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

Twelve young performers from the Branson area experienced a journey of a life-time this past week as they successfully fulfilled a dream that began six months ago; an opportunity to participate in one of the Nation’s leading high school music education programs, Festival Disney in Orlando, Florida.

The students (from youngest to oldest) include; Hallie Groff (9), Jake Musser (13), Sydney Pride (13), Megan Rodgers (13), Jordan Kendrick (15), Noah Beyer (15), Moritz Mund (16), Jacob Deeter (16), Alex Knudsen (16), Carter Hendrickson (16), Dani Groff (18) and Brenna Kellem (18).

In August 2018, the Branson Regional Arts Council (BRAC) announced a new youth education program to provide vocal music, dance and theatre training for area students between the ages of 8 and 18. Open auditions were held at the Historic Owen Theatre, and from the dozens of youth who tried out, six boys and six girls were selected to form a musical show choir group called “Staccato”. This advanced choir combines a challenging musical repertoire with entertaining choreography to provide a unique, one of a kind, arts education experience for young students in the Branson area.

Kim Hale is the Vice President of BRAC and serves as the Educational Advisory Chair for the new arts program. Lloyd Alexander-Holt is the BRAC Education Director and Director of Vocal Studies, Kristen Dasto is the Director of Dance Studies, and Jacob Estes is the Director of Theatre Education.

Shortly after the show choir was formed, these talented directors announced an ambitious goal of sending Staccato to perform at the Festival Disney event. Since that time, the talented troupe of performers has been very busy rehearsing, fundraising, and performing at various area events including the Grand Opening of the new Mercy Branson Multi-Specialty Clinic, the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, the DBBA’s Piccadilly Gala, as well as multiple performances at the Historic Owen Theatre and as a pre-show for the Hughes Brothers Theatre.

Their performance at Festival Disney was reviewed by nationally respected members of the National Music Adjudication Coalition including Dr. Gregory Fuller (Director of Choral Activities at The University of Southern Mississippi), Dr. Craig Zamer (Director of Choral Activities at Tennessee Tech University), and Dr. Kathleen Shannon (Conductor and Vocal Pedagogue with extensive credits) who also spent several minutes with the students and directors after the performance to offer her expertise and professional assessment and guidance for further improvement. Comments from these professionals were extremely enthusiastic and positive, providing a perfect conclusion to an exciting week of Disney Magic for these deserving students.

In addition to the directors named above, other integral members of the BRAC Education program team include: BRAC President Lisa Murphy, Vocal Instructor Perry Harper, Administrative Assistant Karie Dykeman, Fundraising Coordinator Viola Beyer, Executive Director Jim Barber, and additional Festival Disney trip chaperones Roz Slavick and Michelle Rodgers.

Area residents interested in seeing these talented young performers in person, are invited to attend a free community concert featuring Staccato on Thursday, May 16th at 7pm at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson. There is no charge for admission, but as seating is limited to 200, advance online reservations are available at BransonArts.org/may16 or by calling the Branson Regional Arts Council at 417-336-4255.

FREE TICKETS

Auditions for the 2019-2020 cast of Staccato will be held in July at the Historic Owen Theatre. Interested students are asked to watch the Branson Regional Arts Council Facebook page, or official website, BransonArts.org, for upcoming information.

#BransonArts #FestivalDisney

Rehearsals, set construction, and costuming is well underway for the upcoming Branson Regional Arts Council musical production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast at the Historic Owen Theatre.

“This is our largest theatrical production ever, and due to the popularity of this show, there will be 10 performances between February 21st and March 3rd,” said Executive Director of the Branson Regional Arts Council, Jim Barber. “Tickets are selling quickly, and we anticipate that most shows will sell out. Therefore, advance seat reservations are recommended by visiting BransonArts.org/tix, or by calling the Historic Owen Theatre at 417-336-4255.” added Barber.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

“A Tale As Old As Time,” the Academy Award-winning Disney film comes to life at the Historic Owen Theatre in this romantic and beloved take on the classic fairytale. The musical story tells of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed into his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity.

The BRAC production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast  is the first of ten major theatrical events in their 2019 season. This show features nearly 50 cast members, with several principal actors sharing roles during the two week run as an alternating Purple and Gold Cast.

Principal actors in the Purple Cast include: Perry Harper (Beast/Prince Adam), Brenna Kellem (Belle), Jacob Estes (Gaston), Alex Harris  (Lumiere/Monsieur D’Arque) and Kristen Dasto (Babette).

