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Shakespeare’s The Comedy Of Errors To Play Historic Owen Theatre April 21st & 22nd

  • dateApril 4, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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Rated G | General Audiences & School Students

The Branson Regional Arts Council presents, The Comedy of Errors, one of William Shakespeare’s early plays. It is his shortest and one of his most farcical comedies, with a major part of the humour coming from slapstick and mistaken identity, in addition to puns and word play. It has been adapted for opera, stage, screen and musical theatre numerous times worldwide.

TWO PUBLIC PERFORMANCES

  • Sunday, April 21st at 2pm
  • Monday, April 22nd at 12:30pm

Tickets for this special Education Series production are only $10 for all patrons. Lap children under the age of four are admitted free of charge. Advance reserved seats are available now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255.

The Comedy of Errors by William Shakespeare is a comedy about the mistaken identity of two sets of twins. Separated by a storm at sea, Antipholus of Syracuse sets out to Ephesus with his slave Dromio of Syracuse to find their twin brothers, Antipholus of Ephesus and Dromio of Ephesus, respectively. Their arrival to Ephesus immediately starts an unfortunate chain of events that results in beatings, seduction, and false-accusations. After several comedic events, the people of Ephesus realize the reason for the misunderstanding and the two families are able to reunite.

Cast Members (in photo above):
Carlin Campbell – Antipholus of Syracuse
Joshua Ankabrandt – Dromio of Syracuse
Nick Carrano – Antipholus of Ephesus
Jon Michael Thompson – Dromio of Ephesus

Other Cast not pictured:
Kyra Carrano – Adriana
CarlyRae Stevenson – Luciana
Jonathan Crum – Egeon
Luke Merrick – Angelo the Goldsmith
Connor Cagle – Duke Solinus
Charis Boulden – The Courtesan
Mariah Garret – Emelia the Abbess
Megan King – Second Merchant
Brandon Farrar – The Officer/Balthazar
Corrine Tabor – First Merchant/Jailer

BAND MEMBERS

  • Madi Trammell – Clarinet / Saxophone
  • Cole McKinney – Trombone / Keyboard
  • Jacob Jewell – Keyboard
  • Devin Farmer – Trumpet
  • Tori Hurley – Drums

PRODUCTION TEAM

  • Josh Boulden – Director
  • Ryan Hippe – Assistant Director / Scenic Design
  • Madi Trammell – Music Director
  • McKenzie Marks – Costume Designer
  • Daylin Paulson – Lighting Designer
  • Casey Sharp – Sound Designer
  • CJ McElhiney – Production Stage Manager
  • David Clark – Assistant Stage Manager / Props
  • Connor Finn – Lead Carpenter
  • Sarah Briggs – Spotlight Operator
  • Nathanael Frank – Music Arrangements
  • Kristen Ables – Poster / Publicity Photos / Wigs
  • Megan King – Promotional Videos
  • J im Barber – Performance Video Production

SET BUILD VOLUNTEERS

  • Dion Castro
  • Hayden Bailey
  • Nathanael Pezzo
  • Alyssa Vella
  • Parker Leroy

MUSIC CREDITS

  • Jubilee Stomp – based on Duke Ellignton and his Cotton Club Orchestra Ca. 1928, transcribed and arranged by Scott Sproxton, further arrangement by Nathanael Frank.
  • Tiger Rag – based on Duke Ellington and his Cotton Club Orchestra Ca. 1929, arrangement by Nathanael Frank.
  • Bobcat (”He Left Me”), by David Bruce, arrangement by Nathaniel Frank, lyrics by Bucky T. B.
  • Afterburner by Christian Morris Additional original piano music by Cole McKinney and Jacob Jewell

There will be two public performances of this production on Sunday, April 21st at 2pm,and Monday, April 22nd at 12:30pm. Interested school groups who would like to bring their students  should contact BRAC at 417-336-4255.

POST PERFORMANCE UPDATE: Watch this entire production below!

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Legally Blonde The Musical JR On Stage April 12-14 In Downtown Branson

  • dateMarch 27, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council’s Staccato Performance Troupe presents Legally Blonde The Musical JR for five exciting performances from Friday, April 12 to Sunday, April 14, 2024.

The production is Rated G | General audiences.

Showtimes are 7pm (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) and 2pm (Saturday, Sunday).

Tickets for this production are $20 (Adults 18+) and $12 (Youth 4-17), with lap children admitted free of charge. Advance reserved tickets are recommended and on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box-office of the Historic Owen Theatre at 417-336-4255.

