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Audition Submissions Open For The Marvelous Wonderettes


The Branson Regional Arts Council welcomes video audition submissions for it’s upcoming production of The Marvelous Wonderettes at the Historic Owen Theatre.<

The Marvelous Wonderettes Performance Dates [tickets on sale now]

  • Jan 28-30, Feb 4-6, Feb 11-13, 2021 @ 7:00 pm
  • Jan 31, Feb 7, Feb 14, 2021 @ 2:00 pm (12 Shows total)

Cast of Characters:
(Some roles may be double cast. We are also looking to cast swings to play multiple roles. Swings are guaranteed actual performances as well, so if you are interested in auditioning and can’t make every performance, we encourage you to still submit.)

MISSY (Adult Female): Always the over-achiever of the group, Missy is the one to cover for mistakes and is always ready to jump in and save the day. Head of the prom decorations committee, and absolutely smitten with her music teacher. She has been best friends with Suzy since elementary school. (Soprano with wide range and very high vocals; also requires the ability to belt/mix)

CINDY LOU (Adult Female): Cindy Lou is the “bad girl” of the group. It seems that things always go her way, making Betty Jean crazy. She makes the biggest change between Acts I and II, having learned the lessons of true love and loss. (Mezzo Soprano with strong belt; sings melody line on most songs; the role requires strong vocal abilities)

BETTY JEAN (Adult Female) Betty Jean is the self-anointed clown of the group, always vying for attention from her best friend Cindy Lou. Cindy Lou steals Betty Jean’s boyfriend away, causing a lot of the friction at the prom; she holds this grudge against Cindy Lou, until they make up at the 10-year reunion. (Mezzo/Alto with strong range)

SUZY (Adult Female) Gum-chewing Suzy is happy-go-lucky, a little giddy, and a little silly. She finds great pleasure in everything she does; the sillier it is, the more fun she finds it. Her best friend is Missy. (Please note: The script does not want you to play her like a stereotypical “ditzy blonde.”) (Mezzo Alto with a sweet, soulful sound, and big belt)

Show Description:

This smash off-Broadway hit 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!

Audition Requirements:

**Due to the impact of COVID-19 and our commitment to your safety, the initial round of auditions will be by video submission only.

[fac_icon icon=”star”] Please send all audition videos with the headline WONDERETTES SUBMISSION to: BransonArts@gmail.com.

Please prepare 32 bars (no more than 2 minutes) of a pop song or ballad FROM THE 1950s OR 1960s…You can also choose to sing a Musical Theatre piece, but please make it of the appropriate show style. (NO A CAPELLA SINGING)

This is a jukebox musical (all of the songs are well known) so it would be wise to familiarize yourself with the shows approach. Click here to listen to the cast recording on YouTube.

When picking an audition song, this note from the creator may be helpful:

“Listen to Connie Francis, Doris Day, The Chordettes, & The McGuire Sisters for Act I styles; listen to Dusty Springfield, Lesley Gore, The Shangri-Las, & Betty Everett for Act II styles.”

From the director…
All four characters are powerhouse vocalist. These girls sing very tedious harmonies and get a full vocal workout throughout the show. (30+ songs!) When selecting a song, pick something that will showcase your greatest strengths and range. With a video submission, you have the advantage to sing without the nerves of a live audition…be bold with your choice!

After your initial vocal audition, we will be in touch if we need to see more from you. (Sides, dance)

Please feel free to contact the director with any questions you may have at jacobmestes@gmail.com.

ALL VIDEO SUBMISSIONS DUE BY OCTOBER 20, 2020!

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The Odd Couple Brings Laughter Back To Historic Owen Theatre

After a six-month postponement due to the pandemic, big laughs are about to fill the air as the Branson Regional Arts Council presents the hilarious comedy play The Odd Couple by Neil Simon at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

Additional performances have been added to the calendar so that more people can enjoy this incredibly funny production. The facility is continually sanitized with social distance seating established so the audience will have an empty row or a couple of seats between them and other patrons.

Eight performances are scheduled on Sept 10-11 (7pm), Sept 12 (2pm & 7pm), Sept 13 (2pm) and Sept 17-19 (7pm), with advance reserved seat tickets available now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255. Ticket prices are $16.95 (Adults 18+) and $11.45 (Youth 4-17) with proceeds benefiting the work of the Arts Council on behalf of our community.