Principal actors in the Gold Cast include: Perry Harper (Beast/Prince Adam), Kellsey Bradley (Belle), Kyle Bradley (Gaston), Jordan Alexander-Holt (Lumiere/Monsieur D’argue) and Sarah Sutherland (Babette).

Additional cast members in all performances include: Jen Frost (Mrs. Potts – 1st week), Sarah Williams (Mrs. Potts – 2nd week), David Burgio (LeFou), Sean Neil Myers (Maurice), Robert Montgomery (Cogsworth), Liam Hill (Chip/Young Price), Casey Chambers (Madame de la Grand Bouche), Emily Alphin (Silly Girl), Velvet Case (Silly Girl), Dani Groff (Silly Girl), and Mesa Mitchell (Enchantress/Ensemble).

Ensemble cast members in all performances include: Sylvie BarbourHaley Bertrand, Seanna Bounds, Selah Bounds, Shamarah Bounds, Sofe Bounds, Julie Brinkman, Cassandra CarterSophie Douglas, Alexis Fischer, Jael Frost, Pace GillmanHallie Groff, Brynleigh Hill, Kaitlyn Jenanian, Jonathan Kirkland, Mindy Law, Cameron Morrison, Jake Musser, Julie Musser, Laurie Payne, Dylan Pratt, Sydney Pride, Megan Rodgers, Destiny Taylor, and Bekah Williams.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Performance Schedule:

  • Feb 21 (Thursday) – 7pm Purple Cast
  • Feb 22 (Friday) – 7pm Gold Cast
  • Feb 23 (Saturday) – 2pm Purple Cast
  • Feb 23 (Saturday) – 7pm Gold Cast
  • Feb 24 (Sunday) – 2pm Purple Cast
  • Feb 28 (Thursday) – 7pm – Gold Cast
  • March 1 (Friday) – 7pm – Purple Cast
  • March 2 (Saturday) – 2pm – Gold Cast
  • March 2 (Saturday) – 7pm – Purple Cast
  • March 3 (Sunday) – 2pm – Gold Cast

Upcoming musicals and plays at the Historic Owen Theatre include: Into The Woods (April 4-15), Chicago (May 2-5), Shrek The Musical Jr. (June 6-9), 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (July 18-21), Forte presents Shakespeare’s Hamlet (July 28 – Aug 5), Steele Magnolias (Aug 29 – Sept 1), Of Mice & Men (Sept 19 – 23), South Pacific (Oct 31 – Nov 10) ending with a special Christmas production Dec 5 – 15.

Money saving Season Passes are on sale now allowing patrons to select anywhere from 4 to 10 2019 season productions. For more information and prices visit BransonArts.org/pass.

“Be Our Guest,” and join Belle for a Royal Tea Party at the Historic Owen Theatre!

There will be two parties to pick from: Saturday, February 23rd (12pm – 1:15pm) or Saturday, March 2nd (12pm – 1:15pm).

This special, private event is limited to 25 kids only, so early reservations are highly recommended!

The cost to participate is $25* per child, with proceeds benefiting the Branson Regional Arts Council’s Youth Education Fund (*$3.00 per ticket service fee applies).  Parents are admitted free of charge and welcome to sit in the back, while their child enjoys a fun, 75 minute party with Belle herself, the “live” star of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast!

NOTE: Tickets for Disney’s Beauty and the Beast musical are not included in the Royal Tea Party and must be purchased separately at BransonArts.org/tix.

GET YOUR ROYAL TEA PARTY PASS

This is a chaperoned event, but parents are encouraged to attend and sit in the back while the kids gather at the front area of the theatre house!

Every child will receive these special treasures and memories…

  • Personal visit with the star of the show, Belle!
  • Photo opportunities with your own camera!
  • Magical Light-Up Rose
  • Official Mini-Poster of Beauty and the Beast (Autographed by the cast on the back!)
  • Disney Sing-A-Long and other fun activities
  • Special Food Snacks, Cup Cakes and Party Favors
  • Other fun surprises!

Treat your child to this very special event, and you’ll also be making a difference in the life of another child who participates in the BRAC Youth Troupe SHOWSTOPPERS or BRAC Show Choir STACCATO as part of the BRAC Education Department.

The Branson Regional Arts Council is looking for a few angels who would be interested in furthering the goals of our Youth Education Program of developing artistic, cultural, and educational opportunities for children in our community.