Based on the award-winning Broadway musical and the smash hit motion picture, Legally Blonde The Musical JR. is a fabulously fun journey of self-empowerment and expanding horizons. The show’s instantly recognizable songs are filled with humor, wit and sass — leaving cast members and audiences alike seeing pink!

Legally Blonde JR. follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes, snobbery and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. When Elle’s boyfriend, Warner, dumps her and heads to Harvard, claiming she’s not “serious” enough, Elle takes matters into her own hands, crafting a showy song-and-dance personal essay and charming her way into law school. Befriending classmate, Emmett, and spunky hairdresser, Paulette, along the way, Elle finds that books and looks aren’t mutually exclusive. As Elle begins outsmarting her peers, she realizes that law may be her natural calling after all.

Director Jacob Estes leads the production in addition to being choreographer, adding one more credit to his long list of acting and directing achievements on behalf of the Branson Regional Arts Council. Jacob has also performed at Kings Castle Theatre, Silver Dollar City, The Welk Resort, Sight and Sound Theatre, and on tour nationally with Forever Young.

The Staccato Performance Troupe cast members include: Abby Wheeler (Elle Woods), Sam Baker (Emmett Forrest), Miliani Kloster (Brooke Wyndam / Delta Nu Dancer), Ember Straka (Paulette / Delta Nu Dancer), Dimitri Tsahiridis (Professor Callahan), Sophie Douglas (Vivienne Kensington / Store Manager), Cameron Donnell (Warner Huntington III), Promise Brunson (Courtney / Whitney / Chutney / Delta Ne Dancer / Law Student), Hallie Groff (Enid / Delta Nu Dancer / Law Student), Alivia Prince (Kate / Delta Nu Dancer / Law Student), Josslynn Silvy (Margot / Delta Nu Dancer / Law Student), Jack Brown (Pilar / Delta Nu Dancer / Aaron / Law Student), Kylee Chandler (Serena / Delta Nu Dancer / Law Student), Brenna Prince (Gaelen / Delta Nu Dancer / Law Student), Julien Willis (Kyle / Dewey / Law Student), Jason Prince (Winthrop / Sundeep / Grandmaster Chad / Law Student), Caleb Spurling (Lowell / Prison Guard / Law Student) and Evan Carr (Pforzhelmer / Pilot / Law Student).

Staccato Performance Troupe is an advanced show choir for area youth between the ages of 13-18 that combines a challenging music repertoire with entertaining choreography, on-stage acting, and stage performance. Through the training season, members work towards a common goal while studying advanced music theory, vocal and physical warm ups, musical theatre vocal techniques (belting, mixing, telling a story), stage etiquette, hip hop, jazz and musical theatre dance. Open auditions for new Staccato members are held each Fall, and under the direction of Jacob Estes, the students focus on elevating their “triple threat” skills and applying their formal training into a lively musical theatre presentation such as this production of Legally Blonde The Musical JR.

The production team also includes Karie Dykeman, Kristine Brown (Producers), Kim Hale, Joshua Boulden (Assistant Producers), Dimitri Tsahiridis (Stage Manager),   Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Cysten Rainey (Audio Technician), Kaleigh Degarmo (Audio Assistant), Bee Rice, Juanita Wilson (Spotlight),  Kyle Blanchard (Theatre & Special Events Manager), Josh Silvy (Theatre Inventory), and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director, Marketing and Design).

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Crescendo Youth Performance Troupe 2024 Spring Concert on Friday, April 5th

  • dateMarch 27, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The public is invited to enjoy a free community event this week at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson. The Branson Regional Arts Council’s Crescendo Youth Troupe presents their Spring Concert on Friday, April 5th (7pm).

Crescendo: “Meaning growing, as in swelling of sound, or becoming louder.”

Since early February, the Crescendo students have been developing their performance skills under the direction of their talented and qualified instructors Jacob Deck and Julie Brinkman. The Spring Concert will feature musical presentations by these talented young performers and includes several popular songs from both stage and screen.

