A Tara-ific Event Is Blowing Into Branson!

The Branson Regional Arts Council and the Taneyhills Community Library are co-sponsoring an incredible Gala Film and Art Fundraising Event.

“We are so excited to present this award winning film that received 8 Academy Awards in 1939, including Best Picture as well as an Oscar for Vivian Leigh’s portrayal of Scarlett.”
– Adele Groote, Taneyhills Community Library Liaison

On Saturday, September 29, 2018, the American classic film, Gone With The Wind, returns to the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson, 78 years after it was first released in 1940. Written by Margaret Mitchell, this famous film stars Clark Gable and Vivian Leigh and is one of the most recognized films of all time.

“The Branson Regional Arts Council has been seeking a means to collaborate more often with our community library, and this opportunity has worked out beautifully. The Historic Owen Theatre opened in 1936 and uniquely brings a sense of nostalgia to the film. We want to thank Marc Mulherin, Clint Cross, and the entire team at the Branson Convention Center for their enthusiasm and contribution in making this after-movie artist reception possible.”
– Jim Barber – Executive Director of BRAC

GONE WITH THE WIND EVENT TICKETS

A Tara-themed gala at the Branson Convention Center Art Gallery will immediately follow the movie. The reception includes a large assortment of hor d’oeuvres, cash bar, music and visual art exhibition with an opportunity to meet the amazing local area artists on display. Participants are encouraged to dress in period costume.

“This event came about through The Great American Read project with PBS. The library is a co-sponsor of this 7-part television series exploring and celebrating the power of reading, and told through the prism of America’s 100 best-loved novels. The television series, beginning September 11th at 7:00pm on Ozark Public Television, is the centerpiece of an ambitious multi-platform digital, educational and community outreach campaign, designed to get the country reading and passionately talking about books. Our local PBS station is very excited that the library and the Branson Regional Arts Council is hosting this Gala to celebrate Margaret Mitchell’s iconic Pulitzer prize novel through the showing of the epic film.”
– Marcia Schemper-Carlock – Taneyhills Community Library Director

The event kicks off with the showing of Gone With The Wind at 1:00 pm, followed by the Tara-ific Gala Reception at 5:45 pm. Cost to attend is $29.95 per person which includes a reserved theatre seat to the film, and the Gala Art Reception, just one block away at the Branson Convention Center. A portion of your ticket is tax deductible as this event is a fundraiser for both organizations.

With only 200 seats available, advance reserved tickets are recommended by visiting BransonArts.org/gonewiththewind.

The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to have been selected to perform at the 21st Annual Cider Days on Historic Walnut Street in Springfield, MO!

BRAC Cast members will present a delicious assortment of tasty tunes from our upcoming musical “Little Shop of Horrors” on the Show Wagon Stage on Sunday, September 16th beginning at 3:15pm. The public performance of the full musical runs from October 25 – November 4th at the Historic Owen Theatre in Downtown Branson. Advance reserved tickets available at BransonArts.org/tix. The show is directed by Jordan Alexander-Holt and has a PG-13 Rating.

The 21st annual Cider Days on Historic Walnut Street will be held on September 15 and 16, 2018 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. This two-day fall festival will feature regional artists and crafters, three performance stages, fall-themed activities for kids, and, of course, delicious apple cider!

Artists and crafters from across the region exhibit at Cider Days, selling a variety of handmade products including jewelry, pottery, glass, wood, furniture and much more.

Admission is $4 per person; children 10 and under are free.

Come experience the first days of fall among the historic Victorian homes on picturesque, tree-lined Historic Walnut Street! Cider Days is presented by CoxHealth, managed by the Downtown Springfield Association and hosted by Historic Walnut Street Association. For more information on Cider Days, visit itsalldowntown.com.

The Branson Regional Arts Council is pleased to announce the final cast selections for our ALL-NEW Youth Performance Troupe, and Show Choir. The following individuals will be contacted and are invited to register and participate for the 2018-2019 season.  Congratulations, and thank you to everyone who attended the auditions.

