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Shrek The Musical Jr. – Summer Youth Institute Registration Announced


The 2019 Youth Troupe Summer Theatre Institute is now accepting students for it’s production of Shrek the Musical, Jr.

Register your child (ages 6-18) to experience the Branson Regional Arts Council’s exciting summer theatre camp at the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson. The theme is Shrek the Musical Jr., with classes on Monday thru Friday, 8:00am – 12:00pm from May 20 thru June 9th. There will be a initial parent/student meeting on Sunday, May 19th from 6pm-7pm. (No class on May 27th for Memorial Day).

No auditions or previous experience required to participate!

Tuition for the entire session, including performances is $150 per student ($125 for BRAC members). A limited amount of scholarships are available based on need and situation.  Contact info@bransonarts.org for information.

The students will learn acting, dancing, singing, and stage movement culminating in a magnificent stage production of Dreamworks’ Shrek the Musical Jr. with public performances June 6-9, 2019. Reserved seat tickets for Shrek the Musical Jr. are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix.

JUMP INTO THE SWAMP!!! Register your child for this MAGICAL award-winning musical theatre experience!

CLICK TO REGISTER FOR SUMMER INSTITUTE

Shrek the Musical Jr. is based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film and the Broadway production that received a total of twelve Drama Desk Awards and eight Tony Award nominations, including Best Musical! Beauty is in the eye of the ogre! It’s a “big bright beautiful world” as everyone’s favorite ogre, Shrek, leads a cast of fairytale misfits on an adventure to rescue a princess and find true acceptance. Part romance and part twisted fairy tale, Shrek JR. is an irreverently fun show with a powerful message for the whole family.

Summer Institute Class and Performance Schedule will be as follows:

 Sunday May 19 – 6:00 to 7:00 pm (Parents & Students Information Meeting)
 Monday May 20 – 8:00am to 12:00pm (Hollister Students only – 4:00pm to 6:00pm)
 Tuesday May 21 – 8:00am to 12:00pm (Hollister Students only – 4:00pm to 6:00pm)
 Wednesday May 22 – 8:00am to 12:00pm
 Thursday May 23 – 8:00am to 12:00pm
 Friday May 24 – 8:00am to 12:00pm
 Monday May 27 – Off (Memorial Day)
 Tuesday May 28 – 8:00am to 12:00pm
 Wednesday May 29 – 8:00am to 12:00pm
 Thursday May 30 – 8:00am to 12:00pm
 Friday May 31 – 8:00am to 12:00pm
 Monday June 3 – 8:00am to 12:00pm
 Tuesday June 4 – 8:00am to 12:00pm
 Wednesday June 5 – 8:00am to 12:00pm
 Thursday June 6 – 1:00 to 5:00 pm Performance at 7:00pm
 Friday June 7 – Call Time 5:00 pm Performance at 7:00 pm
 Saturday June 8 – Call Time noon Performance at 2:00 Call Time 5:00 Performance at 7:00
 Sunday June 9 – Call Time noon Performance at 2:00 Call Time 5:00 Performance at 7:00
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Fairytale Musical Into The Woods Opens At Historic Owen Theatre

Fairytale Musical Into The Woods Opens At Historic Owen Theatre

Forte Theatre Productions and the Branson Regional Arts Council are excited to team up for the second musical of the 2019 Season at the Historic Owen Theatre, Into The Woods, with performances on April 4,7,8,11,14 and 15 at 7:30pm.

Advance reserve tickets are $16.95* (Adults 18+), and $11.45* (Youth 4-17) and are available at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling 417-336-4255. *Tickets include a small ticketing service fee. Proceeds benefit the community theatre program at the Historic Owen Theatre.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

“Forte brings a new level of theatrical entertainment to the Ozarks,” says Jim Barber, BRAC Executive Director. “They are a highly talented and dedicated troupe of professional actors and directors, and the Branson Regional Arts Council is honored to collaborate with them on a regular basis. Whether a full stage musical, Shakespeare in the Park, or a themed Cabaret show, a Forte production is guaranteed to entertain, educate, and inspire!”

Into The Woods is an epic, musical fairytale about wishes, family, and the choices we make. Rated PG13, this production will stand alone as one of the highlight productions of the 2019 season.

James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim take everyone’s favorite storybook characters and bring them together for a timeless, yet relevant, piece… and a rare modern classic. The Tony Award-winning book and score are both enchanting and touching.

