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Arts Council Welcomes New Vocal Instructors

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

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Taneycomo Festival Orchestra at Historic Owen Theatre June 20th

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.

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First BRAC BBQ FEST A Tasty Success!

Hundreds of area residents gathered at Liberty Plaza in Downtown Branson this past Saturday (June 1st) to enjoy a fun-filled day of art, entertainment and some of the tastiest barbecue ever to be served out of a firetruck!

The purpose of the entire event, was to raise funds to assist the Branson Regional Arts Council (BRAC) to eventually obtain full ownership of the Historic Owen Theatre, built in 1936, and now the official home of the Arts Council and it’s community theatre and Youth Arts Conservatory program. In January 2018, BRAC acquired the venue through a long-term lease with an option to purchase. Since that time, they have presented over a dozen broadway musicals and plays for the community, and also founded a Youth Arts Education Program with emphasis on young students from all across the area who are between the ages of 8 and 18.

Fresh food and cold drinks served all day!

“The first annual BRAC BBQ FEST was a big success, especially when you consider how fast our incredible team of volunteers pulled it together,” said Branson Regional Arts Council Executive Director Jim Barber. “We were able to raise $13,000 after expenses, thanks to the generosity of our event sponsors, Dr. Tallon and Branson Dental Center (Premiere Sponsor), Dr. Munshi and the Branson Institute of Sleep (Backstage Sponsor), Mercy Hospitals (Backstage Sponsor), Chic-fil-A Branson (Iced Tea Supplier), as well as our incredible vendors and the hundreds of hungry townspeople who came downtown to enjoy a fantastic meal along with amazing live entertainment on stage.”

BRAC BBQ FEST event Chairperson Darla Howe said, “We especially thank Branson Dental Center and Dr. Richard Tallon who not only participated as our main event sponsor, but also provided the converted, antique firetruck that served up hundreds of plates of delicious pulled pork barbecue sandwiches, hamburgers and hotdogs. Their support of what the Arts Council is doing in our community goes above and beyond our expectations. The entire Branson Dental team were 100% behind this effort, and even assisted in the preparation and serving of the food to our patrons in attendance.”

Dr. Richard Tallon prepares the BBQ meat!

Several local entertainers quickly offered their support of the Arts Council’s efforts to own and restore the Owen Theatre. “These are some of the nicest performers in our community,” said Jim Barber, “and because they graciously shared their amazing talents, we were able to offer free admission to the public, so everyone could enjoy the live music and comedy.”

Exciting performances throughout the day were provided by: Java Jived (acapella group from St. Louis), Branson Comedy Company (improv), Forte Theatre Productions (broadway cabaret music), BRAC Youth Troupe (solos and vocal selections from upcoming productions), Dylan Pratt (vocalist), Micheal Horn (guitar and vocalist), Joey Heard (songwriter and vocalist), Gary Dooms (Saxophone),  Robert Morris (Balloon Twister), and Rick McEwen (guitar and vocalist).


Forte Theatre Production’s Traven Harrington Performs at BRAC BBQ FEST

Multiple Vendors filled the plaza to the max with works of art, custom jewelry, and unique services. Participation vendors included:

James Bartley Shined with Solar Energy!

  • 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

  • Branson West Art Gallery Booth

    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 services and community awareness
  • Carolyn DeJager – Young Living Essential Oils
  • Skywire Solar – Solar Energy Information

Jim Barber & Melonie Brown Enjoying The Day

In addition to all the vendor booths and entertainment offerings, the Branson Parks and Recreation Department provided a huge Bounce House for the kids to enjoy. Face painting was led by Melonie Brown with assistance from Roz Slavik and Kristen Ables. To top it off, a special bake goods tent provided tasty treats under the direction of Viola Beyer.

Mercy Hospital hosted the First Aid Booth, and even offered complimentary sunscreen to anyone who needed it. Dozens of BRAC volunteers joined the effort to assist with donation collection, food serving, event set-up and tear-down, and also promotional distribution of posters, flyers and signage all over the Branson area.

The Arts Council extends their sincere appreciation to the City of Branson, Branson Parks & Recreation, the DBBA, and everyone who assisted in this fundraising effort, and they organization looks forward to an even bigger BRAC BBQ FEST event in 2020.

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Shrek the Musical Jr Features 71 Talented Young Actors!

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).

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Call For Artists – Hollister Grape & Fall Festival

The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to once again be a sponsor of  the Craftsman’s Village Tent at the Hollister Grape & Fall Festival.  This popular community event is the largest of it’s kind in our area, and was created to promote area businesses, crafters, musicians and to provide the community with a wholesome free family event. Local performers and the famous Grape Stomp Competition provide hours of exciting entertainment. The festival typically draws a crowd of more than 10,000 attendees, and the event grows larger each year!

The Hollister Grape & Fall Festival will be held on Historic Downing Street which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. We invite you to display, demonstrate and sell your products during this popular festival in downtown Hollister (just across the bridge from Branson) in southwest Missouri.

CLICK HERE to download a JURIED ARTIST CRAFTSMAN APPLICATION.

CLICK HERE to download a NON-JURIED ARTIST CRAFTSMAN APPLICATION.