Performing on stage was a key aspect of both of our childhoods, continuing throughout high school and college into the present day. So much is learned on and off stage in the theater and neither of us would be who we are without the teachers and directors that invested into us as little performers. This love for performing has also created a love for teaching and instilling a love for the arts in the performers who come after us. We have so enjoyed getting to work with this amazing group of performers – their joy for life and love for others is contagious!
– Julie Brinkman & Jacob Deck – BRAC’s Crescendo Instructors

The 2024 cast of Crescendo include: Lee Brown, Lexi Carr, Emma Chandler, Xia McElwee, Maggie Marks, Katy Patton, Henley Rosecrans, and Gwen Tsahiridis.

Come enjoy these talented young performers as they sing and dance their way into your hearts! No reservations required, doors open 30 minutes before showtime, and the performance will last approximately 40 mins.

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BRAC Spring Conservatory Youth Acting Classes Now Open For Registration

  • dateMarch 21, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to offer a series of beginning and advanced Acting Classes for area Youth as part of our Spring Theatre Conservatory program.

Registrations are now open, and class size is limited. Please call 417-336-4255 with any questions or for additional information.

Class Title: Acting with Mind and Body

Students will explore the link between the emotional and physical life of a character. Through games and activities they will gain a functional understanding of how the imagination plays its part in acting, and how it can then inform physical, observable action.

For students ages 8-12 years old.

Class Schedule: Mondays (April 22, 29, May 6, 13, 20, 27)
Time: 4:30-5:30pm

Registration Fee: $75.00 for all six classes (limit of 15 students per class)

Class Criteria: Students should have prior performance experience and/or have attended BRAC conservatory.

REGISTER FOR THESE CLASSES

Meet the Instructors: Ashlind and Ryan Hippe

Ashlind and Ryan met while studying theatre at Liberty University. Since graduating and getting married, they both have found work at Sight and Sound Theatres for several seasons: Ryan as an actor and Ashlind as the Children’s Coordinator.

They are passionate about teaching and directing the next generation of performers, and are excited to see their students shine!

Class Title: Musical Theatre Audition Prep and Song Analysis

Students will workshop two audition musical cuts in a masterclass-type setting, receiving audition feedback and vocal technique aid. Styles covered include Golden Age and Contemporary, reflecting the varying needs in Musical Theater auditions. Students will receive feedback on their headshots and resumes as well as other audition standards. My desire is that students will walk away with two fantastic cuts to set themselves up for success in auditions!

For students ages 13-18 years old.

Class Schedule: Mondays (April 22, 29, May 6, 13, 20, 27)
Time: 6:00-7:30pm 

Registration Fee: $100.00 for all six classes (limit of 10 students per class)

Class Criteria: Students should have prior performance experience, and/or have taken voice lessons. Juniors or Seniors in high school should sign up for this class unless they have never performed before/are beginners.

 

REGISTER FOR THESE CLASSES

Meet the Instructor: Lizzy Hinton

Lizzy holds a Master in Music in Vocal Performance for Musical Theatre and an Advanced Certificate in Vocal Pedagogy from NYU, and BFA from Belmont University in MT. Lizzy has taught at NYU and College of the Ozarks and maintains a private voice studio. As a Singing Voice Specialist, she works closely with voice clinics, such as the NYU Langone Voice Center in New York, as a part of the rehabilitation team of injured voices. In addition to teaching, she has enjoyed performing regionally across the nation for nearly a decade. Currently, she is performing at Sight and Sound Theatres in Queen Esther. Favorite roles include, Jo in Little Women (BRAC), Girl in Once, and Olive in Spelling Bee.

 

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Auditions for Special Abilities Event On March 24th at Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateFebruary 28, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council is holding auditions for it’s 2024 Special Abilities Showcase talent event on Sunday, March 24, 2024 at 5:30pm at the Historic Owen Theatre.

Audition Date: Sunday, March 24, 2024 – 5:30pm

Historic Owen Theatre – Downtown Branson

This audition is open to performers of any age with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, or other types of developmental disability who have a love of singing, acting, dancing, playing an instrument, etc.  The production will be under the direction of Kyle Blanchard, with two public performances scheduled for Saturday, April 27, 2024 and Sunday, April 28, 2024 at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

Interested parties are encouraged to RSVP to attend the audition with Karie at the Branson Regional Arts Council in advance by calling 417-336-4255 or via email at events@bransonarts.org.

For auditions please prepare 30 seconds of a song, monologue or whatever performance piece you might like to perform at the event.

BRAC is excited to celebrate the extraordinary talents of this special cast of performers who will be taking the stage, and daring to dream!