Recommended for all audiences, this classic comedy opens as a group of the guys assemble for cards in the apartment of divorced Oscar Madison. And if the mess is any indication, it’s no wonder that his wife left him. Late to arrive is Felix Unger, who has just been separated from his wife. Fastidious, depressed, and none too tense, Felix seems suicidal, but as the action unfolds, Oscar becomes the one with murder on his mind when the clean freak and the slob ultimately decide to room together with hilarious results as The Odd Couple is born!

The BRAC production is directed by Jody Madaras, star of the  All Hands On Deck show at the Dutton Family Theatre. “Neil Simon’s timeless American comedy delivers biting zingers and the ingredients that laughs are made of,” says Madaras. “Our BRAC production comes complete with a boat load of laughs, and a heart-warming ending that is sure to please!”

Lead Actors: Sean Neil Myers & Chance Havens

Chance Havens plays the role of Oscar Madison along with Sean Neil Myers as Felix Unger. Additional cast members include Cory Hensen as Murray, Deron Wolfe as Roy, Mark Peper as Vinnie, Dylan Pratt as Speed, J.C. Clinton and Abby Reeve as the vivacious Pigeon sisters. Keep your eyes open for an unexpected virtual appearance by funnyman Terry Sanders!

Producers Kim Hale, Lisa Murphy and Karie Dykeman are assisted by Jack Vandewark (Stage Manager), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Director), and Mac Hill (Set Design and Sound Technician), Marshall Meadows (Photography), and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director and Marketing).

As an added bonus, theatre patrons will be invited to visit the Rock Room Gallery inside the Historic Owen Theatre for the new “Cityscapes & New York Nights” exhibition featuring artwork from a variety of local area artists. All works displayed will be available for sale by the artists. Artists interested in placing a work in the exhibit are asked to contact the Arts Council at info@bransonarts.org.

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New Artist Reception At Branson Convention Center Art Exhibition

The Branson Regional Arts Council invites the general public to attend their Annual Member Meeting and New Artist Reception at the Art Exhibition Gallery on the second floor promenade of the Branson Convention Center on Friday, September 4th from 7pm until 8pm.

This mostly all-new display features award winning artwork, ranging from oils and acrylics, to photography. There is no cost to attend this event.

Incredible works by several new area artists will be unveiled, and Jim Barber, Executive Director of the Branson Regional Arts Council, will be on hand to announce several exciting announcements for area residents who love the arts.

“Come join us in welcoming fourteen unbelievably talented artists to this wonderful art gallery showing. We want to thank the dedicated management and staff of the Branson Convention Center for working with the Arts Council to make this exciting and free exhibition available to residents of our community as well as the thousands of visitors from around the country who have the pleasure of viewing it each year.”
– Jim Barber, Executive Director

Delyla Uebel - Concert PianistProfessional concert pianist Delyla will provide musical accompaniment to set the mood and provide additional entertainment for the viewers.

New artists now preparing to be welcomed to the gallery exhibition include Meike Aton, Jessica Lowe, Norma Wiedmeyer, Christe Colburn, Regina Willard, Andi Snethern and Gayle Page.

Area artists currently on display include Raine Clotfelter, Kwaku Addai, Jenny Mayor, Jim Tindall, Dee Giles, Jane Parker, Mary Arneson, Galina Foulconer, Leigh Ann Thomas, Marty Goodnight, Alpha Morrow, Thia Shuler, and Meadows Images. Some of these artists will be transitioning to other exhibitions, while some will continue in this location for another six-months with new works of art to display.

Due to the City of Branson mandate, all staff and guests inside the Branson Convention Center are required to wear a facial mask and practice social distancing while attending this event.

The Arts Council appreciates the cooperation of our guests with this request and promises a fun evening of enjoyable art and music.

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Missouri Bicentennial Poster Contest Seeks Young Artists

The Missouri Bicentennial Commission is holding a competition to select posters for the upcoming bicentennial commemoration. The contest is open to third through twelfth graders in Missouri.

Students are asked to interpret the theme: Sharing Missouri’s stories – past, present, and future.

Submissions will be accepted through October 31, 2020. The Commission will select four winning designs – two from the elementary grades (3-6) and two from the secondary grades (7-12). Grade level is based on the 2019-2020 school year.

