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Crescendo Youth Theatre Troupe Spring Concert This Week

  • dateApril 26, 2023
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The public is invited to enjoy a free community event this week at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson. The Branson Regional Arts Council’s Crescendo Youth Troupe presents their Spring Concert this Friday, April 28th (7pm) and Saturday, April 29th (2pm).

Crescendo: “Meaning growing, as in swelling of sound, or becoming louder.”

Since early February, the Crescendo students have been developing their performance skills under the direction of their talented and qualified instructors Jacob Deck and Julie Brinkman. The Spring Concert will feature musical presentations by these talented young performers and includes several popular songs from both stage and screen.

Performing on stage was a key aspect of both of our childhoods, continuing throughout high school and college into the present day. So much is learned on and off stage in the theater and neither of us would be who we are without the teachers and directors that invested into us as little performers. This love for performing has also created a love for teaching and instilling a love for the arts in the performers who come after us. We have so enjoyed getting to work with this amazing group of performers – their joy for life and love for others is contagious!
– Julie Brinkman & Jacob Deck – BRAC’s Crescendo Instructors

The 2023 cast of Crescendo include: Lee Brown, Promise Brunson, Paisley Cizek, Sydney Henson, Sydney Johnson, Tori Parks, Katy Patton, Brenna Prince, Seth Roland, Kate Sutherland, Royal Steelman, Benni Stein and Emmie Wilks.

Come enjoy these talented young performers as they sing and dance their way into your hearts! No reservations required, doors open 30 minutes before showtime.

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Twice The Fun – Registration Open For 2023 BRAC Summer Youth Institute

  • dateApril 25, 2023
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The 2023 BRAC Summer Youth Theatre Institute is now accepting students for it’s productions of Disney’s High School Musical JR (ages 13-18) and Schoolhouse Rock Live! JR (ages 6-12).

TWO DIFFERENT SHOWS with public performances during the SAME WEEKEND! 

“We appreciate your interest in having your child participate in our upcoming BRAC Summer Youth Institute Theatre Education Program.

We believe it will be a highlight of their summer, as well as contribute to their overall self-esteem and confidence… not to mention, it’s a lot of FUN!”

– Kim Hale, BRAC President & Education Director

NOTE: Summer Registration is Now CLOSED! – CLASSES ARE FULL!

CALL FOR MORE INFO: 417-336-4255

Register your child (ages 6-18) to experience the Branson Regional Arts Council’s exciting summer theatre camp at the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson. The theme is Fun Education this year we are expanding the program to include two performance groups limited to 35 students in each group.

[fac_icon icon=”star”] The younger group (age 6-12) will attend classes on Monday thru Friday, 8:00am – 11:30am from June 5th thru June 25th, culminating with (3) public performances of Schoolhouse Rock Live! JR on Friday, June 23 (7pm), Saturday, June 24 (2pm), and Sunday, June 25 (7pm).

[fac_icon icon=”star”] The older group (age 13-18) will attend classes on Monday thru Friday, 12:00pm – 3:30pm from June 5th thru June 25th, culminating with (3) public performances of High School Musical JR on Thursday, June 22 (7pm), Saturday, June 24 (7pm), and Sunday, June 25 (2pm).

Note: There will be an important parent/student meeting for everyone on Friday, June 2nd from 6pm-7pm.

No auditions or previous experience required to participate!

 

Tuition is $175 per student for all 3 Weeks of Fun!

Tuition includes all classes, performances, personal script and logo t-shirt. 

[fac_icon icon=”caret-right”] A limited amount of scholarships are available based on need and situation.  CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD an info sheet or contact edu@bransonarts.org for more information.

The students will learn acting, dancing, singing, and stage movement culminating in a magnificent stage production of Disney’s High School Musical JR or Schoolhouse Rock Live! JR with public performances June 22 – 25, 2023. Reserved seat tickets for BOTH SHOWS are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix.

Register your child for this EDUCATIONAL award-winning musical theatre experience!

NOTE: Summer Registration is Now CLOSED! – CLASSES ARE FULL! – CALL FOR MORE INFO: 417-336-4255

About the Musicals…

Disney Channel’s smash hit movie musical comes to life at the Historic Owen Theatre in Disney’s High School Musical JR. It’s the first day after winter break at East High. The Jocks, Brainiacs, Thespians and Skater Dudes all find their cliques. Basketball team captain and resident jock, Troy, discovers that the brainy Gabriella, a girl he met singing karaoke on his ski trip, has just enrolled at East High. The couple cause an upheaval when they decide to audition for the high school musical. Although many students resent the threat posed to the “status quo,” Troy and Gabriella’s alliance might just open the door for others to shine as well.
 