 

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The SpongeBob Musical Is Non-Stop Family Fun at the Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateJanuary 10, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view6006 Views

Who lives in a pineapple under the sea and became the hottest star on Broadway? Why, it’s SpongeBob, of course, and he’s bringing his hilarious, high energy musical to downtown Branson for three weeks of performances at the Historic Owen Theatre!

Shows run February 8 – 25, 2024 with perfomances on Thursdays (7pm), Fridays, (7pm), Saturdays (2pm & 7pm), and Sundays (2pm). Advance reserve tickets are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Box Office at 417-336-4255.  Ticket prices are: $20 (Adults 18+) and $12 (Youth 4-17), lap children are free.

Families will enjoy seeing The SpongeBob Musical for several reasons. It’s a colorful and lively production that brings the beloved characters of the animated television series to life on stage. The musical features catchy songs, energetic dance numbers, and a storyline that celebrates friendship, teamwork, and resilience, all of which are great themes for families to enjoy together. Additionally, the show’s humor appeals to both kids and adults, making it a fun experience for the whole family!

This Branson Regional Arts Council production features irresistible characters, magical choreography, dazzling costumes, with wave after wave of original songs by the World’s most iconic Rock and Pop Artists including Yolanda Adams, Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith, Sara Bareilles, Jonathan Coulton, Alexander Ebert of Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, The Flaming Lips, Lady Antebellum, Cyndi Lauper, John Legend, Panic! At the Disco, Plain White T’s, They Might Be Giants and T.I., and songs by David Bowie, Tom Kenny and Andy Paley. Additional lyrics are by Jonathan Coulton, with additional music by Tom Kitt. The musical production was conceived by Tina Landau. 

This musical Branson show is under the direction of Kyle Bradley with musical direction by Julie Brinkman.

The talented cast of The SpongeBob Musical include: Jake Deck (SPONGEBOB),  Kyle Denton (PATRICK STAR), Kellsey Bradley (SANDY), David Hewitt (SQUIDWARD Q. TENTACLES),  Mike Sager (SHELDON J. PLANKTON),  Madison Hatfield (KAREN THE COMPUTER), Sarah Williams (THE MAYOR), Lacey Kellett (PEARL KRABS), Sean Myers (MR. EUGENE KRABS),  Lucas Dahlgren (PERCH PERKINS), Jeremiah Reeve (PATCHY / OLD MAN JENKINS), Somer Dean, Jen Frost, Josiah Sims (ELECTRIC SKATES), Joshua McGeough ( BUSTER BLUE TANG), Richard Marks (LARRY THE LOBSTER), Abby Reeve (MRS. PUFF), Reagan Hoagland (GARY THE SNAIL), and Nathan Spurling / Josh Williams (FOLEY ARTIST FISH).

The Adult Ensemble include: Velvet Dougharty, Melinda Prince, Madison Hewitt, Cyrsten Rainey, Rachel Sager, Mindy Law, Juanita Wilson, Loran Polson, Antoinette St. John and Christian Ross.

The Teen Ensemble include: Jael Frost, Josslynn Silvy, Jason Prince, Caleb Spurling and Hallie Groff.

The Guppies (Young Ensemble) include: Gwen Tsahiridis, Lee Brown, Maggie Marks and Reagan Hoagland.

The production team include: Karie Dykeman, Kristine Brown (Producers), Kim Hale, Joshua Boulden (Assistant Producers), Kyle Bradley (Director), Julie Brinkman (Music Director), Jacob Deck (Choreographer), Claire Denton (Stage Manager), Nathan Reinke (Assistant Stage Manager), Tiffany Jones (Youth Manager), Myles Stevens (Sound), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Kellsey Bradley (Costumes), Madison Hatfield (Assistant Costumes), Leslie Austin (Props), Lacey Kellett (Social Media Promotions), Jim Barber (Marketing and Design), Josh Silvy (Theatre Inventory), and Marshall Meadows (Photography).

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Spring Semester Openings Available For Crescendo Youth Performance Troupe

  • dateJanuary 9, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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  • view5088 Views

Calling All Kids Ages 7-12!!! Come be a part of Crescendo /krəˈSHenˌdō/!

The Branson Regional Arts Council is gearing up for our Spring Semester and have a few openings in our exciting educational youth performance troupe for kids who love to sing, dance and act!

Members of Crescendo meet on a regular basis after school at the Historic Owen Theatre.

If you have a student that would be interested, please contact Karie at 417-336-4255 or edu@bransonarts.org for more information!