2018-2019 BRAC Youth Performance Troupe Cast Selections…

  • Derek Brown
  • Morgan Brown
  • Noah Beyer
  • Sophie Douglas
  • Alexis Fischer
  • Dani Groff
  • Hallie Groff
  • Carter Hendrickson
  • Brynleigh Hill
  • Cole Hill
  • Molly Jones
  • Jordan Kendrick
  • Jake Musser
  • Megan Rodgers
  • Bekah Williams

About Youth Performance Troupe: Youth Troupe is a group devoted to all things theatre! Students in the Youth Troupe will meet weekly and encounter intensive, interactive studies in Voice, Acting, Stage Presence, Dance Choreography, Team Work. Students will develop both self confidence and respect for the skills required to be successful in Theatre Arts. The Youth Troupe will be run in a serious “conservatory master class” style meaning from the moment the students enter the theatre until they leave the theatre…training is in process. The Youth Troupe will be a congregate group that will have regular break out sessions based on age. All Youth Troupes will perform at various festivals, concerts, and gatherings throughout the academic year.

Please note that there will not be a Concert Choir for 2018-2019 as we didn’t have enough expressed interest for this year. If your name is listed above, and you auditioned for Concert Choir, you have the option of being in Youth Performance Troupe.

2018-2019 BRAC Show Choir Cast Selections…
*some additions are expected to the final cast list

  • Joey Blackwood
  • Noah Beyer
  • Dani Groff
  • Carter Hendrickson
  • Cole Hill
  • Brenna Kellem
  • Jordan Kendrick
  • Megan Rodgers
  • *(TBA)

About Show Choir: Show Choir is an energetic advanced musical group intended to combine challenging music repertoire with entertaining choreography. The choir will focus on elevating and applying its formal training into lively, breath taking “show” style performances. Students will study advanced music theory, vocal warm up, stage etiquette, presence and showmanship, and multi-part choral music. The directoral leadership will be both demanding & rewarding. The time at rehearsal will be run in a serious “conservatory master class” style meaning from the moment the students enter the theater until they leave the theater… training is in process.

The Branson Regional Arts Council and the Taneyhills Community Library are co-sponsoring an incredible Gala Event. Join us Saturday, September 29, 2018 for a special reserved showing of the 1939 American classic film, “Gone With The Wind” at the Historic Owen Theatre in Downtown Branson.

A Tara-themed reception will follow at the Branson (Hilton) Convention Center Promenade Art Gallery. The reception includes a large assortment of hor d’oeuvres, cash bar, music and opportunities to meet the amazing artists on display. Participants are encouraged to dress in period costume.

Gone With The Wind Film & Gala

WHEN
Saturday, September 29, 2018
1:00pm – Gone With The Wind Film (Historic Owen Theatre)
5:45pm – Tara-ific Gala Reception (Branson Convention Center)

WHERE
Historic Owen Theater, 205 S. Commercial St., Branson, MO 65616
Branson Convention Center – 2nd Level Art Gallery

COST TO ATTEND
$29.95 per person – includes reserved seat theatre ticket to Gone With The Wind film, followed immediately by the Gala Reception just one-block away at the Branson Convention Center. A portion of your donation is tax deductible. ONLY 200 SEATS ARE AVAILABLE – RESERVE YOURS EARLY!

GONE WITH THE WIND EVENT TICKETS

[fac_icon icon=”credit-card-alt”] Advance Reserved Seats Available At: BransonArts.org/gonewiththewind

This is a special fundraising event for the Branson Regional Arts Council and the Taneyhills Community Library. All profits will be split by the two organizations. The wearing of period costume will be enjoyed by all, but not required attire.

The Great American Read

The Great American Read is a 7-part series exploring and celebrating the power of reading, told through the prism of America’s 100 best-loved novels (as chosen in a national survey). It investigates how and why writers create their fictional worlds, how we as readers are affected by these stories, and what these 100 books have to say about our diverse nation and our shared human experience.

The television series, beginning September 11th at 7:00pm on Ozark Public Television, is the centerpiece of an ambitious multi-platform digital, educational and community outreach campaign, designed to get the country reading and passionately talking about books.

The Taneyhills Community Library is a sponsor of the Great American Read and is excited to join with the Branson Regional Arts Council in celebrating the reading and the art of storytelling through the showing of Margaret Mitchell’s epic novel, “Gone With The Wind.” She received a Pulitzer prize for the book in 1937. The iconic novel became an international phenomenon that has sustained the public’s interest for over 75 years.