Schoolhouse Rock Live! JR is based on the Emmy Award-winning Saturday morning educational cartoon series and pop culture phenomenon! This energetic musical follows Tom, a young schoolteacher, who is nervous about his first day of teaching. He tries to relax by watching TV, when various characters representing facets of his personality emerge from the set and show him how to win his students over with imagination and music. Memorable songs as “Just a Bill,” “Lolly, Lolly, Lolly” and “Conjunction Junction” bring his lesson plans vividly to life.
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Branson Regional Arts Council Spotlights Talents Of Disabled Performers

  • dateApril 6, 2023
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On Sunday, April 23rd  at 7:00pm, a talented cast of over 24 area residents will participate in an entertaining and heart warming stage show at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

The Branson Regional Arts Council presents a very special program titled Scenes & Songs for Special Abilities featuring a cast of 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 is presented in coordination with national Autism Acceptance Month, and the public is invited to attend and cheer on the performers!

A $5 donation will be collected at the door, and open seating will begin at 6:30pm. Please arrive early for best seats. The concessions stand will be serving refreshments, fresh popcorn and other treats.

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. With the addition of our new Theatre & Special Events Director, Kyle Blanchard, the Arts Council has stepped up these efforts to include productions like Scenes & Songs for Special Abilities 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

Cast members in order of appearance include: Spencer Coffman, Thomas Pearson, Katie Wright, Brian Reed, Dylan Pratt, Matthew Burford, Jacob Matthew Brown, Seth Roland, Stephen Donhardt, Kyle Moeskau, Emmy Schaller, Sam Lesch, Jesse Bielby, Eli Reimes, Tiffany Burgess, Logan Iseley, Jakota and Jerrica Clemons, Gabbie Galvin, Luke Whitten, Jaime Magnusson, Nicky Rush, Camden Lampkin, Will Blankenship, and Brendan Morris.

Special mention to Ellie Faggion, Chris Skillern and Mindy Law who will participate  in a couple of theatrical acting scenes with Dylan Pratt that are directly related to the autism experience.

The production team includes Kyle Blanchard (Director), Delyla Uebel (Music Director), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Myles Stevens (Audio Technician), M.J. Szumowski, Chris Skillern, Mindy Law and Ellie Faggion (Stage Crew).

The Branson Regional Arts Council would like to extend special thanks to the board and staff of Barnabas Prep who is assisting 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.

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Free Community Film Screening For Holocaust Education Week

  • dateApril 1, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The second week of April is Holocaust Education and Awareness Week in Missouri, and through the efforts of the Antisemitism Education Center of the Ozarks, a series of related special events will be presented for all residents and visitors in our area.

This special week in Branson begins on Sunday, April 16th, at 2pm with a Free Community Film Event and the showing of the movie, The Hiding Place – provided by the Billy Graham Worldwide Association and the Branson Regional Arts Council. This event will be at the HISTORIC OWEN THEATER, 205 South Commercial Street, Branson, MO.

Doors open at 1:30pm, and seating is open with no reservations required. Arrive early for best seat availability.

The Hiding Place is a 1975 film based on the autobiographical book of the same name by Corrie ten Boom that recounts her and her family’s experiences before and during their imprisonment in a Nazi concentration camp during the Holocaust during World War II.

The film was directed by James F. Collier. Jeanette Clift George received a Golden Globe nomination for Most Promising Newcomer – Female.

On July 1, 2020, Missouri became the 20th state to require Holocaust education in curricula for secondary schools. Governor Mike Parson signed Senate Bill 681, The Never Again Education Act , which established a permanent Holocaust Education and Awareness Commission and designates the second week in April as Holocaust Education and Awareness Week.

Holocaust Education and Awareness Week Events in Branson

Sunday, April 16, 2023 (Historic Owen Theatre)

Free Community Film at 2pm – The Hiding Place – provided by the Billy Graham Worldwide Association and the Branson Regional Arts Council. 205 South Commercial Street, Branson, MO.

Tuesday, April 18, 2023 (full day activities)

Yom HaShoah in the Jewish calendar, the Day of Remembrance of the Holocaust. The most important events of the entire week will be on this day.

