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Private Voice Lessons Are Back At Historic Owen Theatre

After a three month break due to the pandemic shutdown, the Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to announce that Roger and Karen Bergford are once again offering LIVE private voice lessons for students of all ages in various styles from classical to musical theater, pop, jazz, gospel, and country. Classes are available in 30 or 60 minutes sessions and will be held in the Rock Room Gallery of the Historic Owen Theatre.

BRAC Vocal Instructors Roger & Karen Bergford

Interested parents or adult students should contact the Branson Regional Arts Council at 417-336-4255 or edu@bransonarts.org for more information on class scheduling and tuition rates.

[fac_icon icon=”heart”] A limited number of youth scholarships for Branson (65616) residents may be available for these classes.

All students will be required to follow the current health and safety protocols set forth by the Branson Regional Arts Council which include arrival temperature checks, masks when others are present, and social distancing in the classroom area.

Roger and Karen have over 30 years experience teaching both private and group vocal lessons. Roger earned his Bachelor of Music Education – Vocal Specialist from the University of Missouri in Kansas City, as well as graduate work in Vocal Performance from the University of Colorado – Boulder.  Karen graduated with high honors from the University of Colorado – Boulder to earn her Bachelor of Music Education. Together they co-authored an industry book titled, “Sound & Language, the Defining Elements of the Complete Singer” in 2007.

After retiring as public school music educators in Colorado, the Bergfords moved to Branson in 2008 and began teaching 26 frontline singers in the Hughes Brothers “it” show, which won the Branson Show Award for “Best Show of the Year” (2009-2012).  In addition to working with the Hughes family, the Bergfords have also taught singers from The Haygoods and Jim Stafford Show casts, a backup singer with Andy Williams, and Voices of Glory, the top 5 finalists of America’s Got Talent (2009) who worked with the Michael Jackson/Boyz II Men manager, Qadree El-Amin. In 2017, the Voices of Glory were named “Vocal Group of the Year,” receiving both the prestigious Terry Award and the Branson Show Award.  Eighteen-year-old Nadia was  named “Female Vocalist of the Year.” The Bergfords were even invited to host a master class on a Bahamas cruise alongside Michael Jackson’s voice teacher in 2012.

Click Here For High Resolution Promotional Photo of Roger and Karen Bergford with BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber

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More Online Creative Art Classes For Kids Announced

The Branson Regional Arts Council announces “Creative Art Class For Kids!,”  a four-day online art class for youth ages 6-16.
These mixed media classes will be offered twice in July and teach collage and painting in a fun and safe setting from the comfort of your own home via your internet connected computer, tablet or smart phone device.
Each class will meet online for one hour a day over four days in a row, Monday through Thursday.
[fac_icon icon=”heart”] BRAC is excited to offer FULL ONLINE SCHOLARSHIP SUMMER ARTS TUITIONS for area students interested in taking these classes free of charge. Visit this link for more information on this scholarship opportunity.
About “Creative Art Class For Kids!”:
Learn to use drawing, painting and collage techniques to bring out your artistic and creative talents! Each class will have a different theme so you will be able to create your own original art at home. This online class offers guided instruction in color mixing, texture, pattern, and composition through Zoom with our experienced certified art teacher, Lisa Murphy.
Week #1 – July 13-16, Monday – Thursday
             Ages 6-11 (Butterflies and Flowers) 10:00am – 11:00am [REGISTER HERE]
             Ages 12-16 (Landscapes) 11:00am – 12:00pm [REGISTER HERE]

Week #2 – July 20-23, Monday – Thursday

              Ages 6-11 (Under the Sea) 10:00am – 11:00am [REGISTER HERE]
              Ages 12-16 (Seascapes) 11:00am – 12:00pm [REGISTER HERE]
Materials Needed: pencil, markers, construction paper, white paper, watercolors, scissors and glue

Meet the instructor:
Lisa Murphy has dedicated her life to promoting the arts in Southwest Missouri. She has been instrumental in guiding the community theatre and the Branson Regional Arts Council and helped lead the way to establishing the Historic Owen Theatre as a home for the arts in our community.