All submissions must be officially sponsored by an eligible sponsoring institution, which include nonprofit arts agencies, cultural heritage and educational institutions (e.g. museums and historical societies, 4-H clubs, private and public schools, homeschool networks, etc.), and public libraries.

[fac_icon icon=”star”] Students who would like to have their work submitted and sponsored by the Branson Regional Arts Council are asked to send a written request to info@bransonarts.org.

Complete guidelines and the submission form can be found at: https://missouri2021.org/bicentennial-poster/

About the Contest…

In 1921, Vinnorma Shaw designed a poster to commemorate the Missouri Centennial and advertise the Missouri Centennial Exposition at the Missouri State Fair. One hundred years later, what should a Missouri Bicentennial poster look like?

Missouri students, help the Missouri Bicentennial Commission commemorate the state’s 200th anniversary by submitting a design concept for the Missouri Bicentennial poster. Four concepts will be chosen, with each winner receiving $200 and a certificate acknowledging his/her achievement, as well as an invitation to attend the poster unveiling.

Learn more about the centennial poster using the guide and worksheets located on the official Missouri Bicentennial website. These materials are fantastic opportunities to reflect upon Missouri’s past, present, and future.

Winning design concepts for the new poster design will be announced no later than December 15, 2020. The winning designs will be refined to create four different Missouri Bicentennial posters for use during the bicentennial commemoration. All entries received by the deadline will also be featured on the Missouri 2021 website and social media channels through the end of the bicentennial commemoration.

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Call For Artists – Branson Convention Center and More

There are several new opportunities for Ozarks area artists to feature their work at area exhibitions sponsored by the Branson Regional Arts Council.

Artist applications are being accepted now for an immediate upcoming exhibition at the Branson Convention Center Art Gallery, Chateau on the Lake, Rock Room Art Gallery at the Historic Owen Theatre, as well as an invitation for artist exhibition booths at the Hollister Grape & Fall Festival in October.

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

CALL FOR ARTISTS - SUBMIT HERE

About the exhibitions:

Branson Convention Center – Art Exhibit

Branson Convention Center Art Exhibition [SUBMIT NOW – SELECTIONS ARE SOON]

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

Chateau On The Lake Artist Wall

The Artist Gallery Wall is located inside the Chateau Grill Restaurant at Chateau on the Lake Hotel and Convention Center. One artist is featured at a time 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. This is a juried show, so all submissions will be reviewed by a committee before being accepted in the display.

Rock Room Gallery at the Historic Owen Theatre [SUBMIT NOW – SELECTIONS ARE SOON]

This new gallery space opened in the Fall of 2019 with rotating exhibitions that coincide with theatrical performances occurring inside the Historic Owen Theatre. The next exhibition is entitiled Cityscapes & New York Nights and will open on September 10th along with the comedy play by Neil Simon, The Odd Couple. Artists are asked to create works that fit a “New York Skyline” or “Life In The City” type theme. 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 during the run of the play. This is a juried show, so all submissions will be reviewed by a committee before being accepted in the display.The image below includes a watercolor by professional artist and BRAC art instructor Jessica Lowe who will also be featured in the exhibition.

Hollister Grape & Fall Festival

In previous years the Branson Regional Arts Council has helped to sponsor the Craftsman’s Village Tent where dozens of area artists can display and sell their works to the thousands of folks who attend the annual festival on Historic Downing Street in Hollister. In 2020 however, the COVID-19 pandemic is forcing the event organizers to adapt new protocols in order to create a safe event for all, so the indoor tent will not be used this year.  Instead, artists are invited to reserve their own pop-up tent space and sell their works directly. No commissions are involved in this event.  For information on becoming an Exhibitor at the Hollister Grape & Fall Festival visit the Hollister Chamber of Commerce website at HollisterChamber.net.

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Shakespeare In The Park Set For 2021 In Hollister

Forte Theatre Productions, in partnership with the Branson Regional Arts Council, announce that their anticipated 4th Annual Shakespeare In The Park production of The Tempest will be postponed until next year as part of the 2021 line up of BRAC arts events planned for our community. Originally scheduled for late September and early October 2020, the exact dates for the 2021 production of The Tempest is expected to be announced later this year.