Crescendo: “Meaning growing, as in swelling of sound, or becoming louder.”

Students will have fun developing their performance skills in the areas of voice and dance, while gaining new friendships, skills and increasing their confidence.

The students will learn and perform under the direction of their talented and qualified instructors Jacob Deck and Julie Brinkman.

 

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Disney’s Finding Nemo JR Now Playing At Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateNovember 29, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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  • view3756 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council proudly presents it’s Winter Youth Theatre Production of Disney’s Finding Nemo JR, a musical adaptation of Disney-Pixar’s popular animated film Finding Nemo. This junior version of the musical is specifically designed for younger performers and audiences of all ages.

Rated G for Great Family Fun!

Performances at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson run November 30th through December 10, 2023. Showtimes are Thursday, Friday, Saturday (7pm) and Saturday, Sunday (2pm). Advance ticket reservations are highly recommended and can be purchased online at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Box Office at 417-336-4255. Tickets are $20 (Adults 18+) and $12 (Youth 4-17). Lap children under 4 are free.

Co-Directed by Kyle and Kellsey Bradley, the story closely follows the plot of the original movie, taking the audience on an underwater adventure with Marlin, a clownfish, and his forgetful friend Dory as they search for Marlin’s son, Nemo, who has been captured by a diver and placed in a fish tank. The musical includes many other beloved characters from the film, including Crush the Sea Turtle and Bruce the Shark, and features memorable songs such as “Just Keep Swimming,” “Fish Are Friends Not Food,” and “Go With the Flow.”

Finding Nemo JR. offers an opportunity for young area actors and actresses to showcase their talents while delivering important themes of family, friendship, and perseverance in a highly entertaining way!

Cast members of Finding Nemo JR include: Josslynn Silvy / Zoey Viola (Nemo), Ben Stevens (Marlin), Emma Spurling (Dory), Lundyn Mitchell (Professor Ray), Katie Linn (Scuba Mask Dancer), Josh Reed (Bruce), Jack Brown (Chum), Brooklyn Giannotti (Anchor), Indy Griffith (Bubbles), Hallie Groff (Bloat), Alivia Prince (Gurgle), Jillian Reed (Peach), Caleb Spurling (Gill), Ryan Merrifield (Nigel), Jael Frost (Crush), Alton Prince (Squirt), Scarlett McManus (Kai), Brenna Prince (Breeze), Paisley Buttram (Pearl), Emma Chandler (Sheldon), Greyson Stevens (Tad), Maggie Marks (Angelfish), Grady Stevens (Damselfish), Promise Brunson (Pearl’s Parent), Emma Callaway (Sheldon’s Parent), Evan Carr (Tad’s Parent), Rylin Chick, Giovanni Verastegui, Gracie Floer (Moonfish), Kate Sutherland, Luke Johnson, Kynadee Carter, Reagan Hoagland, Royal Steelman, Gwendolyn Tsahiridis, Scout McManus, Caleb Linn, Katy Patton, Anabella Meyer, ToriAnne Lyons, Lexi Carr, Ezra Williams, Xia McElwee and Layla Gabriel (Young Sea Chorus).

Supporting the BRAC Youth Theatre Education Programs and this production of Disney’s Finding Nemo JR is important for several reasons.

Nurturing Creativity: BRAC’s Youth theatre programs provide a platform for young residents to explore their creativity, develop their artistic talents, and express themselves through acting, singing, and dancing. It encourages a love for the arts and helps participants discover their potential.

Building Confidence: Involvement in theatre, especially for youth, can boost self-confidence. It teaches public speaking, teamwork, and the ability to perform in front of an audience, which are valuable life skills.

Fostering Inclusivity: Theatre promotes diversity and inclusivity, allowing participants of various backgrounds and abilities to come together and collaborate. It’s an opportunity to celebrate differences and work towards a common goal.

Community Engagement: BRAC’s youth theatre productions involve the local community, from parents and volunteers to audiences. This strengthens our community bonds and supports a sense of togetherness.

Educational Value: Theatre can be an educational tool, teaching history, culture, and various subjects through storytelling. Finding Nemo JR can teach environmental awareness and the importance of protecting marine life.

Entertainment: Youth theatre productions like Finding Nemo JR offer enjoyable and family-friendly entertainment. They give families the chance to share in the joy of a live performance in the intimate setting of the Historic Owen Theatre.