She served on the BRAC Board of Directors in a leadership role, as President and Board Member Emeritus since 2012. After graduating from Missouri State University with a degree in Elementary Education and Art, Lisa pursued graduate studies at Drury University, in Secondary Art and Gifted Education. Her professional career includes teaching at the Springfield Art Museum for five years and teaching in the public schools for over thirty years. She currently teaches Art at The Summit Preparatory School in Springfield. Her professional awards include receiving national recognition in Who’s Who Teacher of the Year, seven times and the Outstanding Teacher Award from the Missouri Fine Arts Academy, twice in her career.

Lisa has been proud to call the Ozarks her home for over thirty years. During that time she has been involved in many productions in Branson, as a performer, producer, and marketing coordinator for numerous plays. BRAC productions include: Annie, Chicago, Legally Blonde, and The Wizard of Oz, just to name a few. She believes the greatest accomplishment of her lifetime to be her family and feels very fortunate and proud to have their love and support. She and her husband Bill have two daughters, Jenna and Michelle, who both graduated from Branson High School. Lisa currently serves on several
committees for the Branson Regional Arts Council and as the BRAC Education Advisor. She is honored to have the opportunity to promote the arts for people of all ages in our community.

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BRAC Summer Online Education Scholarships Available To Area Youth

NOTE: We have extended the start of Summer Online Arts Classes by one-week to allow for additional students to participate in the scholarship program who could not attend the previous week. All classes will now begin the week of July 6, 2020.

The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to offer full financial scholarships for any Branson/Springfield area youth between the ages of 5 and 18 who are interested in participating in a variety of upcoming online summer education classes taught by instructors Amelia Parish and Lisa Murphy. We have NINE DIFFERENT CLASSES to select from. Enroll for one, or more!

These online theatre classes, normally priced at $40 per student, include beginning and advanced acting, visual arts, creative writing, music basics, as well as comedy improvisation techniques. Scholarship students may register for one or more of the classes free of charge (see class descriptions and age ranges below). Classes may have a limit on how many students are able to participate, so early registration is recommended.

[fac_icon icon=”heart”] How to request this scholarship...
Interested parents or students are asked to email the Branson Regional Arts Council at info@bransonarts.org and include your student(s) name, age, the city in which you reside full time, and list which class or classes you are interested in registering for.

Qualified individuals will be sent a unique scholarship code allowing them to register online without any form of payment required.

BRAC’s Summer Online Education Classes Include:

Theatre Makers 1! – instructor Amelia Jo Parish
Mondays, 1pm-2pm (Ages 5-12)
Dates: July 6, 13, 20 & 27, 2020

Are you a thespian just waiting to blossom? Are you eager to explore the art of acting and theatre? Have you already been bitten by the acting bug and want to get even better? Regardless of your previous experience, you will take a huge step forward in this class! This will be a thorough introduction to the art of acting, technique and finding material that excites us a young artists!
Click here for more information on this class.

Theatre Makers 2! – instructor Amelia Jo Parish
Mondays, 3pm-4pm (Ages 12+)
Dates: July 6, 13, 20 & 27, 2020

Ah, all the worlds a stage and all the men and women merely players… truer words were ne’er spoken!

Students of this acting and theatre workshop will learn the importance of developing their own unique approach to their work, helpful rehearsal tools and get notes and class coachings to polish up material for a professional acting reel.
Click here for more information on this class.

Scary Stories To Tell In The Dark! – instructor Amelia Jo Parish
Tuesdays, 7:30pm-8:30pm (Ages 12-18)
Dates: July 7, 14, 21 & 28, 2020

Do you love watching scary movies…and secretly wish you could write one? Or STAR in one? What about BOTH? Let’s read some of the classic Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark by Alvin Shwartz, and allow them to inspire original adaptations of our own — and along the way, let’s learn how to utilize jump scares, tension building, basic special effects and creative writing to write and record our own short horror film by the end of this class!
Click here for more information on this class.