Tina Cool-Anderson, Producer and Director of Forte Theatre Productions, shares this video announcement regarding the schedule change due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The team at Forte Theatre Productions, along with the Branson Regional Arts Council, have made the difficult decision to postpone our 2020 Shakespeare in the Park production of The Tempest to 2021 due to COVID-19. Now, just because we have this pause in our season, doesn’t mean that we’re going to stop serving our Arts community. I mean, William Shakespeare wrote King Lear during the plague! So follow us on our social media pages and you’ll find information on upcoming virtual and in-person events. We’d also like to say a special thank you to the City of Hollister Parks and Recreation Department and all of our Arts Community who have helped make Shakespeare in the Park happen. So, keep safe and support your local Arts!” – Tina Cool-Anderson, Forte Theatre Productions

Past Shakespeare in the Park performances have included  A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Romeo and Juliet, and last years Rock version of Hamlet. All of these productions have been held outdoors on the pavillion stage in Chad A Fuqua Memorial Park, and both organizations thank the City of Hollister and the Hollister Parks Department for their support and cooperation in making these community events possible.

NOTE: This change will not affect other musicals and plays already rescheduled for the 2020-2021 season at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

Upcoming BRAC performances include: The Odd Couple (Sept 10-15, 2010), The Sound of Music (Feb 11-14, 18-21, 25-28), The Glass Menagerie (Apr 8, 11,12), The Complete Works of William Shakespeare – Abridged (Apr 30, May 2-3), Summer Youth Theatre Institute (May 17-21, 24-28, 31-June 2), Peter Pan Jr. (June 3-6), Mama Mia! (July 8-11, 15-18), 9 To 5 The Musical (Sep 9-12, 16-19), and The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Nov 4-7, 11-14). Other concert type events and possible additions to the musical theatre schedule are expected and will be announced at the appropriate time. Reserved seat tickets the above performances are now on sale at BransonArts.org/tix.

 

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Sean Neil Myers Joins Cast Of The Odd Couple

Postponed since last March due to the COVIC-19 pandemic shut down, the Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to finally present the hilarious comedy play The Odd Couple by Neil Simon at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson. Five performances are scheduled on Sept 10 (7pm), Sept 11 (7pm), Sept 12 (2pm & 7pm) and Sept 13 (2pm), with limited advance reserved seat tickets available now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255. Ticket prices are $16.95 (Adults 18+) and $11.45 (Youth 4-17) with proceeds benefiting the work of the Arts Council on behalf of our community.

Chance Havens as Oscar Madison

The unexpected postponement of this production unfortunately forced one of the lead actors to step away from the show, however Branson audiences are in for a treat as local theatre veteran Sean Neil Myers will be taking on the role of Felix Ungar.

Sean is thrilled to appear in his 12th BRAC production! He was last seen as the Cowardly Lion in The Wizard of Oz. His past roles for BRAC include Moonface Martin in Anything Goes, as well as standout roles in Beauty and the Beast, 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Little Shop of Horrors, Annie, and Chicago. Sean’s favorite past roles include Igor in Young Frankenstein. 

Recommended for all audiences, this classic comedy opens as a group of the guys assemble for cards in the apartment of divorced Oscar Madison. And if the mess is any indication, it’s no wonder that his wife left him. Late to arrive is Felix Unger, who has just been separated from his wife. Fastidious, depressed, and none too tense, Felix seems suicidal, but as the action unfolds, Oscar becomes the one with murder on his mind when the clean freak and the slob ultimately decide to room together with hilarious results as The Odd Couple is born!

The BRAC production is directed by Jody Madaras, star of the  All Hands On Deck show at the Dutton Family Theatre.

“American comedy, The Odd Couple, delivers biting zingers and the ingredients that laughs are made of.  Our BRAC production comes complete with a boat load of laughs, and a heart-warming ending that is sure to please!” – Jody Madaras, BRAC Director

 

Chance Havens plays the role of Oscar Madison along with Sean Neil Myers as Felix Unger. Additional cast members include Cory Hensen as Murray, Deron Wolfe as Roy, Mark Peper as Vinnie, Dylan Pratt as Speed, J.C. Clinton and Abby Reeve as the vivacious Pigeon sisters.

