Branson area residents are invited to enjoy a special, one-of-a-kind Holiday Showcase Christmas Concert featuring the young talented members of the Branson Regional Arts Council’s Staccato Show Choir.

The concert is on Tuesday, December 17th at 7pm at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson. All seats are $10 and proceeds benefit the BRAC Youth Education Fund, which provides performing opportunities for area youth between the ages of 8 and 18.

Staccato Show Choir is an energetic advanced musical group that combines a challenging music repertoire with entertaining choreography. The choir focuses on elevating and applying its formal training into lively, breath taking “show” style performances. Students meet at the Historic Owen Theatre and study advanced music theory, vocal warm up, stage etiquette, presence and showmanship, as well as multi-part choral music.

General seating, no reservations required. Tickets may be purchased in advance online at BransonArts.org/showcase, or at the door.

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 and through the generous contributions of private donors and Arts Council members.

Branson Regional Arts Council Executive Director Jim Barber has accepted an appointment to join the 2020 Board of Directors for Missouri Citizens for the Arts, a non-partisan, state-wide, grass roots organization that advocates to secure stable financial support for the arts to benefit Missouri and its citizens. 

“The Branson Regional Arts Council has been a supporting member of Missouri Citizens for the Arts for several years because we appreciate the efforts they make on behalf of Arts organizations in Missouri. I’m very excited for this opportunity to work with other Arts professionals from across the State in order to improve funding for the Missouri Arts Council and related organizations. I want to thank Leslie Forrester, Executive Director of the Springfield Regional Arts Council and incoming Board President of MCA, for nominating me for this important position.” – Jim Barber

 

Kyna Iman, MCA Government Affairs Consultant and Lobbyist for Missouri Citizens for the Arts, welcomed the new board members from across the State who include Evie Craig and Jennifer Wampler (Kansas City), Emily Frankoski (Joplin), Barth Fraker (Springfield), Jim Barber (Branson), Jamie Driver and John Parks (St. Louis), and Louis Riggs (Hannibal).

For more than 30 years, Missouri Citizens for the Arts has provided a presence for Missouri’s arts industry at the state Capitol to promote the whole of Missouri’s arts industry to the public and private sectors. Without the work of MCA, public funding for the Arts in Missouri would surely diminish. When funding for arts is presented as a “discretionary” choice, MCA is there to remind legislators that for every one dollar invested in the arts, more than eight dollars are returned to the economy of the state. Organized, statewide arts advocacy is a necessity in order for continued public financial support of the industry.

Missouri Citizens for the Arts from Get Reel Creative on Vimeo.

The Branson Regional Arts Council announces open cast auditions for all roles for our upcoming musical production of THE WIZARD OF OZ.

Audition Dates/Times:

  • Sunday, Dec 15th, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
  • Wednesday, Dec 18th, 6:30pm – 8:30pm

Location:

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

Rehearsal Dates/Times:

  • Sundays through Thursdays (tentative)
  • Initial Cast Meeting – January 4, 2020, 6:00pm
  • January 5, 2020 – February 13, 2020, 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm (tentative)

Performance Dates/Times:

  • Feb 14-16, Feb 21-23, Feb 28-Mar 1 (12 performances)
  • Evening Performances @ 7:00 pm – Matinee Performances @ 2:00 pm

Producers: Kim Hale, Karie Dykeman, Lisa Murphy
Director: Jacob Deck
Music Director: Caitlin Secrest

About The Show:
This beloved tale, in which a Kansas farm girl travels over the rainbow to discover the magical power of home, has been entertaining audiences for 80 years!

This will be the RSC version of THE WIZARD OF OZ, and includes the songs “Over The Rainbow,” “Munchkinland (Ding Dong! The Witch Is Dead),” “If I Only Had A Brain/A Heart/The Nerve,” “We’re Off To See The Wizard (Follow The Yellow Brick Road),” “The Jitterbug,” and “The Merry Old Land of Oz,” “Poppies (Optimistic Voices)” and “If I Were King Of The Forest.”