Jam Session! – instructor Amelia Jo Parish
Thursdays, 6:00pm-7:00pm (all ages)
Dates: July 9, 16, 23 & 30, 2020

If you have an instrument (piano/guitar/ukulele), we have the class for you! “Fake it till you make it” is an artform musicians at any level can harness and utilize to elevate their performances, and after this class you will be feeling confident enough to play and sing to your hearts’ content — we will learn the basics of chord diagrams, tablature, arrangement and creative musicianship to have you singing and accompanying yourself in no time! And we’ll all join in together, and have a good old fashioned jam session!
Click here for more information on this class.

Intro To Improv! – instructor Amelia Jo Parish
Thursdays, 7:30pm-8:30pm (For all Ages)
Dates: July 9, 16, 23 & 30, 2020
Let’s make stuff up! Learn the basics of Chicago style improv to sharpen your performance skills, quick wittedness, and become the best conversationalist in any social setting! We will explore the concept of recognizing comedic game, playing at the top of our intelligence, active listening and support to “yes-and” our way to improvised scenes. By the end of this class, students will be ready to move on to Intermediate Improv and beyond!
Click here for more information on this class.

Creative Art Class For Kids! – Butterflies & Flowers – instructor Lisa Murphy
Monday thru Thursday, 10:00am-11:00am (ages 6-11)
Dates: July 13, 14, 15, 16, 2020
Learn to use drawing, painting and collage techniques to bring out your artistic and creative talents! Each class will have a different theme so you will be able to create your own original art at home. This online class offers guided instruction in color mixing, texture, pattern, and composition through Zoom with an experienced certified art teacher.
Click here for more information on this class.

Creative Art Class For Kids! – Landscapes – instructor Lisa Murphy
Monday thru Thursday, 11:00am-12:00pm (ages 12-16)
Dates: July 13, 14, 15, 16, 2020
Learn to use drawing, painting and collage techniques to bring out your artistic and creative talents! Each class will have a different theme so you will be able to create your own original art at home. This online class offers guided instruction in color mixing, texture, pattern, and composition through Zoom with an experienced certified art teacher.
Click here for more information on this class.

Creative Art Class For Kids! – Under The Sea – instructor Lisa Murphy
Monday thru Thursday, 1o:00am-11:00am (ages 6-11)
Dates: July 20, 21, 22, 23, 2020
Learn to use drawing, painting and collage techniques to bring out your artistic and creative talents! Each class will have a different theme so you will be able to create your own original art at home. This online class offers guided instruction in color mixing, texture, pattern, and composition through Zoom with an experienced certified art teacher.
Click here for more information on this class.

Creative Art Class For Kids! – Seascapes – instructor Lisa Murphy
Monday thru Thursday, 11:00am-12:00pm (ages 12-16)
Dates: July 20, 21, 22, 23, 2020
Learn to use drawing, painting and collage techniques to bring out your artistic and creative talents! Each class will have a different theme so you will be able to create your own original art at home. This online class offers guided instruction in color mixing, texture, pattern, and composition through Zoom with an experienced certified art teacher.
Click here for more information on this class.

Visit BransonArts.org/artclass for information on all the various online classes currently offered by the Branson Regional Arts Council.

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BRAC Announces New Online Summer Music, Theatre and Visual Arts Classes

NOTE: We have extended the start of Summer Online Arts Classes by one-week to allow for additional students to participate in the scholarship program who could not attend the previous week. All classes will now begin the week of July 6, 2020.

The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to announce a new series of affordable online education classes providing at-home learning opportunities in theatre, improv, music, script writing and visual arts. Some of the classes are designed for younger kids, while many others for teens and adults. All classes begin during the week of July 6th.

