The Branson Regional Arts Council is presenting a one-day (two-hour) watercolor workshop, where registered participants will learn the techniques of creating an old fashioned Hand-made Christmas Card as seen in the photo.

Old Fashioned Watercolor Christmas Card Workshop

  • Tuesday, December 10, 2019
  • 6pm – 8pm
  • Historic Owen Theatre (downtown Branson)

Class Description: This is a one-day workshop for all ages where participants will be walked through a step by step paint along process. We will create a hand-made Christmas card featuring a classic red ornament nestled in the pine branches of a Christmas tree. Join us to learn some new watercolor painting techniques and create a lovely holiday greeting card for a family member or friend.

REGISTER FOR THE CHRISTMAS CARD CLASS

CLICK HERE for more information and to register online for this fun and educational workshop! Call 417-336-4255 with any questions.

 

The Branson Regional Arts Council is offering two new art class programs at the Historic Owen Theatre’s Gallery Studio for youth and adults beginning Tuesday, October 22nd.

FALL NATURE ART CLASSES FOR KIDS

  • 5 Week Class meets Tuesdays, Oct 22nd thru Nov 19th
  • Two time slots available: 3pm-4pm or 4pm-5pm
  • For Kids Ages: 6-11 (Class Sizes Limited)
  • Art Instructor: Lisa Murphy

Children will enjoy learning how to use a variety of art media to create Fall Themed Art Projects. They will have the opportunity to experiment with Painting, Printmaking, Collage, Charcoal and Chalk. Each week students will use nature as their theme as they learn to mix and blend Fall colors and explore nature through a variety of mixed media techniques. Kids will have fun using their imaginations to celebrate the Fall season!

$60 Registration fee covers all instruction and art supplies over the 5 weeks of classes. Great program for homeschoolers or any student who enjoys the arts!

REGISTER FOR THE FALL NATURE ART CLASSES

Visit BransonArts.org/artclass for more information or to register.

WATERCOLOR PAINTING FOR TEENS & ADULTS

  • 5 Week Class meets Tuesdays, Oct 22th thru Nov 19th
  • 5pm-6pm (Ages 12-17) or 6pm-7pm (Ages 18+)
  • Art Instructors: Lisa Murphy & Jessica Lowe

This is a 5 week painting class for teens and adults interested in watercolor landscape painting. Learn new watercolor painting techniques, follow along in a mock landscape demo, and paint your own style of landscape with the help and guidance or our experienced, local instructors, Jessica Lowe and Lisa Murphy.

Come to experiment, have fun and develop an exciting artistic skill!

Registration fee covers all instruction over the 5 weeks of classes.

REGISTER FOR THE WATERCOLOR CLASSES

NOTE: Students must provide their own materials (see list on registration page). Materials may be purchased at most art supply stores such as Michael’s Craft Store, or via Amazon.com (Approx. $61 + shipping) at this link: https://bransonarts.org/watercolorsupplies .

Visit BransonArts.org/artclass for more information or to register.

MEET THE INSTRUCTORS:

Jessica Lowe is a Missouri based artist. She works with a variety of media and creates artworks that focus on nature and portraiture. Jessica was born in Wichita, KS and moved to Missouri at the age of 10. At age 13 she began her formal training as an artist, working under local veteran artist Sam Hull for 2.5 years. Graduating from Branson High School, she went on to continue her education at Missouri State University, gaining her BSED in Fine Art in 2015. She taught High School Art for 4 years at Forsyth High School before deciding to pursue life as an artist-full-time. She is currently working as a free lance commissioned artist creating pieces for patrons, as well as developing her own work.

Lisa Murphy is a Board Member Emeritus and Past President of the Branson Regional Arts Council. She has dedicated her life to promoting Art Education in Southwest Missouri. After graduating from MSU with a degree in Elementary Education and a minor in Art and Library Science she started working towards a Masters Degree at Drury University, where she studied Secondary Art and Gifted Education. Her professional career includes teaching Art at the Springfield Art Museum for five years and teaching in the public schools for over thirty years. The majority of her career was devoted to teaching Art in a small rural school that was named one of the top five high schools in Missouri and awarded the National Blue Ribbon. Her professional awards include: National Recognition in Who’s Who Teacher of the Year, seven times and the Outstanding Teacher Award by the Missouri Fine Arts Academy twice in her career. Currently she teaches Art at The Summit Preparatory School in Springfield.