The first event at 10am, will be presented by the CONCERNED WOMEN FOR AMERICA, MISSOURI, at the COVENANT LIFE CHURCH, 120 North 3rd Street in Branson. Holocaust survivor, Erika Schwartz, will give her living testimony. We are losing our survivors worldwide as they age out, so their testimonials to what happened in their own personal experiences of the Holocaust are imperative that we hear while they are yet with us. At this point in history, there are more Holocaust deniers than we have Holocaust survivors left to stand against the rewriting of historical fact. Erika will recount the story of the murder of her entire family and how she was able to change her life from one of depression and anger to daily celebrations of gratitude and joy!

At 5:30pm at the FREEDOM ENCOUNTER THEATER (the former Tony Orlando Yellow Ribbon Theater), 3220 Falls Parkway, Branson, MO, the opening of 24-Panel Exhibit from YAD VASHEM WORLD HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE CENTER in Jerusalem, Israel – titled “The Righteous Among the Nations” Reception: “Corrie’s Birthday Party” Corrie ten Boom was born on April 15th and also died on April 15th on her 91st birthday. It is considered very blessed to have come to the earth, and also left the earth on the exact same day.

At 7:00pm on Stage: Susan Sandager of Albuquerque, NM, performs “Corrie Remembers” from Corrie ten Boom’s own reminisces of her family’s Holocaust experiences. This one-woman show is about the life and legacy of Corrie ten Boom, a Dutch Christian who rescued hundreds of Jews from Nazi death camps. Yad VaShem has recognized the ten Boom family in its Avenue of the Righteous Garden in Jerusalem as “Righteous Among the Nations” for their role in saving Jews.

Wednesday, April 19, 2023 – 6:30pm (First Presbyterian Church)

Before returning to Albuquerque, NM, Susan Sandager will be at the FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 420 West Main Street, Branson, MO. Susan will deliver the moving original message spoken by Corrie ten Boom at Melody Land Christian Center in Anaheim, CA, on October 1, 1972. The sermon entitled “The Door of Repentance” will be delivered in Corrie ten Boom persona in Corrie’s own words.

Thursday, April 20, 2023 – 1:30pm (Taneyhills Library)

Dr. Mara Cohen Ioannides, Professor in the English Department at Missouri State University in Springfield, MO, is a Missouri Humanities Council Speaker. She also sits on the Education Committee of the State Holocaust Commission for Missouri. Dr. Cohen Ioannides will deliver a lecture entitled “How Did the Holocaust Happen? And How Can We Prevent It Happening Again”

Saturday, April 22, 2023 – 10:30am (Taneyhills Library)

Holocaust Survivor Erika Schwartz will again be giving her living testimony. Erika will recount the story of the murder of her entire family and how she was able to change her life from one of depression and anger to daily celebrations of gratitude and joy!

Antisemitism has escalated to levels greater than prior to Hitler’s Germany – and is now growing worldwide! In the climate of hatred throughout our Nation, and many nations of the world, education is the answer to combat hatred. Education of the history of these past failures of certain periods of that history are critical to alert our youth to the dangers of repeating those same mistakes of the past.

The Antisemitism Education Center of the Ozarks was created to begin to educate, not only to the youth in the schools, but to all the tourists that come to our fair city. It is the vision of the AECO to be able to place Holocaust educational materials where they will be available to our visitors so that they may help us in this educational process throughout the Nation by taking this message back to their own communities in an “each one  teach one” concept.

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Now Accepting New Students For Private Voice – Acting – Piano Lessons

  • dateMarch 31, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council’s Conservatory of the Arts Education Staff continues to grow, and private lessons for both youth and adults in voice, acting, and piano are available at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson. Private classes are scheduled on an individual basis between the teacher and students.

Tuition for all Private Classes: $50 (60 minute class), $30 (30 minute class)

To register a new student, or to answer any questions, please contact Karie Dykeman at edu@bransonarts.org or 417-336-4255.

 

Meet the BRAC Conservatory Education Staff… (alphabetical order)

Roger & Karen Bergford – Vocal Lessons

Roger & Karen Bergford

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.

Josh Boulden – Acting Lessons

Josh Boulden

Josh Boulden is a professional actor, acting coach, and fight choreographer from Annapolis, MD.

