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Call For Artists – Fall 2024 Art Exhibition At Branson Convention Center

  • dateAugust 7, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • comment2 Comments
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The Branson Regional Arts Council is seeking area artists to be featured in a new six-month exhibition at the Branson Convention Center Art Gallery, that officially opens on Sunday, September 22, 2024 and runs through mid March 2025. *end date to be determined

Artist applications are being accepted now for a limited number of artists for this exciting and highly visited gallery exhibition.

Please submit digital images or portfolio of available work by using the artist submission form or button below.

CALL FOR ARTISTS - SUBMIT HERE

  • Selected artists will be required to submit a $50 Participation Fee and also have an active BRAC Membership ($20 Annual).
  • All featured artists displayed works will be made available for sale to the public through an online version of the gallery.

[fac_icon icon=”question-circle”] For any questions, please contact Kyle Blanchard at 417-336-4255 or events@bransonarts.org.

 

Branson Convention Center – Art Exhibit

Branson Convention Center Art Exhibition

The Branson Convention Center Art Gallery is located on the second level promenade of the venue. Twelve to Fourteen Ozarks area artists are featured on a rotating basis.  All works are available for sale with a small commission benefiting the Branson Regional Arts Council. This exhibition is free to the public and open year round.

NOTE: This is a juried show, so all submissions will be reviewed by a committee before being accepted in the display.

 

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Auditions for the 2024-2025 Staccato Performance Troupe for Youth Age 13-18

  • dateAugust 2, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council is holding auditions for the 2024-2025 Staccato Performance Troupe on Saturday, August 10, 2024 at 9 am. Auditions will be held at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson. No pre-registration required, just show up prepared to audition!
NOTICE: We will take video submissions through August 29th. Please send video links to edu@bransonarts.org.
We are looking for students between the ages of 13-18 who have a passion for performing and building their skills.

We have new directors!

“We are so excited for you to audition for, and hopefully join, our Staccato Performance Troupe! Our desire for you this year is to grow as a performer, but also grow as a team with your troupe-mates; that you would come into each class ready to work hard, but also have so much fun as we work, play, and create together! We will not be putting on a full musical production this year, but we are excited to work on several amazing musical numbers, scenes, and choreography to help each one of you grow as a “triple threat” and give you a chance to showcase your skills at the end of each semester. Our goal is to build your confidence as an individual, your strength as a cast mate, and to teach you valuable skills that will help you in future auditions and shows! So come join us – we can’t wait to get started!”
– Melinda Prince & Ellie Munn, Staccato Directors

When: Saturday, August 10, 2024, beginning at 9 am.

We will begin with group dance, so we need everyone at 9 am. When dance is complete we will do individual vocal auditions. You will be free to leave after your vocal audition.
Note: We ask continuing students to also come and audition so our new directors can make your acquaintance. If you were part of Staccato last spring, you will automatically  have a spot for this semester.
Location: Historic Owen Theatre (205 S Commercial St, Branson, MO 65616)

Class Information!

Cost: $225* per semester ($50 registration + $175 tuition).
       
Class Schedule (Saturdays 9a-12p):
First semester:
  • Sept 7, 14, 21, 28
  • Oct 5, 12, 19, 26
  • Nov 2, 9
Showcase: Fri, Nov 15, 7 pm
  • Sat, Nov 16, 2 pm
Second semester:
  • Jan 18, 25
  • Feb 1, 8, 15, 22
  • Mar 1, 8, 15, 29 (No meeting on Mar 22 for spring break)
  Showcase: Fri, April 4, 7 pm
  •   Sat, April 5, 2 pm

Audition information!

Dance audition:
Come dressed to be able to move easily with jazz shoes or sneakers. We will start the audition with the dance call in groups. You will then stay for the singing portion and will be able to leave when your song is done.
Vocal audition:
Please prepare 60 seconds of a song to perform at auditions. You may choose your own piece, but we encourage selections in the style of “The Greatest Showman”, “Newsies”, and “Wicked”. For those who may be new to auditioning or desire a pre-determined song selection, you may choose a selection from the following songs:
  • “Part of Your World” (Little Mermaid)
  • “How Far I’ll Go” (Moana)
  • “Be Our Guest” (Beauty & The Beast)
  • “I’ll Make A Man Out of You” (Mulan)
Please sing with a karaoke and/or instrumental track (a track from Youtube is acceptable). Please bring your own mobile device that we will sync up via blue tooth to our speakers.
*Limited scholarships are available. 
Please contact Karie at edu@bransonarts.org or 417-336-4255 with any questions.
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Auditions for the 2024-2025 Crescendo Performance Troupe for Youth Age 7-12

  • dateAugust 2, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view1190 Views

Calling All Kids Ages 7-12!! Come audition to be a part of Branson Regional Arts Council’s 2024-2025 educational youth performance troupe Crescendo /krəˈSHenˌdō/!