The Odd Couple Supporting Cast (L-R): Dylan Pratt, Cory Hensen, J.C. Clinton, Abby Reeve, Deron Wolfe, Mark Peper

Producers Kim Hale, Lisa Murphy and Karie Dykeman are assisted by Justin Ables (Artistic Advisor), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Director), and Mac Hill (Set Design and Sound Technician), Marshall Meadows (Photography), and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director and Marketing).

As an added bonus, theatre patrons will be invited to visit the Rock Room Gallery inside the Historic Owen Theatre for the new “Cityscapes & New York Nights” exhibition featuring artwork from a variety of local area artists. All works displayed will be available for sale by the artists. Artists interested in placing a work in the exhibit are asked to contact the Arts Council at info@bransonarts.org.

Theatre enthusiasts are reminded to purchase advance tickets for all of the upcoming Broadway musicals and plays that are already scheduled and in production at the Historic Owen Theatre throughout the 2020-2021 season. Visit BransonArts.org/tix for more information.

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Private Voice Lessons Are Back At Historic Owen Theatre

After a three month break due to the pandemic shutdown, the Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to announce that Roger and Karen Bergford are once again offering LIVE private voice lessons for students of all ages in various styles from classical to musical theater, pop, jazz, gospel, and country. Classes are available in 30 or 60 minutes sessions and will be held in the Rock Room Gallery of the Historic Owen Theatre.

BRAC Vocal Instructors Roger & Karen Bergford

Interested parents or adult students should contact the Branson Regional Arts Council at 417-336-4255 or edu@bransonarts.org for more information on class scheduling and tuition rates.

[fac_icon icon=”heart”] A limited number of youth scholarships for Branson (65616) residents may be available for these classes.

All students will be required to follow the current health and safety protocols set forth by the Branson Regional Arts Council which include arrival temperature checks, masks when others are present, and social distancing in the classroom area.

Roger and Karen have over 30 years experience teaching both private and group vocal lessons. Roger earned his Bachelor of Music Education – Vocal Specialist from the University of Missouri in Kansas City, as well as graduate work in Vocal Performance from the University of Colorado – Boulder.  Karen graduated with high honors from the University of Colorado – Boulder to earn her Bachelor of Music Education. Together they co-authored an industry book titled, “Sound & Language, the Defining Elements of the Complete Singer” in 2007.

After retiring as public school music educators in Colorado, the Bergfords moved to Branson in 2008 and began teaching 26 frontline singers in the Hughes Brothers “it” show, which won the Branson Show Award for “Best Show of the Year” (2009-2012).  In addition to working with the Hughes family, the Bergfords have also taught singers from The Haygoods and Jim Stafford Show casts, a backup singer with Andy Williams, and Voices of Glory, the top 5 finalists of America’s Got Talent (2009) who worked with the Michael Jackson/Boyz II Men manager, Qadree El-Amin. In 2017, the Voices of Glory were named “Vocal Group of the Year,” receiving both the prestigious Terry Award and the Branson Show Award.  Eighteen-year-old Nadia was  named “Female Vocalist of the Year.” The Bergfords were even invited to host a master class on a Bahamas cruise alongside Michael Jackson’s voice teacher in 2012.

Click Here For High Resolution Promotional Photo of Roger and Karen Bergford with BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber

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More Online Creative Art Classes For Kids Announced

The Branson Regional Arts Council announces “Creative Art Class For Kids!,”  a four-day online art class for youth ages 6-16.
These mixed media classes will be offered twice in July and teach collage and painting in a fun and safe setting from the comfort of your own home via your internet connected computer, tablet or smart phone device.
Each class will meet online for one hour a day over four days in a row, Monday through Thursday.
[fac_icon icon=”heart”] BRAC is excited to offer FULL ONLINE SCHOLARSHIP SUMMER ARTS TUITIONS for area students interested in taking these classes free of charge. Visit this link for more information on this scholarship opportunity.
About “Creative Art Class For Kids!”:
Learn to use drawing, painting and collage techniques to bring out your artistic and creative talents! Each class will have a different theme so you will be able to create your own original art at home. This online class offers guided instruction in color mixing, texture, pattern, and composition through Zoom with our experienced certified art teacher, Lisa Murphy.
Week #1 – July 13-16, Monday – Thursday
             Ages 6-11 (Butterflies and Flowers) 10:00am – 11:00am [REGISTER HERE]
             Ages 12-16 (Landscapes) 11:00am – 12:00pm [REGISTER HERE]