He trained at the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Academy for Classical Acting at The George Washington University in D.C., and before that at the Sight & Sound Theatre’s Performing Arts Conservatory in Lancaster, PA. He’s been in the industry for over 10 years and is blessed to be in his sixth season as an actor at Sight & Sound Theatres in Branson. Before that he spent some time acting and teaching for the Annapolis Shakespeare Company, and currently teaches and directs for the Institute for Cultural Communicators.

You may have seen him in a past Branson Regional Arts Council production such as Blithe Spirit, The Glass Menagerie, and all of the Shakespeare in the Parks, and you will currently see him serving in the roles of board member and director for this fall’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Kristin Jewell Cartwright – Vocal Lessons

Kristin Jewell Cartwright

A Florida girl at heart, Kristin relocated back to Branson with her husband Tom and kids in January 2022. Besides the winter weather, living in the midwest has begun to feel like home again. Helping vocalists achieve their goals has been Kristin’s passion for over 20 years, teaching both on the collegiate level and in her private studio. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education and Master’s degree in Vocal Performance. Kristin is a member of the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS). She additionally has level 3 certification in Somatic Voicework, a functional method of vocal pedagogy created by Jeannette LoVetri, which approaches not just the vocal mechanism but the entire body as the instrument.

Kristin has performed in the community and professionally in both Florida and Missouri and most recently appeared in her BRAC debut as “Miss Andrew” in Mary Poppins. She is currently an adjunct professor of voice at College of the Ozarks and is excited about becoming more involved in the Branson arts community.

Ellie Faggion – Voice, Acting and Piano Lessons

Ellie Faggion

Ellie Faggion has been a professional performer in Branson for the past three years and is now offering private Voice, Acting, & Piano Lessons for students of any age!

She began teaching in 2012 and since then has instructed over a hundred students – including private sessions and group classes. Ellie has 21 years of experience in the arts, including college education in music and a certificate from the Sight & Sound Conservatory in Performing Arts, and has directed and assistant directed several musical productions.

Ellie thrives on helping her students discover their true potential, wherever they’re at in their knowledge and skill, and likes to challenge her students while also having fun along the way!

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Emma! A Pop Musical Opens Next Week At Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateMarch 22, 2023
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The Branson Regional Arts Council’s Staccato Performance Troupe presents Emma! A Pop Musical for five exciting performances from Thursday, March 30 to Sunday, April 2, 2023.

The production is Rated G | General audiences. Showtimes are 7pm (Thursday, Friday, Saturday) and 2pm (Saturday, Sunday).

All tickets for this production are only $12 (Adults & Youth), with lap children (age 4 and younger) admitted free of charge. Advance reserved tickets are recommended and on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box-office of the Historic Owen Theatre at 417-336-4255.

Emma! A Pop Musical loosely follows the storyline of Jane Austen’s 1815 novel, Emma, but incorporates a 21st century prep school twist. Emma Woodhouse, portrayed by Renee Elkady, considers herself to be Highbury Prep’s top matchmaker after she sets up two of her teachers. She then tries to set up her best friend Harriet Smith (Liya Rivere), with school president nominee Philip Elton (J. Perry) and herself up with rockstar Frankie Churchill (Dylan Whatley). Meanwhile, the arrival of a new potential student and heiress, Jane Fairfax (Abby Wheeler), stirs up controversy. Emma’s relentless matchmaking plans take an unexpected turn, and Harriet ends up with the ‘commoner’ lunch busboy Martin (Jason Prince), while Emma ends up with the power-focused schoolboy Jeff Knightley (Pace Gillman). 

The storyline of the production is woven together with a string of hit songs by legendary girl groups and iconic female singers from The Supremes to Katy Perry. Girl power has never sounded so good!

The cast of 14 talented performers also features Jordan Porter as Ashley, Melinda Prince as Miss Bates, Megan Rogers as Miss Taylor, Hallie Groff as Ronnie, Ashley Rogers as Estelle, Lundyn Mitchell as Elaine, and Alivia Prince as Nedra.

Director Jacob Estes leads the production in addition to being choreographer, adding one more credit to his long list of acting and directing achievements on behalf of the Branson Regional Arts Council. Jacob has also performed at Kings Castle Theatre, Silver Dollar City, The Welk Resort, Sight and Sound Theatre, and on tour nationally with Forever Young.

Stage Manager Dimitri Tsahiridis makes his BRAC debut with this production. Dimitri is a student at Branson High School, and has done technical work for such shows as The Curious Savage and Mamma Mia!. He is adding to his portfolio to gain working experience in all aspects of theater before going to college, where he will major in theater and eventually reach his lifetime goal of directing.