 

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Shrek The Musical Jr Swamps Historic Downtown Branson

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).

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Call For Artists And Vendors For First Annual BRAC BBQ Festival

CLICK HERE FOR FULL EVENT INFORMATION!

Calling all area artists, craftsmen and vendors… the First Annual BRAC BBQ FEST is coming to Liberty Plaza in Historic Downtown Branson on Saturday, June 1st from 10am until 6pm.

This exciting NEW, family friendly community event features LIVE ENTERTAINMENT, FANTASTIC FRESH BBQ and DELICIOUS DRINKS, KIDS ACTIVITIES including FACE PAINTING and a BOUNCE HOUSE, and LOTS of ARTISANS, and CRAFTS PEOPLE such as yourselves to promote and sell your creations.  Best yet, ADMISSION IS FREE for the general public!  No charge to enjoy the artists and crafts booths and talented live entertainment on the stage.  Freshly cooked BBQ and other foods will be available for a nominal price.

We anticipate up to a thousand (or more) people to attend this event, which we know will grow in attendance from year to year.  Vendors who secure a booth space with us this year, will be granted first rights to participate next year.

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. In January 2018, the Arts Council moved into the theatre and dedicated it as BRANSON’S FIRST YEAR-ROUND COMMUNITY THEATRE. Later that same year, we developed a Youth Education Department providing opportunities for young people across our area to learn and participate in music, theatre, singing and dance. Our upcoming June 6th-9th production of SHREK the MUSICAL JR will feature over 50 talented performers ages 6-18.

REGISTER TO HAVE YOUR OWN BOOTH

BE PART OF THE FUN for a $35 donation to the Branson Regional Arts Council.  You’ll also get a ONE-YEAR INDIVIDUAL BRAC MEMBERSHIP worth $20, and YOU KEEP ALL $$ PROCEEDS you collect from the sale of your items… PRETTY GREAT DEAL, HUH?

VENDOR REGISTRATION

There will be a limited number of booth spaces available in Liberty Plaza for 10’x10′ booth spaces.  All vendors must provide their own pop-up tent, tables, chairs, and any display items for your space.  There is no electricity available for the booth spaces.

CLICK HERE to register for a vendor booth, or contact us at info@bransonarts.org or 417-336-4255. Tell us you want to GET A BOOTH AT THE BRAC BBQ FEST! Booth information and set-up times will be provided well before the event.

CLICK HERE to Download BRAC BBQ FEST Vendor Rules & Regulations.

ADD BUSINESS TO OUR CURRENT REGISTERED BRAC BBQ FEST VENDORS:

  • 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

 

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BRAC Youth Show Choir Concert This Thursday

 

  • dateMay 12, 2019
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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Free Community Concert at the Historic Owen Theatre This Thursday!

Branson area residents are in for a real treat this week as the Branson Regional Arts Council’s STACCATO Youth Show Choir and SHOWSTOPPERS Youth Theatre Troupe will present a free community concert on Thursday, May 16th – 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 recommended at BransonArts.org/may16 or by calling the Branson Regional Arts Council at 417-336-4255.

FREE TICKETS

The concert will include solo, duet and small group vocal selections, as well as full cast production numbers.

Twelve of these young performers recently experienced a journey of a life-time as they participated 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).

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 August 2018, the Branson Regional Arts Council (BRAC) announced this 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, the musical show choir group “Staccato” and the Youth Troupe Theatre group “Showstoppers” were created. These unique performance troupes combine 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 this youth vocal 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.

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.

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First Annual BRAC BBQ FEST Announced

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

 

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Win A Roundtrip Frontier Airline Ticket To CHICAGO

Ticket sales for Chicago (the Musical) have been very strong, and for those lucky folks who attend this highly entertaining production, we are excited to announce a special opportunity to win ONE ROUND-TRIP TICKET to Chicago (the City) on Frontier Airlines out of the Branson Airport!

During intermission at each of our five performances of Chicago The Musical, patrons will have an opportunity to purchase raffle tickets in hopes of winning one of several unique gift baskets.  Anyone who purchases $20 worth of tickets will also be included in our grand prize airline ticket drawing on Sunday afternoon. Raffle ticket holders will have two chances to win either a wonderful themed gift basket, or the round trip flight to the Windy City of Chicago, Illinois. The lucky airline ticket winner does NOT have to be present during the Sunday drawing to win.

Frontier Airlines Ticket Certificate is courtesy of our friends at Fly Branson Travel Service and the Branson Airport. Visit their official website at FlyBranson.com. Proceeds from the raffle benefit the Branson Regional Arts Council, a not-for profit 501 (c)3 organization.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

Performances for Chicago the Musical (Rated PG-13) run May 2-5, 2019 at the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson, Missouri. If you haven’t purchased your tickets to the live theatre show yet, please get them SOON as we expect all shows to sell out completely! You may select and purchase your reserved seat tickets online at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Box Office at 417-336-4255.