Week #2 – July 20-23, Monday – Thursday

              Ages 6-11 (Under the Sea) 10:00am – 11:00am [REGISTER HERE]
              Ages 12-16 (Seascapes) 11:00am – 12:00pm [REGISTER HERE]
Materials Needed: pencil, markers, construction paper, white paper, watercolors, scissors and glue

Meet the instructor:
Lisa Murphy has dedicated her life to promoting the arts in Southwest Missouri. She has been instrumental in guiding the community theatre and the Branson Regional Arts Council and helped lead the way to establishing the Historic Owen Theatre as a home for the arts in our community.

She served on the BRAC Board of Directors in a leadership role, as President and Board Member Emeritus since 2012. After graduating from Missouri State University with a degree in Elementary Education and Art, Lisa pursued graduate studies at Drury University, in Secondary Art and Gifted Education. Her professional career includes teaching at the Springfield Art Museum for five years and teaching in the public schools for over thirty years. She currently teaches Art at The Summit Preparatory School in Springfield. Her professional awards include receiving national recognition in Who’s Who Teacher of the Year, seven times and the Outstanding Teacher Award from the Missouri Fine Arts Academy, twice in her career.

Lisa has been proud to call the Ozarks her home for over thirty years. During that time she has been involved in many productions in Branson, as a performer, producer, and marketing coordinator for numerous plays. BRAC productions include: Annie, Chicago, Legally Blonde, and The Wizard of Oz, just to name a few. She believes the greatest accomplishment of her lifetime to be her family and feels very fortunate and proud to have their love and support. She and her husband Bill have two daughters, Jenna and Michelle, who both graduated from Branson High School. Lisa currently serves on several
committees for the Branson Regional Arts Council and as the BRAC Education Advisor. She is honored to have the opportunity to promote the arts for people of all ages in our community.

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Quarantine Cat Film Fest Benefits Branson Regional Arts Council

Quarantine Cat Film Fest Benefits Branson Regional Arts Council’s Historic Owen Theatre

A new online cat video movie made its virtual world premiere on June 19, and proceeds will help keep the Historic Owen Theatre afloat amidst the COVID-19 crisis.

Filmmakers sifted through more than 1,100 submissions from across the world to create Quarantine Cat Video Film Festival— a 70-minute compilation cat feature that is now available to watch at home through virtual cinema.

The film brings together the cutest, funniest, bravest, and most loving cat videos exclusively filmed during the 2020 quarantine. Its release is through virtual cinema – a new tool used by cinemas nationwide to sell tickets for newly released films that customers can watch at home.

The response has been better than we could have ever hoped and we have so much great content to work with. It’s going to be a really fun feature with hilarious and adventurous cats and, of course, some adorable kittens too. – Brian Mendelssohn, Film Director

Quarantine Cat Film Fest was developed to help bring digital revenue to independent theaters during the COVID-19 closures. More than 60 independent theatre houses, most of which were closed this spring, signed on to show the movie through virtual cinema. Half of the $12 ticket will go directly back to the theater screening it through its virtual cinema portal.

The pandemic forced the Branson Regional Arts Council to close the Historic Owen Theatre last March, yet our expenses to lease and maintain the facility have continued without any productions to help support our efforts. Until we are able to safely welcome audiences back into this 200 seat venue, we are relying on virtual education classes in the arts and outdoor events to entertain our area residents. This online film fest is a fun and unique way to assist in our ongoing fundraising activities. – Jim Barber, Executive Director of the Arts Council


Unlike most virtual cinema films, Quarantine Cat Film Festival was created and distributed through Row House Cinema, an 84-seat independently owned theater in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Mendelssohn, who also owns Row House Cinema, and his wife came up with the idea at the beginning of the quarantine when they were watching their own cats, Oliver and Isabella, play at home.

“We thought, if everyone is stuck inside with our cats anyway we might as well start filming the hilarious things they do and make a cat movie” said Mendelssohn.

Virtual cinema ticket sales for Quarantine Cat Film Festival in support of the Historic Owen Theatre can be purchased securely online now at BransonArts.org/meow.