Audition to join the cast of Little Shop of Horrors, with public performances Oct 25-28 and Oct 31-Nov 4th at the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson, Missouri.

A deviously delicious Broadway and Hollywood sci-fi smash musical, Little Shop Of Horrors has devoured the hearts of theatre goers for over 30 years. Howard Ashman and Alan Menken (Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Beauty And The Beast, and Aladdin) are the creative geniuses behind what has become one of the most popular shows in the world.

Public performances will be October 25-28, 31, November 1-4, 2018, with rehearsals beginning September 4, 2018.

The show is Directed and Choreographed by Jordan Alexander-Holt. Music is under the Direction of Lloyd Alexander-Holt.

[fac_icon icon=”file”] [download & print audition information & character breakdowns packet]

General Audition Information:
Tuesday, August 28 & Wednesday, August 29 at 6pm – No appointment required!

Call backs: Thursday, August 30 starting at 6pm (Possible extension into Friday, August 31 starting at 8:30pm)

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

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 through August 29th at midnight if absolutely necessary.

Singing:

  Prepare TWO contrasting songs, one up-tempo and one ballad, 16-32 bars of each only.

  An accompanist WILL be provided. We greatly prefer that you utilize the accompanist, but will allow the use of tracks if absolutely necessary.

  Please bring a clean copy of your music in the correct key, preferably in a binder. Lead sheets will not be accepted. (If using a track: the music must be in a digital format. No CDs or tapes.)

  Those interested in being considered for Audrey MUST prepare a selection that shows off their belt voice.

Dance Call:

  All auditioning MUST attend the dance call AND have a singing audition, unless otherwise specifically stated.
  Bring proper dance attire and dance shoes.
  A combination will be taught in groups.

Please contact the casting coordinator, Melissa Rivera, with any questions regarding auditions. casting@bransonarts.org

Why do some actors get cast in a stage production, while others don’t? Would you like to improve your audition abilities with one, fun afternoon workshop?

Preparation is crucial, and to help make the audition process easier, the Branson Regional Arts Council is presenting an Audition Workshop on Saturday, August 25, 2018 from 12pm – 4pm at the Historic Owen Theatre, 2015 S. Commercial Street, Branson, MO 65616. Registration fee to participate is $25, payable by credit or debit card, or check.

NOTICE: Actors must be at least 16 years old to participate.

Directors Jordan Alexander-Holt and Lloyd Alexander-Holt will teach you how to maximize your chances of landing that important role at your next audition for the hilarious Broadway musical, Little Shop of Horrors, coming to the Historic Owen Theatre in October. Class size is limited to the first 50 students who register.

The attendees will get a chance to workshop their vocal audition selection and receive vocal critique and feedback. All attendees will learn the audition choreography combination in advance as well.

This workshop is especially recommended for anyone Interested in auditioning for the Little Shop of Horrors musical (Performances Oct 25 – 28 and Oct 31 – Nov 4).

Click here to register in advance online.

The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to announce return of a new painting event called “Art Class by the Glass,” to be held at Mount Pleasant Winery in Branson, Missouri.  This “Cork & Canvas” type event is scheduled for Saturday, October 20, 2018 from 3pm – 5pm.

The $30 registration fee (per person) includes all painting supplies and direction to create the “Starry Night” painting seen above, and one glass of wine, courtesy of Mount Pleasant Winery.  Additional wine servings available.

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)

Seussical Jr. Provides Fantastic Family Fun This Week In Branson!

The Branson Regional Arts Council’s Youth Troupe Production of Seussical Jr. opens this Thursday evening at 7pm, with five public performances at the Historic Owen Theatre in Downtown Branson.

Show are Thursday, August 2nd at 7pm, Friday, August 3rd at 7pm, Saturday August 4th at 2pm and 7pm, and Sunday August 5th at 2pm.

Advance reservations are recommended at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling 417-336-4255.
Adult tickets (18+) are $14.95, and Youth Tickets (4-17) are $9.95.  A small service fee applies to each order.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat and all of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters spring to life onstage in Seussical JR., a fantastical musical extravaganza from Tony-winners, Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty.