Class Registrations for these fun and unique courses are only $10 per session, with four sessions included with each course.  That’s $40 total registration per student for each 4 week course.

[fac_icon icon=”heart”] Full scholarship opportunities are available for students who reside in the Branson/Springfield region. CLICK HERE for scholarship information.

“We are thrilled to welcome Amelia Jo Parish to our Branson Regional Arts Council Arts Education program,” said BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber, adding, “her professional experience in professional theatre, comedy improv, fine arts and humanities is a wonderful addition to our team of outstanding visual art, theatre, dance and vocal instructors.”

Amelia’s is an artist based in Nixa, Missouri and studied at Drury University and Webster University as well as performed improve with the Upright Citizen’s Brigade in New York City. She has performed at The Muny (St. Louis, MO), The Goodspeed Opera House (Connecticut), The Paramount (New York) and other theatres across the country. She also currently serves at the Literary Manager for the Firebrand Theatre Company based in Chicago, Illinois.

Student registrations may be filled out from the links below, and paid via credit card or by mailing a personal check to: BRAC, P.O. Box 2004, Branson, MO 65615.

Secure registration is now open for the following online arts classes with Amelia Jo Parish:

Theatre Makers 1! – instructor Amelia Jo Parish
Mondays, 1pm-2pm (Ages 5-12)
Dates: July 6, 13, 20 & 27, 2020

Are you a thespian just waiting to blossom? Are you eager to explore the art of acting and theatre? Have you already been bitten by the acting bug and want to get even better? Regardless of your previous experience, you will take a huge step forward in this class! This will be a thorough introduction to the art of acting, technique and finding material that excites us a young artists!
Click here for more information on this class.

Theatre Makers 2! – instructor Amelia Jo Parish
Mondays, 3pm-4pm (Ages 12+)
Dates: July 6, 13, 20 & 27, 2020

Ah, all the worlds a stage and all the men and women merely players… truer words were ne’er spoken!

Students of this acting and theatre workshop will learn the importance of developing their own unique approach to their work, helpful rehearsal tools and get notes and class coachings to polish up material for a professional acting reel.
Click here for more information on this class.

Scary Stories To Tell In The Dark! – instructor Amelia Jo Parish
Tuesdays, 7:30pm-8:30pm (Ages 12-18)
Dates: July 7, 14, 21 & 28, 2020

Do you love watching scary movies…and secretly wish you could write one? Or STAR in one? What about BOTH? Let’s read some of the classic Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark by Alvin Shwartz, and allow them to inspire original adaptations of our own — and along the way, let’s learn how to utilize jump scares, tension building, basic special effects and creative writing to write and record our own short horror film by the end of this class!
Click here for more information on this class.

Jam Session! – instructor Amelia Jo Parish
Thursdays, 6:00pm-7:00pm (all ages)
Dates: July 9, 16, 23 & 30, 2020

If you have an instrument (piano/guitar/ukulele), we have the class for you! “Fake it till you make it” is an artform musicians at any level can harness and utilize to elevate their performances, and after this class you will be feeling confident enough to play and sing to your hearts’ content — we will learn the basics of chord diagrams, tablature, arrangement and creative musicianship to have you singing and accompanying yourself in no time! And we’ll all join in together, and have a good old fashioned jam session!
Click here for more information on this class.

Intro To Improv! – instructor Amelia Jo Parish
Thursdays, 7:30pm-8:30pm (open to all ages)
Dates: July 9, 16, 23 & 30, 2020
Let’s make stuff up! Learn the basics of Chicago style improv to sharpen your performance skills, quick wittedness, and become the best conversationalist in any social setting! We will explore the concept of recognizing comedic game, playing at the top of our intelligence, active listening and support to “yes-and” our way to improvised scenes. By the end of this class, students will be ready to move on to Intermediate Improv and beyond!
Click here for more information on this class.