IMPORTANT:
[fac_icon icon=”star”] Please prepare (1) song and bring Karaoke tracks for your musical audition on phone or as an MP3 on a thumb drive. If you are reading for a specific role, please sing that characters song from The Wizard of Oz (not required).

[fac_icon icon=”star”] Please be prepared to run through some simple choreography. Dress in comfortable, loose clothing, no high heels or ruby slippers.

[fac_icon icon=”star”] You may be asked to do a cold read from the script.

 

Character Breakdown – Principal Roles:

Dorothy Gale – The heroine of our Fairytale, young, full of energy, strength and kindness. Must be strong dancer, singer and actress.

Professor Marvel/The Wizard of OZ – Professor Marvel portrays himself as one who knows many things and has great wisdom in all matters with the help of his crystal ball. Must be a strong actor. Wizard of Oz is a mysterious character that rules over Oz. Must be strong actor with crisp clear voice and commanding presence.

Hunk/The Scarecrow – Hunk is the thinker of the bunch who speaks his mind. Must be a strong actor with good comedic timing. The Scarecrow is made of straw and walks with constant unrestricted movements. He has no brain but often says more intelligent and insightful things than any other person in the musical. Must be a strong singer, actor and dancer.

Zeke/The Cowardly Lion – Zeke is the farmhand Dorothy turns to for encouragement and courage. He is sweet and comforting but easily spooked. Must be a strong actor.
The Cowardly Lion wishes to go home throughout the adventures in Oz but his friends never let him. In the end he finds the courage he thought he was lacking. Must be strong dancer, singer and actor and have great comedic timing.

Hickory/The Tin Man – Hickory is emotionally charged farmhand who desires great things. He is quick witted and lovable. The Tin Man is the most loving and emotional character in the musical. He wants nothing more than to have his heart back. He is strong, protective and encouraging. Must be a strong dancer (tap), singer and actor.

Aunt Em/Glinda the Good Witch – Emily Gale is the Aunt of Dorothy who leads a busy and tiring life on her Kansas farm. Strong actress capable of portraying a strong motherly character. Glinda the Good Witch of the North watches over Dorothy and her friends. She is caring and nurturing and is a great aid to anyone in need. She must portray dignity and grace. Strong actress and good singer for her solos in Munchkinland and Poppy field.

Miss Gulch/The Wicked Witch of the West – Miss Gulch is uptight neighbor who attempts to take Dorothy’s beloved dog Toto away from her. She is harsh, mean and strict spirit but also has a good delivery of sarcastic banter. The Wicked Witch of the West is the villain of our story. She follows our four friends throughout the land of OZ striking fear into them any way she can. While she is a bully with a fantastically creepy cackle she also has a playful fun side. Actress must be able to blend the witch’s wicked ways with her sarcastic wit.

Character Breakdown – Supporting Roles:

Uncle Henry – Uncle Henry is a busy man trying to keep his farm afloat. He is goodhearted and good natured.

Three Crows – Three male crows sing with Scarecrow in “If I only had a brain. Must be good dancers, singers and actors.

Three Trees – Three female trees sing along with Tin Man in “If I only had a heart”. Must have good singing and speaking voices.

Mayor of Munchkinland – Must be a strong speaker and singer.

Coroner of Munchkinland – Should be a good singer with a unique voice.

Lullaby League – 3 Tots – Ballerinas – Must have sweet voices and be able to dance on pointe.

Lollipop Guild – 3 Tough Guys – Must be good singers and dancers.

Winkie General – Head of the Witch’s Army

Nikko – Head of the Flying Monkeys

Flying Monkeys

Poppies & Snowflakes

Emerald City Guard

Jitterbug Lead Dancers, Jitterbugs and Ghosts


Practice Accompaniment Tracks on YouTube To Help Inspire Or Get You Started…

Over The Rainbow
Follow The Yellow Brick Road
If I Only Had A Heart
If I Only Had The Nerve
If I Were The King Of The Forest
Munchkin Musical Sequence
The Jitterbug
Entre’ Acte / Merry Old Land Of Oz
Original Movie Soundtrack Songs

The Branson Regional Arts Council Celebrates #GivingTuesday and pledges to the BRAC Youth Education Fund.

