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Luke Menard Announced As New Executive Director Of Branson Regional Arts Council

  • dateSeptember 16, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • comment2 Comments
  • view4388 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to announce that nationally known Branson entertainer and businessman Luke Menard, has been hired to step into the role of Executive Director to replace Jim Barber who will be retiring from the position at the end of September 2024, having served the organization seven and a half years. Menard will officially assume leadership of the Arts Council on October 1, 2024.

“Our board of directors understood that it would be a challenging task to find a suitable replacement for Jim Barber,” stated Kristine Brown, Branson Regional Arts Council President. “After a thorough search and interview process, we identified Luke Menard as the ideal candidate for the position. His passion and enthusiasm for the arts align perfectly with our organization’s mission and values. We are confident that he will successfully lead us forward and continue our commitment to promoting and supporting the arts,” she added.

“I am incredibly excited, honored, and humbled to be stepping into the role of Executive Director for such a successful and vibrant arts council,” said Menard. “I have always been passionate about the arts and am deeply committed to fostering arts education and opportunities for the youth in our community,” he stated.

“Several great candidates applied for the position, but after an exhaustive interview process, Luke’s enthusiasm, professionalism and extensive arts business background positioned him as the top pick for our Board of Directors,” said outgoing Executive Director Jim Barber. “Luke is well known and respected in the Branson area, and in many ways, his performing background and passion for the Arts reflect my own experience. I see a lot of similarity between us… although he has much, much better hair,” Barber laughingly added. “I am confident that Luke will bring a wonderful, fresh perspective to the organization as it continues to grow and provide more arts and educational opportunities for our area residents,” he said.

Luke Menard (click for press version)

“I am incredibly excited, honored, and humbled to be stepping into the role of Executive Director for such a successful and vibrant arts council. I have always been passionate about the arts and am deeply committed to fostering arts education and opportunities for the youth in our community. I look forward to building on the strong foundation of the Branson Regional Arts Council and helping to inspire creativity and artistic expression for all.” – Luke Menard

Luke Menard first captured America’s heart as a top 8 finalist on season 7 of American Idol. Hailing from Crawfordsville, Indiana, Luke’s journey started at Millikin University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in business and communication. Upon graduating, His talent took him around the globe with the world-renowned a cappella group Chapter 6, performing over 200 concerts annually for 12 years.

After life on the road, Luke planted roots in Branson, Missouri, where he’s been a powerhouse performer with the New South Quartet for the past decade. Never one to rest on his laurels, in 2018, Luke added “Real Estate Agent” to his repertoire. His knack for closing deals saw him sell hundreds of homes in the Tri Lakes area, eventually leading him to become the Broker/Owner of Menard Realty Group.

When he’s not helping clients find their dream homes, Luke loves spending time with his 12-year-old daughter, Hope, hitting the gym, golfing, and cruising on one of his 2 Indian motorcycles. And if that wasn’t enough, he’s also serenading audiences six nights a week in the Grand Jubilee show at Grand Country’s Music Hall. Luke’s life is sweeter than ever, as he recently got engaged to Branson’s very own singing sensation, Jackie Brown.

For more information, please contact the Branson Regional Arts Council at 417-336-4255 or info@bransonarts.org.

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New Adult Theatre Workshops Announced At Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateSeptember 11, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view2169 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council’s Conservatory of the Arts Program announces three exciting, new adult education workshops at the Historic Owen Theatre. These workshops are designed for students ages 16 and up.

Unarmed Stage Combat will be taught by Josh Boulden, and will teach you everything you know to safely take a tumble or fight on stage without getting hurt! Acting Through Song will be taught by Nicole Horton, and will help your inner voice learn to sing out strong! Finally, our Musical Theatre Audition workshop will be taught by Justin Ables who will show you how to master your fears of rejection, and land that next audition!

Registration is NOW OPEN and CLASSES BEGIN SOON!