BRAC also reminds all painting enthusiasts to participate in our upcoming July series of “Watercolor Landscape Painting Courses” taught by professional artist Jessica Lowe. Early registration is recommended as class size is limited.

Visit BransonArts.org/artclass for information on all the various online classes currently offered by the Branson Regional Arts Council.

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Online Auditions For Staccato Show Choir Wednesday

  • dateJune 8, 2020
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view1455 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council’s Youth Education Department invites all teens between the ages of 12-18 to participate in our ONLINE AUDITIONS for Staccato Show Choir on Wednesday, June 10, 2020 at 3pm.

Register today to audition for this exciting, high-energy performance troupe!

Visit BransonArts.org/onlineauditions for registration information.

REGISTER NOW FOR THE AUDITIONS

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO BEFORE THE WORKSHOP…

Each participant will need to prepare 32 bars of a pop or pop contemporary musical theatre vocal selection. You will present your vocal selection live, via a Zoom video conference, for our BRAC Youth Education Staff.

We will provide all registrants a link to the audition choreography video so you will have an opportunity to work on it in advance.

  • Zoom Meeting link for the audition will be emailed automatically when you register.

You must provide your own music and sound during the zoom auditions by playing from your computer or another device. You may attend this zoom conference on a laptop or desktop computer, smart phone or pad device.

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Registration Open For Staccato Show Choir Audition Workshop

The Branson Regional Arts Council’s Youth Education Department invites all teens between the ages of 12-18 to participate in a FREE ONLINE VIRTUAL AUDITION WORKSHOP on Thursday, June 4, 2020 at 3pm.

Register to attend this free online virtual workshop and pre-audition for the Branson Regional Arts Council’s STACCATO SHOW CHOIR. All current choir members are encouraged to participate as well as any others who may be interested in being an active member of this exciting, high-energy performance troupe!

Visit BransonArts.org/freeworkshop for registration information.

REGISTER TO ATTEND VIRTUAL WORKSHOP

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO BEFORE THE WORKSHOP…

Each participant will need to prepare 32 bars of a pop or pop contemporary musical theatre vocal selection. You will present your vocal selection live, via a Zoom video conference, for our BRAC Youth Education Staff (Lloyd, Jacob & Kristen), with audition feedback and critique given after each performance.

This will then allow you one week to polish and work on your selection for the VIRTUAL AUDITIONS that will be held one week later on June 10th.

We will provide all registrants (limited to 100 participants) a link to the audition choreography video so you will have an opportunity to work on it prior to the audition.

  • Zoom Meeting links for the workshop and audition will be emailed automatically when you register.

You must provide your own music and sound during the zoom auditions by playing from your computer or another device. You may attend this zoom conference on a laptop or desktop computer, smart phone or pad device.

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BRAC Announces 2020-2021 Schedule Changes at Historic Owen Theatre

The Branson Regional Arts Council Board of Directors has made the difficult decision to postpone the majority of their 2020 Season of Community Theatre productions at the Historic Owen Theatre until next year with the opening of The Sound of Music in mid-February 2021.

“This move to next season includes our popular 4-week Summer Youth Institute classes and production of Peter Pan Jr.,” said BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber. “The health of our students, patrons, actors, technicians, volunteers and staff is our primary concern,” he added. “We carefully monitor the recommendations by the CDC, our Governor, County and City of Branson and feel that we will not be at a point this summer where we can be assured it is safe for a large group of young students to gather inside an intimate performance facility such as ours.”

There are a few exceptions to the announced schedule change. The Odd Couple by Neil Simon, originally scheduled to open just as occupancy restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic went into effect, will be slated to run September 10-13, 2020. “This hilarious comedy play has been ready to go since March. Out of respect to our amazing cast and our dedicated BRAC director Jody Madaras, we would like to present this show as soon as possible, following any recommended social distancing and occupancy guidelines that are still in force,” said Barber.