Future Talent Development: Many successful actors, directors, and artists started their careers in youth theatre. Supporting these endeavors contributes to the development of future talent in the entertainment industry.

Supporting youth theatre and Branson Regional Arts Council productions like Finding Nemo JR has a positive impact on the personal growth of young individuals, our community, and the arts as a whole. It’s a valuable investment in creativity, education, and cultural enrichment.

Swim on over to the Historic Owen Theatre and reserve your seats now, for this fun musical holiday production!

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Disney’s Finding Nemo JR Entertains And Inspires Audiences In Branson

  • dateNovember 9, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view3894 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council proudly presents it’s Winter Youth Theatre Production of Disney’s Finding Nemo JR, a musical adaptation of Disney-Pixar’s popular animated film Finding Nemo. This junior version of the musical is specifically designed for younger performers and audiences of all ages.

Rated G for Great Family Fun!

Performances at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson run November 30th through December 10, 2023. Showtimes are Thursday, Friday, Saturday (7pm) and Saturday, Sunday (2pm). Advance ticket reservations are highly recommended and can be purchased online at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Box Office at 417-336-4255. Tickets are $20 (Adults 18+) and $12 (Youth 4-17). Lap children under 4 are free.

Co-Directed by Kyle and Kellsey Bradley, the story closely follows the plot of the original movie, taking the audience on an underwater adventure with Marlin, a clownfish, and his forgetful friend Dory as they search for Marlin’s son, Nemo, who has been captured by a diver and placed in a fish tank. The musical includes many other beloved characters from the film, including Crush the Sea Turtle and Bruce the Shark, and features memorable songs such as “Just Keep Swimming,” “Fish Are Friends Not Food,” and “Go With the Flow.”

Finding Nemo JR. offers an opportunity for young area actors and actresses to showcase their talents while delivering important themes of family, friendship, and perseverance in a highly entertaining way!

Cast members of Finding Nemo JR include: Josslynn Silvy / Zoey Viola (Nemo), Ben Stevens (Marlin), Emma Spurling (Dory), Lundyn Mitchell (Professor Ray), Katie Linn (Scuba Mask Dancer), Josh Reed (Bruce), Jack Brown (Chum), Brooklyn Giannotti (Anchor), Indy Griffith (Bubbles), Hallie Groff (Bloat), Alivia Prince (Gurgle), Jillian Reed (Peach), Caleb Spurling (Gill), Ryan Merrifield (Nigel), Jael Frost (Crush), Alton Prince (Squirt), Scarlett McManus (Kai), Brenna Prince (Breeze), Paisley Buttram (Pearl), Emma Chandler (Sheldon), Greyson Stevens (Tad), Maggie Marks (Angelfish), Grady Stevens (Damselfish), Promise Brunson (Pearl’s Parent), Emma Callaway (Sheldon’s Parent), Evan Carr (Tad’s Parent), Rylin Chick, Giovanni Verastegui, Gracie Floer (Moonfish), Kate Sutherland, Luke Johnson, Kynadee Carter, Reagan Hoagland, Royal Steelman, Gwendolyn Tsahiridis, Scout McManus, Caleb Linn, Katy Patton, Anabella Meyer, ToriAnne Lyons, Lexi Carr, Ezra Williams, Xia McElwee and Layla Gabriel (Young Sea Chorus).

Supporting the BRAC Youth Theatre Education Programs and this production of Disney’s Finding Nemo JR is important for several reasons.

Nurturing Creativity: BRAC’s Youth theatre programs provide a platform for young residents to explore their creativity, develop their artistic talents, and express themselves through acting, singing, and dancing. It encourages a love for the arts and helps participants discover their potential.

Building Confidence: Involvement in theatre, especially for youth, can boost self-confidence. It teaches public speaking, teamwork, and the ability to perform in front of an audience, which are valuable life skills.

Fostering Inclusivity: Theatre promotes diversity and inclusivity, allowing participants of various backgrounds and abilities to come together and collaborate. It’s an opportunity to celebrate differences and work towards a common goal.

Community Engagement: BRAC’s youth theatre productions involve the local community, from parents and volunteers to audiences. This strengthens our community bonds and supports a sense of togetherness.

Educational Value: Theatre can be an educational tool, teaching history, culture, and various subjects through storytelling. Finding Nemo JR can teach environmental awareness and the importance of protecting marine life.

Entertainment: Youth theatre productions like Finding Nemo JR offer enjoyable and family-friendly entertainment. They give families the chance to share in the joy of a live performance in the intimate setting of the Historic Owen Theatre.