BRAC’s Crescendo Audition Info:
We are seeking a select number of students ages 7-12 for this year’s Crescendo troupe!

Auditions will be held:
Thursday, August 15, 2024 from 4:30pm – 6:00pm
Historic Owen Theatre (205 S Commercial St, Branson, MO 65616)

The mission of Crescendo is to provide opportunities to students for growth in performance, character, and service. We strive to equip students with necessary skills, both on and off the stage, through engaging activities and experiences while developing a life-long love of the arts and giving back to the community.

Students will have fun developing their performance skills in the areas of voice, acting, and dance, while gaining new friendships, skills, and increasing their confidence.

The students will learn and perform under the direction of their talented and qualified instructors Kellsey Bradley and Julie Brinkman.

Members of Crescendo will meet on a regular basis (see class schedule below) and will be presenting two public showcase performances at the Historic Owen Theatre, November 15 and 16, 2024.

Those auditioning will be asked to sing, read, and dance. The dance portion will be a small movement call that will take place at the beginning of the audition followed by individually singing the first verse of “Silent Night” and performing the monologue titled “Show-and-Tell”. Auditionees will sing and perform by age (youngest to oldest). Everyone is encouraged to wear clothes that they can move in (Jazz shoes or tennis shoes preferred)

Below are the links to the audition materials:

We are excited about the interest and growth of our educational opportunities at the theater for the youth in the community! Be on the lookout for more opportunities this semester!

Crescendo Class Schedule (Mondays 4:30 – 6:00pm)

  • Aug 26 (with a short parent meeting at the beginning)
  • Sept 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
  • Oct 7, 14, 21, 28
  • Nov 4, 11
  • Dress Rehearsal – TBD (Probably the week of November 11th)
  • Public Showcase Performances – Nov 15, 2024 (7pm) & Nov 16, 2024 (2pm)
  • Spring 2025 Semester Dates & Performances will be announced later in the semester

Tuition & Fees (if selected):
$175/Per Semester* ($50 registration fee + $125 tuition)

*Limited Scholarships available to qualified candidates
*Please contact Karie at edu@bransonarts.org or 417-336-4255 with any questions.

 

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Actor Auditions For 2nd Annual 10 Min Play Series Announced

  • dateAugust 1, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view1259 Views

Calling all area actors… beginning or experienced! 

Have you wanted to try your hand at acting, but don’t want to take the plunge in one of our full-length productions? Or… are you just hungry to get your hands on some fresh material? Now is your chance to be cast in up to three short plays, written and directed by local creatives!
Join us at the Historic Owen Theater on Sunday, August 11, 2024 from 2 to 4 PM to audition for the 2nd Annual 10-Minute Play Series!
  • Simply come prepared with a 20-30 second monologue of your choosing!
Any questions? Please contact Kyle Blanchard at events@bransonarts.org.

The “10-Minute Play Series” performance will be at the Historic Owen Theater on September 8, 2024! 

This event is to help encourage local actors, writers and directors of all skill and experience levels to practice their art in a low-stakes, low-commitment and safe environment. The evening will consist of ten plays lasting no longer than 10 minutes, in a variety of styles. 

Admission for the event will be a $10 suggested donation to benefit the education programs at the Branson Regional Arts Council.

We hope you will come audition to be part of an evening of inspiring original works!

 

 

10 Min Vectors by Vecteezy

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The Shepherd of the Hills (1941) Marks Return Of Classic Films To Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateJuly 31, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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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 5, 2024 at 7pm as we kick off this Summer Film Fest, and 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 5:30pm with a special Ozarks Authors Book Signing at 6:00pm, and the film starting at 7:00pm. The concession stand will be open with fresh popcorn, refreshments and other tasty treats available.

Monday, August 5th – 7pm – The Shepherd of the Hills (1941 – featuring John Wayne, Betty Field and Harry Carey)

The Shepherd of the Hills is a 1941 American drama film starring John Wayne, Betty Field and Harry Carey. The supporting cast includes Beulah Bondi, Ward Bond, Marjorie Main and John Qualen. The picture was Wayne’s first film in Technicolor and was based on the novel of the same name by Harold Bell Wright. The director was Henry Hathaway, who directed several other Wayne films including True Grit almost three decades later. The story was filmed previously in the silent era by author Wright himself in 1919, released on State Rights basis. It was filmed again, in The Shepherd of the Hills (1928 film), starring Molly O’Day at First National Pictures, and later, in color in 1964.

The photo above was taken when the film premiered at the Owen Theatre in July 1941. In response to negative public opinion that the film may not accurately reflect the original Harold Bell Wright novel, theatre owner Jim Owen created a publicity campaign that included manned picket signs reading “Paramount’s Shepherd of the Hills – Unfair to Original Characters. We Don’t Like It! – Hillbilly Local #0001.” Now, 83 years later, come see the film and judge for yourself!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR MORE MONDAY MOVIES THIS SUMMER!