The story follows a Baker and his wife, who wish to have a child; Cinderella, who wishes to attend the King’s Festival; and Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk. When the Baker and his wife learn that they cannot have a child because of a Witch’s curse, the two set off on a journey to break the curse. Everyone’s wish is granted, but the consequences of their actions return to haunt them later with disastrous results.

The cast for Into The Woods include: Michael Salsbury (Narrator/Mysterious Man), Jacob Cummings (Baker), Karrah Fleshman (Baker’s Wife), Brielle Mae (Cinderella), Traven A. Harrington (Cinderella’s Prince/Wolf), Ryan Hippe (Jack), Mariah Garrett (Jack’s Mother), Cassandra Cummings (Little Red), Kristen Ables (Witch), Tiffany Bear (Rapunzel), Tobi Nordlund (Rapunzel’s Prince), Bethany Hansen (Stepmother), Audrey Roberts (Lucinda), Charis Boulden (Forinda), Jenny Day (Cinderella’s Mother/Granny), and Brian Huff (Steward).

The production team for Into The Woods include: Tina Cool-Anderson (Producer), Justin Ables (Director), Nate Frank (Musical Director), Delyla Uebel (Accompanist), Mary Huff (Assistant Director), Cori Biggs (Choreographer), Brian Huff (Fight Choreographer), Jonathan Crum and Laura Cook (Costumes), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design).

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Art Class by the Glass at Vino Cellars on the Lake

The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to announce return of a fun painting event called “Art Class by the Glass,” to be held at Vino Cellars at the Lake, 15038 Business Hwy 13
, Branson West, MO 65737. This “Cork & Canvas” type event is scheduled for Thursday, March 28, 2019 from 5pm – 7pm.

The $25 registration fee (per person) includes all painting supplies, and instruction. Wine is available separately by the glass or bottle.

The class size is limited to between 10 and 20 participants, so early registration is recommended. Click here to register.

CLICK TO REGISTER FOR ART CLASS BY THE GLASS

The painting class will be led by professional artist and teacher, Kelly Wren.

“I have enjoyed several careers before retiring to Branson last year. My Clothing and Design degree from the University of Missouri led to an exciting career in the fashion industry throughout the country. When family brought me back to my roots in Missouri, I went back to school for my Masters in Education. I then taught high school art and adult classes in my hometown of Nevada, Missouri. As a member of the art communities of both Nevada and later Stockton, I developed art shows, classes, city murals, and workshops. My love of art and community always find a home wherever I live.” – Kelly Wrenn (Art Instructor)

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Disney Performance Dreams Realized For Branson Area Youth

Twelve young performers from the Branson area experienced a journey of a life-time this past week as they successfully fulfilled a dream that began six months ago; an opportunity to participate in one of the Nation’s leading high school music education programs, Festival Disney in Orlando, Florida.

The students (from youngest to oldest) include; Hallie Groff (9), Jake Musser (13), Sydney Pride (13), Megan Rodgers (13), Jordan Kendrick (15), Noah Beyer (15), Moritz Mund (16), Jacob Deeter (16), Alex Knudsen (16), Carter Hendrickson (16), Dani Groff (18) and Brenna Kellem (18).

In August 2018, the Branson Regional Arts Council (BRAC) announced a new youth education program to provide vocal music, dance and theatre training for area students between the ages of 8 and 18. Open auditions were held at the Historic Owen Theatre, and from the dozens of youth who tried out, six boys and six girls were selected to form a musical show choir group called “Staccato”. This advanced choir combines a challenging musical repertoire with entertaining choreography to provide a unique, one of a kind, arts education experience for young students in the Branson area.

Kim Hale is the Vice President of BRAC and serves as the Educational Advisory Chair for the new arts program. Lloyd Alexander-Holt is the BRAC Education Director and Director of Vocal Studies, Kristen Dasto is the Director of Dance Studies, and Jacob Estes is the Director of Theatre Education.

Shortly after the show choir was formed, these talented directors announced an ambitious goal of sending Staccato to perform at the Festival Disney event. Since that time, the talented troupe of performers has been very busy rehearsing, fundraising, and performing at various area events including the Grand Opening of the new Mercy Branson Multi-Specialty Clinic, the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, the DBBA’s Piccadilly Gala, as well as multiple performances at the Historic Owen Theatre and as a pre-show for the Hughes Brothers Theatre.