#GivingTuesday is a global day of giving that harnesses the collective power of individuals, communities and organizations to encourage philanthropy and to celebrate generosity worldwide. Following Thanksgiving and the widely recognized shopping events Black Friday and Cyber Monday, this year’s #GivingTuesday takes place on Tuesday, December 3rd and will kick off the giving season by inspiring people to collaborate and give back.

The Branson Regional Arts Council has established it’s BRAC Youth Education Fund to provide financial support to our theatre and music conservatory students between the ages of 8 and 18. Our goal is to make it possible for any student, regardless of their personal financial means, to have an opportunity to participate in at least one of our youth arts performance troupes.  Our Staccato Show Choir has been performing locally for a variety of community events in 2019, such as the Hollister Grape & Fall Festival, the First Friday & BBQ FEST at Liberty Plaza, the 12th Annual Piccadilly Gala, as well as their own Holiday Showcase Concert coming up on December 17th at the Historic Owen Theatre [click for info].

“It feels so good to see our young performers excel and improve through the programming developed by the Branson Regional Arts Council. Our Youth Education fund is providing our area students with many opportunities to learn and grow. Major credit goes to the amazing leadership and training they receive from our Vocal Education Director Lloyd Alexander-Holt, Dance Director Kristen Dasto, Theatre Director Jacob Estes, Vocal Instructors Roger & Karen Bergford and Theatre Instructor Jake Deck. Can you help support this effort in some small or significant way?” – Jim Barber, BRAC Executive Director

HOW TO DONATE TO #GivingTuesday

YOUTH EDUCATION FUND DONATION

Donations specifically towards the BRAC Youth Education Fund may be made via the Facebook Fundraiser Link Button above, or by mailing a personal donation check payable to BRAC (notate Youth Education Fund in the memo) to: BRAC, P.O. Box 2004, Branson, MO 65615

DOUBLE YOUR DONATION… Beginning at 7:00am CST on Tuesday, December 3rd, Facebook will be matching any donations (via the link above) dollar for dollar on a first come first serve basis until it hits 7 million dollars in donations matched! That’s an incredible way to double your donation!

Founded in 2012 by the 92nd Street Y – a community and cultural center in New York City − #GivingTuesday inspired millions of people to give back and support the causes they believe in. Over $300 million was raised online to benefit a tremendously broad range of organizations, and much more was given in volunteer hours, donations of food and clothing, and acts of kindness. “We are incredibly inspired by the way the #GivingTuesday community has embraced this concept for a worldwide movement,” said Henry Timms, founder of #GivingTuesday and Executive Director of 92Y. “As we prepare for November 27, we’re energized and encouraged by the community’s generosity. The levels of creativity, effort and the quality of the new ideas people have contributed and shared are phenomenal.”

Ebenezer Scrooge and his ghostly encounters come to life in a lavish and thrilling Broadway musical adaptation of A Christmas Carol, The Musical. Presented for the first time in Branson, this version of the holiday classic runs for 8 performances at the Historic Owen Theatre, December 5-15th.

The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to present this spectacular adaptation of Charles Dickens’ most well-known story, featuring an impressive music score by Broadway heavy hitters Alan Mencken (Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Little Shop of Horrors) and Lynn Ahrens (Ragtime, Seussical, Once on This Island).

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

In this classic tale, a prosperous curmudgeon, Ebenezer Scrooge, believes that personal wealth is far more valuable than the happiness and comfort of others. With an infuriated “Bah! Humbug!” Scrooge summates his feelings of Christmas tidings and charitable giving, but he’s forced to face his selfish ways when three ghosts on Christmas Eve lead him through his Past, Present and Future. Thanks to their guidance, Scrooge recognizes his faults and greets Christmas morning with a cheerful “Happy Christmas” before spending the day reconnecting and sharing love with those that mean the most to him.