  • August 5th– 6pm Book Signing Event, 7pm – John Wayne in Shepherd of the Hills (1941) 98mins
  • 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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Five Ozarks Authors Featured At Branson Book Signing Event – Monday Aug 5th

  • dateJuly 25, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view1336 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to present a fun book signing event featuring five well-known published authors from the Ozarks.

Authors, Howard C. Cavner, Todd Parnell, Tom Koob, Curtis Copeland and Marilyn Whetstone will all be attending this book signing event at the Historic Owen Theatre on Monday, August 5, 2024 at 6:00pm.

  • Ozarks Authors Book Signing – FREE EVENT
  • Historic Owen Theatre – 205 S. Commercial St., Branson, MO 65616
  • Monday, August 5, 2024
  • 6:00pm – followed by the film The Shepherd of the Hills at 7:00pm

This free community event will give area locals a chance to meet the authors, and learn what encouraged them to write these wonderful books. The authors will be signing their books, and give a brief talk about how they were inspired to share the stories of the amazing people of the Ozarks, our beautiful mountains, lakes and humorous folktales! This event is a rare chance for friends and fans to connect with the authors, and for the authors to promote their work and engage with their readership.

See individual author biographies below! Make plans to join us for this exciting event!

This Ozarks Author book signing event will be followed by a 7pm showing of the film version of The Shepherd of the Hills starring John Wayne, Betty Field and Harry Carey. The supporting cast includes Beulah Bondi, Ward Bond, Marjorie Main and John Qualen. The picture was Wayne’s first film in Technicolor and was based on the novel of the same name by Harold Bell Wright. The director was Henry Hathaway, who directed several other Wayne films including True Grit almost three decades later.

The film is sponsored by the Historic Downtown Branson Community Improvement District and the public is invited free of charge. The concession stand will be serving your favorite snacks, and seating is limited to 200 people.

 

Howard Cavner – Ozark Saints

Bio: Ozark Saints is Howard Cavner’s first book of short stories.  He considers it a blessing to have lived his childhood and young adult years in Branson, Missouri, just six blocks from the Historic Owen Theater.

Growing up in Branson, when it was a quaint small town, allowed Howard to get to know many Ozark characters, among them Jim Owen, and be influenced by their common hill values.

An ordained progressive Christian minister, he served as an ecumenical campus minister for thirty-five years before retiring in 2018.  Howard is pictured here with his loyal Hickory.

 

Todd Parnell – The Buffalo, Ben, and Me, and Trails of the Heart

Bio: Todd Parnell is the retired President of Drury University, co-founder and retired CEO of THE BANK in Springfield, MO, civic leader, award-winning author inducted into the Missouri Writers Hall of Fame in 2012, environmental advocate as co-founder of the Upper White River Basin Foundation and retired Chair of the Missouri Clean Water Commission, and an eighth generation native of the Ozarks.

Parnell resides in Springfield with his wife of 47 years, Betty. They are blessed with four children and seven grandchildren, for whom he has great plans on the river.

His passion for engaging all in wild and natural places speaks to individual personal benefit and growth as well as new generations of environmental advocates to protect our unique resources. His commitment to clean water in the Ozarks speaks to a precious and unique natural resource that underlays a vibrant regional water based economy.

 

Marilyn Whetstone – Our Home In The Hills

One of more than twenty-five first cousins who grew up together in the Ozark Mountains, Marilyn Michel Whetstone reveals in Our Home in the Hills how she experienced first-hand the joy and comfort of being part of a large, close-knit family.

In a collection of true stories and family recipes, Whetstone shares anecdotes that provide insight into her life growing up in the popular resort mecca of the Midwest, Rockaway Beach, during the 1950’s and 1960’s and the lives of guests who visited the family resort during that time. While transporting others on a nostalgic trip back to a simpler time, Whetstone details how unselfish acts of sacrifice and kindness promoted healthy and lasting bonds among relatives and friends. She shares the ups and downs in her teenage relationships and offers a glimpse into her close walk with Jesus Christ. Included are recipes that have been passed down in her family for more than a hundred years, providing a backdrop to her delightful stories.

 

Tom Koob – Buried by Table Rock Lake

Bio: Tom Koob has lived in the Ozarks White River Hills for over thirty years.

His study of the area’s history and culture has resulted in four non-fiction books and two novels about the region.

Tom’s interaction with long-time residents has left him with an admiring respect for the strength and character of the mountain folk who have forged a good life out of the Ozarks’ hills and hollows.

 

Curtis Copeland – Mildred, Quit Hollering!