Their performance at Festival Disney was reviewed by nationally respected members of the National Music Adjudication Coalition including Dr. Gregory Fuller (Director of Choral Activities at The University of Southern Mississippi), Dr. Craig Zamer (Director of Choral Activities at Tennessee Tech University), and Dr. Kathleen Shannon (Conductor and Vocal Pedagogue with extensive credits) who also spent several minutes with the students and directors after the performance to offer her expertise and professional assessment and guidance for further improvement. Comments from these professionals were extremely enthusiastic and positive, providing a perfect conclusion to an exciting week of Disney Magic for these deserving students.

In addition to the directors named above, other integral members of the BRAC Education program team include: BRAC President Lisa Murphy, Vocal Instructor Perry Harper, Administrative Assistant Karie Dykeman, Fundraising Coordinator Viola Beyer, Executive Director Jim Barber, and additional Festival Disney trip chaperones Roz Slavick and Michelle Rodgers.

Area residents interested in seeing these talented young performers in person, are invited to attend a free community concert featuring Staccato on Thursday, May 16th at 7pm at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson. There is no charge for admission, but as seating is limited to 200, advance online reservations are available at BransonArts.org/may16 or by calling the Branson Regional Arts Council at 417-336-4255.

FREE TICKETS

Auditions for the 2019-2020 cast of Staccato will be held in July at the Historic Owen Theatre. Interested students are asked to watch the Branson Regional Arts Council Facebook page, or official website, BransonArts.org, for upcoming information.

#BransonArts #FestivalDisney

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Cast of Into The Woods Announced

Forte Theatrical Productions and the Branson Regional Arts Council are excited to team up for the second musical of the 2019 Season at the Historic Owen Theatre, Into The Woods, with performances running April 4 – 15.  After a completely SOLD OUT run of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, theatre goers may wish to purchase their reserved seats for this next production soon, to insure a seat.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS  GET SEASON PASS THEATRE TICKETS

“Forte brings a new level of theatrical entertainment to the Ozarks. They are a highly talented and dedicated troupe of professional actors and directors, and the Branson Regional Arts Council is honored to collaborate with them on a regular basis. Whether a full stage musical, Shakespeare in the Park, or a themed Cabaret show, a Forte production is guaranteed to entertain, educate, and inspire!” – Jim Barber, BRAC Executive Director

About Into The Woods – Rated PG13

The Brothers Grimm hit the stage with an epic fairytale about wishes, family and the choices we make.

James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim take everyone’s favorite storybook characters and bring them together for a timeless, yet relevant, piece… and a rare modern classic. The Tony Award-winning book and score are both enchanting and touching.

The story follows a Baker and his wife, who wish to have a child; Cinderella, who wishes to attend the King’s Festival; and Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk. When the Baker and his wife learn that they cannot have a child because of a Witch’s curse, the two set off on a journey to break the curse. Everyone’s wish is granted, but the consequences of their actions return to haunt them later with disastrous results.

The cast for Into The Woods include: Michael Salsbury (Narrator/Mysterious Man), Jacob Cummings (Baker), Karrah Fleshman (Baker’s Wife), Brielle Mae (Cinderella), Traven A. Harrington (Cinderella’s Prince/Wolf), Ryan Hippe (Jack), Mariah Garrett (Jack’s Mother), Cassandra Cummings (Little Red), Kristen Ables (Witch), Tiffany Bear (Rapunzel), Tobi Nordlund (Rapunzel’s Prince), Bethany Hansen (Stepmother), Audrey Roberts (Lucinda), Charis Boulden (Forinda), Jenny Day (Cinderella’s Mother/Granny), and Brian Huff (Steward).

The production team for Into The Woods include: Tina Cool-Anderson (Producer), Justin Ables (Director), Nate Frank (Musical Director), Delyla Uebel (Accompanist), Mary Huff (Assistant Director), Cori Biggs (Choreographer), Brian Huff (Fight Choreographer), Jonathan Crum and Laura Cook (Costumes).