Incredible Pumpkin Painting Party at the Branson Centennial History Museum!

The Branson Regional Arts Council and the Branson Centennial Museum are teaming up to present a FUN & FESTIVE EVENT for all ages!

Register today for our INCREDIBLE PUMPKIN PAINTING PARTY in Historic Downtown Branson!

There will be 2 EVENTS to choose from based on age:
• Kids (12 and under) – Saturday, Oct 19th, 10am-12pm
• Teens (13-17) – Saturday, Oct 19th, 1pm-3pm

Parents are welcome to attend with their child, or also register for their own pumpkin to paint as well! GREAT FAMILY FUN!

$20 Registration Fee per participant. Class sizes are limited. Sign up soon to secure your spot!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER NOW

We will provide the pumpkins, and all painting materials needed. Your instructors are Certified Professional Art Teachers with years of experience!

Our prize sponsor Dicks 5&10 will be providing refreshments, special treats and prizes for everyone! You won’t want to miss it!

All proceeds benefit the Branson Regional Arts Council and the Branson Centennial Museum (both organizations are 501(c)3 charities).

Auditions for the Branson Regional Arts Council‘s production of A Christmas Carol, The Musical will be held at the Historic Owen Theatre on Friday, October 18th  & Saturday, October 19th  (2019) from 6:00-9:00 p.m. Callbacks-To be Determined

Performance dates (8 shows):

  • December 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14 – 7:00 PM
  • December 7, 15 – 2:00 PM

AUDITION REQUIREMENTS:

➢ Seeking Adult and Children performers

➢ Please prepare a 1-2 minute vocal selection that showcases vocal ability. All vocal selections must be from standard musical theatre repertoire in the style of the show. NO POP, ROCK, COUNTRY OR GOSPEL.

Please DO NOT perform any songs from the show.

Please bring an mp3 track on a digital device such as a phone or iPad. NO CD’s.

A dialect will be required for this show. Please come prepared to cold read from the script with a Standard British dialect.

All participants will be required to attend the dance call. Please bring appropriate clothing & footwear. Ladies are required to wear high heel character shoes and men are required to wear closed toed shoes; jazz shoes preferred. NO SANDALS or BARE FEET ALLOWED.

The Branson Regional Arts Council’s production of A Christmas Carol is directed by Jacob Estes.

Character Breakdown

➢ Most of the performers in the cast will be playing multiple roles.

 

Scrooge

A man who lost his father to creditors as a kid and has grown up heeding his father’s advice to save his money. Until he realizes how terrible he’s become, he is grumpy, unsympathetic man and has no time for anyone or anything.

Gender: Male

Age: 45 to 65

Vocal range: Baritone

 

Mr. Cratchit

A father and husband who cares deeply for his family, particularly his youngest son. He works hard to provide for them but is mistreated by his employer, Scrooge.

Gender: Male

Age: 30 to 40

Vocal range: Baritone

 

Mrs. Cratchit

Tiny Tim’s mother and Mr. Cratchit’s wife. She is a loving mother who tries to provide the best for her children with what she’s got.

Gender: Female

Age: 30 to 40

Vocal range: Soprano/Mezzo

 

Tiny Tim

Mr. and Mrs. Cratchit’s youngest son. He is crippled and sick, but is the definition of loving Christmas spirit. He constantly reminds his family that as long as they all have each other, they will be happy.

Gender: Male

Age: 9 to 12

Vocal range: Boy Soprano

 

Fred

Scrooge’s nephew and only living relative. He is a pleasant young man who believes in the good a joyful Christmas spirit can make in the world.

Gender: Male

Age: 25 to 35

Vocal range: Tenor

 

Ghost Of Christmas Present

A jovial, larger-than-life ghost who comes back to show Scrooge all the joy, love, and celebration he his missing out on while those around him celebrate Christmas. Actor doubles as Sandwichboard Man.

Gender: Male

Age: 30 to 45

Vocal range: Baritone/Tenor

 

Ghost Of Christmas Past

An ever cheerful, sprightly ghost who comes back with the history book of Scrooge’s past to show him the events that led to his current state. Actor doubles as Lamplighter.