The cast of A Christmas Carol include: Michael David LaGue (Scrooge), Charlee Mitchell (Tiny Tim – child), Sean Neil Myers (Mr. Fezziwig / Beadle / Charity Man), Alex Harris (Mr Smythe / Scrooge’s Father / Old Joe / Ghost Dancer / Dancer / Ensemble), Jack Cathcart (Mr. Cratchit / Ensemble), Lundyn Mitchell (Grace Smythe / Caroler / Fan / Ensemble), Aaron Williams (Young Marley / Charity Man / Poulterer / Mr. Hawkins / Fishmonger / Ensemble), Tanner McGowan (Ghost Of Christmas Past / Lamplighter / Dancer / Ensemble), Brendon Boyd Dalton (Ghost Of Christmas Present /Sandwichboard Man / Dancer / Undertaker / Ensemble), Chrystal Blair (Ghost Of Christmas Future / Blind Old Hag / Ensemble), Liya Rivere (Martha / Ghost Dancer / Dancer / Monk), Julie Brinkman (Mrs. Cratchit / Scrooge’s Mom / Charwoman / Dancer), Evan Sanders (Fred / Dancer / Ensemble), Pace Gilman (Jonathan / Chratchit Child / Ghost Dancer / Dancer), Mac Hill (Marley / Banker / Ensemble), Mindy Law (Mrs. Mops / Rich Woman / Fred’s Guest), Jacob Estes (Judge Voiceover), Liam Hill (Child Scrooge / Ignorance / Boy Worker / Ensemble), Hallie Groff (Fred’s Daughter / Dancer / Ensemble), Jacob Deck (Young Scrooge / Charity Man / Banker / Ghost Dancer / Undertaker / Feature Ensemble), Sarah Williams (Mrs. Fezziwig / Caroler / Ensemble), Taylor Haverstick (Emily / Sally / Ghost Dancer / Caroler / Rich Woman / Dancer), Megan Rodgers (Rich Woman / Ghost Dancer / Dancer / Ensemble), Somer Dean (Rich Woman / Ghost Dancer / Dancer / Monk / Ensemble) and Brenna Bergeron (Rich Woman / Ghost Dancer / Dancer / Monk / Ensemble).

The production team includes: Karie Dykeman (Producer / Stage Manager), Kim Hale (Producer), Jacob Estes (Director / Hair & Wig Design), Caitlin Secrest (Music Director), Jacob Deck (Choreographer), Corey Mitchell (Technical Director / Set Designer), Ashley Moore (Assistant Stage Manager / Wardrobe), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Mac Hill (Sound Technician), Nicky McQueen (Sound Engineer), Jonathan Crum (Costume Design), Stephanie Groff (Wardrobe), Jordan Alexander-Holt (Hair & Wig Design), Roz Slavik (Prop Master), Marshall Meadows (Photography), Mike Groff, Art Hale, Mac Hill, Lloyd Alexander-Holt, Jordan Alexander-Holt (Set Construction) and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director / Marketing).

Tickets are $16.96 (Adults 18+) and $11.45 (Youth 4-17) with proceeds benefitting the Branson Regional Arts Council. Call the Historic Owen Theatre at 417-336-4255 or select seats online at BransonArts.org/tix.

Bring your family to share this memorable holiday tradition of A Christmas Carol, on stage at the Historic Owen Theatre through December 15th.

The Branson Regional Arts Council is presenting a one-day (two-hour) watercolor workshop, where registered participants will learn the techniques of creating an old fashioned Hand-made Christmas Card as seen in the photo.

Old Fashioned Watercolor Christmas Card Workshop

  • Tuesday, December 10, 2019
  • 6pm – 8pm
  • Historic Owen Theatre (downtown Branson)

Class Description: This is a one-day workshop for all ages where participants will be walked through a step by step paint along process. We will create a hand-made Christmas card featuring a classic red ornament nestled in the pine branches of a Christmas tree. Join us to learn some new watercolor painting techniques and create a lovely holiday greeting card for a family member or friend.

REGISTER FOR THE CHRISTMAS CARD CLASS

CLICK HERE for more information and to register online for this fun and educational workshop! Call 417-336-4255 with any questions.