Transporting audiences from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus, the Cat in the Hat narrates the story of Horton the Elephant, who discovers a speck of dust containing tiny people called the Whos. Horton must protect the Whos from a world of naysayers and dangers, and he must also guard an abandoned egg that’s been left in his care by the irresponsible Mayzie La Bird.  Although Horton faces ridicule, danger and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz never loses faith in him.  Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family and community are challenged and emerge triumphant!

The Youth Troupe actors are between the ages of 6-18, and include: Emrie Straka (JoJo), Joey Blackwood (Horton the Elephant), Maddy Hatfield (Mayzie La Bird), Sami Sutcliffe (Gertrude McFuzz), Emma Hesseman (Sour Kangaroo), Samuel Hesseman (Mr. Mayor), Jordan Kendrick (Mrs. Mayor), Gloria Bennett (Yertle the Turtle), Morgan Brown, Jake Musser, Johanna Luthardt (Wickersham Brothers), Grace Clark, Aleah Oltjenbrun, Ashleigh Rodgers, Megan Rodgers (Bird Girls), Colin McAdara (Vlad Vladikoff), Dani Groff (The Cat In The Hat), Hallie Groff (Young Kangaroo), Lee Brown (Thing 1), Josslynn Silvy (Thing 2), Korey Brown (The Grinch/Jungle Creature), Alexander Greenamyer, Amelia Johnson, Anastacia Petri, Dru Straka, Ember Straka, Lauren Tiefry, Addy Williams (Jungle Creatures), and Sylvie Barbour (Who).

The Production Staff of Seussical Jr. include: Lisa Murphy and Kim Hale (Producers), Jacob Estes and Lloyd Alexander-Holt (Directors), Kristen Dasto (Choreographer), Karie Dykeman and Roz Slavik (Assistant Producers), Kyle Bradley (Assistant Director), Danielle Groff and Maddy Hatfield (Student Directors), Kellsey Bradley (Education Specialist), Nicole Dasto (Stage Manager / Audio Technician), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Technician), Jacob Estes (Scenic Design), Larry Waggoner (Muralist), Roz Slavik and Stephanie Groff (Costumers), Marshall Meadows (Photographer), Jacob Estes, Nick Batey, Tyler Straka, Michelle Rodgers, Megan Rodgers, Ashley Rodgers, Hallie Groff, Emrie Straka, Mia Johnson (Set Construction), and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director / Marketing).

Seussical Jr. musical marks the 7th major theatrical production presented by the Branson Regional Arts Council this season alone, with 3 more to go: MISCAST Cabaret, Little Shop of Horrors, and A Miracle on 34th Street. Thanksgiving weekend, the Arts Council is also hosting the Branson return of the Lennon Brothers & Gail Lennon as they perform two exciting reunion concerts at the Historic Owen Theatre on November 24 and 25th.

The 2019 Season of musical theatre and dramatic plays will be announced very soon.

Shakespeare in the Park Opens This Sunday in Hollister

Forte Theatre Productions and The Branson Regional Arts Council are partnering once again to present Shakespeare in the Park in Southwest Missouri.  This year’s production, “The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet” is set in the last days of the Civil War.
Performances will take place at Chad A. Fuqua Memorial Park in Downtown Hollister on Sunday July 29, Monday July 30 and August 5th and 6th at 8pm.  Tickets may be purchased at the gate line, however (no wait) advance tickets are available at BransonArts.org/tix.

This is a “bring your own blanket or lawn chair” event.

The famous Shakespearean love tragedy takes on a new challenge, as not only are Romeo and Juliet from opposing families, they are on opposing sides of the war.  “Incorporating Missouri Civil War history in our version of Romeo and Juliet plays to the tension of the story,” says Forte Theatre producer Tina Cool-Anderson. “Here in Missouri, it was family versus family.  The state was extremely divided.”

Music and costumes from the era are utilized in the production.

The show features a 15 foot antebellum home set piece designed by Ian and Duane Lahlum. It is distressed to showcase the wages of war. Extensive fight sequences choreographed by Brian Huff include sword play and even a bull whip.  “These are not your traditional fights seen in Romeo and Juliet.  It is going to keep the audience on their toes,” says Cool-Anderson.

