.org.
We are looking for students between the ages of 13-18 who have a passion for performing and building their skills.

We have new directors!

“We are so excited for you to audition for, and hopefully join, our Staccato Performance Troupe! Our desire for you this year is to grow as a performer, but also grow as a team with your troupe-mates; that you would come into each class ready to work hard, but also have so much fun as we work, play, and create together! We will not be putting on a full musical production this year, but we are excited to work on several amazing musical numbers, scenes, and choreography to help each one of you grow as a “triple threat” and give you a chance to showcase your skills at the end of each semester. Our goal is to build your confidence as an individual, your strength as a cast mate, and to teach you valuable skills that will help you in future auditions and shows! So come join us – we can’t wait to get started!”
Melinda Prince & Ellie Munn, Staccato Directors

When: Saturday, August 10, 2024, beginning at 9 am.

We will begin with group dance, so we need everyone at 9 am. When dance is complete we will do individual vocal auditions. You will be free to leave after your vocal audition.
Note: We ask continuing students to also come and audition so our new directors can make your acquaintance. If you were part of Staccato last spring, you will automatically  have a spot for this semester.
Location: Historic Owen Theatre (205 S Commercial St, Branson, MO 65616)

Class Information!

Cost: $225* per semester ($50 registration + $175 tuition).
       
Class Schedule (Saturdays 9a-12p):
First semester:
  • Sept 7, 14, 21, 28
  • Oct 5, 12, 19, 26
  • Nov 2, 9
Showcase: Fri, Nov 15, 7 pm
  • Sat, Nov 16, 2 pm
Second semester:
  • Jan 18, 25
  • Feb 1, 8, 15, 22
  • Mar 1, 8, 15, 29 (No meeting on Mar 22 for spring break)
  Showcase: Fri, April 4, 7 pm
  •   Sat, April 5, 2 pm

Audition information!

Dance audition:
Come dressed to be able to move easily with jazz shoes or sneakers. We will start the audition with the dance call in groups. You will then stay for the singing portion and will be able to leave when your song is done.
Vocal audition:
Please prepare 60 seconds of a song to perform at auditions. You may choose your own piece, but we encourage selections in the style of “The Greatest Showman”, “Newsies”, and “Wicked”. For those who may be new to auditioning or desire a pre-determined song selection, you may choose a selection from the following songs:
  • “Part of Your World” (Little Mermaid)
  • “How Far I’ll Go” (Moana)
  • “Be Our Guest” (Beauty & The Beast)
  • “I’ll Make A Man Out of You” (Mulan)
Please sing with a karaoke and/or instrumental track (a track from Youtube is acceptable). Please bring your own mobile device that we will sync up via blue tooth to our speakers.
*Limited scholarships are available. 
Please contact Karie at edu@bransonarts.org or 417-336-4255 with any questions.

Calling All Kids Ages 7-12!! Come audition to be a part of Branson Regional Arts Council’s 2024-2025 educational youth performance troupe Crescendo /krəˈSHenˌdō/!

BRAC’s Crescendo Audition Info:
We are seeking a select number of students ages 7-12 for this year’s Crescendo troupe!

Auditions will be held:
Thursday, August 15, 2024 from 4:30pm – 6:00pm
Historic Owen Theatre (205 S Commercial St, Branson, MO 65616)

The mission of Crescendo is to provide opportunities to students for growth in performance, character, and service. We strive to equip students with necessary skills, both on and off the stage, through engaging activities and experiences while developing a life-long love of the arts and giving back to the community.

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

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

Members of Crescendo will meet on a regular basis (see class schedule below) and will be presenting two public showcase performances at the Historic Owen Theatre, November 15 and 16, 2024.

Those auditioning will be asked to sing, read, and dance. The dance portion will be a small movement call that will take place at the beginning of the audition followed by individually singing the first verse of “Silent Night” and performing the monologue titled “Show-and-Tell”. Auditionees will sing and perform by age (youngest to oldest). Everyone is encouraged to wear clothes that they can move in (Jazz shoes or tennis shoes preferred)

Below are the links to the audition materials:

We are excited about the interest and growth of our educational opportunities at the theater for the youth in the community! Be on the lookout for more opportunities this semester!

Crescendo Class Schedule (Mondays 4:30 – 6:00pm)

  • Aug 26 (with a short parent meeting at the beginning)
  • Sept 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
  • Oct 7, 14, 21, 28
  • Nov 4, 11
  • Dress Rehearsal – TBD (Probably the week of November 11th)
  • Public Showcase Performances – Nov 15, 2024 (7pm) & Nov 16, 2024 (2pm)
  • Spring 2025 Semester Dates & Performances will be announced later in the semester

Tuition & Fees (if selected):
$175/Per Semester* ($50 registration fee + $125 tuition)

*Limited Scholarships available to qualified candidates
*Please contact Karie at edu@bransonarts.org or 417-336-4255 with any questions.