 

The 2nd Annual Talent Show to benefit the BRAC Youth Education Fund takes to the stage of the Historic Owen Theatre on Friday, November 22nd at 7pm.

Experience a wide variety of talented kids and adults as they perform their way into your heart! Open seating will begin at 6:30pm and all tickets are just a $10 donation per seat. Cheer for your favorite performers as they compete for your applause and some incredible trophies as selected by our panel of judges.

18 talented performers auditioned and were selected to appear in this year’s line-up. They include: Ralph Hepola and Luke Cooksey (Instrumentalists), Korey Brown (Vocalist), Jordan Kendrick (Vocalist), Sophie Douglas (Vocalist), Kaitlyn and Stephanie Schumacher (Ukelele Act), Wesley Brown (Vocalist), Bethany Brown (Vocalist), Dylan Pratt (Vocalist), Drake Bardwell (Vocalist), Molly Jones (Vocalist), Dominic Giannotti (Magical Dog Act), Savannah Jewsbury (Vocalist), Micah and Sheri Kuenzle (Vocalist/Pianist), Renee Elkady (Vocalist) and Ashley Rodgers (interpretive dance).

BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber will act a Master of Ceremonies, and a panel of celebrity judges will include Jody Maderas, Delyla Uebel, and Kevin Davis.

Jody Madaras is a New York based Producer, Actor, Director, Dancer and the creator of the “All Hands On Deck Show” now playing at the Dutton Family Theatre in Branson.

Delyla Uebel is a skilled performer on piano, keyboard, guitar and vocals from Lampe, MO. She has 25 years experience as a High School vocal director and accompanist, with professional touring credits across the country as well as international tours in Japan.

Kevin Davis is a professional musician, song writer, and event promoter from Kentucky. He’s worked with many of Branson’s best known performers and is excited to help the Branson Regional Arts Council with this important fundraising event for our area youth.

The BRAC Talent Show will be for one night only, this Friday evening at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

Visit http://BransonArts.org/talentshow for advance tickets! Seating is limited!

Are you an artist? Would like to celebrate your community? Want to showcase your art?

The Branson Regional Arts Council is pleased to help spread the word that Walmart is calling on local artists, art students, or art organizations to submit artwork in celebration of our community. Selected submissions will be reproduced as a large in-store mural. With thousands of customers a day, your art is sure to be seen!

Selected artists will be eligible for a cash stipend.

This program is designed to give our Branson/Springfield area Walmart stores a unique identity that celebrates our community while at the same time promoting local education and the arts. The program is open to local artists of all ages, skill level, and experience.

Artists are invited to visit WalmartMurals.com to register for more information and submit artwork.  Please include the store number (see below) that you would like to submit your work to.

Thank you for helping celebrate our community through Walmart’s new mural program.

Branson Walmart Supercenter #4381
1101 Branson Hills Pkwy

Branson Walmart #32
2050 W 76 Country Blvd

Branson West Walmart Supercenter #2175
18401 State Hwy 13

Nixa Walmart Supercenter #2702
1102 N Massey Blvd

Springfield Walmart Supercenter #2221
2021 E Independence St

This is a national program… lookup the Walmart Store Closest to you at: WalmartMurals.com

Note: This is not a program of the Branson Regional Arts Council, we are simply sharing this information with artists in our area who may be interested in this opportunity.

Seven Brides For Seven Brothers Opens Nov 1st!

The high energy stage musical Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, based on the Academy Award winning MGM musical film by the same name, will be presented at the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson for eight exciting shows between November 1-10, 2019.

This Branson Regional Arts Council production has been in rehearsal for over six weeks with a talented cast of 26 actresses and actors.

Advance reserved tickets are highly recommended and available by calling the box office at 417-336-4255. Patrons may also select and purchase their own seats online at BransonArts.org/tix. Adult (18+) tickets are $16.95 and Youth (4-17) are $11.45. Proceeds benefit the Branson Regional Arts Council, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

This authentic piece of Americana, is a time-tested romantic comedy musical with a special, contemporary relevance. Bringing the raucous Oregon frontier from the screen to the stage, it is a crowd-pleasing hit that has audiences cheering from the opening scene to the curtain call.

