, , ,

The Diary of Anne Frank at the Historic Owen Theatre

The Branson Regional Arts Council and Forte Theatrical Productions present, The Diary of Anne Frank, a play by Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett.

Six public performances will take place at the Historic Owen Theatre on Sunday May 6th at 2pm and 7pm, Monday May 7th at 7pm, Sunday May 13th at 2pm and 7pm, and Monday May 14th at 7pm.

Advance ticket reservations are recommended and are available at BransonArts.org/tix.

Cast rehearsal for The Diary of Anne Frank

This popular dramatic presentation is one of the most famous and haunting stories to emerge from the 20th Century. The memoirs of this young Jewish girl, forced to hide for nearly two years to escape Nazi persecution, are an essential part of how we remember one of the darkest periods of our human history.

For nearly two years, Anne, her father, mother, and sister, joined with the Van Daan family, to hide in a secret annex space above her father’s former office in Amsterdam, as the Nazis deported the Jews of Holland to their deaths. In her secret attic, Anne comes of age: she laughs, plays, fights with her mother, and falls in love for the first time.

In spite of her oppressive circumstances and the horrors that surround her, Anne’s spirit transcends, as she voices her belief, “in spite of everything, that people are truly good at heart.” Anne’s dynamism, her luminous spirit, and her story of resilience continue to resonate deeply, making her story as vital today as when her diary first was published.

Forte’s production of The Diary of Anne Frank is produced by Tina Cool Anderson, and directed by Justin Ables.Cast members included Emily Homburger as Anne Frank, Tom Hallet as Mr. Frank, Ariel Jenkins as Miep, Charis Boulden as Mrs. Van Daan, Perry Harper as Mr. Van Daan, Stephen Baker as Peter Van Daan, Mary Huff as Mrs. Frank, Abigayle Wilcox as Margot Frank, Ian Lahlum as Mr. Kraler, and Josh Boulden as Mr. Dussel.  Costumes are designed by Kristen Ables, and Matthew Noll is the Stage Manager.

/by
, , ,

Anything Goes the Musical Sets Sail April 26th

The Branson Regional Arts Council presents, Anything Goes, a 1934 musical with music and lyrics by Cole Porter. The story concerns madcap antics aboard an ocean liner bound from New York to London. Billy Crocker is a stowaway in love with heiress Hope Harcourt, who is engaged to Lord Evelyn Oakleigh. Nightclub singer Reno Sweeney and Public Enemy #13 Moonface Martin aid Billy in his quest to win Hope. The musical introduced such songs as “Anything Goes”, “You’re the Top”, and “I Get a Kick Out of You.”

The high energy dance musical features a cast of 25 actors, and will be presented at the Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S. Commercial St., Branson, MO 65616.

Performance dates are:

  • Thursday, April 26th – 7pm
  • Friday, April 27th – 7pm
  • Saturday, April 28th – 2pm & 7pm
  • Sunday, April 29th – 2pm

After the successful, sold-out run of the Arts Council’s previous show, Annie, patrons are encouraged to purchase tickets for Anything Goes soon.  Reserved seats are on-sale now at BransonArts.org/tix.

 

BUY TICKETS FOR ANYTHING GOES

 

The Branson Regional Arts Council production of Anything Goes is Produced by Kim Hale and Lisa Murphy. The show and music is under the Direction of Lloyd Alexander-Holt, with Choreography by Kristen Dasto.

Leading actress Kristen Dasto models one of the show costumes generously donated by State Park Marina.

Principal cast members of Anything Goes include: Kristen Dasto (Reno Sweeney), Melissa Rivera (Hope Harcourt), Jacob Estes (Lord Evelyn-Oakleigh), Bryan Miller (Elisha Whitney), Kyle Bradley (Billy Crocker), Sean Neil Myers (Moonface Martin), and Kellsey Howerton Bradley (Erma).

Supporting cast include: Haley Bertrand (Evangeline Harcourt), Alex Knudsen (Luke), Noah Beyer (John), Robert Montgomery (Captain of the S.S. American), and Alex Harris (Purser).