Sept. 19th – Unarmed Stage Combat Workshop
Teacher – Josh Boulden

  • 7-9pm – Historic Owen Theatre
  • $30 per student
  • Limited to 10 students

Unarmed Stage Combat 
From throwing fist a cuffs, to taking a tumble an actor needs to know how to tell a compelling story during a fight on stage and keep themselves and everyone else safe. This beginner workshop will introduce you to the world of simulated violence for the stage with a focus on safety, partner work, building trust, and biomechanics, while learning some introductory fight moves and choreography.

Josh Boulden is a professional actor, acting coach, and fight choreographer from Annapolis, MD. He trained at the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Academy at The George Washington University in Washington D.C. where he studied stage combat under the direction of Fight Master, Robb Hunter with the Society of American Fight Directors. Josh has over 20 years of experience with stage combat, historical swordsmanship, and fencing. Starting at a young age with the Calvert Arundel Historical Swordsman Josh has spent the last 12 years training with the Society of American Fight Directors (SAFD). As an SAFD member and certified Actor Combatant he has since directed and choreographed fights for various film and theatrical productions in the southern MO area, and currently performs with Sight & Sound Theatres in Branson.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE STAGE COMBAT WORKSHOP

Sept 26th – Acting Through Song Workshop
Teacher – Nicole Horton

  • 7-9pm – Historic Owen Theatre
  • $25 per student
  • Limited to 8 students

Acting Through Song
The old saying goes that in musicals people talk until the emotion gets too big and then they sing. Acting Through Song is one of the most exciting parts about musical theatre! This class will help you unlock the clues the composer and lyricist have put in the song. We will discuss why the character is singing and what they want from the song. Bring a 90 second cut of your favorite audition song or just a song you’ve always wanted to work on. Please provide your own accompaniment tracks.

Nicole Horton holds a BFA in musical theatre performance from Western Michigan University. She has been a professional actor for almost 20 years and has spent 10 of those years at Sight and Sound Theatres. She’s professionally music directed productions of They’re Playing Our Song, You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown, and Beauty and the Beast. Directing Credits include Peter and the Starcatcher, A Murder is Announced, and Much Ado About Nothing. BRAC audiences may know her from music directing Peter Pan Jr or acting in Glass Menagerie and The Tempest.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE ACTING THROUGH SONG WORKSHOP

Oct 10th  – Musical Theatre Audition Workshop
Teacher – Justin Ables

  • 7-9pm – Historic Owen Theatre
  • $25 per student
  • Limited to 10 students

Musical Theatre Audition Workshop

In this audition Master Class, Justin will help prepare you to shine your best in the audition room!

We will be going over the many tools an actor can use to show directors the best they have to offer. We will be tackling audition cuts, how to find audition material, how to best present yourself in an audition room, what should be in your audition book, and more!

If participants choose too, they can also be coached on a short audition cut in the masterclass and get some feedback!

Materials for class:

  • Anything to take notes with
  • Audition book if you have one
  • 16 Bar cut of a song if you would like to be coached 

Justin Ables has worked as a professional actor, director, and educator in the world of theatre for the past 13 years. He holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Coastal Carolina University and has a passion for the arts and educating fellow artists. 

Some of his favorite credits include: Tevye-“Fiddler on the Rood” (Woodstock Playhouse), Hegai-“Queen Esther” (Sight and Sound Theatres), Porthos -“The Three Musketeers” (Woodstock Playhouse), Marryin’ Sam-“Lil Abner” (Snowcamp Outdoor Theatre) and more! Justin can currently be found performing at Sight and Sound Theaters where he has called home for 10 years. 

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE AUDITION WORKSHOP

 

Educational events like these workshops are made possible by the Branson Regional Arts Council, our generous patrons, and a grant from the Missouri Arts Council.

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We Love Our Theatre Patrons And Appreciate Your Continued Support

  • dateSeptember 10, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view1535 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council has always strived to present the highest quality theatrical productions possible at the Historic Owen Theatre, while at the same time, keep our ticket prices as affordable as possible for the community. This announcement is to inform our patrons that we will be implementing a modest service fee to each theatre ticket sold beginning October 1, 2024.