“Whether you attend for a heady exploration of its thematic elements or to simply sit back and enjoy the spirited song and dance, it is my sincerest wish that you enjoy “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.”
–  Jordan Alexander-Holt, Director and Choreographer

Saddle up for a joyride in this tale of stubborn men and cunning women. The men in question are Adam and his six unruly brothers, who think they know what a woman’s place is and how to keep her there. It takes Milly, Adam’s spirited new wife, and six other savvy women to show them who’s the boss.

“I applaud our incredible production team for their seamless transition as we go from one show to the next. This will be the 9th major theatre production that the Arts Council has been involved this this year, and it promises to be one of our biggest and best, especially if you are a fan of classic broadway musicals filled with tons of singing and dancing throughout.”
– Jim Barber, BRAC Executive Director

The cast members are: Sarah Sutherland (Milly Pontipee), Nathan Sutherland (Adam Pontipee), Kellsey Bradley (Dorcas), Joey Blackwood (Gideon), Julie Brinkman (Sarah), Kyle Bradley (Benjamin), Melissa Davis (Alice), Joseph Donathan (Luke), Alexis Fischer (Liza), Alex Harris (Frank), Amy Miller (Ruth), Michael Horn (Caleb), Samantha Ault (Martha), Josh Silvy (Nathan), Haley Bertrand (Mrs. Hoallum), Jonathan Kirkland (Daniel), Beth Lambeth (Mrs. Sander), Sean Neil Myers (Ephraim), Jed Friedman (Jeb),  Dylan Pratt (Zeke), Carter Hendrickson (Matt / Understudy Ephraim), Derek Brown (Joel), Jeremiah Reeve (Preacher), Michael Franklin (Mr. Sander), Lucas Dahlgren (Mr. Hoallum) and Ruben Dutton (Understudy Matt).

The production team includes: Karie Dykeman, Kimberly Hale and Lisa Murphy (Producers), Jordan Alexander-Holt (Director and Choreographer), Lloyd Alexander-Holt (Music Director and Stage Manager), Corey Mitchell (Technical Director and Set Designer), Kwaku Addai (Scenic Muralist), Jonathan Crum (Costume Designer), Haley Bertrand (Costumer), Roz Slavik (Prop Master), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Designer), Mac Hill (Audio Director), Noah Byer (Videographer), Marshall Meadows (Photographer), Jim Barber (Graphic Design and Marketing), Mike Groff, Michael Horn, Kyle Bradley, Nathan Sutherland and Mark Musser (Set Construction).

“We are thrilled anytime we can incorporate a talented area artist into our set designs, and the full stage backdrop of this production features a hand-painted mountain scene by world renowned artist Kwaku Addai, who was born in the small village of Asamang in the Ashanti region of Ghana, Africa. Kwaku is now a resident of Branson and currently featured in our art exhibit at the Branson Convention Center Gallery. We are grateful that he lent his talents to help transform this historic stage into the majestic mountains of Oregon.”
– Jim Barber

BRAC wishes to thank State Park Marina and Starboard Corporation for supporting this production as a Backstage Sponsor.

 

The Branson Regional Arts Council is offering two new art class programs at the Historic Owen Theatre’s Gallery Studio for youth and adults beginning Tuesday, October 22nd.

FALL NATURE ART CLASSES FOR KIDS

  • 5 Week Class meets Tuesdays, Oct 22nd thru Nov 19th
  • Two time slots available: 3pm-4pm or 4pm-5pm
  • For Kids Ages: 6-11 (Class Sizes Limited)
  • Art Instructor: Lisa Murphy

Children will enjoy learning how to use a variety of art media to create Fall Themed Art Projects. They will have the opportunity to experiment with Painting, Printmaking, Collage, Charcoal and Chalk. Each week students will use nature as their theme as they learn to mix and blend Fall colors and explore nature through a variety of mixed media techniques. Kids will have fun using their imaginations to celebrate the Fall season!