Staccato Performance Troupe is an advanced show choir for area youth between the ages of 12-18 that combines a challenging music repertoire with entertaining choreography, on-stage acting, and stage performance. Through the training season, members work towards a common goal while studying advanced music theory, vocal and physical warm ups, musical theatre vocal techniques (belting, mixing, telling a story), stage etiquette, hip hop, jazz and musical theatre dance. Open auditions for new Staccato members are held each Fall, and under the direction of Jacob Estes, the students focus on elevating their “triple threat” skills and applying their formal training into a lively musical theatre presentation such as this production of Emma! A Pop Musical.

The production team also includes Karie Dykeman and Kim Hale (Producers), Kristine Brown (Assistant Producer), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Myles Stevens (Sound Technician), Kyle Blanchard (Theatre & Special Events Manager), Lorie Best (Volunteer Coordinator), Josh Silvy (Theatre Inventory), and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director, Marketing and Design).

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New Artwork To Be Unveiled This Sunday At Branson Convention Center Reception

  • dateMarch 8, 2023
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The Branson Regional Arts Council invites the general public to attend the 2023 Spring New Artist Reception at the Branson Convention Center Art Gallery on the 2nd Level Concourse in Downtown Branson.

This FREE Community Event will be held THIS Sunday, March 12th from 6-8pm.  Everyone is welcome! You do NOT have to be a BRAC member to attend!

Please join us for an evening of incredible artistry, as we introduce several new works of art as well as a few new artists joining the Art Gallery Exhibition. Delicious hors d’oeuvres and a cash-bar will be available, courtesy of the Branson Convention Center.

The fourteen artists selected for this six-month exhibition include: Mary Arneson, Meike Aton, Diana Bogardus, Jennifer Buttell, Jack Clutter, Lee Copen, Megan Ellison, Venetta Harville, Brent Holland, Jasmine Hutton, Vic Mastis, Audrey Bottrell Parks, Gary Parks, and Whitney Weibel. Their creative works will be on display and available for purchase through mid-September 2023.

Bring yourself, or a group of friends and enjoy this FREE community event!

The Branson Convention Center Art Gallery has been visited in past years by approximately 100,000 people annually. Several of the featured artists will be attending the reception to discuss their work, and members of the Branson Regional Arts Council Board will be there to answer any questions. 

Deceased Board Member and Beloved Friend of the Arts, Robert Cohn, enjoyed an earlier Artist Reception. His dedication and hard work to initiate and develop the Branson Convention Center Art Gallery will not be forgotten.

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BRAC Conservatory Acting and Musical Theatre Voice Classes Begin March 20th

  • dateFebruary 21, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to announce registration for a new six-week series of Acting and Musical Theatre Voice Classes as part of the BRAC Conservatory of the Arts Program at the Historic Owen Theatre. These weekly classes beginning March 20, 2023 are designed for students between the ages of 7 – 18 years old. Our highly trained, professional instructors will provide students with a fun, safe and entertaining educational experience they will never forget!

In six exciting and activity centered workshops, students will learn through the power of play the fundamentals of acting and storytelling for the stage. In addition to training in movement and voice for the actor, students will experience growth by coming together as an ensemble to bring the “drama!” With a focus on theatrical acting each session will consist of activities tailored to each age group in order to equip your student with the foundations of what it means to be present, to listen well, and to act!

Class Schedule for ages 7-12 (Mondays, March 20, 27, April 3, 10, 17, 24)

  • Acting: 3:45pm – 5:15pm
  • Musical Theatre Voice: 5:30pm – 7:00pm

[fac_icon icon=”star”] CLICK HERE TO REGISTER (AGES 7-12)

CLASS SIZES LIMITED TO 15 STUDENTS! (Registration will end when classes are full)

[fac_icon icon=”info-circle”] Scholarship opportunities available to qualifying students (please inquire at edu@bransonarts.org).

Class Schedule for ages 13-18 (Mondays, March 20, 27, April 3, 10, 17, 24)

  • Acting: 5:30pm – 7:00pm
  • Musical Theatre Voice: 7:15pm – 8:45pm

[fac_icon icon=”star”] CLICK HERE TO REGISTER (AGES 13-18)

Meet our BRAC Conservatory instructors!