These experiences allow students to gain the confidence and skills necessary to become successful in the field of musical theatre, as well as providing community leadership opportunities. These lifelong tools for success help them become innovative thinkers throughout their educational years, and their leadership experience will assist them in pursuing the career path of their choice.

BRAC recently launched a new musical theatre program for children in our community called “STACCATO”. Staccato is an advanced musical group that combines a challenging music repertoire with entertaining choreography. This show choir provides a unique, one of a kind, arts education experience for young students in the Branson area.

EXCITING NEWS!!!!! The kids in STACCATO have an amazing opportunity to perform at a variety of locations in the Orlando, Florida area including FESTIVAL DISNEY with other Show Choirs from across the country.

We have been working for months to raise the funds necessary to make this awesome opportunity a reality, and we’ve also reduced our travel expenses so that our goal is more achievable. Each student must now raise $700 to participate in this “once in a lifetime” educational opportunity. The money raised will go towards providing transportation, food, airfare, fees and travel expenses for this weeklong trip and competition. We must reach our fundraising goal by February 15th.

Can you help make this dream a reality for our students?

HOW TO SEND YOUR TAX-DEDUCTIBLE GIFT

Donate Online via Credit or Debit Card at: BransonArts.org/educationfund

0r Mail a Personal or Business Check to:

Branson Regional Arts Council
Youth Educational Fund
PO Box 2004
Branson, Mo. 65615
If you are sponsoring a specific student, please notate their name on your check.

We appreciate your generosity, and THANK YOU for your support of STACCATO!

The Branson Regional Arts Council presents, Miracle on 34th Street, a beloved Christmas play for the entire family!

Performances are December 14-16 at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson. Tickets may be purchased at the door, however, as seating is limited, advance reserved tickets are recommended and available at BransonArts.org/tix. Adult (18+) tickets are $14.95 and Youth (4-17) are $9.95.  A small ticketing service fee applies to each order. 

GET TICKETS

Miracle on 34th Street, the play, is based on the perennial Christmas classic film by the same name. The story takes place between Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day in New York City, and focuses on the impact of a department store Santa Claus who claims to be the real Santa.

L-R: Josh Silvy (Fred Gayley), Laurie Payne (Susan Walker), Kemp Horn (Theatre Lobby Santa), Brenna Bergeron (Doris Walker)

When Kris Kringle, a nice, old man from a retirement home gets a job working as a Christmas Santa at Macy’s, his honest and generous spirit unleashes waves of good will throughout New York City and a hint of magic in the heart of a very practical little girl. Seen as deluded and dangerous by Macy’s vocational counselor, Kris ends up in a court competency hearing where his freedom and the joys of childhood fantasy are threatened. Especially at stake is one little girl’s belief in Santa.

The BRAC Community Theatre stage production stars Laurie Payne and Payton Youngblood, alternating in the role of young Susan Walker, with Lloyd Alexander-Holt portraying the role of Kris Kringle.

Other featured cast members include: Kemp Horn (Lobby Santa/Drunken Santa), Brenna Bergeron (Doris Walker), Josh Silvy (Fred Gayley), Sean Neil Myers (Judge Harper), Kay Marchand (Dr. Pierce), Mindy Law (Shelly Shellhammer), Jeremy James (Albert Sawyer), Dylan Pratt (Finley), Ryann Burton (Ms. Mara), Josslynn Silvy (Janet Mara), Jim Barber (Mr. Macy), Greg Slavik (Mr. Bloomingdale), Carter Hendrickson (Al), Cameron Morrison (Lou), Dakota Cooner (Mr. Duncan), Alex Harris (Halloran), Jeanie Hall (Bag Lady), Cassandra Greenemeyer (Sharon), Audrey Echols (Sharon’s Parent / Pedestrian / Others), Xander Greenemeyer (Johnny), Kylee Moody (Johnny’s Parent / Pedestrian / Others), Sylvie Barbour (Dutch Girl), Rebecca White (Rich Lady / Foster Mother / Others), Ben Stevens (Reporter / Mail Room), Sophie Douglas (Head Elf), Cassandra Carter (Teenager / Elf), Clara Dean (Elf), and Moritz Mund (Reporter / Bud / Pedestrian / Other).