The cast of 15 includes Maceo Cortezz as Romeo and Brenna Kellem as Juliet.  Cortezz is a recent high school grad and will be studying acting in London in September at the prestigious Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts.  Kellem will be a senior at Forsyth Public Schools.
Other cast members are Josh Boulden (Mercutio), John Paul Fox (Benvolio), Brian Huff (Tybalt), Michael Sager (Friar Lawrence), Randi Shetley (Lady Capulet), Mindy Law (Nurse),  Jeffrey Stringer (Capulet), Tommie Anderson (Montague), Joel Ashur (Paris), Daniel Bush (Prince), Charis Boulden (Featured Ensemble) Mary Huff (Featured Ensemble) and Brandon Farrar (Featured Ensemble).
The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet is directed by Justin Ables with choreography by Cori Briggs.


Legally Blonde the Musical at Historic Owen Theatre

A fabulously fun award-winning musical is coming to Branson’s Historic Owen Theatre this week for five fantastic performances. Legally Blonde The Musical, is based on the popular 2001 film by the same name. The story follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. Action-packed and exploding with memorable songs and dynamic dances – this musical is so much fun, it should be illegal!

Performances are 7pm this Thursday, July 12 through Saturday, July 14, with 2pm matinee shows on Saturday, July 14 and Sunday July 15. Advanced reserved seating is recommended at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling 417-336-4255. This production is rated PG13.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

This Branson Regional Arts Council production of Legally Blonde is co-produced by Kim Hale and Lisa Murphy, Directed by Jacob Estes with Vocal Direction by Lloyd Alexander-Holt and Choreography by Kristen Dasto.

The talented cast of Legally Blonde includes: Carolyn Billingsley (Elle Woods), Kellsey Bradley (Vivienne Kensington), Kyle Bradley (Warner Huntington III), Cameron Perry (Emmet Forrest), Jeffrey Stringer (Professor Callahan), Amelia Harper (Paulette), Stacey Biermann (Serena), Sierra Johnson (Margot), Madelyn Baum (Pilar), Kristen Dasto (Brooke Wyndham/Choreographer), Maddison Hatfield (Kate/Chutney/Greek Chorus/Ensemble), Kayleigh Shaw (Enid), Emily Alphin (Whitney/Greek Chorus/Delta Nu), Matthew James (Carlos/Frat Boy/Grand Master Chad), Tucker Barry (Kyle (UPS Guy)/ Dewey/ Ensemble), Sean Neil Myers (Elle’s Dad/Winthrop/Ensemble), Haley Bertrand (Elle’s Mom/Courtney/DA Joyce Riley), Kelsey Moore (Sales Woman/Judge/Cat Lady), Alex Harris (Sundeep/Pforzheimer/Frat Boy), Jeremy Coca (Nikos/ Lowell), Jordan Alexander-Holt (Kiki the Colorist/Frat Boy/Ensemble), Jonathan Kirkland (Aaron/Jet Blue Pilot/Frat Boy/Ensemble), Kaitlyn Schumacher (Greek Chorus/Delta Nu), Melissa Davis (Greek Chorus/Delta Nu), Swayze Dasto (Bruiser Woods) and Olive Ables (Rufus).

Additional production team members include: Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design/Technician), Nicole Dasto (Audio Technician/Stage Manager), Melissa Rivera (Casting Coordinator), Jacob Estes (Costumer/Scenic Design), Jonathan Crum (Costume Design), Lori Best (Spotlight Operator), and Marshall Meadows (Photographer), and set construction by Dave Yeager, Brian Dasto, Jacob Estes, Nick Batey, Melissa Davis, Stacey Bierman, Kristen Dasto, Alex Harris and Kyle Bradley.

Theatre Arts Opportunities For Branson Tri-Lakes Area Youth

BRAC’s Youth Troupe Institute – July 16-August 5, 2018

Youth Troupe Institute’s Aladdin Jr. Cast

As the curtain closed on the Branson Regional Arts Council’s Youth Troupe production of Aladdin Jr. last week, 43 young area actors received an enthusiastic standing ovation from the appreciative audience. Two and a half weeks of preparation, six public performances, and six standing ovations left these kids feeling proud of their accomplishments. Their parents were equally proud of the effort, dedication, and courage that their children put forth as part of this exciting musical production.