Bio: My name is Curtis Copeland. I am a lifelong resident of the Southwest Missouri Ozarks, (except for 4 years that I lived in the Arkansas/Missouri border town of Omaha, Arkansas. I graduated from Missouri State University in 1997 with a Bachelor’sDegree in Cartographic Sciences. Immediately after graduation, I was hired as a Geographic Information System (GIS) Technician for the City of Branson, Missouri. Shortly thereafter, I became the GIS Manager for the City of Branson, and have been here now for 25 years. Mapping and geographic analysis for the City has allowed for a lot of variety in my career. It’s allowed for the experience in mapping everything from utilities to zoning to crime and fire response. I’ve also had the opportunity to apply GIS skills to another one of my serious interests, Ozarks history and culture. For several years I was on the Historic Sites Committee for the White River Valley Historical Society. On the Committee, I used GIS technologies to locate and map historic sites, town sites, homesteads and structures. My career with the City of Branson has provided a great deal of experience working with other government agencies, including State, Federal and local entities. This included formulating data sharing agreements and collaborating on projects, including mapping trails and aerial photography acquisitions.

As previously mentioned, I am an Ozarks and local history buff, and therefore, I am a member of, and participate in a number of history-related organizations including: the Stone County Historical Society, the Branson Centennial Museum, The White River Valley Historical Society, and the Bonniebrook Historical Society. I am a board member of the Bonniebrook Historical Society. As mentioned previously, I was a member of the Historic Sites Committee for the White River Valley Historical Society.

I have contributed articles for the White River Valley Historical Quarterly and OzarksWatch magazine. I have co-authored twobooks: Ozarks Hillbilly: Stereotype and Reality, with Tom Koob; and Mildred, Quit Hollering! And Other Ozark Folktales, with Vance Randolph and Augustus Finch. I’m currently working on a secondbookwith Tom Koob about the history of Ozarks float fishing.

In 2023, I was selected to be a presenter at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, featuring the Ozarks. For the event, the Smithsonian asked that I produce a map that would illustrate the cultural boundary of the Ozarks. I worked with a committee for input during the development process of the map.

In 2017, I assisted in the reviving of The Society of Ozarkian Hillcrofters. An organization originally formed in 1932 for the purpose of preserving Ozarks history, folklore, culture, and conservation of its natural environment. The organization now has more than 80 members. Since 2017, we have assisted in the preservation of a historic post office building, we suggested and gained community support for the changing of the name of Ozark Mountain State Park to Shepherd of the Hills State Park, and we are currently developing a roadside park and nature trail for a historic site in Taney County. The Society of Ozarkian Hillcrofters also raises scholarships to send youth to music camps where they learn traditional Ozarks music and instrumentation.

I have a very supportive, intelligent wife and best friend, Crystal. We have two boys: Coulter, 7 and Sebastian, 15; and a daughter: Olivia, 21. We all enjoy our Missouri outdoors as a family at every possible opportunity.

 

 

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Urinetown The Musical Brings Award Winning Comedy To Downtown Branson

  • dateJuly 16, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view1835 Views

Holding out as our #1 Show of the Year, Urinetown the Musical is a sidesplitting sendup of greed, love, revolution (and musicals!), in a time when water is worth its weight in gold.

Don’t miss this Branson Regional Arts Council production of Urinetown, now playing at the Historic Owen Theatre from July 25 – August 4, 2024. Shows run Thursdays (7pm), Fridays (7pm), Saturdays (7pm), and Sundays (2pm).

Reserve your seat now for this hilarious Tony Award winning musical satire of the legal system, capitalism, social irresponsibility, populism, environmental collapse, privatization of natural resources, bureaucracy, municipal politics, and musical theatre itself! Get your tickets online at BransonArts.org/tix or call the box office at 417-336-4255. This production is Rated PG13.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

Hilariously funny and touchingly honest, Urinetown provides a fresh perspective on one of America’s greatest art forms.

In a Gotham-like city, a terrible water shortage, caused by a 20-year drought, has led to a government-enforced ban on private toilets. The citizens must use public amenities, regulated by a single malevolent company that profits by charging admission for one of humanity’s most basic needs. Amid the people, a hero decides that he’s had enough and plans a revolution to lead them all to freedom!

Inspired by the works of Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill, Urinetown is an irreverently humorous satire in which no one is safe from scrutiny. Praised for reinvigorating the very notion of what a musical could be, Urinetown catapults the “comedic romp” into the new millennium with its outrageous perspective, wickedly modern wit and sustained ability to produce gales of unbridled laughter.

