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The Musical Comedy Hit Of The Summer Will Be Something Rotten!

  • dateJuly 27, 2022
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council presents one of the most anticipated comedy musicals in years… Something Rotten!

Producers Karie Dykeman and Kim Hale are excited to once again be working with Director Jacob Estes and the talented BRAC production team for this outrageous crowd-pleasing musical. Caitlin Secrest returns as Music Director along with Kristen Dasto who is the Choreographer for this hilarious high energy production.

Performances are on Thursdays (7pm), Fridays (7pm), Saturdays (7pm) and Sundays (2pm) from July 28 – Aug 7, 2022.

Seating is limited and advance reserved tickets are suggested at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Historic Owen Theatre box office at 417-336-4255. Admission for everyone is locally priced at $17 (Adults 18+), $14 (Youth 4-17). The production is rated PG13| Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.

“The funniest musical comedy in at least 400 years” – Time Out New York

Something Rotten Poster Branson Missouri

Created by Grammy Award-winning songwriter Wayne Kirkpatrick, and successful screenwriters Karey Kirkpatrick and John O’Farrell, Something Rotten was lauded by audience members and critics alike, receiving several Best Musical nominations and hailed by Time Out New York as “the funniest musical comedy in at least 400 years”.

Set in the 1590s, brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom set out to write the world’s first musical in this hilarious mash-up of sixteenth-century Shakespeare and twenty-first-century Broadway. They are desperate to write a hit play but are stuck in the shadow of that Renaissance rock superstar known as “The Bard.”

When a local soothsayer foretells that the future of theatre involves singing, dancing and acting at the same time, Nick and Nigel set out to write the world’s very first musical. But amidst the scandalous excitement of opening night, the Bottom Brothers realize that reaching the top means being true to thine own self, and all that jazz. 

Something Rotten features large song and dance numbers, and a wacky cast of over-the-top characters, each given his or her own special moment in the show to shine. It’s become clear that “nothing’s as amazing as a musical,” so don’t miss your chance to experience this history-twisting tale on the Historic Owen Theatre stage!

“I have been so blown away by the amazing hard work and dedication from this cast and crew. This show is going to be one for the BOOKS! You don’t want to miss this hilarious show that is sure to be one of your new favorites!” – Jacob Estes – BRAC Director

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

Due to cast availability, some featured roles are being shared. Contact the box office for particular cast member performance dates.

The cast of Something Rotten include: Joey Faggion (Nick Bottom), Henry Lange (Nick Bottom), Ryan Hippe (Nigel Bottom), Kade Gaunt (Nigel Bottom), Juli Biagi (Beatrice Bottom), Grace Duncan (Beatrice Bottom / Antonio), Michael Phillips (Shakespeare), Brian Miller (Shakespeare), Blake West (Nostradamus and Minstrel), Benjamin R. K. Wegner (Nostradamus and Minstrel), Catherine Kennedy (Portia), Emily Hanner (Portia and Antonio), Jacob Deck (Brother Jeremiah), Jose DelaTorre (Brother Jeremiah), Zeke Sidwell (Shylock), Nathan Irwin (Lord Clapham), Carter Hendrickson (Peter Quince / Male Ensemble), Dylan Whatley (Tom Snout / Male Ensemble), Aaron DeOrnellis (Robin / Male Ensemble), Wyatt Munsey (Snug / Male Ensemble), Kayleigh Dominish (Francis Flute / Male Ensemble), Briton Szydloski (John / Male Ensemble), Talya Tinoco (Ensemble), Megan Rodgers (Ensemble), Emma Spurling (Ensemble), Kylie Gaunt (Ensemble) Hallie Groff (Ensemble), Delaney Whatley (Ensemble) and Ashley Rodgers (Ensemble).

Henry Lange (Nick Bottom) and Juli Biagi (Beatrice Bottom) are excited to perform in Historic Downtown Branson.