Over the past few years, we have dramatically increased the quality of your theatre experience by upgrading the venue with new flooring, improved lighting, new sound equipment, upgraded costumes and sets, and the reaction from all of our patrons has been simply incredible!  Thank you!

During this same time, our expenses to provide these musical productions and plays have also increased dramatically. Everything from our show licensing rights, music rights, construction materials, electricity and other utilities, insurance and much more have increased substantially.

Though we have decided to keep our ticket prices at our affordable $20 Adult (18+) and $12 Youth (4-17) through the end of the season, we will be implementing a $3 per ticket service fee to compensate for new requirements from our professional ticketing service. This service fee goes back to help pay for the use of our ticketing software, and some new features that will hopefully provide an even better online experience for our patrons who purchase their tickets via our website BransonArts.org/tix or directly from our box office at 417-336-4255.

SAVINGS NOTE: If you haven’t purchased tickets yet for The Hunchback of Notre Dame – A New Musical (Oct 17-27) or Irving Berlin’s White Christmas – The Musical (Dec 5-15), you can order them now without paying the new service fee which goes into effect on October 1, 2024.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

We appreciate your support and applause as we continue to improve our community arts in Branson!

 

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Our Final Monday Movie Night With Steven Spielberg’s Jaws (1975)

  • dateSeptember 9, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view1296 Views

Don’t Miss Our Final Monday Movie Of The Summer at the Historic Owen Theatre!

The Historic Downtown Branson Community Improvement District is pleased to partner with Branson Regional Arts Council to present the last selection in a series of Classic Films that were actually shown at the Historic Owen Theatre when they first came out. Everyone is invited to join us this Monday, September 16, 2024 at 7pm as we relive the nostalgia of great classic movies at the Historic Owen Theatre with your family and friends!

FREE ADMISSION – SEATING IS LIMITED

No reservations required, but seating is limited and on a first come basis. Doors open at 6:30pm and the film starting at 7:00pm. The concession stand will be open with fresh popcorn, refreshments and other tasty treats available.

Monday, September 16th – 7pm – Steven Spielberg’s JAWS (1975 – starring Roy Scheider, Richard Dreyfuss and Robert Shaw)

Jaws is a 1975 American thriller film directed by Steven Spielberg, based on the 1974 novel by Peter Benchley. Dive into suspense with the classic thriller that made everyone afraid to go into the water! The film stars Roy Scheider as police chief Martin Brody, who, with the help of a marine biologist (Richard Dreyfuss) and a professional shark hunter (Robert Shaw), hunts a man-eating great white shark that attacks beachgoers at a summer resort town. Murray Hamilton plays the mayor, and Lorraine Gary portrays Brody’s wife. The screenplay is credited to Benchley, who wrote the first drafts, and actor-writer Carl Gottlieb, who rewrote the script during principal photography.

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING CLASSIC FILMS, COMMUNITY THEATRE, AND YOUTH ARTS EDUCATION AT THE HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE!

“We are excited to partner with BRAC to offer free classic films. BRAC and the Historic Owen Theatre are a vibrant part of our community and history. It’s always a pleasure to work with our friends and neighbors!  We recommend you arrive early for best parking, then take some time before the films to shop, dine and explore downtown!” 

– Cris Bohinc, Administrator Historic Downtown Branson CID

In 2006, downtown Branson worked with the city and state to form the Historic Downtown Branson CID. The purpose was to help Historic Downtown generate more visitors when its new neighbor arrived; The Branson Landing. The downtown CID started the first public transportation system in Branson and operated within a “Community Improvement District”. The FREE trolleys join Historic Downtown with The Landing!

The “District” provides many things. Several trolleys that are free for riders and paid for by a 1-cent sales tax collected by businesses in the district. Also, Christmas light displays in November and December, lots of advertising on TV, social media, website and so much more!!

The District also partners with the DBBA to get out over 200,000 downtown brochures annually and other needs. The CID is currently working with the city to make upgrades to the public Awbery bathroom and to have the downtown’s landscaping completely redone!

The Historic Downtown Branson CID’s only goal, is to bring more business and beauty to downtown!!