 

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Auditions for Chicago The Musical This Week

  • dateMarch 3, 2019
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view2473 Views

Chicago – the Musical Auditions

Auditions for the Branson Regional Arts Council’s production of CHICAGO…
Dates: Monday, March 4 and Tuesday, March 5, 2019, 6:00-9:00 p.m. (Callbacks Wednesday March 6 & Thursday March 7 from 6-9pm)
Place: Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S. Commercial St, Branson, MO
NOTE: These auditions are for ages 18+ only. CHICAGO is rated PG-13.

Into The Woods will be presented at the Historic Owen Theatre April 4-15.

Requirements:
*Bring audition form and one copy of your head shot and resume.
*We greatly prefer a LIVE audition, but will accept video/online submissions if absolutely necessary. Please email online submissions to lloyd@bransonarts.org
*Ages 18 and up ONLY. Prepare TWO contrasting songs, one up-tempo and one ballad, in the style of Kander & Ebb. Please, no POP songs.
*An accompanist will be provided. We greatly prefer that you utilize the accompanist, but we will allow the use of tracks if absolutely necessary.
*Please bring a clean copy of your music, in the correct key, clearly marked, and preferably in a binder.
*Lead sheets WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. If using a track, the music must be in digital format. No CD’s or tapes allowed.

DANCE CALL
*All auditioning MUST attend the dance call AND have a singing audition, unless otherwise specifically arranged.
*MEN and WOMEN MUST bring proper dance attire and appropriate dance shoes. Please wear clothing that fits close to the body and shows off your physique. NO BAGGY CLOTHES. Ladies must wear 2 inch character shoes, and character shoes OR dance sneakers are required for men. NO OPEN TOED SHOES.
*You will be given the opportunity to change after the vocal audition.
*The audition combination(s) will be taught in groups.

Please contact the director, Lloyd Alexander-Holt, with any questions regarding auditions. lloyd@bransonarts.org

About Chicago

John Kander and Fred Ebb’s hit musical Chicago was based on the play of the same name by Maurine Dallas Watkins. A reporter in Chicago in the 1920s, Watkins covered the popular trials of two female murderers– Belva Gaertner and Beulah Annan– who both blamed their actions on the negative effects of drink and jazz. At the time, female murderesses were media darlings, and following the two “jazz babies’” acquittal in 1924, Watkins wrote a satirical play, turning Gaertner into Velma Kelly and Annan into Roxie Hart. The play was produced in 1926 on Broadway, directed by George Abbott.

Broadway’s longest-running American musical, Chicago is a dazzling and satirical look at fame, justice, and the media machine. Set in 1920s Chicago and based on real-life murders and trials, Chicago follows Roxie Hart, a wannabe vaudevillian star who murders her lover and is arrested, despite her attempts to convince her pushover husband, Amos, to lie for her. In the Cook County Jail, Roxie meets her hero, the famed double-murderess and nightclub performer Velma Kelly. When both acquire the same lawyer, the greedy and lustful superstar, Billy Flynn, tensions come to a head as they vie for the spotlight– though instead of onstage, they’re mugging for the flashbulb of the newspaper reporters. With catchy, sexy music and timeless lyrics by John Kander and Fred Ebb, and a funny, intelligent, and utterly engaging book by Kander and Bob Fosse, Chicago is a musical spectacular that is as addictive as gossip rags and as unforgettable as any trial of the century.

Open casting is available for the following roles:

  • Roxie Hart (Female – Lead – Mezzo-Soprano)
  • Velma Kelly (Female – Lead – Alto)
  • Amos Hart (Male – Supporting – Baritone)
  • Billy Flynn (Male – Supporting – Baritone)
  • Mary Sunshine (Either Gender – Supporting – Countertenor)
  • Matron Mama Morton (Female – Supporting – Alto)
  • Fred Casely (Male – Featured – Spoken)
  • Sergeant Fogarty (Male – Featured – Spoken)
  • Martin Harrison (Male – Featured – Spoken)
  • Go-to-Hell Kitty (Female – Featured – Mezzo-Soprano)
  • Aaron (Male – Featured – Spoken)
  • Judge (Male – Featured – Spoken)
  • Harry (Male – Featured – Spoken)
  • Liz (Female – Featured – Mezzo-Soprano)
  • Annie (Female – Featured – Mezzo-Soprano)
  • June (Female – Featured – Mezzo-Soprano)
  • Hunyak (Katalin Helinszki) (Female – Featured – Spoken)
  • Mona (Female – Featured – Mezzo-Soprano)
  • Ensemble (8-10) roles available

The BRAC’s production of CHICAGO is staged and musically directed by Lloyd Alexander-Holt, choreographed by Jordan Alexander-Holt, and produced by Kimberly Hale and Lisa Murphy. CHICAGO will be presented at the Historic Owen Theatre May 2-5.

Advanced Reserved Seat Tickets for all upcoming BRAC theatre productions, including Into The Woods and Chicago The Musical are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix.

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Beauty And The Beast Cast Members Announced

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 Barbour, Haley Bertrand, Seanna Bounds, Selah Bounds, Shamarah Bounds, Sofe Bounds, Julie Brinkman, Cassandra Carter, Sophie Douglas, Alexis Fischer, Jael Frost, Pace Gillman, Hallie 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.

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