$60 Registration fee covers all instruction and art supplies over the 5 weeks of classes. Great program for homeschoolers or any student who enjoys the arts!

REGISTER FOR THE FALL NATURE ART CLASSES

Visit BransonArts.org/artclass for more information or to register.

WATERCOLOR PAINTING FOR TEENS & ADULTS

  • 5 Week Class meets Tuesdays, Oct 22th thru Nov 19th
  • 5pm-6pm (Ages 12-17) or 6pm-7pm (Ages 18+)
  • Art Instructors: Lisa Murphy & Jessica Lowe

This is a 5 week painting class for teens and adults interested in watercolor landscape painting. Learn new watercolor painting techniques, follow along in a mock landscape demo, and paint your own style of landscape with the help and guidance or our experienced, local instructors, Jessica Lowe and Lisa Murphy.

Come to experiment, have fun and develop an exciting artistic skill!

Registration fee covers all instruction over the 5 weeks of classes.

REGISTER FOR THE WATERCOLOR CLASSES

NOTE: Students must provide their own materials (see list on registration page). Materials may be purchased at most art supply stores such as Michael’s Craft Store, or via Amazon.com (Approx. $61 + shipping) at this link: https://bransonarts.org/watercolorsupplies .

Visit BransonArts.org/artclass for more information or to register.

MEET THE INSTRUCTORS:

Jessica Lowe is a Missouri based artist. She works with a variety of media and creates artworks that focus on nature and portraiture. 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.

Lisa Murphy is a Board Member Emeritus and Past President of the Branson Regional Arts Council. She has dedicated her life to promoting Art Education in Southwest Missouri. After graduating from MSU with a degree in Elementary Education and a minor in Art and Library Science she started working towards a Masters Degree at Drury University, where she studied Secondary Art and Gifted Education. Her professional career includes teaching Art at the Springfield Art Museum for five years and teaching in the public schools for over thirty years. The majority of her career was devoted to teaching Art in a small rural school that was named one of the top five high schools in Missouri and awarded the National Blue Ribbon. Her professional awards include: National Recognition in Who’s Who Teacher of the Year, seven times and the Outstanding Teacher Award by the Missouri Fine Arts Academy twice in her career. Currently she teaches Art at The Summit Preparatory School in Springfield.

Incredible Pumpkin Painting Party at the Branson Centennial History Museum!

The Branson Regional Arts Council and the Branson Centennial Museum are teaming up to present a FUN & FESTIVE EVENT for all ages!

Register today for our INCREDIBLE PUMPKIN PAINTING PARTY in Historic Downtown Branson!

There will be 2 EVENTS to choose from based on age:
• Kids (12 and under) – Saturday, Oct 19th, 10am-12pm
• Teens (13-17) – Saturday, Oct 19th, 1pm-3pm

Parents are welcome to attend with their child, or also register for their own pumpkin to paint as well! GREAT FAMILY FUN!

$20 Registration Fee per participant. Class sizes are limited. Sign up soon to secure your spot!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER NOW

We will provide the pumpkins, and all painting materials needed. Your instructors are Certified Professional Art Teachers with years of experience!

Our prize sponsor Dicks 5&10 will be providing refreshments, special treats and prizes for everyone! You won’t want to miss it!

All proceeds benefit the Branson Regional Arts Council and the Branson Centennial Museum (both organizations are 501(c)3 charities).

Auditions for the Branson Regional Arts Council‘s production of A Christmas Carol, The Musical will be held at the Historic Owen Theatre on Friday, October 18th  & Saturday, October 19th  (2019) from 6:00-9:00 p.m. Callbacks-To be Determined

Performance dates (8 shows):

  • December 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14 – 7:00 PM
  • December 7, 15 – 2:00 PM

AUDITION REQUIREMENTS:

➢ Seeking Adult and Children performers

➢ Please prepare a 1-2 minute vocal selection that showcases vocal ability. All vocal selections must be from standard musical theatre repertoire in the style of the show. NO POP, ROCK, COUNTRY OR GOSPEL.