 

Cast and Crew of Something Rotten! Work On The Set For This Hilarious Musical

 

Cast Members Are Excited To Present This Amazing New Musical At The Historic Owen Theatre

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A Celebration Of Life To Honor Americanna Magness

  • dateJuly 25, 2022
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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Americanna Magness was a beloved Champion of the Arts in the Ozarks. On April 2, 2020, Americanna quietly passed from this life leaving behind a legacy of hard work and dedication to several area organizations including the Branson Regional Arts Council.

First Presbyterian Church of Branson will will be hosting a Celebration of Life for Americanna Magness on Saturday, July 30, 2022 at 2 pm.

Americanna prepares her costume for the Gone With The Wind Gala.

Americanna May (Awbrey) Magness was born in Springfield, Missouri on May 27, 1942 passed away peacefully in Branson, Missouri. As an active Board Member for the Branson Arts Council and many other organizations, she brought a extra special spark of magic and creativity to every project and every person she was associated with. She is greatly missed, and the Branson Regional Arts Council encourages everyone who knew and loved Americanna to be sure and attend this special event in her honor.

A musical prelude will begin at 1:30pm with the Celebration of Life service beginning at 2pm. A reception for all family and friends will follow at the Church at approximately 3pm.

If anyone is interested in joining with the “Community” Choir for this special event, they should contact Kyle Denton at fpcbransonmusic@yahoo.com for rehearsal information.

Americanna was a Branson native; she attended Branson schools all her life and graduated from Branson High School in 1960.  She attended Southwest Missouri State (SMSU) for one year, majoring in music performance.  In 1964, she and her family moved to Wichita, KS, where they lived for 33 years.  In 1979, Americanna began to clerk for the USD 259 school district and worked at Wichita High School South for 18 years.  After her retirement in 1997, Tom and Americanna moved back to the Branson area, and spent 22 years living in a cabin on Table Rock Lake in Blue Eye.

Americanna Magness poses with Victor and Megan Jantz portraying Rhett Butler & Scarlett O’Hara at the BRAC Branson Convention Center Art Exhibition

In retirement, Americanna served on various boards for the Taneyhills Community Library; Deacon for the First Presbyterian Church; Board of Directors for the Branson Arts Council and received Art Citizen of the Year (2006); Coordinator of Old Stone Church Concerts; officer of PEO Chapter IB; and helped found the Branson Chamber singers, known today as the Branson Chorale.

Americanna’s loving and selfless spirit will be deeply missed by all.

Also, please visit this special memorial website, OneAmericanna.com, created by her family. You’ll be able to hear Americanna sing one of her favorite songs, “Somewhere Over The Rainbow,” and read an extraordinary letter that she wrote to her friends and family expressing her love of music.

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  • dateJuly 25, 2022
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to announce the cast of their upcoming production of Hello Dolly! with twelves (12) public performances Sept 8 – 25, 2022 at the Historic Owen Theatre. Reserved seat tickets are on-sale now at BransonArts.org/tix.

The director and producers would like to thank everyone who participated in the auditions, and they want you to know that it was a very difficult show to cast as there were so many excellent candidates for the number of roles available. They encourage anyone who wasn’t cast to please continue to audition for future productions.

Congratulations to the following actors for their selection:

  • Dolly Levi – Sarah Williams
  • Irene Molloy – Sarah Sutherland
  • Cornelius Hackl – David Hewitt
  • Barnaby Tucker – Joey Blackwood
  • Minnie Fay – Molly Tennison
  • Horace Vandergelder – Lamont Wade
  • Ermengarde – Savannah Turner*
  • Ambrose Kemper – Dylan Whatley*
  • Mrs. Rose – Loran Polson*

*also in ensemble

Ensemble actors:
Melinda Prince, Megan Rodgers, Ashley Rodgers, Somer Dean, Pace Gillman, Sariah Lee Wertman, Joseph Schumacher, A.J Turner, Hallie Groff

Again, thank you to everyone who took the time to audition! You were all fantastic, and we hope to work with you in an upcoming production.

REHEARSAL BEGINS with the full cast on Monday, August 1st at 6pm at the Historic Owen Theatre.

(12) public performances will occur on September 8 – 25th on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays (7pm), and Sundays (2pm).

For questions please contact Karie at 417-336-4255 or edu@bransonarts.org.