During the final performance, emotions were high as the kids experienced joy for what they had accomplished, as well as sadness that their 3 week theatrical adventure had come to an end. They all have one thing in common, however, their lives have been positively influenced by the opportunity to learn and grow their confidence and performing skills through their participation in the Youth Troupe Institute program.

Youth Troupe Institute’s Aladdin Jr. Cast

Disney’s Aladdin Jr. was the first of two Youth Troupe Institute programs this year, specifically designed for students age 6-18.  The next program begins on July 16th and culminates with public performances of Seussical Jr. from August 2nd – 5th at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson. There are no auditions to participate, just a registration fee to help cover a small portion of the expenses involved in producing a community theatre show of this quality. A professional team of Producers, Directors, Technicians and trained volunteers work with the children in a safe, and nurturing environment in order for these young actors to enjoy the best experience possible, while they grow and develop their social and interpersonal skills through the performing arts.

Additional information and registration for Youth Troupe Institute 2 can be found at BransonArts.org/institute.

CLICK TO REGISTER FOR SUMMER INSTITUTE

BRAC’s New Choir Auditions

Performing opportunities for Tri-Lakes Area Youth will hit hit a high note, as auditions for the new Youth, Concert and Show Choirs commence on August 17 and 18. Interested parties are encouraged to sign up for an audition slot, in advance, to secure their chance to participate.

BRAC’s Youth Choir is a fun, beginning choir intended to introduce students to the importance of music theory, vocal warm up, stage: etiquette, presence & showmanship, and l-2 part choral parts. Although the Youth Choir is a beginning level group, the leadership and training will be both outstanding and demanding. Auditions for participation are not required, but students will need to sing in small groups (2-3 students) to determine vocal range for section assignment. Youth Choir Performances will include: Fall Concert, Winter Showcase & Spring Concert. Additional community performances may be added throughout the year. Watch for upcoming information regarding registration for this exciting new program.

BRAC’s Concert Choir is an advanced musical group intended to train and challenge vocal students to reach their maximum potential as individuals and a as unified choir. Students will
study advanced music theory, vocal warm up, stage etiquette, presence & showmanship and multi-part choral music. The leadership will be both demanding & rewarding. The time
at rehearsal will be run in a serious “conservatory master class” style meaning from the moment the students enter the theater until they leave the theatre training is in process. The director will lead incredibly intensive rehearsals that will result in mind-blowing results and outstanding performances. Auditions are required to be considered for the Concert Choir. Students chosen to participate will gain invaluable vocal training, meaningful friendships and treasured memories for a lifetime. Concert Choir Performances will include: Fall Concert, Winter Showcase & Spring Concert. Additional community performances may be added throughout the year.

SIGN UP FOR A CHOIR AUDITION TIME SLOT

BRAC’s Show Choir is an energetic advanced musical group intended to combine challenging music repertoire with entertaining choreography. The choir will focus on elevating and applying its formal training into lively, breath taking “show” style performances. Students will study advanced music theory, vocal warm up, stage etiquette, presence & showmanship and multi-part choral music. The leadership will be both demanding & rewarding. The director will lead incredibly intensive rehearsals that will result in mind-blowing results and outstanding performances. Students chosen to participate in this choir will gain invaluable vocal training, meaningful friendships and treasured memories for a lifetime. Participation in the choir is at the sole discretion of the director. 1-3 years music/choir participation required for consideration. Students participating in Show Choir will be expected to also participate in Concert Choir. Show Choir rehearsals will be held immediately following Concert Choir rehearsal. Show Choir Performances will include: Fall Concert, Winter Showcase & Spring Concert. Additional community performances may be added throughout the year.

 

Disney’s Aladdin Jr Features Large Cast of Young Area Actors

Over 40 talented young actors from across the Branson Tri-Lakes area are discovering “a whole new world” as they prepare to impress area audiences in a fun and exciting musical production of Disney’s Aladdin Jr.