Gender: Female

Age: 20-30

Vocal: Soprano/Mezzo

 

Blind Old Hag / Ghost Of Christmas Future

A beautiful, and terrifying wrath, the Ghost of Christmas Future is strong and silent as she shows Scrooge what will happen to him and those around him if he continue down the path he is currently treading.

Gender: Female

Age: 50 to 65

Vocal range: Mezzo

 

Marley

Scrooge’s former business partner who, before his death, was exactly like Scrooge. Comes back as a ghost in chains to warn Scrooge of how his life decisions will bind him in the afterlife.

Gender: Male

Age: 45 to 55

Vocal range: Tenor

 

Emily

Scrooge’s fiancé from when they were young. She is a beautiful girl, not impressed or in need of money.

Gender: Female

Age: 18 to 25

Vocal range: Soprano

 

Young Scrooge

A handsome young version of Scrooge from his youth, He is engaged to Emily.

Gender: Male

Age: 18 to 25

Vocal range: Baritone/Tenor

 

Mrs. Fezziwig

The consummate hostess and Mr. Fezziwig’s wife, she loved to help throw the Christmas party every year. She is prideful.

Gender: Female

Age: 30 to 60

Vocal range: Soprano

 

Mr. Fezziwig

A portly, jolly man who used to throw a huge Christmas party every year for the community. He was Scrooge’s first boss and after teaching him all he knew, he became deeply disappointed in the man Scrooge became.

Gender: Male

Age: 30 to 60

Vocal range: Tenor

 

Ensemble:

Scrooge’s Mother; Fan; Cratchet Children; Bankers; Street Vendors; Sailors; Ghosts; Jailers; Clerks; Monks

 

The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to offer a full line-up of Fall Theatre Arts Education Classes at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson!

Parents who are interested in getting their kids involved in musical theatre, acting or dance are encouraged to sign up soon. Online registration is now open and class sizes are limited.

All classes begin the week of September 16th and run for six weeks.

BRAC Fall Education Classes Available


Acting II – Intermediate to Advanced Acting (ages 12-18 or by permission)
Instructor: Jake  Deck
Class Meets: Thursdays, 3:30pm – 4:30pm (6 weeks)
Cost: $65.00 [REGISTER NOW]
Description: Acting II is an upper level course, designed for intermediate to advanced students who want to further their skills and become the best actor they can be. Students will review technique and continue to learn and find new discoveries in their characters and performances.


Advanced Audition*
Instructor: Jacob Estes
Class Meets: Tuesdays, 4:30pm – 6:00pm (6 weeks)
Cost: $80.00 [REGISTER NOW]
*prerequisite: This class is open for advanced musical theatre students only…other inquiries will need to go through instructor.
Description: Students will go through a substantial six week audition intensive designed to break bad auditioning habits. This class will be set up so each student will be assigned new (appropriate for their type) materials each week to learn. Then, they will return the following week and perform these materials as a mock audition. Through different exercises and group discussion every student will leave this class feeling more prepared than ever to BOOK THAT ROLE!


Advanced Musical Theatre II*
Instructor: Jacob Estes
Class Meets: Thursdays, 4:30pm – 6:00pm (6 weeks)
Cost: $80.00 [REGISTER NOW]
*prerequisite: This class is open for advanced musical theatre students only…other inquiries will need to go through instructor.
Description: Students will focus on the exploration and discovery of the skills necessary to be a polished musical theatre performer (singing, dancing, acting). This class is not for beginners, as students will be expected to have a high level of prior theatrical knowledge in order to dive deeper into the craft. The work as a performer is NEVER complete. The journey to finding who you are on stage is a process that is ever changing, and the moment an actor embraces that, their world will be opened up to ALL possibilities!


Dance Fundamentals – Beginner to Intermediate (ages 8-18)
Instructor: Kristen Dasto
Class Meets: Fridays, 4:30pm – 6:00pm (6 weeks)
Cost: $80.00 [REGISTER NOW]
Description: Six, fun filled weeks of non-intimidating classes with your instructor, Kristen Dasto! Through this six week course, Beginner-Intermediate Dancers will learn and explore the details to dance basics and the technique behind it all.