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Osage Ballet Seeks Branson Actors For Televised Concert At Mansion Theatre

  • dateJuly 11, 2022
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
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Wahzhazhe is a contemporary ballet that mesmerizes audiences from the first beat of the rhythmic drums to the final curtain close. Audiences are surprised by the powerful storytelling, and even those who are not ballet lovers return to the show repeatedly to be moved by the story that unfolds in front of them.

On August 5th and 6th, the Osage Ballet will be performing at The Mansion Theatre for the Performing Arts in Branson, MO and the ballet is immediately seeking three actors to participate in this production.

Here are the details:

  • Two military guys to bring in the treaties. They will need to move well, but not necessarily dance.
  • One bad guy who was in his 40’s, short, medium build, light complexion. Needs to be able to move well.
  • Rehearsals begin August 3rd at The Mansion Theater. Shows are August 5 and 6.

Interested actors should contact: Randy Tinker Smith – Wahzhazhe Ballet Director, 918-955-1119, osageballet@gmail.com

This is a non-paid performance, however the production will be recorded for a television special and the performers will have an excellent credit with high exposure nationally. The Branson Regional Arts Council is not associated with this production and is providing this audition information as a public service to assist this exciting concert event coming to Branson.

Since its humble beginnings, Wahzhazhe has garnered national and international attention. In 2013, the ballet was invited to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian in Washington DC to perform. In September of 2015, the Festival of Families in Philadelphia gave Wahzhazhe a global stage with more than half a million people in attendance during the Papal visit of Pope Francis.

Wahzhazhe touches audiences in a way that even they cannot anticipate. At sold-out performances in Washington DC’s Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, even grown men wept. An audience member who watched the performance at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center in 2013 lauded that although she did not usually enjoy ballet, she would watch this ballet every time it was performed. At a performance at the Coleman Theatre in 2014, a woman embraced a young dancer after the show and explained through tears that she had no words for the depth of emotion that she felt after watching the ballet.

While the Osage Ballet, Wahzhazhe is a professional production, it is also a non-profit production that requires financial support from generous donors for its success.
We invite you to join us in bringing the Osage Ballet and our story to new audiences by making a tax-deductible gift. Your gift will enable us to cover the cost for a traveling production and make every performance successful.

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See 10 Exciting Plays That Are Each 10 Minutes in Length on July 10th!

  • dateJuly 6, 2022
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council presents the first annual 10-Minute Play Series at the Historic Owen Theatre this Sunday, July 10th at 7pm. The 10-10-10 will encourage local writers and directors of all skill and experience levels to practice their art in a low-stakes, low-commitment, safe environment.

The evening will consist of ten plays lasting no longer than 10 minutes each, with a variety of styles presented. Plays include a contemporary comedy and drama, a fantasy, a surrealist piece, a silent film-style play, 2 classical plays—one being a George Bernard Shaw excerpt and the other, a play written by Benjamin Franklin, and more.

Kyle Blanchard is the inspiration behind this new event, and is also participating as one of the directors.

“This year, the directors and plays were chosen ahead-of-time from locals that displayed interest, but in the future anyone will be able to submit their play and/or submit to direct.

Writers and Directors will be chosen on a first-come basis with no regard to experience!”

– Kyle Blanchard – BRAC Board Member & 10-10-10 Director

Admission is free, but a $10 donation at the door would be appreciated to benefit BRAC’s Arts Education Program providing training and arts opportunities in theatre, music, vocal, dance, technical production and the visual arts for area residents of all ages.

Seating is limited, so come when the doors open at 6:30 to ensure you have a seat!

There will be a ten-minute intermission and concessions will be available for purchase. A Talkback session will follow the play presentations for audience reaction and questions.

All plays are rated PG or PG-13. There is some mild adult language and violence.

This year the directors include: Kyle Blanchard, Ellie Faggion, Michael Phillips, Ryan Hippe, Joey Faggion, Megan King, Cole Litwiller, Jonah Outhouse, and Josh Boulden (directing 2 plays).

The technical team include: Pamela Meadows, Mac Hill, Sarah Briggs and Tori Hurley.