The Angels are played by: Dani Groff (Purity), Ezrah Noelle (Chastity), Mary Kim (Virtue), Carly Vanderpluym (Charity), and Callie Altepeter (Angel Swing).

Additional character roles include: Alex Harris (Fred, the bartender and FBI Agent), Jordan Alexander-Holt (Henry T. Dobson), Dylan Pratt (Reporter), Alex Knudsen (Reporter), Mindy Martin Law (News Photographer), Noah Beyer (FBI Agent), and Carrie Orlando (Ensemble).

The ship’s crew and Male Quartet dancers include: Alex Harris, Jordan Alexander-Holt, Noah Beyer, and Alex Knudsen. The Sailor Tappers are performed by Jordan Alexander-Holt, and Lloyd Ray Alexander-Holt.

Finally, to round out this extremely talented cast, playing the Ship’s Passengers/Dancers Blow, and Gabriel Blow are: Alex Harris, Jordan Alexander-Holt, Lloyd Alexander-Holt II, Noah Beyer, Alex Knudsen, Robert Montgomery, Mindy Martin Law, Velvet Case, and Callie Altepeter. Reno and her Four Angels are portrayed by: Carrie Weatley Cassavitis, Haley Bertrand, Megan Rodgers, and Carly Vanderpluym.

WIN A CRUISE ON TABLE ROCK LAKE…

A special upgrade for all Anything Goes ticket holders, is a chance to win a 4-hour pontoon boat rental package, courtesy of State Park Marina on beautiful Table Rock Lake. Two lucky winners will be selected among all the ticket holders, in addition to individual raffle tickets which may be purchased before each show, or on the BransonArts.org website (Click here for details). Winners do not need to be present to win.

/by
, ,

Plant and Art Rock Sale To Benefit Branson Regional Arts Council

May 5th Plant and Art Rock Sale To Benefit The Branson Regional Arts Council.

NO ADMISSION FEE… COME ENJOY THE SIGHTS AND SMELLS OF SPRING!
 
Just in time for Mother’s Day (or any special occasion), participate in a FUNraiser for the Branson Regional Arts Council and select your choice of many beautiful and flowering pre-planted pots and succulents!
 
You’ll also find hand crafted birds, exotic animals, wildlife and Faith based art painted on native Arkansas Sandstone by ArtThatRocks4u.com.
 
ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT THE BRANSON REGIONAL ARTS COUNCIL
 
Directions: Take 76 Highway toward Kimberling City, then LEFT on Hwy 13. Turn LEFT on DD Highway and go 6.5 miles to the DD Community Center and turn RIGHT. Keep going straight until you see the PLANT SIGNS and park on the street. You will be shuttled to the sale and returned to your car! EASY!
 
COME EARLY AND SUPPORT THE BRANSON REGIONAL ARTS COUNCIL.
/by
, , , ,

Win A Cruise Aboard A State Park Marina Pontoon Boat

The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to announce the support of our friends at State Park Marina on beautiful Table Rock Lake.  Their Boathouse Boutique is providing the nautical themed hats and many costume pieces for our upcoming production of Anything Goes at the Historic Owen Theatre.

In addition, two lucky winners will each receive a FOUR HOUR CRUISE aboard a private PONTOON BOAT courtesy of State Park Marina.

All ticket holders for Anything Goes will receive one entry for each seat purchased into the contest, but additional “raffle tickets” may be purchased online to greatly increase your chances of winning.

$5 - BUY 2 RAFFLE TICKETS   $10 - BUY 5 RAFFLE TICKETS   $15 - BUY 10 RAFFLE TICKETS   $20 - BUY 15 RAFFLE TICKETS

BUY TICKETS FOR ANYTHING GOES

 

The winning tickets will be selected at random during the intermission of the Sunday, April 29th 2pm show, however, you do not have to be present to win.  If you are unable to attend the show, you may also just purchase a raffle ticket and still be in the running for the prize. There will also be a variety of smaller prizes drawn at the show as well.