Future Talent Development: Many successful actors, directors, and artists started their careers in youth theatre. Supporting these endeavors contributes to the development of future talent in the entertainment industry.

Supporting youth theatre and Branson Regional Arts Council productions like Finding Nemo JR has a positive impact on the personal growth of young individuals, our community, and the arts as a whole. It’s a valuable investment in creativity, education, and cultural enrichment.

Swim on over to the Historic Owen Theatre and reserve your seats now, for this fun musical holiday production!

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Public Invited To Crescendo Youth Troupe Winter Showcase

  • dateOctober 29, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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  • view4093 Views

The public is invited to enjoy a free Holiday Community Concert at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

The Branson Regional Arts Council’s Crescendo Youth Troupe presents their 2023 Winter Showcase on Friday, November 17th (7pm) and Saturday, November 18th (2pm).

Crescendo: “Meaning growing, as in swelling of sound, or becoming louder.”

Since early February, the Crescendo students have been developing their performance skills under the direction of their talented and qualified instructors Jacob Deck and Julie Brinkman. The Winter Showcase Concert will feature musical presentations by these talented young performers and includes several popular songs from both stage and screen.

Performing on stage was a key aspect of both of our childhoods, continuing throughout high school and college into the present day. So much is learned on and off stage in the theater and neither of us would be who we are without the teachers and directors that invested into us as little performers. This love for performing has also created a love for teaching and instilling a love for the arts in the performers who come after us. We have so enjoyed getting to work with this amazing group of performers – their joy for life and love for others is contagious!
– Julie Brinkman & Jacob Deck – BRAC’s Crescendo Instructors

The 2023 cast of Crescendo include: Marshall Benton, Lee Brown, Lexi Carr, Emma Chandler, Rilyn Chick, Mia Hatten, Xia McElwee, Katy Patton, Alton Prince, Seth Roland, Danielle Stanley and Kaj Swanson.

Come enjoy these talented young performers as they sing and dance their way into your hearts! No reservations required, doors open 30 minutes before showtime.

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Kim Hale Honored As Branson Art Citizen Of The Year 2023

  • dateOctober 29, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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  • view4362 Views

At various times throughout it’s 58 year history, the Branson Regional Arts Council selects an individual to receive the prestigious “Art Citizen of the Year” award. The recipients are selected by the BRAC Board of Directors due to the significant contributions they have made to the field of arts and culture in our area.

CLICK Photo for High Resolution Version of Kim Hale & Jim Barber by Marshall Meadows

This year, BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber was thrilled to present the award to Kim Hale at the first annual Arts Gala at the Branson Convention Center on October 13, 2023. Kim has been involved heavily in the Arts Council for over ten years, including several years as the Board President. Kim has been working as a physical therapist at Mercy Branson Therapy Services for over 20 years and currently is the Therapy Manager for Mercy Branson Therapy Services. She is an orthopedic physical therapist with specialty in Dance and Performing Arts Medicine providing rehabilitation to dancers and performing artists working professionally in Branson. She has a Masters Degree in Physical Therapy and a Bachelor of Arts in Human Biology. She also served on the board of Tri-Lakes Community Theatre (TLC ) as Vice-President before it was incorporated into the Branson Regional Arts Council.

Kim has co-produced over 35 musicals and plays over the past 10 years and has enjoyed the collaboration of BRAC with the community. She organized and collaborated with local school administrators for the induction Thespian Society chapters and serves as an outreach resource for local schools and the Arts community. She is passionate about continuing to bring awareness to the importance of arts education to the youth in the Tri-Lakes area.

“The Arts foster creativity and creative thinking and intellectual curiosity and BRAC offers a place in the community where the youth and adults can grow as an Arts community.” – Kim Hale

Though Kim recently stepped away from the Board of Directors after completing her 5th 2-year term, she remains as active as ever in her volunteer role of Education Director for BRAC’s Youth Theatre Arts program.  Arts and Culture are essential components of human society, contributing to our intellectual, emotional, and social well being, while also playing a vital role in the preservation of our collective heritage advancement of society.