GET QUARANTINE CAT TICKETS HERE

Just The Facts:

  • Quarantine Cat Film Festival invites viewers watch adorable cat videos at home while supporting their local theatre venue.
  • More than 1,100 cat videos were submitted for the compilation film Quarantine Cat Film Festival.
  • Ticket sales will help support more than 60 small, independently owned and historic venues across the country, including the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson, MO.
  • Purchase your virtual film ticket at BransonArts.org/meow
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July Online Watercolor Landscape Classes Filling Up

The Branson Regional Arts Council continues it’s online education program with another series of it’s popular watercolor landscape art classes this July 7th with master painting instructor Jessica Lowe.

[fac_icon icon=”heart” font_size=”24″] Watch this sample video for a brief sample of this exciting and creative course in watercolor landscape painting which is taught LIVE via Zoom Video Conferencing!

These interactive zoom video classes will focus on Watercolor Landscape Painting techniques, and students will learn to create a new and unique painting each week, while developing their artistic skills in a fun and safe manner from the comfort of their own homes.

Course Description: This is a 4 week online LIVE course where students join the instructor for 1 hour each week to practice watercolor landscape painting.

After you sign up you will get access to:

  • Amazon linked shopping list to order your art supplies! [View Shopping List Now]
  • Two pre-instructional streaming videos about watercolor techniques and tools!
  • One beginners project streaming video to practice with!
  • Four Live Interactive Online Courses with Jessica Lowe!!!!

[fac_icon icon=”calendar” font_size=”24″] July 2020 – Landscape Painting with Jessica Lowe

  • Live Sessions: Tuesdays (July 7, 14, 21, 28, 2020) 6pm – 7pm.
  • Class size limited to the first 8 registrants.

CLICK TO REGISTER FOR JULY WATERCOLOR CLASS

Registration is only $40 per student – designed for adults and high school age students (16 years +). Painting supplies not included in registration fee.

Each live session will last for 1 hour. Students will be sent a private Zoom Video link so they may interact with the instructor via their computer, pad or smart phone device.

Meet the instructor Jessica Lowe…
Jessica works with a variety of media and creates artworks that focus on nature and portraiture.

Jessica Lowe – Art Instructor

Jessica was born in Wichita, KS and moved to Missouri at the age of 10. At age 13 she began her formal training as an artist, working under local veteran artist Sam Hull for 2.5 years.

Graduating from Branson High School, she went on to continue her education at Missouri State University, gaining her BSED in Fine Art in 2015.

She taught High School Art for 4 years at Forsyth High School before deciding to pursue life as an artist-full-time. She is currently working as a free lance commissioned artist creating pieces for patrons, as well as developing her own work.

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BRAC Summer Online Education Scholarships Available To Area Youth

NOTE: We have extended the start of Summer Online Arts Classes by one-week to allow for additional students to participate in the scholarship program who could not attend the previous week. All classes will now begin the week of July 6, 2020.

The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to offer full financial scholarships for any Branson/Springfield area youth between the ages of 5 and 18 who are interested in participating in a variety of upcoming online summer education classes taught by instructors Amelia Parish and Lisa Murphy. We have NINE DIFFERENT CLASSES to select from. Enroll for one, or more!

These online theatre classes, normally priced at $40 per student, include beginning and advanced acting, visual arts, creative writing, music basics, as well as comedy improvisation techniques. Scholarship students may register for one or more of the classes free of charge (see class descriptions and age ranges below). Classes may have a limit on how many students are able to participate, so early registration is recommended.

[fac_icon icon=”heart”] How to request this scholarship...
Interested parents or students are asked to email the Branson Regional Arts Council at info@bransonarts.org and include your student(s) name, age, the city in which you reside full time, and list which class or classes you are interested in registering for.

Qualified individuals will be sent a unique scholarship code allowing them to register online without any form of payment required.

BRAC’s Summer Online Education Classes Include:

Theatre Makers 1! – instructor Amelia Jo Parish
Mondays, 1pm-2pm (Ages 5-12)
Dates: July 6, 13, 20 & 27, 2020

Are you a thespian just waiting to blossom? Are you eager to explore the art of acting and theatre? Have you already been bitten by the acting bug and want to get even better? Regardless of your previous experience, you will take a huge step forward in this class! This will be a thorough introduction to the art of acting, technique and finding material that excites us a young artists!
Click here for more information on this class.