 

All proceeds from this raffle benefit the community theatre program at the Historic Owen Theatre, and help make it possible for us to continue to grow and expand our arts activities.

/by
, ,

Invitation To Artist Reception at Branson Convention Center Gallery

The Branson Regional Arts Council invites the public to attend a FREE Community Event, this Friday (April 13th) from 7-9pm at the Branson Convention Center Art Gallery on the 2nd level concourse. 

Join in celebration of 12 area artists, featuring dozens of new works now on display at the gallery. Featured artists include: Kwaku Addai, Glenda Roberson, Jane Parker, Galina Nikiforova Foulconer, Raine Clotfelter, Jim Tindall, Mary Arneson, Dee Giles, Marty Goodnight, Alpha Morrow, Thia Schuler, and Meadows Images.

The Branson Convention Center Gallery is about to begin it’s 3rd season and has been visited by approximately 100,000 people annually, according to General Manager Marc Mulherin. Several of the current featured artists will be attending the reception to discuss their work, and members of the Branson Regional Arts Council Board will be there to answer any questions. Refreshments will be available as well.

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

 

/by
, ,

Anything Goes Musical Tickets On Sale Now

Anything Goes Tickets On Sale Now…

The Branson Regional Arts Council presents, Anything Goes, a 1934 musical with music and lyrics by Cole Porter. The story concerns madcap antics aboard an ocean liner bound from New York to London. Billy Crocker is a stowaway in love with heiress Hope Harcourt, who is engaged to Lord Evelyn Oakleigh. Nightclub singer Reno Sweeney and Public Enemy #13 Moonface Martin aid Billy in his quest to win Hope. The musical introduced such songs as “Anything Goes”, “You’re the Top”, and “I Get a Kick Out of You.”

The high energy dance musical features a cast of 24 actors, and will be presented at the Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S. Commercial St., Branson, MO 65616.

BUY TICKETS FOR ANYTHING GOES

Performance dates are:

  • Thursday, April 26th – 7pm
  • Friday, April 27th – 7pm
  • Saturday, April 28th – 2pm & 7pm
  • Sunday, April 29th – 2pm

After the successful, sold-out run of the Arts Council’s previous show, Annie, patrons are encouraged to purchase tickets for Anything Goes soon.  Reserved seats are on-sale now at BransonArts.org/tix.

/by
, ,

Lennon Brothers & Gail Lennon Reunion Concert Announced

After many years, The Lennon Brothers & Gail Lennon are excited to announce a reunion concert in Branson, Missouri for TWO SHOWS ONLY!

  • Saturday, November 24th at 8pm, and Sunday, November 25th at 2pm.
  • $25 (plus transaction fee) Reserved Admission for all seats at BransonArts.org/lennon.  (No discounts available)

LENNON REUNION CONCERT TICKETS

Enjoy authentic swing harmony, inside of Branson’s oldest and most historic entertainment venue!

This concert will not only be fun for Lennon fans of all ages, it will also be of benefit to the Branson Regional Arts Council and their new visual and performing arts programming being developed at the Historic Owen Theatre.

If you love the vocal swing harmony that was America’s favorite music in the 30’s and 40’s…you need look no further than The Lennon Brothers and Gail Lennon.

The Lennon Brothers & Gail Lennon

The Lennons capture the sound of legendary performers such as The Modernaires, The Pied Pipers, The Delta Rhythm Boys and The Four Vagabonds. They sing the works of some of the greatest American composers… Hoagy Carmichael, Johnny Mercer, Duke Ellington, Irving Berlin and more.

Brothers Dan, Bill, and Joe grew up in Los Angeles as members of a celebrated musical heritage. Their father, Bill, was the lead singer in the original Lennon Brothers, who performed in the 1940’s and 50’s. It was their sisters, however, who sang their way into America’s hearts as young performers on The Lawrence Welk Show. The Lennon Sisters’ “girl next door” beauty and charm endeared them to millions, but it was their harmonies that led them to be inducted into The Vocal Group Hall-of-Fame in 2002.