Visit RideSparky.com for updates, the live trolley tracker and much more!

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Free Monday Movie Night Features Henry Fonda in That Certain Woman

  • dateSeptember 2, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view1333 Views

Monday Movies Are Back this Summer at the Historic Owen Theatre!

The Historic Downtown Branson Community Improvement District is pleased to partner with Branson Regional Arts Council to present a series of Classic Films that were actually shown at the Historic Owen Theatre when they first came out in the 30’s and 40’s. Everyone is invited to join us this Monday, September 9, 2024 at 7pm as we relive the nostalgia of great classic movies at the Historic Owen Theatre with your family and friends!

FREE ADMISSION – SEATING IS LIMITED

No reservations required, but seating is limited and on a first come basis. Doors open at 6:30pm and the film starting at 7:00pm. The concession stand will be open with fresh popcorn, refreshments and other tasty treats available.

Monday, September 9th – 7pm – That Certain Woman (1937 – starring Henry Fonda and Bette Davis)

That Certain Woman – After the death of her gangster husband, Mary Donnell (Bette Davis) starts working as a secretary for lawyer Lloyd Rogers (Ian Hunter), who quickly develops feelings for her despite his marriage. Then Mary meets Jack (Henry Fonda), and they elope, but their brief bliss is interrupted by Jack’s father, who pursues an annulment. Nine months later, Mary bears Jack’s child, but Jack has a new wife who suffered injuries in an accident. Mary must face the many challenges that come her way.

 

The photo above was taken when the film was first presented at the Owen Hillbilly Theatre in 1937.  The theatre had recently opened the year before, and the famous Owen Boat Line truck is parked outside the office of the Owen Boat Line located inside the lobby area of the theatre. This truck is now owned by Johnny Morris and is on display outside the Bass Pro Shop at the Branson Landing.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR OUR FINAL MONDAY MOVIE THIS SUMMER!

  • September 16th– 7pm – Steven Spielberg’s Jaws (1975) 124min

“We are excited to partner with BRAC to offer free classic films. BRAC and the Historic Owen Theatre are a vibrant part of our community and history. It’s always a pleasure to work with our friends and neighbors!  We recommend you arrive early for best parking, then take some time before the films to shop, dine and explore downtown!” 

– Cris Bohinc, Administrator Historic Downtown Branson CID

In 2006, downtown Branson worked with the city and state to form the Historic Downtown Branson CID. The purpose was to help Historic Downtown generate more visitors when its new neighbor arrived; The Branson Landing. The downtown CID started the first public transportation system in Branson and operated within a “Community Improvement District”. The FREE trolleys join Historic Downtown with The Landing!

The “District” provides many things. Several trolleys that are free for riders and paid for by a 1-cent sales tax collected by businesses in the district. Also, Christmas light displays in November and December, lots of advertising on TV, social media, website and so much more!!

The District also partners with the DBBA to get out over 200,000 downtown brochures annually and other needs. The CID is currently working with the city to make upgrades to the public Awbery bathroom and to have the downtown’s landscaping completely redone!

The Historic Downtown Branson CID’s only goal, is to bring more business and beauty to downtown!!

Visit RideSparky.com for updates, the live trolley tracker and much more!

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The Hunchback Of Notre Dame Advance Reserve Tickets On Sale Now

  • dateAugust 23, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view1635 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council brings an amazingly powerful stage production to the stage of the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson, Missouri.

The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Rated PG) is a musical based on the Victor Hugo novel and songs from the Disney animated feature, The Hunchback of Notre Dame showcases the film’s Academy Award-nominated score, as well as new songs by Menken and Schwartz. Peter Parnell’s new book embraces story theatre and features verbatim passages from Hugo’s gothic novel.