The selected plays include:

PEARL’S BIG DAY – Written and Directed by Michael Phillips. Featuring Deanna Bruce, Cat Faggion, Ian lahlum, Michael Sager, Addison Montgumrey, Aaron Munn, Chris Skillern,Kahrie Stegman and Michael Phillips.

GASLIGHT – Written and Directed by Kyle Blanchard. Starring Josiah Mayer, Jonathan Crum, Megan King and Mariah Garrett

MAN AND SUPERMAN by George Bernard Shaw – Directed by Josh Boulden. Starring Ashlind Hippie, Natalie Hensarling, and Jameson Clanton.

UNSPOKEN – Written and Directed by Jonah Outhouse. Starring Jason Lightfoot and Andy Brown.

WHILE THE AUTO WAITS – Adapted and Directed by Megan King. Starring Jonathan Crum, Ashlind Hippe, Andy Brown and Nicole Horton

WHAT IF… THE PRINCE FOLLOWED by Ellie Faggion. Directed by Cole Litwiller.
Starring Mariah Garrett and Aaron Munn.

THE LEAST OF THESE – Written and Directed by Ryan Hippe. Starring Nick Carrano and Kyra Carrano.

DIALOGUE BETWEEN FRANKLIN AND THE GOUT by Benjamin Franklin. Directed by Josh Boulden. Starring Cat Blanchard and Michael Sager

HEART OF HEARING by Joseph Zeccola. Directed by Ellie Faggion. Starring Brandon Farrar and Rosalie Burr.

SPOOŃ – Written & Directed by Joey Faggion. Starring Shekinah Davis, Judah Fox, Audrey Noll, and Adam Hood.

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Playbill Ad Space Available For Something Rotten!

Put your business “CENTER STAGE” in front of our supportive audience at the Historic Owen Theatre!

Your featured ad in our officially licensed Playbill of our hilarious musical production of Something Rotten! will cover 8 performances and 1000 printed copies for distribution!

Please ACT FAST as the deadline to be included in the Something Rotten! Playbill is FRIDAY (July 8, 2022).  Just click the information link below to pick your choice of ad sizes. You can purchase your ad now, securely online via credit or debit card.  If you prefer to pay by cash or check, send us an email (edu@bransonarts.org) or call our box office at 417-336-4255 and let us know you’d like to place an ad.

You’ll be helping t0 sponsor an incredible theatrical performance and show our area residents that you support the Arts in the Ozarks! It’s that simple!

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE PLAYBILL AD NOW!

FULL SIZE AD – $200 
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1/2 SIZE AD – $100
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1/3 BUSINESS CARD – $70
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1/4 SIZE AD – $50
  • Width: 1020 pixels (3.4 inches, 300 dpi)
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CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE PLAYBILL AD NOW!

 

 

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Beauty and The Beast JR opens at Historic Owen Theatre


  • dateJune 15, 2022
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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A “tale as old as time,” will be presented on the stage of the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson as Disney’s Beauty and The Beast JR. opens for six public performances from Thursday through Saturday, June 23 – 26, 2022.

The production is rated G, and is recommended for all audiences. Advance reserved tickets are highly recommended by calling the box office at 417-336-4255 or online at BransonArts.org/tix.

Summer Institute Students Having A Blast – Photo by Marshall Meadows

The Branson Regional Arts Council’s Summer Youth Theatre Institute production features a large group of 71 talented young actors between the ages of 6-18, who have been training for nearly three weeks to present this family favorite musical. Divided into two casts, they will be creating unforgettable memories that will not only improve their talents and self esteem, but also carry through positive qualities to other aspects of their lives.

“Over 100 people are involved in the presentation of this Summer Youth Institute production. From our incredible team of educational and production staff, to our large number of participating youth from across the community, our organization works extremely hard to provide a safe and nurturing environment for this vital arts education program.”
– Jim Barber, BRAC Executive Director

Based on the original Broadway production that ran for over thirteen years and was nominated for nine Tony Awards, and the Academy Award-winning motion picture, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast JR. is a fantastic adaptation of the story of transformation and tolerance. Disney’s Beauty and the Beast JR. features some of the most popular songs ever written by Alan Menken and the late Howard Ashman, along with new songs by Mr. Menken and Tim Rice.