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Auditions for Chicago The Musical This Week

  • dateMarch 3, 2019
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Chicago – the Musical Auditions

Auditions for the Branson Regional Arts Council’s production of CHICAGO…
Dates: Monday, March 4 and Tuesday, March 5, 2019, 6:00-9:00 p.m. (Callbacks Wednesday March 6 & Thursday March 7 from 6-9pm)
Place: Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S. Commercial St, Branson, MO
NOTE: These auditions are for ages 18+ only. CHICAGO is rated PG-13.

Into The Woods will be presented at the Historic Owen Theatre April 4-15.

Requirements:
*Bring audition form and one copy of your head shot and resume.
*We greatly prefer a LIVE audition, but will accept video/online submissions if absolutely necessary. Please email online submissions to lloyd@bransonarts.org
*Ages 18 and up ONLY. Prepare TWO contrasting songs, one up-tempo and one ballad, in the style of Kander & Ebb. Please, no POP songs.
*An accompanist will be provided. We greatly prefer that you utilize the accompanist, but we will allow the use of tracks if absolutely necessary.
*Please bring a clean copy of your music, in the correct key, clearly marked, and preferably in a binder.
*Lead sheets WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. If using a track, the music must be in digital format. No CD’s or tapes allowed.

DANCE CALL
*All auditioning MUST attend the dance call AND have a singing audition, unless otherwise specifically arranged.
*MEN and WOMEN MUST bring proper dance attire and appropriate dance shoes. Please wear clothing that fits close to the body and shows off your physique. NO BAGGY CLOTHES. Ladies must wear 2 inch character shoes, and character shoes OR dance sneakers are required for men. NO OPEN TOED SHOES.
*You will be given the opportunity to change after the vocal audition.
*The audition combination(s) will be taught in groups.

Please contact the director, Lloyd Alexander-Holt, with any questions regarding auditions. lloyd@bransonarts.org

About Chicago

John Kander and Fred Ebb’s hit musical Chicago was based on the play of the same name by Maurine Dallas Watkins. A reporter in Chicago in the 1920s, Watkins covered the popular trials of two female murderers– Belva Gaertner and Beulah Annan– who both blamed their actions on the negative effects of drink and jazz. At the time, female murderesses were media darlings, and following the two “jazz babies’” acquittal in 1924, Watkins wrote a satirical play, turning Gaertner into Velma Kelly and Annan into Roxie Hart. The play was produced in 1926 on Broadway, directed by George Abbott.

Broadway’s longest-running American musical, Chicago is a dazzling and satirical look at fame, justice, and the media machine. Set in 1920s Chicago and based on real-life murders and trials, Chicago follows Roxie Hart, a wannabe vaudevillian star who murders her lover and is arrested, despite her attempts to convince her pushover husband, Amos, to lie for her. In the Cook County Jail, Roxie meets her hero, the famed double-murderess and nightclub performer Velma Kelly. When both acquire the same lawyer, the greedy and lustful superstar, Billy Flynn, tensions come to a head as they vie for the spotlight– though instead of onstage, they’re mugging for the flashbulb of the newspaper reporters. With catchy, sexy music and timeless lyrics by John Kander and Fred Ebb, and a funny, intelligent, and utterly engaging book by Kander and Bob Fosse, Chicago is a musical spectacular that is as addictive as gossip rags and as unforgettable as any trial of the century.

Open casting is available for the following roles:

  • Roxie Hart (Female – Lead – Mezzo-Soprano)
  • Velma Kelly (Female – Lead – Alto)
  • Amos Hart (Male – Supporting – Baritone)
  • Billy Flynn (Male – Supporting – Baritone)
  • Mary Sunshine (Either Gender – Supporting – Countertenor)
  • Matron Mama Morton (Female – Supporting – Alto)
  • Fred Casely (Male – Featured – Spoken)
  • Sergeant Fogarty (Male – Featured – Spoken)
  • Martin Harrison (Male – Featured – Spoken)
  • Go-to-Hell Kitty (Female – Featured – Mezzo-Soprano)
  • Aaron (Male – Featured – Spoken)
  • Judge (Male – Featured – Spoken)
  • Harry (Male – Featured – Spoken)
  • Liz (Female – Featured – Mezzo-Soprano)
  • Annie (Female – Featured – Mezzo-Soprano)
  • June (Female – Featured – Mezzo-Soprano)
  • Hunyak (Katalin Helinszki) (Female – Featured – Spoken)
  • Mona (Female – Featured – Mezzo-Soprano)
  • Ensemble (8-10) roles available

The BRAC’s production of CHICAGO is staged and musically directed by Lloyd Alexander-Holt, choreographed by Jordan Alexander-Holt, and produced by Kimberly Hale and Lisa Murphy. CHICAGO will be presented at the Historic Owen Theatre May 2-5.