The boys have been singing from the time they were born. And as the times were a’ changing so was the music. They sang The Beatles, Crosby Stills and Nash, Jefferson Airplane…but also the music of an earlier time: Al Jolson, The Mills Brothers, and the original Lennon Brothers.

Bill, Dan, Joe and Gail Lennon

In 1983, Bill met his wife-to-be Gail. Gail was among the top studio singers in L.A. at that time. They discovered a mutual love for the music of the Swing Era and, with brother Dan, put together a vocal group called The Fatells. This was the fore runner of The Lennon Brothers of today.

In 1994, thirty members of the Lennon family moved to Branson, Missouri to perform at the new Welk Resort. The brothers and Gail opened the resort with a morning show that The Chicago Tribune hailed as “The BEST show in Branson!” The show featured not only a hot live band and tight swing harmonies, but also the brothers’ “…Monty Python meets Vaudeville” style of comedy.

Gail was voted “Female Vocalist of the Year” in 1994 at the Branson Entertainment Awards. Over the next several years, the group won awards so often they were given a spot in the Branson’s “Hall of Fame”.

The critics agreed:

St. Louis Dispatch “..one of Branson’s most respected shows.”
Tulsa World “…subversively hip!”
Springfield News Leader “Smoothly entertaining…Branson’s best!”
Chicago Tribune “The BEST show in Branson!”

And so did their fellow performers:

Andy Williams “…the best four-part vocals I’ve heard in years!”
Pete Fountain “They’re the best…unbelievable talent…the show was over way too soon!”
Les Brown Jr. – Band of Renown “Gail is a wonderful singer!”
Sunny Spencer – Sons of the Pioneers “They’re my favorite singing group in the whole world!”

The Lennon Brothers & Gail Lennon have released 3 CD’s: “Swing Away!”, “Swing Sandwich”, and “The 9:30 Special”. In The Groove magazine praises the recordings “…outstanding quality” and called the groups performances “…amazing!”

Since last headlining in Branson, the group has traveled for special events. They’ve been the headline performers at the “Indian Wells Jazz Festival”, have performed on the S.S. Rotterdam and have played venues throughout the Midwest and West Coast.

The Lennon Brothers & Gail Lennon Reunion Concert will be an exciting event for area locals and Branson vacationers alike.  Early purchase of tickets is highly recommended as both performances are expected to completely sell out. Visit BransonArts.org/lennon.

/by

Learn the Art of Ventriloquism with Jim Barber

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

 

/by
, , ,

Auditions For Anything Goes This Week At Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateMarch 13, 2018
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view1942 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council announced last week, that auditions for the 2nd major musical of the year will take place this Wednesday, Thursday and Friday (March 14-16, 2018) evening from 6pm until 9pm at the Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S. Commercial Street, Branson, MO 65616.

Anything Goes is set aboard the ocean liner S. S. American, where nightclub singer/evangelist Reno Sweeney is en route from New York to England. Her pal Billy Crocker has stowed away to be near his love, Hope Harcourt, but the problem is Hope is engaged to the wealthy Lord Evelyn Oakleigh. Joining this love triangle on board the luxury liner are Public Enemy #13, Moonface Martin and his sidekick-in-crime Erma. With the help of some elaborate disguises, tap-dancing sailors and good old-fashioned blackmail, Reno and Martin join forces to help Billy in his quest to win Hope’s heart. – Broadway.com

Following the completely sold out run of Annie the Musical, the bar has been set a bit higher for this production, but Show Producers Kim Hale and Lisa Murphy are up to the challenge, as well as Director Lloyd Alexander-Holt and Choreographer Kristen Dasto.

Casting auditions are open to actors, singers, and dancers ages 15+, sorry, there are no child roles in this production.

WHAT TO BRING
Each performer needs to prepare a one minute, uptempo and ballad vocal selection. They should also please bring sheet music in the appropriate key, or provide CD accompaniment tracks. No acapella singing will be allowed. All actors should be prepared to stay for the dance call toward the later portion of the audition schedule.