Urinetown is sheer brilliance with ten Tony nominations to its name and three awards (for best book, score, and direction); but it’s not just the accolades that make this show noteworthy. Urinetown opened on Broadway the day before September 11th, 2001, and offered audiences the side-splitting escapism that they needed while also grappling with some relevant and unanswerable questions like human depravity and suffering. I discovered the show in 2007 and it will forever be special to me because it helped shape my quirky, but also seriously morbid artistic voice. This show isn’t just spoof, satire and potty humor, it’s psychology and hard truths without the ego. I’m in my happy place with this show, and I hope you’ll put your inhibitions aside and come with us to the unavoidable Urinetown!
– Kyle Blanchard – Director

The cast of Urinetown The Musical includes: Chad Ferriell (Bobby Strong), Tom Cartwright (Mr. Caldwell / B. Cladwell), Tom Baker (Officer Lockstock), Avery Tillette (Hope Cladwell), Michelle Baker (Penelope Pennywise), Jennifer Buttell (Officer Barrel), Jeremiah Reeve (Senator Fipp), Josh Silvy (Mr. McQueen), Josslynn Silvy (Little Sally), Carter Hendrickson (Joseph Strong / Hot Blades Harry / Exec. 1), Velvet Dougharty (Hidalgo Jane / Mrs. Millenium / Cop), Alivia Prince (Tiny Tom / Dr. Billeaux / Cop), Brenna Bergeron (Little Becky Two-Shoes / UGC Staff / Cop), Melinda Prince (Soupy Sue / UGC Staff / Cop), River Furgerson (Robby the Stockfish / Exec. #2 / Cop), and Macy Everett (Josephine Strong / UGC Staff / Cop).

The production team includes: Karie Dykeman, Kristine Brown (Producers), Kyle Blanchard (Director / Social Media /Costumes), Tom Cartwright (Music Director), Jacob Deck (Choreographer), Julia Wolz (Stage Manager), Dimitri Tsahiridis (Assistant Stage Manager/Stagehand), Myles Stevens (Audio Engineer), Daylin Paulson (Lighting Design), Kayra Holloway (Light Board Operator), Bella Whittington (Spotlight), Charis Boulden, Cyrsten Rainey (Set Painters/Dresser), Josh Silvy (Theatre Inventory), and Jim Barber (Marketing and Design).

 

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One More Chance To See Disney’s The Little Mermaid This Monday

  • dateJune 21, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view2550 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council’s 2024 Summer Youth Institute production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR has been SO SUCCESSFUL, that we are adding an additional BONUS SHOW for the general public on Monday, June 24, 2024 – 7:00pm at the Historic Owen Theatre!

Nearly every performance over this weekend has sold out (or is close to it), so we’ve added this Encore Performance featuring our younger cast performers ages 6-12.

NOTE: THERE ARE STILL SOME GREAT SEATS AVAILABLE FOR THE AGE 13-18 CAST SHOWS! 

Advance reserve tickets are recommended and can be purchased securely online at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255.

Directed by our talented and experienced Summer Youth Institute directors, this family favorite musical transforms the Historic Owen Theatre into a magical kingdom beneath the sea, where the beautiful young mermaid, Ariel, longs to leave her ocean home to live in the world above.

Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories and the classic animated film, Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages. With music by eight-time Academy Award winner, Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater and a compelling book by Doug Wright, this fishy fable will capture your heart with its irresistible songs, including “Under the Sea,” “Kiss the Girl” and “Part of Your World.”

Ariel, King Triton’s youngest daughter, wishes to pursue the human Prince Eric in the world above, bargaining with the evil sea witch, Ursula, to trade her tail for legs. But the bargain is not what it seems, and Ariel needs the help of her colorful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull and Sebastian the crab to restore order under the sea.

 

The age 6-12 cast members include:

Maggie Marks (Ariel / Under the Sea Ensemble), Lee Brown (Prince Eric), Hope Menard (Ursula), Adelaide Allen (Sebastian / Under the Sea Ensemble), Xia McElwee (Flounder / Under the Sea Ensemble), Alton Prince (King Triton), Gwen Tsahiridis (Scuttle / Under the Sea Ensemble), Reagan Hoagland (Flotsam), Kate Sutherland (Jetsam), Brenna Prince (Grimsby / Under the Sea Ensemble), Eva Estes (Chef Louis / Under the Sea Ensemble), Josslynn Silvy (Carlotta / Under the Sea Ensemble), Avi Martin (Aquata / Princess / Under the Sea Ensemble), Esther Crouse (Andrina / Princess / Under the Sea Ensemble), Lexi Carr (Arista / Princess / Under the Sea Ensemble), Zoey Viola (Atina / Princess / Under the Sea Ensemble), Henley Rosecrans (Adela / Princess / Under the Sea Ensemble), Emma Chandler (Alana / Princess / Under the Sea Ensemble), Braxton Tharp (Pilot / Chef / Under the Sea Ensemble), Kynadee Carter  (Tentacle / Under the Sea Ensemble), Gianna Daniels (Sailor / Tentacle / Under the Sea Ensemble), Harper Forrest (Sea Creature / Under the Sea Ensemble), Layla Gabriel (Seagull / Sea Creature / Under the Sea Ensemble), Mia Hatten (Seagull / Sea Creature / Under the Sea Ensemble), Riley Hollmann (Chef / Under the Sea Ensemble) , Luke Johnson (Sailor / Sea Creature / Under the Sea Ensemble), Lydia Loaisiga (Tentacle / Under the Sea Ensemble), Adelaide Martin (Chef / Under the Sea Ensemble) , Danny Meenen (Sailor / Sea Creature / Under the Sea Ensemble), Anabella Meyer (Seagull / Chef / Under the Sea Ensemble), Katy Patton (Sea Creature / Under the Sea Ensemble), Kynley Pender (Sailor / Under the Sea Ensemble), Sophie Bell Poff (Sea Creature / Chef / Under the Sea Ensemble), Remmy Ray (Tentacle / Under the Sea Ensemble) , Lyric Sassanella (Seagull / Sea Creature / Under the Sea Ensemble), and Danielle Stanley (Sailor / Under the Sea Ensemble).