Produced as part of the Branson Regional Arts Council’s Youth Troupe Summer Institute, Aladdin Jr. will be presented in six public performances at the Historic Owen Theatre in Downtown Branson this Thursday through Sunday.

Performance Times:
Thursday June 7 – 7pm, Friday June 8 – 7pm, Saturday June 9 – 2pm & 7pm, Sunday June 10 – 2pm & 7pm

Reserved seating tickets are available online at BransonArts.org/tix, and advance purchases are recommended.

Disney’s Aladdin Jr. is based on the 1992 Academy-Award®-winning film and the 2014 hit Broadway show about the “diamond in the rough” street rat who learns that his true worth lies deep within. Aladdin and his three friends, Babkak, Omar, and Kassim, are down on their luck until Aladdin discovers a magic lamp and the Genie who has the power to grant three wishes. Wanting to earn the respect of the princess, Jasmine, Aladdin embarks on an adventure that will test his will and his moral character.

Songs from the Disney film include “Arabian Nights,” “One Jump Ahead, “Friend Like Me,” “Prince Ali,” and “A Whole New World,” as well as an additional song “Why Me” which was cut from the original Disney film.

The cast of Aladdin Jr. are all participants of the Branson Regional Arts Council’s Youth Troupe Summer Theatre Institute for students ages 6 to 18. Featured cast members include: Alex Knudsen (Aladdin), Abby Sundahl (Genii), Renee’ Elkady (Princess Jasmine), Cole Hill (Jafar), Sophie Douglas (Iago), Pace Gillman (Abu, Featured Dancer), Kevin Williams (Sultan, Cave of Wonders Voice), Morgan Brown (Babkak, Ensemble), Carter Hendrickson (Omar, Prince Abdulah, Ensemble), Emma Heseman (Kassim, Ensemble), Alexis Fischer (Isir, Featured Dancer, Ensemble), Sami Sutcliffe (Manal, Featured Dancer, Ensemble), Bekah Williams (Rajah, Featured Dancer, Ensemble), Liam Hill (Razoul, Ensemble), Macy Myers (Spooky Voice, Apple Vendor, Ensemble), Kaitlyn Jenanian (Fortune Teller, Featured Dancer, Ensemble), Grace Clark, Kendal Mask, Milla Solvie (Beggars, Featured Dancers, Ensemble), Molly Jones (Shop Owner, Ensemble), Lee Brown, Josslyn Silvy (Attendants, Ensemble), Korey Brown, Cameron Cornish, Uriah Guevel, Harrison McGregor, Sailor Tillis, Luke Sundahl, Caleb Sundalhl (Guards, Ensemble), Madison Lundeen, Laurie Payne (Featured Dancers, Ensemble), Sylvie Barbour, Emma Callaway, Claire Cornish, Jael Frost, Hallie Groff, Halle Horn, Addison Russell, Libby Sundahl, Betsy Sundahl, Katie Sundahl, Ashleign Williams and Jacob Foreman (Ensemble).

The production team include: Kim Hale and Lisa Murphy (Producers), Jennifer Sundahl (Assistant Producer), Lloyd Alexander-Holt (Director, Costumer, Vocal Director), Jacob Estes (Director, Scenic Designer), Kristen Dasto (Choreographer), Melissa Rivera (Assistant Teacher), Danielle Groff and Dakota Cooner (Student Directors), Jonathan Crum (Additional Costume Design), Nicole Dasto (Stage Manager, Audio Tech), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design and Tech), Marshall Meadows (Photographer), Jim Barber (Marketing), Art Hale, Kim Hale, Lori Best, Jacob Estes, Nick Batey, Lisa Murphy, Charyl Nida, Lloyd Alexander-Holt, Kristen Dasto and Nicole Dasto (Set Construction).

Aladdin Jr. is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). The Walt Disney Company is a licensor of the Aladdin Jr. stage play only and is not a producer of this production. Music is by Alan Menken, with Lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice. The musical is based on the Screenplay by Ron Clements, John Musker, Ted Elliott and Terry Rossio.

For information on upcoming Youth Troupe Summer Theatre Institute programs, visit BransonArts.org/institute.