Advanced Reserved Seat Tickets for all upcoming BRAC theatre productions, including Into The Woods and Chicago The Musical are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix.

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Beauty And The Beast Cast Members Announced

Rehearsals, set construction, and costuming is well underway for the upcoming Branson Regional Arts Council musical production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast at the Historic Owen Theatre.

“This is our largest theatrical production ever, and due to the popularity of this show, there will be 10 performances between February 21st and March 3rd,” said Executive Director of the Branson Regional Arts Council, Jim Barber. “Tickets are selling quickly, and we anticipate that most shows will sell out. Therefore, advance seat reservations are recommended by visiting BransonArts.org/tix, or by calling the Historic Owen Theatre at 417-336-4255.” added Barber.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

“A Tale As Old As Time,” the Academy Award-winning Disney film comes to life at the Historic Owen Theatre in this romantic and beloved take on the classic fairytale. The musical story tells of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed into his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity.

The BRAC production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast  is the first of ten major theatrical events in their 2019 season. This show features nearly 50 cast members, with several principal actors sharing roles during the two week run as an alternating Purple and Gold Cast.

Principal actors in the Purple Cast include: Perry Harper (Beast/Prince Adam), Brenna Kellem (Belle), Jacob Estes (Gaston), Alex Harris  (Lumiere/Monsieur D’Arque) and Kristen Dasto (Babette).

Principal actors in the Gold Cast include: Perry Harper (Beast/Prince Adam), Kellsey Bradley (Belle), Kyle Bradley (Gaston), Jordan Alexander-Holt (Lumiere/Monsieur D’argue) and Sarah Sutherland (Babette).

Additional cast members in all performances include: Jen Frost (Mrs. Potts – 1st week), Sarah Williams (Mrs. Potts – 2nd week), David Burgio (LeFou), Sean Neil Myers (Maurice), Robert Montgomery (Cogsworth), Liam Hill (Chip/Young Price), Casey Chambers (Madame de la Grand Bouche), Emily Alphin (Silly Girl), Velvet Case (Silly Girl), Dani Groff (Silly Girl), and Mesa Mitchell (Enchantress/Ensemble).

Ensemble cast members in all performances include: Sylvie Barbour, Haley Bertrand, Seanna Bounds, Selah Bounds, Shamarah Bounds, Sofe Bounds, Julie Brinkman, Cassandra Carter, Sophie Douglas, Alexis Fischer, Jael Frost, Pace Gillman, Hallie Groff, Brynleigh Hill, Kaitlyn Jenanian, Jonathan Kirkland, Mindy Law, Cameron Morrison, Jake Musser, Julie Musser, Laurie Payne, Dylan Pratt, Sydney Pride, Megan Rodgers, Destiny Taylor, and Bekah Williams.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Performance Schedule:

  • Feb 21 (Thursday) – 7pm Purple Cast
  • Feb 22 (Friday) – 7pm Gold Cast
  • Feb 23 (Saturday) – 2pm Purple Cast
  • Feb 23 (Saturday) – 7pm Gold Cast
  • Feb 24 (Sunday) – 2pm Purple Cast
  • Feb 28 (Thursday) – 7pm – Gold Cast
  • March 1 (Friday) – 7pm – Purple Cast
  • March 2 (Saturday) – 2pm – Gold Cast
  • March 2 (Saturday) – 7pm – Purple Cast
  • March 3 (Sunday) – 2pm – Gold Cast

Upcoming musicals and plays at the Historic Owen Theatre include: Into The Woods (April 4-15), Chicago (May 2-5), Shrek The Musical Jr. (June 6-9), 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (July 18-21), Forte presents Shakespeare’s Hamlet (July 28 – Aug 5), Steele Magnolias (Aug 29 – Sept 1), Of Mice & Men (Sept 19 – 23), South Pacific (Oct 31 – Nov 10) ending with a special Christmas production Dec 5 – 15.

Money saving Season Passes are on sale now allowing patrons to select anywhere from 4 to 10 2019 season productions. For more information and prices visit BransonArts.org/pass.