Eight public performances are scheduled from October 17-27, 2024 with showtimes at 7pm (Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays) and 2pm (Sundays). Advanced reserved tickets are recommended, and may be purchased online at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255.  This is community theatre at it’s best and tickets are $20* (18+) and $12* (4-17). Lap children under the age of 4 are free. (*$3 ticketing service fee applies to all tickets)

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

The musical begins as the bells of Notre Dame sound through the famed cathedral in fifteenth-century Paris. Quasimodo, the deformed bell-ringer who longs to be “Out There,” observes all of Paris reveling in the Feast of Fools. Held captive by his devious caretaker, the archdeacon Dom Claude Frollo, he escapes for the day and joins the boisterous crowd, only to be treated cruelly by all but the beautiful Romani woman, Esmeralda. Quasimodo isn’t the only one captivated by her free spirit, though – the handsome Captain Phoebus and Frollo are equally enthralled. As the three vie for her attention, Frollo embarks on a mission to destroy the Roma – and it’s up to Quasimodo to save them all.

A sweeping score and powerful story make The Hunchback of Notre Dame an instant classic. Audiences will be swept away by the magic of this truly unforgettable musical.

The production team includes Kristine Brown and Karie Dykeman (Producers), David Hewitt (Director) , Tom Cartwright and Julie Brinkman (Co-Music Directors).

The cast includes: Christian Anthony Ross (Dom Claude Frollo), Michael Sager (Jehan Frollo), Maddie Hewitt (Florika), Joseph Schumacher (Father Dupin), Josiah Sims (Quasimodo), Tate Gettling (Clopin Trouillefou), Joshua McGeough (Phoebus De Martin), Josh Reed (Frederic Charlu), Kayla Pepper (Esmeralda), River Furgerson (King Louis X), Mindy Law (Madame), Hampton Muse (Saint Aphrodisius), and Jerry Ray Cook, Julie Brinkman , Charis Boulden, Sarah Sutherland, Dimitri Tsahiridis, Juanita Wilson, Brittony Tiger, Cyrsten Rainey-Felley, Rachel Sager as the Congregation.

 

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Auditions For Irving Berlin’s White Christmas At The Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateAugust 22, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view1421 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council announces open auditions for it’s December 2024 production of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas!

Directed by Jacob Deck, the auditions will be held at the Historic Owen Theatre (205 S. Commercial St., Branson, MO 65616)

  • Thursday, September 12, 2024 from 6pm – 8 pm
  • Saturday, September 14, 2024 from 2pm – 4pm
  • Saturday, September 14, 2024 from 6pm – 8pm

We’re seeking talented singers, dancers, and actors to bring this beloved holiday musical to life. Auditioners should prepare a song in the style of the show, no longer than 1 minute, and be ready for a dance audition.

Please bring jazz shoes, character shoes, or tennis shoes, and tap shoes if you have them.

If you have any questions, please call 417-336-4255 or edu@bransonarts.org.

Anticipated Rehearsal Schedule will be discussed at auditions.

Performance dates at the Historic Owen Theatre are December 5 – 15, 2024. Thu (7pm), Fri (7pm), Sat (2 pm and 7pm), Sun (2pm).

ROLE BREAKDOWNS:

CHARACTERS

  • Bob Wallace – late 20’s to mid 30’s, a superb singer with a crooning style who moves well
  • Phil Davis – late 20’s to mid 30’s, strong jazz and tap-dancing needed – a song-and-dance comic performer
  • Betty Haynes – mid to late 20’s, a female singer of quiet beauty and charm who must move well
  • Judy Haynes – early 20’s, strong jazz and tap-dancing needed – a major song-and-dance performer
  • General Henry Waverly – late 50’s to mid 60’s, with the exception of one line, a non-singing role
  • Martha Watson – late 40’s to mid 60’s, a winning, appealing character-comedienne
  • Susan Waverly – 9 years old, she must have an excellent belt voice and be able to move well
  • Ralph Sheldrake – mid to late 30’s
  • Rita – mid 20’s to early 30’s
  • Rhoda – mid 20’s to early 30’s
  • Ezekiel Foster – mid 40’s to late 50’s
  • Mike – mid 20’s to late 30’s
  • Tessie
  • Jimmy
  • Cigarette Girl
  • Snoring Man
  • Mrs. Snoring Man
  • Train Conductor
  • Dance Captain
  • Seamstress
  • Assistant Seamstress
  • Ed Sullivan Announcer
  • Regency Room Announcer – offstage voice
  • Sheldrake’s Secretary – offstage voice