Co-Directors of the 6-12 cast are Jacob Deck and Lara Menard, with Music Direction by Julie Brinkman.

 

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Writer and Director Submissions Now Open For Arts Council 10 Minute Play Series

  • dateJune 11, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view2409 Views

Calling all writers and directors… aspiring and experienced alike! 

The “10-Minute Play Series” is coming back to the Historic Owen Theater on September 8, 2024 and we need your original plays and creative minds! 

This event is to help encourage local writers and directors of all skill and experience levels to practice their art in a low-stakes, low-commitment and safe environment. The evening will consist of ten plays lasting no longer than 10 minutes, in a variety of styles. 

Admission for the event will be a $10 suggested donation to benefit the education programs at the Branson Regional Arts Council.

SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS FOR WRITERS: 

  • Please submit your finished script (or at least the first draft) to Kyle Blanchard at Events@BransonArts.org by July 7th. Final selections will be made by the 14th.
  • Specify whether you would also like to direct your play or if you would like another director to stage the piece.
  • The content of the play should not exceed that of a typical PG13 rating.
  • The play must be under 10 minutes in length (usually about 10 pages).

SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS FOR DIRECTORS: 

  • Please submit your resume or any relevant experience to Kyle Blanchard at Events@BransonArts.org. (No experience necessary)
  • Directors will be selected on an as-needed basis as playwrights will be permitted to direct their own pieces.
  • Directors will be selected in the week following July 14th.
  • Auditions for actors will be on Sunday, August 11th 2-4pm at the Owen Theater
  • Final Tech/Dress Rehearsal will be on Sunday, September 8th from 1pm to 5 pm
  • The Performance will be on Sunday, September 8th at 7pm

We hope you will join us in an evening of inspiring original works!

10 Min Vectors by Vecteezy

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Stephen Sondheim’s Musical Comedy Company Opens At Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateMay 8, 2024
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to present the fourth mainstage production of the 2024 season, Stephen Sondheim’s Company! From one of musical theatre’s most renowned composers, Company is a musical comedy that tackles timeless situations and themes in a funny, thought-provoking, and catchy musical.

Performances are May 16 – 26, 2024 with shows on Thursday (7pm), Friday (7pm), Saturday (7pm), and Sunday (2pm). NOTE: Sunday May 19th is at 7pm only.

Company is rated PG|13 as the production contains adult situations and some language.

Advance reserve tickets are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Box Office at 417-336-4255.  Ticket prices are: $20 (Adults 18+) and $12 (Youth 4-17).

Director Loran Polson is making her BRAC Directorial Debut with Company and says, “I’m so excited to be able to bring this show to the BRAC stage & share this story. What’s fantastic about the Branson Regional Arts Council is that there is so much talent in this town!” Loran adds, “This cast is incredible and I am so thrilled with the story they are able to tell. I hope this story makes you laugh, think, and maybe even cry a little bit. That’s the beauty of theater, you can watch art being performed & feel all the complex emotions of life.”

The talented cast of Company includes: Josiah Sims (Robert), Kellsey Bradley (Sarah), Kyle Bradley (Harry), Briana Moody (Susan / Kathy),  Jeremiah Reeve (Peter), Melinda Prince (Jenny), David Hewitt (David), Madison Hewitt (Amy), Joshua McGeough (Paul), Heather Marie Petersen (Joanne), Kyle Denton (Larry / Music Director), Madison Hatfield (Marta), and Dorothie Goode DeOrnellis (April).

The production team includes: Kristine Brown, Karie Dykeman (Producers), Josh Boulden (Assistant Producer), Loran Polson (Director / Set Designer), Abby Reeve (Assistant Director / Costume Designer), Kyle Denton (Music Director), Dimitri Tsahiridis (Stage Manager), Emily Hanner (Choreographer), Myles Stevens (Audio Engineer), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Juanita Wilson, Bella Whittington (Spotlight), Lacey Kellett (Social Media), David Hewitt, Darin Moody, Melinda Prince (Set Construction), Kyle Blanchard (Theatre Manager / Set Construction), Josh Silvy (Theatre Inventory), Marshall Meadows (Photography), and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director / Marketing and Design).