PREFER TO PAY BY CHECK?
To pay by check for any of the above, please follow the online registration and select “Pay by Check” in the checkout process. Otherwise, please call Karie Dykeman at 417-336-4255 and ask to register for the class of your choice.

The Branson Regional Arts Council Youth Education Department is excited to offer a FOUR WEEK SUMMER DANCE FUNDAMENTALS CLASS for kids ages 8-18!

Join us every Friday from July 26th-August 16th for a fun filled, non-intimidating dance class. Through this four week course, Beginner-Intermediate Dancers will learn and explore the details to dance basics and the technique behind it all.

  • WHEN: Fridays, July 26th thru August 16th
  • TIME: 6pm – 7:30pm
  • WHERE: Historic Owen Theatre

Registration Fee includes all 4 weekly sessions:

1.5 HOUR CLASSES  $55 (non member), $50 (BRAC Family Members)

DANCE CLASS REGISTRATION

PLEASE REGISTER EACH CHILD INDIVIDUALLY, REFRESHING THIS FORM EACH TIME

For any questions, or to register by cash or check, please call BRAC at 417-336-4255.

Meet the Instructor: Kristen Dasto
A six year Rockette Summer Intensive alumni, originally from Southaven, Mississippi, Kristen began dancing at the young age of two years old and hasn’t stopped! She moved to New York in October of 2015 to attend the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) where she trained with industry professionals in dance, voice, and acting. After her first year, Kristen transferred to begin her training at Broadway Dance Center (BDC) in their Training Program where she graduated with a Certificate of Completion in April, 2017.
Shortly after graduating from BDC, Kristen received her a certification in Classical Pilates through PowerPilates. When she is not performing, she continues her own training in dance, voice, and acting as she knows always more to learn and room to grow in the arts industry. Kristen loves helping others learn the essentials that she has learned and watching them grow to become the best they can possibly be.

BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber (center), welcomes Roger and Karen Bergford to the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson.

The Branson Regional Arts Council is proud to announce that Roger and Karen Bergford have begun accepting new vocal students as part of BRAC’s Conservatory of the Arts program at the Historic Owen Theatre. Offering both private and group vocal lessons, the Bergfords provide an impressive history of professional training and performance experience to new and advanced vocal students in the Branson area.

BRAC Vocal Instructors Roger & Karen Bergford

The Bergfords are now scheduling 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 are typically private, or as a group of 3 students together. Interested parents or students should contact the Branson Regional Arts Council at 417-336-4255 or info@bransonarts.org for more information of class scheduling and tuition rates.

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.

The Arts Council is excited to have the Bergfords join the BRAC Education faculty, and they are now accepting private vocal students from the Branson Tri-Lakes area who wish to train under their professional direction.

Faculty members of the BRAC Conservatory of the Arts include:

  • Lloyd Alexander Holt – Director of Vocal Studies
  • Kristen Dasto – Director of Dance Education
  • Jacob Estes – Director of Theatre Education
  • Roger & Karen Bergford – Vocal Instructors

All private and group classes are pre-scheduled and held at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

Students of any age who are interested in information regarding lessons in voice, dance or acting, are asked to contact the Branson Regional Arts Council at 417-336-4255 or info@bransonarts.org.

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

The Taneycomo Festival Orchestra is presenting a FREE community concert on Thursday June 20, 2019 at 7:30pm at the Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S. Commercial St., Branson, MO 65616. This entertaining production features a new wind ensemble, Taneycomo Harmoniemusik.

As there is no admission charge for this event, and seating will be first come, first served. The doors to the theatre will be open by 7:00pm. The theatre concession stand will be available for patrons wishing to purchase fresh popcorn, cold drinks, or other refreshments to enjoy during the concert.

The Branson Regional Arts Council is one of several community partners assisting TFO by providing performance space for the 2019 Concert Season, which starts on June 16 and runs through June 29. This is the eighth year that Larkin Sanders (TFO founder) has presented the music festival here in the Branson area.

For more information on the Taneycomo Festival Orchestra and this seasons concert series schedule, visit their website TaneycomoFestivalOrchestra.org.

Excitement is high as the Branson Regional Arts Council’s 2019 Summer Youth Institute production of Shrek the Musical Jr. opens for 6 hilarious performances at the Historic Owen Theatre.