ENSEMBLE
Large singing-dancing ensemble consisting of ‘Jimmy’s Back Room’ Clubgoers, Train Passengers, Inn Guests, Chorus Kids, Patrons of the Regency Room

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Encore Performance of Shakespeare’s A Comedy Of Errors Next Week

  • dateAugust 22, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view1132 Views

Rated G | General Audiences & School Students

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

ONE PUBLIC PERFORMANCE – $10 AREA APPRECIATION

  • Wednesday, August 28, 2024 at 10am

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

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

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

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

BAND MEMBERS

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

PRODUCTION TEAM

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

SET BUILD VOLUNTEERS

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

MUSIC CREDITS

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

There will be one public encore performance of this production on Wednesday, August 28, 2024 at 10am. Interested school groups who would like to bring their students  should contact BRAC at 417-336-4255.

 

 

 

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Free Monday Movie Night Starring Mae West in I’m No Angel (1933)

  • dateAugust 19, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view974 Views

Monday Movies Are Back this Summer at the Historic Owen Theatre!

The Historic Downtown Branson Community Improvement District is pleased to partner with Branson Regional Arts Council to present a series of Classic Films that were actually shown at the Historic Owen Theatre when they first came out in the 30’s and 40’s. Everyone is invited to join us this Monday, September 2, 2024 at 7pm as we relive the nostalgia of great classic movies at the Historic Owen Theatre with your family and friends!

FREE ADMISSION – SEATING IS LIMITED

No reservations required, but seating is limited and on a first come basis. Doors open at 6:30pm and the film starting at 7:00pm. The concession stand will be open with fresh popcorn, refreshments and other tasty treats available.

Monday, September 2nd – 7pm – I’m No Angel (1933 – starring Mae West and Cary Grant)

I’m No Angel – Sharp, seductive and emotionally guarded Tira (Mae West) is a lauded and much-adored circus performer. Her newest suitor, a married New York City socialite named Kirk Lawrence (Kent Taylor), showers her with gifts. Kirk’s cousin, Jack Clayton (Cary Grant), goes to Tira to try and convince her to end the affair. The two fall for one another, but when love and happiness risk taking Tira from the stage, her boss plots to break off the engagement and shackle her to the circus forever. This film was written by and stars Mae West herself!

 

The publicity photo above was digitally restored in color, and was taken the day before the film opened at the Owen Hillbilly Theatre. Jim Owen arranged for the Branson Fire Department to receive the film and make a “Fire Proof Delivery” to the theatre because it was a “Red Hot Film” and would be shown for “Three Heated Days!” He even arranged to have “Fire Insurance” Sponsored by I. M. Thompson (misspelled in the sign) of Branson.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR MORE MONDAY MOVIES THIS SUMMER!

  • September 9th– 7pm – Henry Fonda in That Certain Woman (1937) 1:33min
  • September 16th– 7pm – Steven Spielberg’s Jaws (1975) 124min

“We are excited to partner with BRAC to offer free classic films. BRAC and the Historic Owen Theatre are a vibrant part of our community and history. It’s always a pleasure to work with our friends and neighbors!  We recommend you arrive early for best parking, then take some time before the films to shop, dine and explore downtown!” 

– Cris Bohinc, Administrator Historic Downtown Branson CID

In 2006, downtown Branson worked with the city and state to form the Historic Downtown Branson CID. The purpose was to help Historic Downtown generate more visitors when its new neighbor arrived; The Branson Landing. The downtown CID started the first public transportation system in Branson and operated within a “Community Improvement District”. The FREE trolleys join Historic Downtown with The Landing!

The “District” provides many things. Several trolleys that are free for riders and paid for by a 1-cent sales tax collected by businesses in the district. Also, Christmas light displays in November and December, lots of advertising on TV, social media, website and so much more!!