Theatre Makers 2! – instructor Amelia Jo Parish
Mondays, 3pm-4pm (Ages 12+)
Dates: July 6, 13, 20 & 27, 2020

Ah, all the worlds a stage and all the men and women merely players… truer words were ne’er spoken!

Students of this acting and theatre workshop will learn the importance of developing their own unique approach to their work, helpful rehearsal tools and get notes and class coachings to polish up material for a professional acting reel.
Click here for more information on this class.

Scary Stories To Tell In The Dark! – instructor Amelia Jo Parish
Tuesdays, 7:30pm-8:30pm (Ages 12-18)
Dates: July 7, 14, 21 & 28, 2020

Do you love watching scary movies…and secretly wish you could write one? Or STAR in one? What about BOTH? Let’s read some of the classic Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark by Alvin Shwartz, and allow them to inspire original adaptations of our own — and along the way, let’s learn how to utilize jump scares, tension building, basic special effects and creative writing to write and record our own short horror film by the end of this class!
Click here for more information on this class.

Jam Session! – instructor Amelia Jo Parish
Thursdays, 6:00pm-7:00pm (all ages)
Dates: July 9, 16, 23 & 30, 2020

If you have an instrument (piano/guitar/ukulele), we have the class for you! “Fake it till you make it” is an artform musicians at any level can harness and utilize to elevate their performances, and after this class you will be feeling confident enough to play and sing to your hearts’ content — we will learn the basics of chord diagrams, tablature, arrangement and creative musicianship to have you singing and accompanying yourself in no time! And we’ll all join in together, and have a good old fashioned jam session!
Click here for more information on this class.

Intro To Improv! – instructor Amelia Jo Parish
Thursdays, 7:30pm-8:30pm (For all Ages)
Dates: July 9, 16, 23 & 30, 2020
Let’s make stuff up! Learn the basics of Chicago style improv to sharpen your performance skills, quick wittedness, and become the best conversationalist in any social setting! We will explore the concept of recognizing comedic game, playing at the top of our intelligence, active listening and support to “yes-and” our way to improvised scenes. By the end of this class, students will be ready to move on to Intermediate Improv and beyond!
Click here for more information on this class.

Creative Art Class For Kids! – Butterflies & Flowers – instructor Lisa Murphy
Monday thru Thursday, 10:00am-11:00am (ages 6-11)
Dates: July 13, 14, 15, 16, 2020
Learn to use drawing, painting and collage techniques to bring out your artistic and creative talents! Each class will have a different theme so you will be able to create your own original art at home. This online class offers guided instruction in color mixing, texture, pattern, and composition through Zoom with an experienced certified art teacher.
Click here for more information on this class.

Creative Art Class For Kids! – Landscapes – instructor Lisa Murphy
Monday thru Thursday, 11:00am-12:00pm (ages 12-16)
Dates: July 13, 14, 15, 16, 2020
Learn to use drawing, painting and collage techniques to bring out your artistic and creative talents! Each class will have a different theme so you will be able to create your own original art at home. This online class offers guided instruction in color mixing, texture, pattern, and composition through Zoom with an experienced certified art teacher.
Click here for more information on this class.

Creative Art Class For Kids! – Under The Sea – instructor Lisa Murphy
Monday thru Thursday, 1o:00am-11:00am (ages 6-11)
Dates: July 20, 21, 22, 23, 2020
Learn to use drawing, painting and collage techniques to bring out your artistic and creative talents! Each class will have a different theme so you will be able to create your own original art at home. This online class offers guided instruction in color mixing, texture, pattern, and composition through Zoom with an experienced certified art teacher.
Click here for more information on this class.

Creative Art Class For Kids! – Seascapes – instructor Lisa Murphy
Monday thru Thursday, 11:00am-12:00pm (ages 12-16)
Dates: July 20, 21, 22, 23, 2020
Learn to use drawing, painting and collage techniques to bring out your artistic and creative talents! Each class will have a different theme so you will be able to create your own original art at home. This online class offers guided instruction in color mixing, texture, pattern, and composition through Zoom with an experienced certified art teacher.
Click here for more information on this class.

Visit BransonArts.org/artclass for information on all the various online classes currently offered by the Branson Regional Arts Council.

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