Acting Class Instructor – Josh Boulden

BRAC Conservatory – Josh Boulden

Josh Boulden is a professional actor, acting coach, and fight choreographer from Annapolis, MD. He trained at the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Academy for Classical Acting at The George Washington University in D.C., and before that at the Sight & Sound Theatre’s Performing Arts Conservatory in Lancaster, PA.

He’s been in the industry for over 10 years and is blessed to be in his sixth season as an actor at Sight & Sound Theatres in Branson. Before that he spent some time acting and teaching for the Annapolis Shakespeare Company, and currently teaches and directs for the Institute for Cultural Communicators.

You may have seen him in a past Branson Regional Arts Council production such as Blithe Spirit, The Glass Menagerie, and all of the Shakespeare in the Parks, and you will currently see him serving in the roles of board member and director for this fall’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. For more information visit his website: bouldenstudio.com

 

Musical Theatre Voice Class Instructor – Kristin Jewell Cartwright

BRAC Conservatory – Kristin Cartwright

Kristin Jewell Cartwright is a Florida girl at heart, Kristin relocated back to Branson with her husband Tom and kids in January 2022. Besides the winter weather, living in the midwest has begun to feel like home again.

Helping vocalists achieve their goals has been Kristin’s passion for over 20 years, teaching both on the collegiate level and in her private studio. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education and Master’s degree in Vocal Performance. Kristin is a member of the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS). She additionally has level 3 certification in Somatic Voicework, a functional method of vocal pedagogy created by Jeannette LoVetri, which approaches not just the vocal mechanism but the entire body as the instrument.

Kristin has performed in the community and professionally in both Florida and Missouri and most recently appeared in her BRAC debut as “Miss Andrew” in Mary Poppins. She is currently an adjunct professor of voice at College of the Ozarks and is excited about becoming more involved in the Branson arts community.

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Final Week To See Mary Poppins – The Reviews Are Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious

  • dateFebruary 20, 2023
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This is the FINAL WEEK to catch one of the most talked about musicals to date at the Historic Owen Theatre!

Mary Poppins – The Broadway Musical has received rave reviews, standing ovations and full-house audiences since it first opened two weeks ago. There are only FIVE PERFORMANCES LEFT before Mary and her magic umbrella fly off into the clouds! Good seats are still currently available for this fantastic family production!

The last five shows are this Thursday (7pm), Friday (7pm), Saturday (2pm & 7pm) and Sunday (2pm).

I saw Mary Poppins yesterday and it was “practically perfect”. The cast and crew, once again, were over the top. Thank you for bringing so much joy to our community with all these terrific productions. We are so blessed to have all this in our community. – Barbara Wehrman

Oh my goodness….Mary Poppins was amazing.  I was so impressed with the space, the production and the talent!!!  So glad that I went!  – Michael Gaines, Missouri Association of Community Arts Organizations

[fac_icon icon=”star”] Advance tickets are recommended and available online at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255.  (FINAL WEEKEND TO SAVE 15% by purchasing a FULL SEASON PASS)

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS  GET SEASON PASS THEATRE TICKETS

Mary Poppins – The Broadway Musical in Branson was supercalifragilisticexpialidocious! 🙌❤️ Such talent in our little town! ❤️ Great job Alex Harris and Thomas Reasoner (and entire cast)! These Cochrans had a great day on the town. – Michelle Cochran

Mary Poppins is directed by Jacob Deck with Musical Director Michelle Baker and features a cast of 39 talented performers including one very cute infant and a lovable dog!

One of the most popular Disney movies of all time is capturing hearts in a whole new way: as a practically perfect musical! Based on the books by P.L. Travers and the classic Walt Disney film, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins delighted Broadway audiences for over 2,500 performances and received nominations for nine Olivier and seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

We went to see Mary Poppins tonight at the theater downtown. It was absolutely incredible. I would highly recommend going to see it the tickets are only $20 and worth every penny. – Karen Cook

Sheryl and I were blown away with the talented cast performing Mary Poppins last evening. Broadway in Branson! I found myself thinking that I preferred Leah Johnson’s performance of Mary Poppins to the Julie Andrews version…wow! Hats off to Jim Barber and his growing team at BRAC for another amazing show with local talent! Nice to see them playing to a packed house. – Kenn Tilus

The jack-of-all trades, Bert, introduces us to England in 1910 and the troubled Banks family. Young Jane and Michael have sent many a nanny packing beforeMary Poppins arrives on their doorstep. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she must teach the family members how to value each other again.