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Kids Only Private Tea Party with Belle from Beauty and the Beast

“Be Our Guest,” and join Belle for a Royal Tea Party at the Historic Owen Theatre!

There will be two parties to pick from: Saturday, February 23rd (12pm – 1:15pm) or Saturday, March 2nd (12pm – 1:15pm).

This special, private event is limited to 25 kids only, so early reservations are highly recommended!

The cost to participate is $25* per child, with proceeds benefiting the Branson Regional Arts Council’s Youth Education Fund (*$3.00 per ticket service fee applies).  Parents are admitted free of charge and welcome to sit in the back, while their child enjoys a fun, 75 minute party with Belle herself, the “live” star of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast!

NOTE: Tickets for Disney’s Beauty and the Beast musical are not included in the Royal Tea Party and must be purchased separately at BransonArts.org/tix.

GET YOUR ROYAL TEA PARTY PASS

This is a chaperoned event, but parents are encouraged to attend and sit in the back while the kids gather at the front area of the theatre house!

Every child will receive these special treasures and memories…

  • Personal visit with the star of the show, Belle!
  • Photo opportunities with your own camera!
  • Magical Light-Up Rose
  • Official Mini-Poster of Beauty and the Beast (Autographed by the cast on the back!)
  • Disney Sing-A-Long and other fun activities
  • Special Food Snacks, Cup Cakes and Party Favors
  • Other fun surprises!

Treat your child to this very special event, and you’ll also be making a difference in the life of another child who participates in the BRAC Youth Troupe SHOWSTOPPERS or BRAC Show Choir STACCATO as part of the BRAC Education Department.

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Jean Cantwell Courtyard in Veterans Memorial Garden

The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to announce that the Veterans Memorial Garden at the intersection of  Hwy 76 and Gretna Road in Branson, has dedicated the “Jean Cantwell Courtyard” in memory of our esteemed Arts Council founder and patron, Mrs. Jean Cantwell.

In a letter received this week, Ben Kinel, founder and administrator of the garden wrote the following to the Arts Council…

“We received a donation from you for the maintenance of the Veterans Memorial Garden here in Branson. We are so thankful for this generous donation.  It will be used to purchase a metal bench to go into the “Jean Cantwell Courtyard” in her honor.  It is nice folks like you that help to make the garden so beautiful for visitors, and especially veterans and their families to enjoy.”
– Ben Kinel, Founder and Administrator

“We were honored to be asked to participate in this wonderful tribute to Jean Cantwell, who sadly, passed away on March 20th in 2018,” said BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber. “Jean did so much to promote and develop the arts, not only in the Ozarks, but across the entire State of Missouri as one of the initial developers of the Missouri Arts Council. Her guidance, enthusiasm and support made it possible last January for the Arts Council to merge with another organization she help initiate, Tri-Lakes Community Theatre (TLC), and that synergy allowed us to quickly build our community theatre program here at the Historic Owen Theatre. I’m thankful that Ben Kinel and our mutual supporter Jerry Buckley invited our organization to help memorialize Jean’s influence in our community in this special way.”

Mr. Kinel added, “The volunteers who maintain the garden are using this time of year to add some perennial plants and take out some old worn out plants.  Also, we are reworking the beds, adding compost and fertilizer all over.  In a couple of areas we are replacing the original native rocks forming the stair-step beds with limestone landscaping blocks as funds allow. Also, we are adding a water drip system in a few beds each year.  The drip way of watering is much better than with a hose and labor saving too.”

In addition to the “Jean Cantwell Courtyard”, Mr. Kinel is also developing the “Honor Wall,” a sixteen foot long, six foot hight concrete block wall, that will hold metal plaques honoring veterans from all wars. The plaques come in three sizes, and anyone who would be interested in honoring a beloved veteran is invited to contact his organization for prices at vmg@centurytel.net, or by visiting their official website VeteransMemorialGarden.com.

General donation checks for the Veterans Memorial Garden project may be mailed to:

Veterans Memorial Garden
136 Rose O’Neill Dr.
Branson, MO 65616

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Audition Announcement for Into The Woods and Chicago

The Branson Regional Arts Council announces open auditions for it’s next two productions… Into The Woods, and CHICAGOthe Musical.