Some BRAC Education Department Classes, Staccato Show Choir and Arts Workshops are expected to resume at the Historic Owen Theatre, or virtually online, early this Summer. September 5th’s Song Writing Workshop with Prince Ivan, and the outdoor Shakespeare in the Park collaboration with Forte Theatrical Productions remains on schedule for late September and early October at Chad Fuqua Memorial Park in Hollister, MO. Additional theatrical programming may be announced this Fall if conditions warrant.

Anticipated theatre production date changes for the 2021 season include: The Sound of Music (Feb 11-14, 18-21, 25-28), The Glass Menagerie (Apr 8, 11,12), The Complete Works of William Shakespeare – Abridged (Apr 30, May 2-3), Summer Youth Theatre Institute (May 17-21, 24-28, 31-June 2), Peter Pan Jr. (June 3-6), Mama Mia! (July 8-11, 15-18), 9 To 5 The Musical (Sep 9-12, 16-19), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Nov 4-7, 11-14), and a yet to be announced Family Show (Dec 3-4, 10-12).

With regard to the financial challenges for the organization due to this postponement, Barber adds, “This will be a difficult time, no doubt. As a 501(c)(3) organization, we must be fiscally responsible with our funds. We carefully budget each theatrical production we present, and the investment in nearly all of our community events has been substantial. If we were restricted in our ability to sell enough tickets to cover our licensing expenses, set construction and costume needs, we would risk taking a loss on those shows. Despite the fact that many businesses will soon be opening with restrictions, it is very apparent that permissible occupancy rates and public confidence to attend performance events in an small, well-attended theatre environment will take several months to occur.”

The Arts Council asks loyal patrons to please hold their current tickets for use on the new dates, and if they can’t attend, transfer them to another show or perhaps consider converting their ticket purchase into a fully deductible tax donation to the organization.

Other ways to support the BRAC during these next 9 months would be to renew or purchase an annual membership; “Buy-A-Seat” with a personalized nameplate; or make a general donation.

General check donations may also be mailed to BRAC, PO Box 2004, Branson, MO 65615.

All current ticket holders for upcoming events will be contacted over the coming weeks with updated information. Ticketed seat locations and day of week performances will remain the same, only the monthly dates will change.

To see the updated schedule for the 2020 and 2021 seasons, please visit BransonArts.org/tix.

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Staccato Show Choir Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser

Staccato Show Choir invites you to join us for a delicious Spaghetti Dinner with live entertainment at 417 Vibe (inside the Majestic Building), Sunday, March 8, 2020 from 6:00pm until 7:30pm.

This tasty fundraiser benefits the Branson Regional Arts Council’s Youth Education program to send Staccato to the FAME Regional Show Choir in Chicago!

Dinner & Entertainment Tickets:

  • Pre Event: Age 11+ ($15.00), Age 10 and under ($10.00)
  • At Door:  Age 11+ ($20.00), Age 10 and under ($15.00)

Advance discount tickets are on sale now! Click here for tickets!

REGISTER FOR THE SPAGHETTI DINNER

We thank our hosts, 417 Vibe owners Mike and Annette Albert, as well as all of our amazing patrons who support and attend this event.

The 417 Vibe is located inside The Majestic Building at 2849 Gretna Rd, Branson, MO.

For more info on booking your own event at the “Top of the Grand Staircase” in “Affordable Elegance,” Contact 417 Vibe at Events@the417vibe.com, online at www.the417vibe.com, or at (417) 316-2315.

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Wizard of Oz Musical… Fun For The Entire Family And Your Little Dog Too!

Wizard of Oz Musical… Fun For The Entire Family And Your Little Dog Too!

The Branson Regional Arts Council proudly presents The Wizard Of Oz, live on stage at the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson. Twelve performances run February 14th through March 1st.

Advanced reserved seat tickets are highly recommended and on sale at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255. Admission prices are $16.95 (Adults 18+) and $11.45 (Youth 4-17).