Saw this today and I was blown away on how great it was!!! Bravo to the performers and crew! – John Huntley

Mary Poppins takes the children on many magical and memorable adventures, but Jane and Michael aren’t the only ones upon whom she has a profound effect. Even grown-ups can learn a lesson or two from the nanny who advises that “Anything can happen if you let it.”

We went last night and it was amazing. Great job. – Roy Tramel

The cast of Mary Poppins includes: Leah Johnson (Mary Poppins), Thomas Hayden Reasoner (Bert), Cameryn Deibler/Hope Menard (Jane Banks), Lee Brown/ Emma Chandler (Michael Banks),  Alex Harris (George Banks), Sonya Godfrey (Winifred Banks), Abby Reeve (Mrs. Brill), David Hewitt (Roberston Ay), Kristin Cartwright (Miss Andrews), Katy Kohler (Bird Woman), Somer Dean (Mrs. Corry), Rachel Ramberan (Katie Nana), Joey Blackwood (Neleus/Valentine), Michael Sager (Poseidon), Joseph Schumacher (Admiral Boom/Bank Chairman), Maddie Hewitt (Miss Lark), Jeremiah Reeve (Von Hussler), Kyle Denton (John Northrbook), Claire Denton (Miss Smythe), Lucas Dahlgren, Kathryn King, Charis Boulden, Velvet Dougharty, Julie Brinkman, Kayleigh Dominish, Molly Tennison, April Ebersol, AJ Turner, Melinda Prince (Ensemble), Sarah Sutherland (Ensemble / Mary swing), Brenna Prince, Luke Johnson, Sebastian Stringer, Maggie Marks, Josslynn Silvy (Kids Ensemble), JoJo (Willoughby the Dog), and making her stage debut, Eloise Dougherty (Baby Ensemble).

It was EPIC!! Don’t miss it!! – Bonnie Ludwig Cunningham

The Production crew of Mary Poppins includes: Karie Dykeman, Kim Hale (Producers), Jacob Deck (Director/Choreographer/Set Designer), Michelle Baker (Music Director), Loran Polson (Stage Manager), Myles Stevens (Sound Technician), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Josh Boulden (Dialect Coach), Emily Rivere, Lexi Keaton, Jael Frost, Abby Moulin (Spotlights), Kyle Blanchard (Set Operations Manager),  Jacob Deck, David Hewitt, Nathan Sutherland (Set Construction), Lorie Best (Volunteer Coordinator), Josh Silvy (Inventory Manager), Marshall Meadows (Photographer), Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director and Marketing).

I’ve had several people tell me the last two weekends that they thought this was the best show they’ve seen at Owens. So, well done Jacob Deck for your awesome directing, well done Loran Jeanette Polson for all your organizational skills, well done cast, and well done everyone else who helped make this show happen. Proud to be part of it all! – Melinda Prince

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Auditions For Special Abilities Event To Be Held In March

  • dateFebruary 13, 2023
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The Branson Regional Arts Council is holding auditions for it’s 2023 Scene’s & Songs for Special Abilities talent showcase event on Sunday, March 26, 2023 at 7:00pm at the Historic Owen Theatre.

This audition is open to performers of any age with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, or other types of developmental disability who have a love of singing, acting, dancing, playing an instrument, etc.  The production will be under the direction of Kyle Blanchard, with one public performance scheduled for Sunday, April 23, 2023 at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

Interested parties are encouraged to RSVP to attend the audition with Karie at the Branson Regional Arts Council in advance by calling 417-336-4255 or via email at edu@bransonarts.org.

[fac_icon icon=”star”] For auditions please prepare 30 seconds of a song, monologue or whatever performance piece you might like to perform at the event.

BRAC is excited to celebrate the extraordinary talents of this special cast of performers who will be taking the stage, and daring to dream!

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Couples And Singles… Enjoy An Evening Of Sultry Sonnets And Sweet Romance

  • dateFebruary 11, 2023
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The Branson Regional Arts Council presents a special post-Valentine’s themed event at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson on Sunday, February 19, 2023 at 7:00pm.

Sonnets & Chocolates will be hosted by BRAC’s new Theatre and Special Events Manager Kyle Blanchard, and will allow attending guests to share an evening of sultry sonnets and enjoy the “sweet” romance of delicious chocolates and fine *wine!

“It’s not just for couples, singles are welcome to mingle!” – Kyle Blanchard (host)

The evening includes the live piano jazz of BRAC Vocal Instructor Roger Bergford, romantic poetry and sweets! Also expect fun trivia, games, and exciting door-prizes to be won!