Please DO NOT perform any songs from the show.

Please bring an mp3 track on a digital device such as a phone or iPad. NO CD’s.

A dialect will be required for this show. Please come prepared to cold read from the script with a Standard British dialect.

All participants will be required to attend the dance call. Please bring appropriate clothing & footwear. Ladies are required to wear high heel character shoes and men are required to wear closed toed shoes; jazz shoes preferred. NO SANDALS or BARE FEET ALLOWED.

The Branson Regional Arts Council’s production of A Christmas Carol is directed by Jacob Estes.

Character Breakdown

➢ Most of the performers in the cast will be playing multiple roles.

 

Scrooge

A man who lost his father to creditors as a kid and has grown up heeding his father’s advice to save his money. Until he realizes how terrible he’s become, he is grumpy, unsympathetic man and has no time for anyone or anything.

Gender: Male

Age: 45 to 65

Vocal range: Baritone

 

Mr. Cratchit

A father and husband who cares deeply for his family, particularly his youngest son. He works hard to provide for them but is mistreated by his employer, Scrooge.

Gender: Male

Age: 30 to 40

Vocal range: Baritone

 

Mrs. Cratchit

Tiny Tim’s mother and Mr. Cratchit’s wife. She is a loving mother who tries to provide the best for her children with what she’s got.

Gender: Female

Age: 30 to 40

Vocal range: Soprano/Mezzo

 

Tiny Tim

Mr. and Mrs. Cratchit’s youngest son. He is crippled and sick, but is the definition of loving Christmas spirit. He constantly reminds his family that as long as they all have each other, they will be happy.

Gender: Male

Age: 9 to 12

Vocal range: Boy Soprano

 

Fred

Scrooge’s nephew and only living relative. He is a pleasant young man who believes in the good a joyful Christmas spirit can make in the world.

Gender: Male

Age: 25 to 35

Vocal range: Tenor

 

Ghost Of Christmas Present

A jovial, larger-than-life ghost who comes back to show Scrooge all the joy, love, and celebration he his missing out on while those around him celebrate Christmas. Actor doubles as Sandwichboard Man.

Gender: Male

Age: 30 to 45

Vocal range: Baritone/Tenor

 

Ghost Of Christmas Past

An ever cheerful, sprightly ghost who comes back with the history book of Scrooge’s past to show him the events that led to his current state. Actor doubles as Lamplighter.

Gender: Female

Age: 20-30

Vocal: Soprano/Mezzo

 

Blind Old Hag / Ghost Of Christmas Future

A beautiful, and terrifying wrath, the Ghost of Christmas Future is strong and silent as she shows Scrooge what will happen to him and those around him if he continue down the path he is currently treading.

Gender: Female

Age: 50 to 65

Vocal range: Mezzo

 

Marley

Scrooge’s former business partner who, before his death, was exactly like Scrooge. Comes back as a ghost in chains to warn Scrooge of how his life decisions will bind him in the afterlife.

Gender: Male

Age: 45 to 55

Vocal range: Tenor

 

Emily

Scrooge’s fiancé from when they were young. She is a beautiful girl, not impressed or in need of money.

Gender: Female

Age: 18 to 25

Vocal range: Soprano

 

Young Scrooge

A handsome young version of Scrooge from his youth, He is engaged to Emily.

Gender: Male

Age: 18 to 25

Vocal range: Baritone/Tenor

 

Mrs. Fezziwig

The consummate hostess and Mr. Fezziwig’s wife, she loved to help throw the Christmas party every year. She is prideful.

Gender: Female

Age: 30 to 60

Vocal range: Soprano

 

Mr. Fezziwig

A portly, jolly man who used to throw a huge Christmas party every year for the community. He was Scrooge’s first boss and after teaching him all he knew, he became deeply disappointed in the man Scrooge became.

Gender: Male

Age: 30 to 60

Vocal range: Tenor

 

Ensemble:

Scrooge’s Mother; Fan; Cratchet Children; Bankers; Street Vendors; Sailors; Ghosts; Jailers; Clerks; Monks