The District also partners with the DBBA to get out over 200,000 downtown brochures annually and other needs. The CID is currently working with the city to make upgrades to the public Awbery bathroom and to have the downtown’s landscaping completely redone!

The Historic Downtown Branson CID’s only goal, is to bring more business and beauty to downtown!!

Visit RideSparky.com for updates, the live trolley tracker and much more!

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2024-2025 Crescendo Youth Performance Troupe Cast Announcement

  • dateAugust 19, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view1126 Views

Announcing the 2024-2025 BRAC Crescendo Troupe!

Thank you so much to all those who auditioned for our upcoming cast of Crescendo Youth Performance Troupe! – we loved seeing everyone’s personalities and talents shine through!

Through much thought and deliberation, we are excited to announce this year’s BRAC Crescendo Troupe!

  • Lexi Carr
  • Mia Hatten
  • Reagan Hoaglund
  • Luke Johnson
  • Maggie Marks
  • Xia McElwee
  • Alton Prince
  • Kate Sutherland
  • Gwen Tsahiridis

We are so excited about this group and can’t wait for all the learning, fun, and growth that will happen!

If your child is a part of the troupe, please be on the lookout for an invitation to the BRAC 2024-2025 Crescendo Facebook Page where all communication about the group will occur.

We look forward to seeing everyone at our first class on Monday, August 26th at 4:30pm. Parents, there will be a short parent meeting for the directors to cast vision for the semester and meet the directors.

We are so proud of each and every student who came to audition. It takes a ton of courage and we applaud you! We hope you will continue to look for opportunities to grow and pursue your passions. There will be upcoming opportunities with BRAC, including voice lessons, classes, shows, and summer institutes – so be on the lookout for the next opportunity!

BRAC Crescendo Directors, Kellsey Bradley and Julie Brinkman

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Free Monday Movie Night Features Spencer Tracy in They Gave Him A Gun

  • dateAugust 16, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view831 Views

Monday Movies Are Back this Summer at the Historic Owen Theatre!

The Historic Downtown Branson Community Improvement District is pleased to partner with Branson Regional Arts Council to present a series of Classic Films that were actually shown at the Historic Owen Theatre when they first came out in the 30’s and 40’s. Everyone is invited to join us this Monday, August 19, 2024 at 7pm as we relive the nostalgia of great classic movies at the Historic Owen Theatre with your family and friends!

FREE ADMISSION – SEATING IS LIMITED

No reservations required, but seating is limited and on a first come basis. Doors open at 6:30pm and the film starting at 7:00pm. The concession stand will be open with fresh popcorn, refreshments and other tasty treats available.

Monday, August 19th – 7pm – They Gave Him A Gun (1937 – featuring starring Spencer Tracy)

They Gave Him a Gun is a 1937 American crime drama film directed by W. S. Van Dyke and starring Spencer Tracy, Gladys George and Franchot Tone. The picture bears a resemblance to later films noir, with its dark theme regarding the struggles and failures of a man trying to take a criminal shortcut to the American dream.  Come enjoy this classic film about a World War I veteran who married the girlfriend of his presumed-dead war buddy falls into the racketeering business.

The photo above was taken when the film was shown at the Owen Theatre in 1937.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR MORE MONDAY MOVIES THIS SUMMER!

  • September 2nd– 7pm – Mae West in I’m No Angel (1933) 87min
  • September 9th– 7pm – Henry Fonda in That Certain Woman (1937) 1:33min
  • September 16th– 7pm – Steven Spielberg’s Jaws (1975) 124min

“We are excited to partner with BRAC to offer free classic films. BRAC and the Historic Owen Theatre are a vibrant part of our community and history. It’s always a pleasure to work with our friends and neighbors!  We recommend you arrive early for best parking, then take some time before the films to shop, dine and explore downtown!” 

– Cris Bohinc, Administrator Historic Downtown Branson CID

In 2006, downtown Branson worked with the city and state to form the Historic Downtown Branson CID. The purpose was to help Historic Downtown generate more visitors when its new neighbor arrived; The Branson Landing. The downtown CID started the first public transportation system in Branson and operated within a “Community Improvement District”. The FREE trolleys join Historic Downtown with The Landing!