Dancers, please come prepared to do a jazz and a tap combination. Appropriate dance footware, ie Jazz and Tap shoes, is suggested. Ladies if you have character tap shoes, please wear them. NO BARE FEET.

Rehearsals will be each Sunday-Thursday from 6-9pm at the Historic Owen Theatre. Saturday rehearsals will be held from 12pm-6pm on April 7 and April 14, Tech Week begins April 21-25. Performances are April 26, 27, 28 at 7pm, and April 28 and 29 at 2pm.

Performers who are unable to attend these auditions are invited to send a video audition link to info@bransonarts.org no later than 9pm Central this Friday, March 16th.

Public performances of Anything Goes will be April 26-29th at the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson. Reserved tickets are expected to go on-sale on this website before Monday, March 19th.

Here are a few clips from the actual Broadway show for inspiration:

/by
, ,

Community Theatre Production of Annie Completely Sells Out

If the standing ovations and rave reviews weren’t enough, the fact that all five productions of Annie the Musical SOLD OUT before the second show, says that there is a real need for high quality community theatre in the Branson Tri-Lakes area!

“This first production of our first season in the Historic Owen Theatre shattered all of our expectations! We knew we had a stellar cast, incredible directors and an amazing production team… but we didn’t expect the unbelievable show of support from our community.  We are humbled and inspired to continue to develop performing and visuals arts programming for all residents in our area. ” – Jim Barber, BRAC Executive Director

The final performance was bittersweet for the entire cast, and tears were flowing on the faces of many as the final curtain closed. They won’t stay closed for long, however, as auditions for the next big musical production, Anything Goes, begin tomorrow… “tomorrow, you’re only a day away!”

/by
, ,

The Musical Annie Brings Broadway Theatre Back To Branson

The Branson Regional Arts Council production of Annie is bringing Broadway style musicals back to the Branson Tri-Lakes area!

Lloyd Alexander-Holt, Zoe Allie & Bandit

Annie, the musical, is the premiere production for the Arts Council’s first season in the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson. Performances are March 8-11. 7pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday. 2pm, Saturday and Sunday.

  • Show: Annie
  • Place: Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S. Commercial St., Branson, MO 65616
  • Date/Time: March 8-11, 7pm (Thu-Fri-Sat) and 2pm (Sat-Sun)
  • Reserved seats are required and be purchased online at BransonArts.org/tix.
The Arts Council assumed operations of the Historic Owen Theatre on January 1st and, just three weeks later, officially merged with Tri-Lakes Community Theatre in an effort to preserve the 35 year history of the organization and to provide Branson’s only year-round venue devoted to community theatre, arts and education.
The Arts Council’s Theatre Advisory Committee oversees the selection of all plays and musicals throughout the performance season. Committee members include: Justin Ables, Kristen Ables, Tina Cool Anderson, Jean Cantwell, Kimberly Hale, Jim Barber, Lisa Murphy, Roz Slavik, Greg Slavik, Patty Slicer, Sue Head, Hayden Head, Darlene Graham, Michelle Inskeep, Delyla Uebel, and Rick Uebel.

Ozarks Live! hosts, Jeremy Rabe and Kelly Smith, interviewed BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber on their daily talk show on KOLR-10 in Springfield, Missouri.They discussed how Annie the musical was selected, as well as what is in store for the Historic Owen Theatre this season.