If that wasn’t enough, there will also be an open mic for poets and hopeless romantics!

EVERYONE IS WELCOME and a $5 suggested donation per person will be accepted at the box office.

[fac_icon icon=”heart”] Card carrying BRAC Members are welcome to attend without donation.

Annual BRAC Memberships are only $20/individual or $50/family and include valuable popcorn/drink cards that may be redeemed at the concession stand during any mainstage event at the theatre. To order your membership now, please visit BransonArts.org/membership.

 

* Wine will not be served to anyone under 21 years of age. Non-alcoholic refreshments will be available.

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Mary Poppins Kicks Off This Week At Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateFebruary 8, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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Rated G | Family Favorite

Everyone’s favorite practically perfect nanny takes the stage in this Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious musical adventure presented by the Branson Regional Arts Council at the Historic Owen Theatre!

There will be 15 spectacular performances of Mary Poppins – The Broadway Musical from February 9 – 26, 2023 with shows on Thursdays (7pm), Fridays (7pm), Saturdays (2pm & 7pm), and Sundays (2pm).

Advance tickets are recommended and available online at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255. (TIP: Save 15% by purchasing a FULL SEASON PASS)

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS  GET SEASON PASS THEATRE TICKETS

Mary Poppins is directed byJacob Deck with Musical Director Michelle Baker and features a cast of39 talented performers including one very cute infant and a lovable dog!

One of the most popular Disney movies of all time is capturing hearts in a whole new way: as a practically perfect musical! Based on the books by P.L. Travers and the classic Walt Disney film, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins delighted Broadway audiences for over 2,500 performances and received nominations for nine Olivier and seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

The jack-of-all trades, Bert, introduces us to England in 1910 and the troubled Banks family. Young Jane and Michael have sent many a nanny packing beforeMary Poppins arrives on their doorstep. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she must teach the family members how to value each other again.

Mary Poppins takes the children on many magical and memorable adventures, but Jane and Michael aren’t the only ones upon whom she has a profound effect. Even grown-ups can learn a lesson or two from the nanny who advises that “Anything can happen if you let it.”

Katy Kohler (Bird Woman) and Leah Johnson (Mary Poppins)

The cast of Mary Poppins includes: Leah Johnson (Mary Poppins), Thomas Hayden Reasoner (Bert), Cameryn Deibler/Hope Menard (Jane Banks), Lee Brown/ Emma Chandler (Michael Banks),  Alex Harris (George Banks), Sonya Godfrey (Winifred Banks), Abby Reeve (Mrs. Brill), David Hewitt (Roberston Ay), Kristin Cartwright (Miss Andrews), Katy Kohler (Bird Woman), Somer Dean (Mrs. Corry), Rachel Ramberan (Katie Nana), Joey Blackwood (Neleus/Valentine), Michael Sager (Poseidon), Joseph Schumacher (Admiral Boom/Bank Chairman), Maddie Hewitt (Miss Lark), Jeremiah Reeve (Von Hussler), Kyle Denton (John Northrbook), Claire Denton (Miss Smythe), Lucas Dahlgren, Kathryn King, Charis Boulden, Velvet Dougharty, Julie Brinkman, Kayleigh Dominish, Molly Tennison, April Ebersol, AJ Turner, Melinda Prince (Ensemble), Sarah Sutherland (Ensemble / Mary swing), Brenna Prince, Luke Johnson, Sebastian Stringer, Maggie Marks, Josslynn Silvy (Kids Ensemble), JoJo (Willoughby the Dog), and making her stage debut, Eloise Dougherty (Baby Ensemble).

One of the many magical dance routines in Mary Poppins!

The Production crew of Mary Poppins includes: Karie Dykeman, Kim Hale (Producers), Jacob Deck (Director/Choreographer/Set Designer), Michelle Baker (Music Director), Loran Polson (Stage Manager), Myles Stevens (Sound Technician), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Josh Boulden (Dialect Coach), Emily Rivere, Lexi Keaton, Jael Frost, Abby Moulin (Spotlights), Kyle Blanchard (Set Operations Manager),  Jacob Deck, David Hewitt, Nathan Sutherland (Set Construction), Lorie Best (Volunteer Coordinator), Josh Silvy (Inventory Manager), Marshall Meadows (Photographer), Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director and Marketing).

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