Performances run June 6-9 at the Historic Owen Theatre in Downtown Branson. Advance reserved tickets are recommended and available online at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255. Adult (18+) tickets are $16.95, and Youth (4-17) are $11.45.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

“Enrollments for this summer’s Institute were through the roof, so we recruited additional teaching and directing staff to make this our BIGGEST and BEST Youth Troupe production yet,” said BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber.

71 students are enrolled for this production. In order to allow this many students to participate while presenting the best performance possible, the producers and directors decided to divide them into two separate casts, the Hansel Cast and the Gretel Cast. Each cast will perform 3 shows, and the individual cast members are all listed below.

“My favorite thing about this program is how it acts as a family, and everyone works together. We all learn from each other, and it’s a really fun experience getting to work with so many great kids! Come see it because it’s action packed and the music is very catchy!”
Dani Groff (Fiona – Hansel Cast)

“This production is so special because it’s made up of a whole bunch of students from all over the region, coming together to create a really fun show.  I love that we can hang out and create a bond we never thought we’d have. Come see it because your kids are in it!”
Joey Blackwood (Shrek – Hansel Cast)

I live in Springfield and I enjoy this program because I get to learn so much and be challenged each and every day to become a better actor, singer, dancer and overall person, thanks to the BRAC! Come see it because it’s Shrek!!!!”
Renee’ Elkady (Fiona – Gretel Cast)

My favorite song is called Make A Move, because the characters all start to bond after quarreling up until that point.  They discover their similarities and it becomes a very good moment! Also, there is a lot of funny (but slightly crude) humor at the end with “gas” and other things… you’ll have to just come see it to find out!”
Wesley Brown (Shrek – Gretel Cast)

The “Hansel” cast performs: Friday, June 7th (7pm), Saturday, June 8th (7pm), and Sunday, June 9th (2pm).

Hansel Cast Members include: Joey Blackwood (Shrek), Dani Groff (Fiona), Millie Jo Stauffer (Young Fiona), Sydney Patrick (Teen Fiona),  Carter Hendrickson (Lord Farquaad), Nathanel Bond (Donkey), Emma Hesemann (Dragon), Lola Zobel (Mama Ogre), Xander Greenamyer (Little Ogre), Wesley Brown (Papa Ogre), Sophie Douglas (Pinocchio), Lauren Tiefry (Little Pig 1 / Blind Mice 1), Eden Burgess (Little Pig 2 / Blind Mice 2), Emma Melton (Little Pig 3 / Blind Mice 3), Sylvie Barbour (Ugly Duckling), Arthur Selzer (Papa Bear), Sydney Pride (Mama Bear), Josslynn Silvy (Baby Bear), Kylee Moody (Wicked Witch), Liam Leven (Big Bad Wolf), Addison Patrick (Gingy), Pace Gillman (Peter Pan), Uriah Guevel (Captain Of The Guard), Hoyt Gubin (Dwarf), Chelsey Qualkenbush (Story Teller 1), Jackson Guffey (Story Teller 2), Aubrey Melton (Story Teller 3), Sailor Tillis (Puss In Boots), Mia Johnson (Pied Piper), Ashleigh Williams (Bishop), Jude Barbour (Knight), Hallie Groff (Goldie Locks), Madeline Cox (White Rabbit), Cassie Greenamyer (Elf), Haley Guffey (Fairy Godmother), Addison Russell (Humpty Dumpty), Sydney Rickman (Sugar Plum Fairy), Sophie Douglas, Sydney Patrick, Sylvie Barbour and Addison Patrick (Dungeon Knights), Sophie Douglas, Pace Gilman, Hallie Groff, Mia Johnson, Sydney Pride, Addison Patrick and Sydney Patrick (Duloc Dancers), Sophie Douglas, Pace Gillman, Hallie Groff, Emma Melton, Aubrey Melton and Ashleigh Williams (Rat Tappers).

The “Gretel” cast performs: Thursday, June 6th (7pm), Saturday, June 8th (2pm), Sunday, June 9th (7pm).