Into the Woods Auditions

Auditions for the Forte Theatre Productions and Branson Regional Arts Council production of INTO THE WOODS…
Date: February 8th – 7pm (Callbacks February 10th 1-4pm)
Place: Historic Owen Theatre , 205 S. Commercial Street, Branson MO

  • Please prepare a 16-32 measure cut of a song (up to 1:30) which matches the style of the show
  • You may sing from the show
  • Please bring recorded accompaniments
  • Head shots and resumes highly welcome

Cast will be announced February 11. Rehearsals will begin February 15. There will be some weekday daytime rehearsals.

If you have any questions, please email fortetheatreproductions@gmail.com

Chicago – the Musical Auditions

Auditions for the Branson Regional Arts Council’s production of CHICAGO…
Dates: Monday, March 4 and Tuesday, March 5, 2019, 6:00-9:00 p.m. (Callbacks Wednesday March 6 & Thursday March 7 from 6-9pm)
Place: Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S. Commercial St, Branson, MO
NOTE: These auditions are for ages 18+ only. CHICAGO is rated PG-13.

Into The Woods will be presented at the Historic Owen Theatre April 4-15.

Requirements:
*Bring audition form and one copy of your head shot and resume.
*We greatly prefer a LIVE audition, but will accept video/online submissions if absolutely necessary. Please email online submissions to lloyd@bransonarts.org
*Ages 18 and up ONLY. Prepare TWO contrasting songs, one up-tempo and one ballad, in the style of Kander & Ebb. Please, no POP songs.
*An accompanist will be provided. We greatly prefer that you utilize the accompanist, but we will allow the use of tracks if absolutely necessary.
*Please bring a clean copy of your music, in the correct key, clearly marked, and preferably in a binder.
*Lead sheets WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. If using a track, the music must be in digital format. No CD’s or tapes allowed.

DANCE CALL
*All auditioning MUST attend the dance call AND have a singing audition, unless otherwise specifically arranged.
*MEN and WOMEN MUST bring proper dance attire and appropriate dance shoes. Please wear clothing that fits close to the body and shows off your physique. NO BAGGY CLOTHES. Ladies must wear 2 inch character shoes, and character shoes OR dance sneakers are required for men. NO OPEN TOED SHOES.
*You will be given the opportunity to change after the vocal audition.
*The audition combination(s) will be taught in groups.

Please contact the director, Lloyd Alexander-Holt, with any questions regarding auditions. lloyd@bransonarts.org

About Chicago

John Kander and Fred Ebb’s hit musical Chicago was based on the play of the same name by Maurine Dallas Watkins. A reporter in Chicago in the 1920s, Watkins covered the popular trials of two female murderers– Belva Gaertner and Beulah Annan– who both blamed their actions on the negative effects of drink and jazz. At the time, female murderesses were media darlings, and following the two “jazz babies’” acquittal in 1924, Watkins wrote a satirical play, turning Gaertner into Velma Kelly and Annan into Roxie Hart. The play was produced in 1926 on Broadway, directed by George Abbott.

Broadway’s longest-running American musical, Chicago is a dazzling and satirical look at fame, justice, and the media machine. Set in 1920s Chicago and based on real-life murders and trials, Chicago follows Roxie Hart, a wannabe vaudevillian star who murders her lover and is arrested, despite her attempts to convince her pushover husband, Amos, to lie for her. In the Cook County Jail, Roxie meets her hero, the famed double-murderess and nightclub performer Velma Kelly. When both acquire the same lawyer, the greedy and lustful superstar, Billy Flynn, tensions come to a head as they vie for the spotlight– though instead of onstage, they’re mugging for the flashbulb of the newspaper reporters. With catchy, sexy music and timeless lyrics by John Kander and Fred Ebb, and a funny, intelligent, and utterly engaging book by Kander and Bob Fosse, Chicago is a musical spectacular that is as addictive as gossip rags and as unforgettable as any trial of the century.