Celebrating it’s 81st year in 2020, The Wizard Of Oz has been entertaining audiences for generations. It’s the beloved tale of a Kansas farm girl name Dorothy, who travels over the rainbow to discover the magical power of home.

When a tornado rips through Kansas, Dorothy and her dog, Toto, are whisked away in their house to the magical land of Oz. They follow the Yellow Brick Road toward the Emerald City to meet the Wizard, and en route they meet a Scarecrow that needs a brain, a Tin Man missing a heart, and a Cowardly Lion who wants courage.

Directed and Choreographed by Jacob Deck, leading cast members include: Taylor Haverstick (Dorothy Gale), Michael Phillips (Hunk/Scarecrow), Carlos Morales (Hickory/Tin Woodsman), Sean Neil Myers (Zeke/Cowardly Lion), Jennifer Kersey (Elmira Gulch/Wicked Witch Of The West), Kerry Richardson (Professor Chester Marvel/Wizard Of Oz), and Jim Barber (Understudy Professor Chester Marvel/Wizard Of Oz).

“This musical has always held a very special place in my heart. I’ve been in love with this tale since before I could walk, and I would like to thank my amazing cast for bringing the story to life. Their hard work and dedication truly shows in their performance.”
– Jacob Deck – Wizard of Oz Director

Other featured roles include: Rachael Jones (Glinda Good Witch Of The North), Mindy Law (Aunt Em), Mike Cooper (Uncle Henry), Carter Hendrickson (Munchkin Coroner), and Alex Harris (Munchkin Mayor).

Special recognition to Nileen Little of Camp Little Paws for training the furriest member of the cast, JoJo, who plays the role of Dorothy’s clever canine, Toto.

The rest of the talented ensemble of actors appearing in a variety of roles include: Megan Rogers, Brenna Bergeron, Joey Blackwood, Rachel Merrick, Tanner McGowan, Julie Brinkman, Sarah Southerland, Njeri Patric, Jordan Kendrick, Jake Musser, Sylvie Barbour, Hallie Groff, Ashley Rodgers, Sophie Douglas, Josslyn Silvy, Liam Sutherland, Lee Brown, Pace Gillman, Somer Dean and Dylan Pratt.

The production team include: Karie Dykeman, Kim Hale, and Lisa Murphy (Producers), Jacob Deck (Director/Choreographer/Set Design), Caitlin Secrest (Music Director), Jonathan Crum (Costume Design), Ashley Moore & Naomi Phillips (Wardrobe), Brenna Bergeron (Hair and Wig Design), Roz Slavik (Prop Master), Mac Hill (Technical Director and Sound Technician), Travis Douglas and Tom Snyder (Sound Engineers), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Mike Groff, Art Hale, Julie Brinkman, Travis Douglas, and Njeri Patric (Set Construction), Marshall Meadows (Photography), and Jim Barber (Marketing and Design).

Exclusive Land Of Oz Party For Kids 4-18…

As an added bonus, the cast is also hosting two exclusive “Land Of Oz Parties” on Feb 22nd and 29th at 12pm noon. Tickets are $19.95 per child with all proceeds benefiting the Branson Regional Arts Council’s Youth Education Fund, which provides training, performance and scholarship opportunities for youth in our area.

The Land of Oz Party includes special party favors, treats, games, an official cast signed Wizard of Oz poster, and a meet and greet photo session with some of the stars of the show! Advance tickets are available at BransonArts.org/tix.

“This will be an exciting Oz themed pre-show party on Saturday mornings during our production of The Wizard Of Oz. It’s great fun for boys and girls kids age 4-18! Your kiddos will find their courage, grow their heart, and increase their brain power!”
– Jim Barber – BRAC Executive Director

Don’t miss this wonderful production and help kick off BRAC’s 3rd season of year-round, high quality community theatre in Branson.

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2019 BRAC Donations For 2020 Vision

The Branson Regional Arts Council is thankful for the tremendous financial support we have received from our theatre patrons, benefactors, members and grant providers in 2019. You are helping us to grown an incredible community arts program that our area has needed for so very long.