About the show…

On the night of his 35th birthday, Bobby contemplates his unmarried status. Over the course of dinners, drinks, and even a wedding, his friends share their pros and cons for being married causing Bobby to question his bachelorhood during hilarious and heartwarming interactions with all the friends he holds dear.

This Tony Award winning musical with book by George Furth and music & lyrics by Stephen Sondheim gives audiences everywhere a reflection of themselves in at least one of these beloved characters. The musical was originally produced and directed on Broadway by Harold Prince, with orchestrations by Jonathan Tunick.

Company is presented through special licensing arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.MTIShows.com

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Hold Everything… Auditions For Urinetown The Musical On May 19th

  • dateMay 7, 2024
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The Branson Regional Arts Council is holding open auditions for our summer production of, Urinetown The Musical!

(Adult, pre-teen, and teen roles available)

Audition Information

Initial Auditions will be held at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson on Sunday, May 19, 2024, 1:00pm – 4:00pm on a first-come basis.

Callbacks will occur on Tuesday, May 21st, 6:00pm – 10:00pm.

If you are unable to attend the auditions in person, please send a self-taped audition, including dance if possible, to Events@BransonArts.org. Also please notify us by email if you’re only available one of the two evenings.

Please prepare 16 Measures, or about 45 Seconds, of a musical theater song in the style of the show; selections from Urinetown are welcome if you are auditioning for a specific role. Be willing to play with different choices if the director asks; big and committed acting choices are a plus!

There will be no accompanist provided, so please come with a recording or Youtube link of your selection, cued to the correct timestamp. There will be an aux cord, iPhone & USB-C dongle, and bluetooth speaker available.

Bring dance attire, as you may be asked to stay for a dance call, time-permitting.

About the Show

This award winning Broadway musical is rated PG-13 and is under the direction of Kyle Blanchard with eight public performances from July 25-28 and August 1-4, 2024 at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson. Advance reserved seats are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255.

Holding out as our #1 Show of the Year, Urinetown the Musical is a sidesplitting sendup of greed, love, revolution (and musicals!), in a time when water is worth its weight in gold.
Winner of three Tony Awards, three Outer Critics Circle Awards, two Lucille Lortel Awards and two Obie Awards, Urinetown is a hilarious musical satire of the legal system, capitalism, social irresponsibility, populism, environmental collapse, privatization of natural resources, bureaucracy, municipal politics, and musical theatre itself!
Hilariously funny and touchingly honest, Urinetown provides a fresh perspective on one of America’s greatest art forms.
In a Gotham-like city, a terrible water shortage, caused by a 20-year drought, has led to a government-enforced ban on private toilets. The citizens must use public amenities, regulated by a single malevolent company that profits by charging admission for one of humanity’s most basic needs. Amid the people, a hero decides that he’s had enough and plans a revolution to lead them all to freedom!
Inspired by the works of Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill, Urinetown is an irreverently humorous satire in which no one is safe from scrutiny. Praised for reinvigorating the very notion of what a musical could be, Urinetown catapults the “comedic romp” into the new millennium with its outrageous perspective, wickedly modern wit and sustained ability to produce gales of unbridled laughter.

Urinetown Character Breakdown

→ Bobby Strong – Male, 20 to 35. The rebellious everyman who works for Miss Pennywise at the poorest, filthiest town urinal. He becomes an unsuspecting protagonist and romantic hero when he starts a revolution. Vocal Range: Bb2 – Ab4 (B4 optional) A clear high tenor; a nimble falsetto is a plus.

→ Hope Cladwell – Female, 20 to 30. An innocent, romantic optimist who becomes vengeful and determined after being exposed to her father’s evil. Vocal Range: A3 – Ab5 Soprano. Needs a lovely Eb5

→ Caldwell B. Cladwell – Male, 50+. The president and owner of the Urine Good Company. A tyrant who both gleefully exploits the poor and genuinely believes he is helping the city. Vocal Range: A2 – F4. Baritone; needs crisp diction.

→ Officer Lockstock – Male, 30 to 60. A corrupt policeman and the tongue-in-cheek narrator of the story. Bold and brash, quite possibly evil. Vocal Range: A2 – G4 An authoritative voice, with rich low notes but a firm G4.

→ Officer Barrel – Male or Female 30 – 60. Lockstock’s patrol partner. A thuggish and aggressive policeman/woman. Vocal Range: Bb2 – Eb4.

→ Mr. Mcqueen – Male, 20-60. Cladwell’s sycophantic lackey. A cowardly and servile assistant. Vocal Range: A4 – B2.

→ Senator Fipp – Male (possibly female), 40+. A greedy and sleazy politician in Cladwell’s pocket. Vocal Range: F4 – C#3.