The “District” provides many things. Several trolleys that are free for riders and paid for by a 1-cent sales tax collected by businesses in the district. Also, Christmas light displays in November and December, lots of advertising on TV, social media, website and so much more!!

The District also partners with the DBBA to get out over 200,000 downtown brochures annually and other needs. The CID is currently working with the city to make upgrades to the public Awbery bathroom and to have the downtown’s landscaping completely redone!

The Historic Downtown Branson CID’s only goal, is to bring more business and beauty to downtown!!

Visit RideSparky.com for updates, the live trolley tracker and much more!

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Free Monday Movie Night Features Ma & Pa Kettle Back On The Farm

  • dateAugust 7, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view959 Views

Monday Movies Are Back this Summer at the Historic Owen Theatre!

The Historic Downtown Branson Community Improvement District is pleased to partner with Branson Regional Arts Council to present a series of Classic Films that were actually shown at the Historic Owen Theatre when they first came out in the 30’s and 40’s. Everyone is invited to join us this Monday, August 12, 2024 at 7pm as we relive the nostalgia of great classic movies at the Historic Owen Theatre with your family and friends!

FREE ADMISSION – SEATING IS LIMITED

No reservations required, but seating is limited and on a first come basis. Doors open at 6:30pm and the film starting at 7:00pm. The concession stand will be open with fresh popcorn, refreshments and other tasty treats available.

Monday, August 12th – 7pm – Ma & Pa Kettle – Back On The Farm (1951 – featuring starring Marjorie Main and Percy Kilbride.)

Ma and Pa Kettle Back on the Farm is a 1951 American comedy film directed by Edward Sedgwick. It is the third installment of Universal-International‘s Ma and Pa Kettle series starring Marjorie Main and Percy Kilbride. It was also the last completed film of director Sedgwick’s long career. The Kettles leave their ultra-modern home and return to the country looking for uranium. Ma and Tom’s mother-in-law, Mrs. Parker, fight over whether their grandchild will be raised “hygienically”.

The photo above was taken when the film was shown at the Owen Theatre in 1951. Left to right: Jim Owen, Comedian Smiley Burnette, Steve Miller)

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR MORE MONDAY MOVIES THIS SUMMER!

  • August 12th– 7pm – Ma & Pa Kettle Back on the Farm (1951) 80min
  • August 19th– 7pm – Spencer Tracy in They Gave Him a Gun (1937) 94min
  • September 2nd– 7pm – Mae West in I’m No Angel (1933) 87min
  • September 9th– 7pm – Henry Fonda in That Certain Woman (1937) 1:33min
  • September 16th– 7pm – Steven Spielberg’s Jaws (1975) 124min

“We are excited to partner with BRAC to offer free classic films. BRAC and the Historic Owen Theatre are a vibrant part of our community and history. It’s always a pleasure to work with our friends and neighbors!  We recommend you arrive early for best parking, then take some time before the films to shop, dine and explore downtown!” 

– Cris Bohinc, Administrator Historic Downtown Branson CID

In 2006, downtown Branson worked with the city and state to form the Historic Downtown Branson CID. The purpose was to help Historic Downtown generate more visitors when its new neighbor arrived; The Branson Landing. The downtown CID started the first public transportation system in Branson and operated within a “Community Improvement District”. The FREE trolleys join Historic Downtown with The Landing!

The “District” provides many things. Several trolleys that are free for riders and paid for by a 1-cent sales tax collected by businesses in the district. Also, Christmas light displays in November and December, lots of advertising on TV, social media, website and so much more!!

The District also partners with the DBBA to get out over 200,000 downtown brochures annually and other needs. The CID is currently working with the city to make upgrades to the public Awbery bathroom and to have the downtown’s landscaping completely redone!

The Historic Downtown Branson CID’s only goal, is to bring more business and beauty to downtown!!

Visit RideSparky.com for updates, the live trolley tracker and much more!

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