The classic 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 to 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.

“We are especially thankful to the support of our parents, area businesses and organizations who helped to underwrite a portion of the expenses, including student scholarships, and printing of our official 32-page Playbill that contains a brief photo biography of each child in the production.”
– Jim Barber

The BRAC Summer Youth Institute staff includes: Karie Dykeman, Kim Hale (Producers), Jacob Estes, Jacob Deck (Directors), Delyla Uebel (Music Director), Phyllis Pasley (Assistant Music Director), Kristen Dasto (Choreographer), Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director), MJ Szumowski, Kiauna Risuglia, Molly Tennison-White, Kristine Brown, Lara Menard (Education Assistants), Carter Hendrickson (Stage Manager), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design/Education), Emily Rivere (Lighting Assistant), Mac Hill (Sound Technician), Josh Silvy (Theatre Operations), Lorie Best (Volunteer Coordinator), Marshall Meadows (Photographer), Leah Johnson (Costumes/Education), Jacob Estes (Set Design) and Josh Silvy, Kade Gaunt, Kylie Gaunt, Carter Hendrickson, Juli Biagi, Emily Hanner, Dylan Whatley, Megan Rodgers and Grace Duncan (Set Construction).

Cast A performances are on Thursday – 7 pm, Saturday – 7 pm, and Sunday – 2 pm.

Cast A Members include: Savannah Turner (Belle), Javier Nunez (Beast), Korey Brown (Maurice), Dylan Whatley (Gaston), Lee Brown (Lefou), Pace Gillman (Lumiere), Jillian Rice (Cogsworth), Jael Frost (Mrs. Potts), Kylee Chandler (Babette), Alexandria Keaton (Madame De La Grande Bouche), Scout McManus (Chip), Skye Bell (Old Beggar Woman/Enchantress), Indy Griffith (Narrator 1), Charlee Mitchell (Narrator 2), Zoey Viola (Narrator 3), Mercy Griffith (Narrator 4), Georgia Griffith (La Fille 1), Ashley Rodgers (La Fille 2), Vivian Redington (La Fille 3), Duncan Brown (Monsieur D’Arque), Scarlett McManus (Bookseller), Myles Mitchell (Baker), Emma Hess (Aristocratic Lady), Brennan Bilberry (Lady with a Cane), Lundyn Mitchell (Lady with Baby), Lyric Sassanella (Sausage Curl Girl), Emmaline Covey (Candle Seller), Addy Williams (Egg Seller), Jemma Braica (Fishmonger), Emma Chandler (Milkmaid), Seth Roland (Shepherd Boy), Piper Howard (Hat Seller), Luke Johnson (Butcher), Piper Brown (Villager 1), Ember Hopper (Villager 2), Ava Hess (Villager 3), Bailey Hess (Villager 4), Reese Hess (Villager 5)

Cast B performances are on Friday – 7 pm, Saturday – 2pm, and Sunday – 7 pm.

Cast B Members include: Sophie Douglas (Belle), Javier Nunez (Beast), Ryan Merrifield (Maurice), Dylan Whatley (Gaston), Dru Straka (Lefou), Jack Brown (Lumiere), Evan Wolfe (Cogsworth), Emily Jenkins (Mrs. Potts), Hope Menard (Babette), Emrie Straka (Madame De La Grande Bouche), Lindan Seaman (Chip), Josslynn Silvy (Old Beggar Woman/Enchantress), Roxas Pace (Narrator 1), Adelaide Allen (Narrator 2), Amelia Williams (Narrator 3), Elizabeth Bohner (Narrator 4), Abby Wheeler (La Fille 1), Ember Straka (La Fille 2), Sophia Terhardt (La Fille 3), Tayton Boyd (Monsieur D’Arque), Lincoln Taylor (Bookseller), Mcartney Young (Baker), Emma Williams (Aristocratic Lady), Mackenzie Lockhart (Lady with a Cane), Emilia Pearson (Lady with Baby), Benni Stein (Sausage Curl Girl), Olivia Viall (Candle Seller), Gianna Daniels (Egg Seller), Abigail Ray (Fishmonger), Eliza Allen (Milkmaid), Remy Ziegelbauer (Shepherd Boy), Kynadee Carter (Hat Seller), Jude Barbour (Butcher), Everley Dibas (Villager 1), Madeline Cox (Villager 2).