“We recognize Kim for her excellence in youth arts education, and celebrate her with this award as a way to acknowledge her value and impact on the lives of so many young people in our area communities.” – Jim Barber, BRAC Executive Director

The Art Citizen of the Year award has been presented to several deserving individuals, though not necessarily every year. The following is a running list to date of past recipients:

  • 1997 – Bill Godsey
  • 1998 – John & Shirley Mizell
  • 2000 – Viola Hartman
  • 2001 – Jack & Sherry Herschend, Pete & JoDee Herschend
  • 2002 – Steve Wehr
  • 2003 – Andy & Debbie Williams
  • 2006 – Americanna Magness
  • 2007 – Marilyn Droke & Deb Corbin
  • 2009 – Kristin Weingertner & Mary Elizabeth Bradley
  • 2010 – Greg Hoffman
  • 2011 – Bob & Ruth Abbott
  • 2012 – Shanda Watts-Stringer, Bucky & AJ Heard
  • 2013 – Robert & Barbara Cohn
  • 2016 – Marc Mulherin & the Branson Convention Center
  • 2017 – Bonnie Herrmann (past Arts Council Executive Director)
  • 2023 – Kim Hale

A very special thank you to all of the past winners of this award, as well as to all of our generous donors, patrons, actors, directors, technical crew, students and hard working volunteers for helping us bring the arts to life in the Branson region! 

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Auditions for BRAC’s Winter Youth Production of Finding Nemo JR Announced

  • dateAugust 30, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view2987 Views

Auditions for the Branson Regional Arts Council’s production of Disney’s Finding Nemo JR. will be held Sunday, September 10, 2023 at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson beginning at 4:45pm.

We are looking for cast members ages 8 to 18!

Please plan to be in attendance for the duration of the dance call audition 4:45-5:45pm. For the dance audition please come dressed accordingly. You may bring clothes to change into for your vocal audition. Wear/bring appropriate clothing and footwear you are comfortable moving in.

Vocal auditions will take place following the dance call. Auditionees will be seen in age order (beginning with younger performers). Performers will be released after they have sung. Prepare a 60 second cut of a musical theatre or Disney song that shows off your range and acting skills. An accompanist will NOT be provided. Please bring an MP3 or Youtube karaoke track. Please NO ACAPELLA auditions.

You must attend the dance call AND stay for an individual vocal audition.

Disney’s Finding Nemo JR. is a 60-minute musical adaptation of the beloved 2003 Pixar movie Finding Nemo, with new music by award-winning songwriting team Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez. Marlin, an anxious and over-protective clownfish, lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his kid Nemo, who longs to explore the world beyond their anemone home. But when Nemo is captured and taken to Sydney, Marlin faces his fears and sets off on an epic adventure across the ocean. With the help of lovable characters such as optimistic Dory, laid-back sea turtle Crush, and the supportive Tank Gang, Marlin and Nemo both overcome challenges on their journey to find each other and themselves.

Featuring memorable songs such as “Just Keep Swimming,” “Fish Are Friends Not Food,” and “Go With the Flow,” Finding Nemo JR. brings a vibrant underwater world to life on stage in a story full of family, friendship, and adventure.

  • Directors: Kyle & Kellsey Bradley
  • Musical Director: Julie Brinkman

Callbacks will be Tuesday, September 12th – 6:00-8:30pm (You will be notified if you are needed at the callback audition)

The cast list will be posted Wednesday, September 13th on Branson Regional Arts Council social media and you will be contacted via email.

There will be a mandatory parent meeting Thursday September 14th, 5:15-5:45pm.

(10) public performances will occur on Nov 30th, Dec 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 9 & 10.
Thursdays and Fridays (7pm), Saturdays (2pm & 7pm), and Sundays (2pm).
Performers must be available for ALL performance dates.

For questions please contact Karie at 417-336-4255 or edu@bransonarts.org.

Please review the proposed rehearsal schedule and make known conflicts with any and all rehearsals and tech/set days on your audition form.

Online Rehearsal Schedule: Click Here For The Current Finding Nemo JR Rehearsal Schedule

The following are mandatory dates that you can NOT have a conflict with:

  • 11/20 – Tech/Dress Rehearsal
  • 11/21 – Tech/Dress Rehearsal
  • 11/26 – Dress Rehearsal
  • 11/27 – Dress Rehearsal
  • 11/28 – Dress Rehearsal
  • 11/29 – Final Dress Rehearsal
  • 11/30 – Performance
  • 12/1 – Performance
  • 12/2 – Performance
  • 12/3 – Performance
  • 12/7 – Performance
  • 12/8 – Performance
  • 12/9 – Performance
  • 12/10 – Performance

 

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