Please consider making a year-end financial contribution! 

“The prescription for a healthy Community Arts program includes an annual vision check to be certain we have a clear understanding of where we are heading as an organization. If you take a look at what we’ve accomplished in just the past two years, everything comes into focus! Please consider making a year-end 2019 financial contribution to help us achieve our 2020 Vision for all residents of the Branson area!”
– Jim Barber – BRAC Executive Director

Our 2020 Vision is to continue the growth that was started in 2018, and make significant progress towards paying off the theatre venue so we can ensure that our community will continue to benefit from these arts programs for generations to come!

Since moving our offices into the Historic Owen Theatre in January 2018, BRAC has presented NINETEEN major productions (musicals and plays), and several cabaret style concerts. Over 18,000 patron tickets were generated for those programs! That year we also founded a Youth Arts Education Program for students ages 8-18, providing high quality education in vocal music, theatre arts and dance from certified instructors. In February 2019, our youth show choir STACCATO successfully represented the Ozarks at Festival Disney, a national music competition in Florida. Our Branson Convention Center Art Exhibition has been viewed by an estimated 100,000 visitors each year! In November 2019 we opened the “Rock Room Gallery” inside the Historic Owen Theatre as a new way to promote local area artists, as well as hold visual arts painting classes for kids and adults! These programs are making a positive impact on our entire region, and we would be honored if you would join us in our efforts to grow arts opportunities for residents across the Ozarks!

HERE ARE A FEW WAYS YOU CAN GET INVOLVED BEFORE THE END OF THE YEAR, AND HELP OUR 2020 VISION BECOME A REALITY!

  • GENERAL DONATIONS OF ANY AMOUNT (The Branson Arts Council, Inc. EID: 43-1606888)
    Since we are a 501(c)(3) Non-profit organization, your donation will be fully tax-deductible. Donations may be mailed to: BRAC, PO Box 2004, Branson, MO 65615
  • BRAC MEMBERSHIP (Personal or Business)
    Various levels of membership that include special perks! Visit BransonArts.org/membership.
  • BUY-A_SEAT at the Historic Owen Theatre
    $500 Donation includes a brass nameplate in your honor. Visit BransonArts.org/buyaseat.
  • CENTER STAGE SPONSORSHIP of an upcoming musical or play Put your business in the limelight as a production sponsor. Contact us for various sponsor opportunities.
  • HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE CAPITAL CAMPAIGN FUND
    Your tax deductible donation will assist BRAC with the purchase and preservation of the theatre. Donations for this fund may be mailed to: BRAC, PO Box 2004, Branson, MO 65615 (indicate Capital Campaign on the check)
  • SEASON SHOW PASS to the Historic Owen Theatre
    Get the best seats and save money by purchasing tickets in advance. Visit BransonArts.org/pass
  • VOLUNTEER in 2020
    If you aren’t able to support the arts financially, we still have important ways for you to get involved in all we are doing. Visit BransonArts.org/volunteer.
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Staccato Show Choir Christmas Concert This Tuesday

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

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

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

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

The Branson Regional Arts Council is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization and provides a wide variety of artistic events and theatrical programs for all residents in the Ozarks. Financial support for many of these programs is provided by the Missouri Arts Council and through the generous contributions of private donors and Arts Council members.

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The Wizard Of Oz Auditions Announced

  • dateDecember 5, 2019
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view2611 Views

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

Audition Dates/Times:

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

Location:

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

Rehearsal Dates/Times:

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

Performance Dates/Times:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Character Breakdown – Principal Roles:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Character Breakdown – Supporting Roles:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Winkie General – Head of the Witch’s Army

Nikko – Head of the Flying Monkeys

Flying Monkeys

Poppies & Snowflakes

Emerald City Guard

Jitterbug Lead Dancers, Jitterbugs and Ghosts

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

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

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