Leading cast members of Annie include: Zoe Allie
 (Annie), Bekah Williams
 (Secondary Annie), Kelsey Bradley
 (Miss Hanigan), Lloyd Ray Alexander-Holt
 (Oliver Warbucks), and Sarah Sutherland (Grace Farrell), and Bandit (Sandy).
The Orphans are played by: Sophie Douglas, Laurie Payne, Abby Sundahl, Brynleigh Hill, Jordan Kendrick, Sami Sutlcliffe, Bekah Williams, Aleah Oltjenbrun
, Alexis Fischer
 and Emrie Straka.
Featured actors include: Kyle Bradley, Michael Horn, Sean Myers, Jordan Alexander-Holt, Jim Barber, Alex Harris, Noah Beyer, Kristen Dasto, Sarah Williams, Melissa Rivera, Dani Groff, Brenna Kellem, Haley Bertrand, Jonah Conque and Bradie Conque.
The production team includes; Producers: Kim Hale and Lisa Murphy, Assistant Producer: Roz Slavik, Co-Director & Set Design: Jacob Estes, Co-Director & Vocal Director: Lloyd Alexander-Holt, Marketing: Jim Barber and Hayden Head, Choreographer: Jordan Alexander-Holt, Dance Captain: Kristen Dasto, Piano Accompanists: Dee Uebel and Ruth Abbott, Audio Technicians: Rick Uebel and Steve Stewart, Lighting Technicians: Pamela Meadows and Brian Hissink, Stage Manager: Lori Best, Set Muralist: Larry Waggoner, Set Construction: Louis Allem, Mike Groff, Dave Yeager, Lori Best, Jacob Estes, Nick Batey, Kristen Dasto, Art Hale, KJ Soyland, Michelle Inskeep, and Lex Pearson.

Ozarks Live! host, Jeremy Rabe interviewed the stars of the show, Zoe Allie (Annie), Lloyd Alexander-Holt (Oliver Warbucks) and Bandit from Camp Little Paws (Sandy).  Warbucks and Annie then shared an uplifting song accompanied by Dee Uebel on keyboard.

Annie at the Historic Owen Theatre is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).
The Branson Regional Arts Council receives some financial assistance from the Missouri Arts Council, as well as individual and business membership support. Anyone interested in sponsorship are asked to visit BransonArts.org/membership.
/by
, , ,

Ventriloquism Workshop with Jim Barber Announced

Have you ever wondered how ventriloquists like Darci Lynn (America’s Got Talent) and Jeff Dunham (Comedy Central) are able to “throw their voices” and make their puppets talk clearly without moving their lips? Well here is your chance to participate in a fun and educational ventriloquism workshop at the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson, Missouri.

Professional ventriloquist Jim Barber has agreed to personally teach this course as a fundraiser benefiting the Branson Regional Arts Council.

The workshop will be held over 3 Saturdays in March 2018, for a total of 9 hours of intensive education and technical training.

  • COST: $149 (per person, includes all 3 sessions)
  • DATE: Saturdays, March 17, 24, 31
  • TIME: 9am – 12pm (3 hours each session)

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Jim will not only share his personal vocal techniques that he developed over his successful 40 year career, but he will also include an intensive overview of the official Maher Ventrilquist Studios Course of Ventriloquism, which has launched the careers of thousands of ventriloquists around the world since 1934.

Inclusion of this course is made possible by professional ventriloquist Tom Crowl, who owns and operates the famous Maher Studios.

KIDS OF ALL AGES… GREAT GIFT FOR YOUR CHILD, GRANDCHILD, OR YOURSELF!

ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR:

Jim Barber’s unique blend of comedy, ventriloquism, and vocal music have taken him around the world as a featured entertainer for International corporate events, major cruise lines, and as host of USO shows for our military families stationed across the United States and in the Mediterranean.  Based in Branson, Missouri, Jim is now the Executive Director of the Arts Council and will be appearing in his own show at the Shepherd of the Hills Attraction in a remodeled, indoor theatre this summer. Throughout his career, Jim has shared stage and toured with many celebrities including Glen Campbell, The Osmonds, Tony Orlando, The Bellamy Brothers, Jim Stafford, Eddy Rabbitt, Yakov Smirnoff and many others. His unique act has been featured on many national television shows including the Late Show with David Letterman. Jim also serves as an advisor for Vent Haven Museum in Ft. Mitchell, KY. Vent Haven is the world’s largest museum dedicated to the art of ventriloquism.

/2 Comments/by