Gretel Cast Members include: Wesley Brown (Shrek), Renee’ Elkady (Fiona), Charlee Mitchell (Young Fiona), Bekah Williams (Teen Fiona),  Cole Hill (Lord Farquaad), Jake Musser (Donkey), Liya Rivere (Dragon), Johanna Luthardt (Mama Ogre), Lee Brown (Little Ogre), Joey Blackwood (Papa Ogre), Grace Clark  (Pinocchio), Kylee Chandler (Little Pig 1 / Blind Mice 1), Charlee Roberts (Little Pig 2 / Blind Mice 2), Madison Lundeen (Little Pig 3 / Blind Mice 3), Jael Frost (Ugly Duckling), Morgan Brown (Papa Bear), Sydney Pride (Mama Bear), Lundyn Mitchell (Baby Bear), Lara Elkady (Wicked Witch), Cameron Morrison (Big Bad Wolf), Alexis Fischer (Gingy), Ashley Rodgers (Peter Pan), Liam Hill (Captain Of The Guard), Tyler Tees-Webster (Dwarf), Molly Jones (Story Teller 1), Korey Brown (Story Teller 2), Gigi McAdara (Story Teller 3), Halle Horn (Puss In Boots), Megan Rodgers (Pied Piper), Savannah Turner (Bishop), Colin McAdara (Knight), Anastacia Petri (Goldie Locks), Elyse Smith (White Rabbit), Gianna Daniels (Elf), Emma Hess (Fairy Godmother), Taylor Miller (Humpty Dumpty), Loughlynn Murphy (Sugar Plum Fairy), Jael Frost, Sydney Pride, Alexis Fischer, Beckah Williams (Dungeon Knights), Kylee Chandler, Grace Clark, Alexis Fischer, Ashley Rodgers, Megan Rodgers, Madison Lundeen, Sydney Pride and Savannah Turner (Duloc Dancers), Grace Clark, Ashley Rodgers, Liya Rivere and Savannah Turner (Rat Tappers).

The education staff and production team members include: Kim Hale, Lisa Murphy, Karie Dykeman (Producers), Melissa Rivera, Kyle Bradley, Jacob Estes, Kristen Dasto (Directors), Jake Deck (Assistant Director), Kellsey Bradley, Mesa Mitchell (Education Specialists), Kristen Dasto (Choreographer), Jake Deck (Assistant Choreographer), Nicole Dasto (Assistant Stage Manager), Melissa Rivera (Music Director), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Mac Hill (Audio Director), Jonathan Crum (Costume Designer), Kim Hale, Melody Snyder (Costumers), Heather Douglas (Makeup), Jacob Estes (Hair and Wigs), Roz Slavik (Props), Jacob Estes, Jake Deck (Set Design), Jacob Estes, Jake Deck, Art Hale, Kim Hale, Kyle Bradley (Set Construction), Velvet Case (Photographer), and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director – Marketing and Design).

Shrek The Musical Jr. Swamps the Historic Owen Theatre June 6-9

The Branson Regional Arts Council presents their 2019 Youth Troupe Summer Institute performance of Shrek the Musical Jr., June 6-9 at the Historic Owen Theatre in Downtown Branson. Advance reserved tickets are recommended and available online at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255. Adult (18+) tickets are $16.95, and Youth (4-17) are $11.45.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

“This swamp is huge! Since we first announced this production in August of last year, enrollment requests for our summer theatre program has increased exponentially! In order to accommodate all 71 participating students, we’ve added additional teaching, directing, and other support staff to create two separate casts of kids, who will perform three shows each.”
Jim Barber, BRAC Executive Director

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

The talented young stars of Shrek the Musical Jr. range from 6-18 years of age. In addition to learning their music, choreography and dialogue, many also assist with set construction, decor and costuming. The entire production comes together after only three weeks of challenging classes, culminating in six spectacular performances. The students work very hard, while having a lot of fun, to master this fantastic family musical.

“The financial investment we make in each of our theatre productions at the Historic Owen Theatre is very high. For this particular production, we were very honored to receive a generous grant of assistance towards our licensing fees from Neighbors and Friends of Table Rock Lake. This organization understands and appreciates what the Arts Council is doing for all residents in our community, especially our youth.” – Jim Barber

The “Hansel” cast performs: Friday, June 7th (7pm), Saturday, June 8th (7pm), and Sunday, June 9th (2pm).