Open casting is available for the following roles:

  • Roxie Hart (Female – Lead – Mezzo-Soprano)
  • Velma Kelly (Female – Lead – Alto)
  • Amos Hart (Male – Supporting – Baritone)
  • Billy Flynn (Male – Supporting – Baritone)
  • Mary Sunshine (Either Gender – Supporting – Countertenor)
  • Matron Mama Morton (Female – Supporting – Alto)
  • Fred Casely (Male – Featured – Spoken)
  • Sergeant Fogarty (Male – Featured – Spoken)
  • Martin Harrison (Male – Featured – Spoken)
  • Go-to-Hell Kitty (Female – Featured – Mezzo-Soprano)
  • Aaron (Male – Featured – Spoken)
  • Judge (Male – Featured – Spoken)
  • Harry (Male – Featured – Spoken)
  • Liz (Female – Featured – Mezzo-Soprano)
  • Annie (Female – Featured – Mezzo-Soprano)
  • June (Female – Featured – Mezzo-Soprano)
  • Hunyak (Katalin Helinszki) (Female – Featured – Spoken)
  • Mona (Female – Featured – Mezzo-Soprano)
  • Ensemble (8-10) roles available

The BRAC’s production of CHICAGO is staged and musically directed by Lloyd Alexander-Holt, choreographed by Jordan Alexander-Holt, and produced by Kimberly Hale and Lisa Murphy. CHICAGO will be presented at the Historic Owen Theatre May 2-5.

Advanced Reserved Seat Tickets for both Into The Woods and Chicago The Musical are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix.

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Gary Wackerly Branson Show Awards Scholarship Fund Established

January 29, 2019

The Branson Regional Arts Council announces the establishment of the Gary Wackerly Branson Show Awards Scholarship Fund which will soon benefit young students from the Branson Tri-Lakes area.

Gary Wackerly & BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber

As an associate member of the League of Branson Theatre Owners & Show Producers (Branson Show League), the Arts Council has agreed to administrate the scholarship fund in memory of Mr. Wackerly who lived in Branson for 16 years, and passed away on January 5, 2019 at the age of 72. A long time supporter of the Arts, his love of Branson Shows, Theatres, and Music, has been greatly appreciated by our area entertainers and community members.

Through this scholarship, Mr. Wackerly’s enthusiasm for the entertainment industry will be communicated to future professionals in the Performing Arts world.

The Wackerly family, along with the Arts Council and the Show League, have designated that the scholarship be awarded to a Theatre, Music, and/or a Math Student from a High School in the Branson Tri-Lakes Area.

When application information and funds are ready for distribution, the Branson Regional Arts Council and Michael Wackerly (son of Gary Wackerly) will then select winners and present recipients their scholarship on the popular radio and television show “Branson Country USA”.

PLEASE DONATE TO THE FUND:

Donations should be made out to the Branson Regional Arts Council (or BRAC) and designate proceeds to go to the Gary Wackerly Branson Show Awards Scholarship Fund. All donations are 100% tax deductible. Checks may be mailed to: Branson Regional Arts Council, PO Box 2004 Branson MO 65615.

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How Do You Keep The Music Playing? Adopt A Student!

  • dateJanuary 18, 2019
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view1562 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council is looking for a few angels who would be interested in furthering the goals of our Youth Education Program of developing artistic, cultural, and educational opportunities for children in our community.

These experiences allow students to gain the confidence and skills necessary to become successful in the field of musical theatre, as well as providing community leadership opportunities. These lifelong tools for success help them become innovative thinkers throughout their educational years, and their leadership experience will assist them in pursuing the career path of their choice.

BRAC recently launched a new musical theatre program for children in our community called “STACCATO”. Staccato is an advanced musical group that combines a challenging music repertoire with entertaining choreography. This show choir provides a unique, one of a kind, arts education experience for young students in the Branson area.

EXCITING NEWS!!!!! The kids in STACCATO have an amazing opportunity to perform at a variety of locations in the Orlando, Florida area including FESTIVAL DISNEY with other Show Choirs from across the country.

We have been working for months to raise the funds necessary to make this awesome opportunity a reality, and we’ve also reduced our travel expenses so that our goal is more achievable. Each student must now raise $700 to participate in this “once in a lifetime” educational opportunity. The money raised will go towards providing transportation, food, airfare, fees and travel expenses for this weeklong trip and competition. We must reach our fundraising goal by February 15th.

Can you help make this dream a reality for our students?

HOW TO SEND YOUR TAX-DEDUCTIBLE GIFT

Donate Online via Credit or Debit Card at: BransonArts.org/educationfund

0r Mail a Personal or Business Check to:

Branson Regional Arts Council
Youth Educational Fund
PO Box 2004
Branson, Mo. 65615
If you are sponsoring a specific student, please notate their name on your check.

We appreciate your generosity, and THANK YOU for your support of STACCATO!

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