The production team includes: Kimberly Hale & Lisa Murphy (Producers), Lloyd Alexander-Holt (Director / Audio Technician), Karie Kykeman (Assistant Producer), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design Technician), Jack Vandewark (Stage Manager), Jacob Deeter (Spotlight), Melissa Rivera (Casting Coordinator), Jordan Alexander-Holt (Costumes & Wardrobe), Jacob Estes (Scenic Design), Larry Waggoner (Muralist), Michael Groff & Arthur Hale (Set Construction),  Jim Barber (Marketing Director), Noah Beyer (Videographer), and Marshall Meadows (Photographer).

All ticket proceeds from this production benefit the Branson Regional Arts Council, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization.

3 Unique Christmas Gifts That Support The Arts

Looking for something totally unique and different to give for Christmas this year? Give the Gift of the Arts!

The Branson Regional Arts Council has three fun suggestions for you to consider…

Christmas Gift Idea #1 – $139.50 per person

GET SEASON PASS THEATRE TICKETS

Season Pass for 2019 Theatre Shows
10 Amazing Musicals and Plays will be presented during our 2019 Season. Save time and money by making a one-time seat selection. Your ticket may be used by you or anyone you wish to occupy your seat. 
Best seats will go first, so order your season passes soon! A season pass to the Historic Owen Theatre is a unique gift item for a friend or loved one that will be enjoyed all year long!

Christmas Gift Idea #2 – $50.00

BRAC MEMBERSHIP

1 Year Family Arts Council Membership – Benefits include:
• Special Member Perks such as Free Popcorn or Sodas during the 2019 Theatre Season.
• Monthly Arts Newsletter- keeping you “in the know” about upcoming events and programs.
• Involvement in shaping the future of the arts in our community and surrounding area.
• Participation in an active and growing Arts Group.
• Satisfaction in knowing YOU are helping improve the quality of life in the Branson/Tri-Lakes area by providing quality arts programming for EVERYONE!

Christmas Gift Idea #3 – $500 (tax deductible)

BUY-A-SEAT NOW

Buy-A-Seat at the Historic Owen Theatre
Give a lasting gift in the name of a loved one (or yourself) to showing support of the arts in our community by sponsoring a Historic Owen Theatre seat! Your custom engraved plate will be secured to the back of your seat and will permanently remain in place. This tax deductible donation benefits the Branson Regional Arts Council efforts to preserve and maintain the Historic Owen Theatre. Select any available seat now, and your memorial plate will be engraved and installed for all to see. 

 

The Branson Regional Arts Council Celebrates #GivingTuesday and pledges to the BRAC Youth Education Fund.

#GivingTuesday is a global day of giving that harnesses the collective power of individuals, communities and organizations to encourage philanthropy and to celebrate generosity worldwide. Following Thanksgiving and the widely recognized shopping events Black Friday and Cyber Monday, this year’s #GivingTuesday takes place on November 27th and will kick off the giving season by inspiring people to collaborate and give back.

The Branson Regional Arts Council has established it’s BRAC Youth Education Fund to provide financial support to our theatre and music conservatory students between the ages of 8 and 18. Our goal is to make it possible for any student, regardless of their personal financial means, to have an opportunity to participate in at least one of our youth arts performance troupes.  Our Showstoppers Youth Theatre Troupe and our Staccato Show Choir are the first of these performance groups.  They have been performing locally for a variety of community events, such as the Grand Opening of the new Mercy Clinic on Hwy 248, the lighting of the Branson Mayor’s Christmas Tree, the 11th Annual Downtown Piccadilly Gala, as well as their own Holiday Showcase Concert coming up on December 1st at the Historic Owen Theatre (click here for more information).

“It feels so good to see our young performers excel and improve through the programming developed by the Branson Regional Arts Council. Our Youth Education fund has been established with an initial goal of sending our STACCATO Show Choir to represent Branson in the National Show Choir Competition at Disney World in March. Major credit goes to the amazing leadership and training they receive from our Vocal Education Director Lloyd Alexander-Holt, Dance Director Kristen Dasto, and Theatre Director Jacob Estes. Can you help support this effort in some small or significant way?” – Jim Barber, BRAC Executive Director

HOW TO DONATE TO #GivingTuesday

YOUTH EDUCATION FUND DONATION

Donations specifically towards the BRAC Youth Education Fund may be made via the Facebook Fundraiser Link Button above, or by mailing a personal donation check payable to BRAC (notate Youth Education Fund in the memo) to: BRAC, P.O. Box 2004, Branson, MO 65615

Showstoppers Youth Troupe is a group devoted to all things theatre! Students in the Youth Troupe meet weekly at the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson and encounter intensive, interactive studies in Voice, Acting, Stage Presence, Dance Choreography, and Team Work. The students develop both self confidence and respect for the skills required to be successful in the  Theatre Arts.