Hansel Cast Members include: Joey Blackwood (Shrek), Dani Groff (Fiona), Millie Jo Stauffer (Young Fiona), Sydney Patrick (Teen Fiona),  Carter Hendrickson (Lord Farquaad), Nathanel Bond (Donkey), Emma Hesemann (Dragon), Lola Zobel (Mama Ogre), Xander Greenamyer (Little Ogre), Wesley Brown (Papa Ogre), Sophie Douglas (Pinocchio), Lauren Tiefry (Little Pig 1 / Blind Mice 1), Eden Burgess (Little Pig 2 / Blind Mice 2), Emma Melton (Little Pig 3 / Blind Mice 3), Sylvie Barbour (Ugly Duckling), Arthur Selzer (Papa Bear), Sydney Pride (Mama Bear), Josslynn Silvy (Baby Bear), Kylee Moody (Wicked Witch), Liam Leven (Big Bad Wolf), Addison Patrick (Gingy), Pace Gillman (Peter Pan), Uriah Guevel (Captain Of The Guard), Hoyt Gubin (Dwarf), Chelsey Qualkenbush (Story Teller 1), Jackson Guffey (Story Teller 2), Aubrey Melton (Story Teller 3), Sailor Tillis (Puss In Boots), Mia Johnson (Pied Piper), Ashleigh Williams (Bishop), Jude Barbour (Knight), Hallie Groff (Goldie Locks), Madeline Cox (White Rabbit), Cassie Greenamyer (Elf), Haley Guffey (Fairy Godmother), Addison Russell (Humpty Dumpty), Sydney Rickman (Sugar Plum Fairy), Sophie Douglas, Sydney Patrick, Sylvie Barbour and Addison Patrick (Dungeon Knights), Sophie Douglas, Pace Gilman, Hallie Groff, Mia Johnson, Sydney Pride, Addison Patrick and Sydney Patrick (Duloc Dancers), Sophie Douglas, Pace Gillman, Hallie Groff, Emma Melton, Aubrey Melton and Ashleigh Williams (Rat Tappers).

The “Gretel” cast performs: Thursday, June 6th (7pm), Saturday, June 8th (2pm), Sunday, June 9th (7pm).

Gretel Cast Members include: Wesley Brown (Shrek), Renee’ Elkady (Fiona), Charlee Mitchell (Young Fiona), Bekah Williams (Teen Fiona),  Cole Hill (Lord Farquaad), Jake Musser (Donkey), Liya Rivere (Dragon), Johanna Luthardt (Mama Ogre), Lee Brown (Little Ogre), Joey Blackwood (Papa Ogre), Grace Clark  (Pinocchio), Kylee Chandler (Little Pig 1 / Blind Mice 1), Charlee Roberts (Little Pig 2 / Blind Mice 2), Madison Lundeen (Little Pig 3 / Blind Mice 3), Jael Frost (Ugly Duckling), Morgan Brown (Papa Bear), Sydney Pride (Mama Bear), Lundyn Mitchell (Baby Bear), Lara Elkady (Wicked Witch), Cameron Morrison (Big Bad Wolf), Alexis Fischer (Gingy), Ashley Rodgers (Peter Pan), Liam Hill (Captain Of The Guard), Tyler Tees-Webster (Dwarf), Molly Jones (Story Teller 1), Korey Brown (Story Teller 2), Gigi McAdara (Story Teller 3), Halle Horn (Puss In Boots), Megan Rodgers (Pied Piper), Savannah Turner (Bishop), Colin McAdara (Knight), Anastacia Petri (Goldie Locks), Elyse Smith (White Rabbit), Gianna Daniels (Elf), Emma Hess (Fairy Godmother), Taylor Miller (Humpty Dumpty), Loughlynn Murphy (Sugar Plum Fairy), Jael Frost, Sydney Pride, Alexis Fischer, Beckah Williams (Dungeon Knights), Kylee Chandler, Grace Clark, Alexis Fischer, Ashley Rodgers, Megan Rodgers, Madison Lundeen, Sydney Pride and Savannah Turner (Duloc Dancers), Grace Clark, Ashley Rodgers, Liya Rivere and Savannah Turner (Rat Tappers).