 

Calling all area actors… beginning or experienced! 

Have you wanted to try your hand at acting, but don’t want to take the plunge in one of our full-length productions? Or… are you just hungry to get your hands on some fresh material? Now is your chance to be cast in up to three short plays, written and directed by local creatives!
Join us at the Historic Owen Theater on Sunday, August 11, 2024 from 2 to 4 PM to audition for the 2nd Annual 10-Minute Play Series!
  • Simply come prepared with a 20-30 second monologue of your choosing!
Any questions? Please contact Kyle Blanchard at events@bransonarts.org.

The “10-Minute Play Series” performance will be at the Historic Owen Theater on September 8, 2024! 

This event is to help encourage local actors, writers and directors of all skill and experience levels to practice their art in a low-stakes, low-commitment and safe environment. The evening will consist of ten plays lasting no longer than 10 minutes, in a variety of styles. 

Admission for the event will be a $10 suggested donation to benefit the education programs at the Branson Regional Arts Council.

We hope you will come audition to be part of an evening of inspiring original works!

 

 

10 Min Vectors by Vecteezy

Monday Movies Are Back this Summer at the Historic Owen Theatre!

The Historic Downtown Branson Community Improvement District is pleased to partner with Branson Regional Arts Council to present a series of Classic Films that were actually shown at the Historic Owen Theatre when they first came out in the 30’s and 40’s. Everyone is invited to join us this Monday, August 5, 2024 at 7pm as we kick off this Summer Film Fest, and relive the nostalgia of great classic movies at the Historic Owen Theatre with your family and friends!

FREE ADMISSION – SEATING IS LIMITED

No reservations required, but seating is limited and on a first come basis. Doors open at 5:30pm with a special Ozarks Authors Book Signing at 6:00pm, and the film starting at 7:00pm. The concession stand will be open with fresh popcorn, refreshments and other tasty treats available.

Monday, August 5th – 7pm – The Shepherd of the Hills (1941 – featuring John Wayne, Betty Field and Harry Carey)

The Shepherd of the Hills is a 1941 American drama film starring John Wayne, Betty Field and Harry Carey. The supporting cast includes Beulah Bondi, Ward Bond, Marjorie Main and John Qualen. The picture was Wayne’s first film in Technicolor and was based on the novel of the same name by Harold Bell Wright. The director was Henry Hathaway, who directed several other Wayne films including True Grit almost three decades later. The story was filmed previously in the silent era by author Wright himself in 1919, released on State Rights basis. It was filmed again, in The Shepherd of the Hills (1928 film), starring Molly O’Day at First National Pictures, and later, in color in 1964.

The photo above was taken when the film premiered at the Owen Theatre in July 1941. In response to negative public opinion that the film may not accurately reflect the original Harold Bell Wright novel, theatre owner Jim Owen created a publicity campaign that included manned picket signs reading “Paramount’s Shepherd of the Hills – Unfair to Original Characters. We Don’t Like It! – Hillbilly Local #0001.” Now, 83 years later, come see the film and judge for yourself!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR MORE MONDAY MOVIES THIS SUMMER!

  • August 5th– 6pm Book Signing Event, 7pm – John Wayne in Shepherd of the Hills (1941) 98mins
  • August 12th– 7pm – Ma & Pa Kettle Back on the Farm (1951) 80min
  • August 19th– 7pm – Spencer Tracy in They Gave Him a Gun (1937) 94min
  • September 2nd– 7pm – Mae West in I’m No Angel (1933) 87min
  • September 9th– 7pm – Henry Fonda in That Certain Woman (1937) 1:33min
  • September 16th– 7pm – Steven Spielberg’s Jaws (1975) 124min

“We are excited to partner with BRAC to offer free classic films. BRAC and the Historic Owen Theatre are a vibrant part of our community and history. It’s always a pleasure to work with our friends and neighbors!  We recommend you arrive early for best parking, then take some time before the films to shop, dine and explore downtown!” 

– Cris Bohinc, Administrator Historic Downtown Branson CID

In 2006, downtown Branson worked with the city and state to form the Historic Downtown Branson CID. The purpose was to help Historic Downtown generate more visitors when its new neighbor arrived; The Branson Landing. The downtown CID started the first public transportation system in Branson and operated within a “Community Improvement District”. The FREE trolleys join Historic Downtown with The Landing!

The “District” provides many things. Several trolleys that are free for riders and paid for by a 1-cent sales tax collected by businesses in the district. Also, Christmas light displays in November and December, lots of advertising on TV, social media, website and so much more!!

The District also partners with the DBBA to get out over 200,000 downtown brochures annually and other needs. The CID is currently working with the city to make upgrades to the public Awbery bathroom and to have the downtown’s landscaping completely redone!

The Historic Downtown Branson CID’s only goal, is to bring more business and beauty to downtown!!

Visit RideSparky.com for updates, the live trolley tracker and much more!