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 in Branson and study advanced music theory, vocal warm up, stage etiquette, presence and showmanship, as well as multi-part choral music.

Founded in 2012 by the 92nd Street Y – a community and cultural center in New York City − #GivingTuesday inspired millions of people to give back and support the causes they believe in. Over $300 million was raised online to benefit a tremendously broad range of organizations, and much more was given in volunteer hours, donations of food and clothing, and acts of kindness. “We are incredibly inspired by the way the #GivingTuesday community has embraced this concept for a worldwide movement,” said Henry Timms, founder of #GivingTuesday and Executive Director of 92Y. “As we prepare for November 27, we’re energized and encouraged by the community’s generosity. The levels of creativity, effort and the quality of the new ideas people have contributed and shared are phenomenal.”

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 Showstoppers Youth Performance Troupe as well as the Staccato Show Choir.

There will be two performances on Saturday, December 1st at 2pm and 7pm at the Historic Owen Theatre. 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.

GET TICKETS

Showstoppers Youth Troupe is a group devoted to all things theatre! Students in the Youth Troupe meet weekly at the Historic Owen Theatre and encounter intensive, interactive studies in Voice, Acting, Stage Presence, Dance Choreography, and Team Work. The students develop both self confidence and respect for the skills required to be successful in the  Theatre Arts.

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.

Adopt-A-Student Fundraiser Launched

The Branson Regional Arts Council is sending our STACCATO Youth Show Choir to represent Branson in the National Show Choir Competition at Disney World this March 10-17, 2019.

It costs $2,500 per student to participate in this week long competition trip. Our goal is to send each member of the choir (ages 8-18) on this once-in-a-lifetime experience free of charge to them. They have worked so hard to develop their performing skills, and we have no doubt they will make everyone in the Branson area proud of their achievement! There will be a sufficient number of adult chaperones and BRAC instructors joining them for security and support.

Our total goal for this fundraising effort is $50,000, however any donation amount would be appreciated.

Can you help make this National Show Choir Competion Dream Come True for our students? Please make a tax-deductible contribution using a major credit card via this order form link, or mail your personal check to: BRAC, Youth Education Fund, PO Box 2004, Branson, MO 65615.

The Branson Regional Arts Council’s 1st Annual Talent Show benefitting the BRAC Youth Education Fund will be presented this Friday, November 16th at 7pm at the Historic Owen Theatre in Downtown Branson. A wide assortment of talent will be presented for the delight and entertainment of everyone in attendance.

$10 General admission tickets will be sold at the door, however, it is recommended that patrons purchase tickets in advance online as the venue only seats 200 people. Tickets are available online at BransonArts.org/talentshow.

All proceeds from the Talent Show will go to the BRAC Youth Education Fund. BRAC provides artistic educational opportunities for young people in theatre, music and dance, and currently has a full time Youth Troupe Theatre group as well as as STACCATO, a Youth Show Choir that will be competing at the National Show Choir competition at Disney World in March of 2019.

“This is going to be an amazing display of talent,” stated BRAC’s Executive Director Jim Barber. “We had such a terrific response to our auditions last week, and I know that folks who attend will have a great time at the show. There will be something for everyone, with all kinds of music including country, gospel, film scores, and broadway musicals. We’ll have comedy and magic, dancing, gymnastics and more! This is a true variety show that your entire family will love.”

Over 55 entertainers will appear in this entertainment filled talent show.  The show will be MC’d by BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber, and the line up of stars include: BRAC’s Show Choir StaccatoLisa StrakaJohanna LuthardtEmber StrakaCorey BunkerCarey PrincipatoRylan StoneHallie GroffRebecca WhiteAlex KnudsenDaniel KeatonLex PearsonDylan Pratt and Katie WrightBrandi ElyAshley RodgersEmma HesemanGracelin Marie GaribayDani GroffBrenna KellemMicah and Sheri KuenzleMegan RodgersEmrie StrakaJessica BarberSavannah JewsburyRobert MorrisKeith RawlsMichelle DeckLoreli MorrisonHeather Grace SpencerCarter HendricksonPillage Antoinette Gallifrey (Sydney and Sicily), Cassandra CarterDani Groff and Jacob Deeter,  Kaitlyn SchumacherNoah Beyer, and the BRAC Youth Theatre Troupe Showstoppers.