“Our dedicated education staff are the best! I’m impressed how they can smoothly work with such a large, diverse group of students, yet present such phenomenal theatre productions for our community. The self esteem and confidence they are instilling into these young people is tremendous.” – Jim Barber

The education staff and production team members include: Kim Hale, Lisa Murphy, Karie Dykeman (Producers), Melissa Rivera, Kyle Bradley, Jacob Estes, Kristen Dasto (Directors), Jake Deck (Assistant Director), Kellsey Bradley, Mesa Mitchell (Education Specialists), Kristen Dasto (Choreographer), Jake Deck (Assistant Choreographer), Nicole Dasto (Assistant Stage Manager), Melissa Rivera (Music Director), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Mac Hill (Audio Director), Jonathan Crum (Costume Designer), Kim Hale, Melody Snyder (Costumers), Heather Douglas (Makeup), Jacob Estes (Hair and Wigs), Roz Slavik (Props), Jacob Estes, Jake Deck (Set Design), Jacob Estes, Jake Deck, Art Hale, Kim Hale, Kyle Bradley (Set Construction), Velvet Case (Photographer), and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director – Marketing and Design).

The First Annual BRAC BBQ FEST Is Coming To Downtown Branson!

Excitement and fun waits for everyone at the First Annual Branson Regional Arts Council (BRAC) BBQ Festival in Liberty Plaza behind the Historic Owen Theater in Downtown Branson!


The BRAC BBQ Fest is set for Saturday, June 1st from 10am until 6pm. Admission is free, and attendees will enjoy a large assortment of live entertainment, crafts booths, and artisans throughout the day. “We’ll have fun activities for kids of all ages including a bounce house and face painting, as well as delicious, mouthwatering BBQ cooked on location in an actual firetruck,” said BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber. “You’ll have to see it to believe it,” he added, “fantastic food and delicious drinks will be available for a reasonable price throughout the day!”

BRAC BBQ Fest is produced by the Branson Regional Arts Council in cooperation with Branson Parks & Recreation, and the premier event sponsor, Dr. Richard Tallon and Branson Dental Center. Additional event sponsors include Mercy Hospital and Dr. Munshi Branson Institute of Sleep.

The purpose of the event is to raise awareness and funds to help the Branson Regional Arts Council preserve the history and entertainment legacy of the Historic Owen Theatre built in 1936.

CURRENT LIVE ENTERTAINMENT INCLUDES:

  • Java Jived (St. Louis based Mixed Vocal Octet Group) – 10am
  • Forte Theatrical Group – Cabaret Music – 11am
  • Preview Selection from Forte’s Hamlet – 12pm
  • Lori Locke and Friends – 1pm
  • Preview of Shrek the Musical Jr. – 2pm
  • Rick McEwen – 4pm
  • Robert Morris – Balloon Twister Extraordinaire (all day)

More entertainment acts will be listed soon… performance times subject to change.

Area Businesses, Artists, Crafters, and other Vendors will have an opportunity to rent a display area and sell their products. Booth space rental information is available on the Branson Regional Arts Council website at BransonArts.org/bbqvendor, or by contacting BRAC at 417-336-4255 or info@bransonarts.org for more information.

VENDOR REGISTRATION

CURRENTLY REGISTERED BRAC BBQ FEST VENDORS INCLUDE:

  • Peter Engler Designs – Jewelry, woodcarvings, free gifts, oil candles and more
  • Joplin Peace Frogs – T-shirts, hats, bags, jackets, purses, decals and jewelry
  • EBBboutique – Acrylic Pour Paintings, Shadow Boxes, Leather Jewelry and Accessories
  • Carolyn Cambronne-Hayes – Framed and matted digital original art prints
  • Silver Jewelry Artist – Sterling and gemstone jewely by award-winning artist Jayme Woodall
  • Sticks, Spoons & More – Handmade wooden spoons, ladles and measuring cups
  • Taneyhills Community Library – Promoting summer reading for kids and library services
  • Scentsy – Scented Wax and Decorative Wax Warmers, and a variety of other home fragrance products.
  • Branson West Art Gallery – Original paintings, photography, jewelry, and wood carvings
  • Concept 24 By Design – Original Art, Crafts, and Prints
  • Salvation Army of Branson – Salvation Army Thrift Store Clothing Specials and community awareness

 


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

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

No auditions or previous experience required to participate!

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

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

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

CLICK TO REGISTER FOR SUMMER INSTITUTE

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

Summer Institute Class and Performance Schedule will be as follows:

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