→ Penelope Pennywise – Female, 40 to 65. The tough, jaded warden of the poorest, filthiest town urinal. Vocal Range: A3 – G5 (C6 optional) Needs to be clear / shrill up to a G5.

→ Little Sally – Female, 10 to 30 (to play pre-teen). A precocious and irreverent street urchin. A quasi-narrator who often questions Lockstock and the play’s logic. Vocal Range: A3-D5. Has a child’s voice – because she is a child.

→ Joseph “Old Man” Strong / Hot Blades Harry / UGC Staff / Cop – Male, 20+. Bobby’s rebellious father; his refusal to follow abusive laws ultimately launches the revolution. / One of the city’s Poor; violent and unpredictable. / Strong Dancer. Vocal Range: D3 – F4

→ Tiny Tom / UGC Exec. 1 / Cop – Male, 20-60. One of the city’s Poor; immature and confused. / Dancer. Vocal Range: Adjustable

→ Robby the Stockfish / UGC Exec. 2 / Cop – Male, 20-50. One of the city’s Poor; curious and eager, probably on drugs. / Dancer. Vocal Range: Adjustable

→ Hidalgo Jane / Dr. Billeaux / Cop – Female, 15-40. One of the city’s Poor, a literal hobo. / Head of Research and Development at Cladwell’s company UCG. / Dancer. Vocal Range: A3 – E3

→ Little Becky Two-shoes / Mrs. Millennium / Cop – Female, 20-40. One of the city’s Poor, rebellious and impulsive. / Cladwell’s greedy secretary at UCG. / Stong Dancer. Vocal Range: D4 – G5 – Soprano

→ Soupy Sue / UGC Staff / Cop – Female, 20-40. One of the city’s Poor. Kind and anxious …and very pregnant. / Dancer. Vocal Range: B4 – Bb5

→ Josephine “Old Ma” Strong / UGC Staff / Cop – Female, 50+. A strong-willed woman with fight, and a better ability than most to deal with the hard hand life has dealt her. / Proficient mover. Vocal Range: Bb3 – D5

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Enjoy Watching Our 2024 Special Abilities Showcase Performers Now

  • dateApril 30, 2024
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On Saturday, April 27th and Sunday, April 28th, two talented casts of 37 area residents performed in an entertaining and heart warming talent showcase at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

The Branson Regional Arts Council presented the 2nd Annual Special Abilities Showcase featuring talented performers with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, and other types of developmental disability who have a love of singing, acting, dancing, playing an instrument, and more.

This outstanding community event was presented in coordination with national Autism Acceptance Month! The Arts Council Board of Directors formed the Special Abilities Committee in 2018 with the intention of providing inclusive creative and performance opportunities for area youth and adults dealing with various physical or mental challenges.

“Many of these individuals would not have an opportunity to perform in a traditional theatre setting, but through this Special Abilities Program, they can build their confidence and self-esteem through creative social interaction, music, dance and theatre. BRAC’s Theatre & Special Events Director, Kyle Blanchard, along with the Arts Council, has stepped up these efforts to include productions like Special Abilities Showcase as a way to bridge the gap for these extraordinary cast members who are taking the stage, and daring to dream!” – Jim Barber, BRAC Executive Director

Saturday, April 27, 2024 Cast members in order of appearance include: Ethan Powell, Will Blankenship, Camden Lampkin, Jesse Bielby, Nicky Rush, Jaime Magnusson, Dewayne Tennison, Joy Geyer, Sam Lesch, Kyle Moeskau, Emmy Schaller, Stephen & Ron Donhardt, Ethan Underwood, Logan Iseley, Kara Lewis, and Jakota & Jerrica Clemons.

Pre-Show Music for both performances was performed by Ethan Powell. (Same selection shown in both videos)

Sunday, April 28, 2024 Cast members in order of appearance include: Katie & Joan Wright, Stephanie Evans, Dylan Pratt, Maria Hildreth, Jason Hoggett, Spencer Coffman, Thomas Pearson, Jen Schiavone-Whorton, Izzy Trower, Gabbie Galvin, Seth Roland, Luke Whitten, Brian Reed, Eric Pemberton, Eli Reimer, Tiffany Burgess, and Elizabeth Schopp.

Pre-Show Music for both performances was performed by Ethan Powell. (Same selection shown in both videos)

The production team includes Kyle Blanchard (Director), Delyla Uebel (Music Director), Jenn Schiavone-Whorton (Vocal Coach), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Operator), Myles Stevens (Sound Operator), Cyrsten Rainey-Felley (Music Operator), Juanita Wilson (Spotlight Operator), and M.J. Szumowski (Audition Assistant) and Jim Barber (Video Production).

The Branson Regional Arts Council would like to extend special thanks to the board and staff of Barnabas Prep who assited with the event, in addition to an extra special thank you to the families, friends, and support staff of each performer for everything they do to encourage these amazing individuals.

Thank you for supporting local arts and for encouraging these spectacular performers to excel!

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