The Branson Regional Arts Council was founded in 1965 as the “Taney Arts Council,” and officially established 501 (c)(3) non-profit status as “Branson Arts Council, Inc.” in 1993.

Their mission is “to provide artistic, cultural and educational opportunities that support, strengthen and enhance artistic experiences for people of all ages in our area.” For more information on upcoming events or volunteer opportunities, please visit BransonArts.org.

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Cigar Club Raises Nearly $6000 Dollars To Support The Arts

  • dateMay 18, 2022
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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Executive Director Jim Barber was excited when the Branson Regional Arts Council’s had been selected as this year’s recipient of proceeds raised from the Sporting Clays for the Arts Event held last March 2022. The fundraising event presented by Embers Cigar Lounge at the Branson Landing raised a total of $5,812.00 for the Arts Council.

Branson’s locally owned Cigar Shop Embers Cigar Lounge started a cigar club in 2020, “eMbers Only Cigar Club” with a goal of giving and  supporting locally owned charitable organizations who work hard to bring value to the local community. 

“We are very excited about our participation in the Sporting Clay Shoot to support the Branson Regional Arts Council,” Tom Forster, Club Chairman, explains.  “As a group we feel strongly that by involving folks of all ages, especially the young, to become involved in the arts, we can introduce lifelong passions that only add to our amazing culture right here in the Ozarks,” said Forster.  “Our community is blessed to have business owners like Kevin and Betsy McConnell who support the club’s passion to create charitable events for the Branson area,” he added.

Though the proceeds were immediately presented to the Arts Council after the event in March, a formal check presentation occured at the Embers Cigar Lounge on May 17th with several members of the club in attendance.

Event sponsors who donated to the fundraising event included: Reece Nichols Real Estate – RPT Homes LLC (Event Sponsor), Show Me Flooring, Embers Cigar Lounge, Branson Imax Entertainment Complex, Branson Screen Printing, Starvin Marvin’s Restaurant, Outraged Rage Room, Weathered Oak LLC, The Tracks, Connell Insurance, Myers Hospitality, Clay Cooper Theatre, and American Exposition LLC.

“I wish to thank everyone involved in this fundraising event, from those who registered to participate as shooters, to the generous area business leaders who gave of their resources to benefit the important work being done by the Arts Council,” said Barber. “Special appreciation to Kevin and Betsy McConnell and Tom Forster for sharing my appreciation of just how vital a thriving arts education program is to the future growth and esteem of young people in our community,” he added.

Clay Shoot For The Arts Participants

Jim Barber competed with his father’s shotgun

Branson Business Leaders Took Aim For A Successful Event

 

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Little Women The Musical Opens May 12 At Historic Owen Theatre

In one of the most anticipated main stage productions of the year, the Branson Regional Arts Council is proud to present Little Women – The Musical at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson!

Performances are on Thursdays (7pm), Sundays (2pm & 7pm) and Mondays (7pm) from May 12 – 23, 2022.

Seating is limited and advance reserved tickets are encouraged at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Historic Owen Theatre box office at 417-336-4255. Admission for everyone is locally priced at $17 (Adults 18+), $14 (Youth 4-17). The production is great fun for all ages and is rated PG.

Under the direction of Justin Ables, Little Women – The Musical is based on famed author Louisa May Alcott’s life. The live stage production follows the adventures of sisters, Jo, Meg, Beth and Amy March. Jo is trying to sell her stories for publication, but the publishers are not interested – her friend, Professor Bhaer, tells her that she has to do better and write more from herself. Begrudgingly taking this advice, Jo weaves the story of herself and her sisters and their experience growing up in Civil War America.

Produced nationally and internationally, Little Women has been praised by critics for its ambition in adapting such a well-known story for the stage. This timeless, captivating story is brought to life on the Historic Owen Theatre stage in this glorious musical filled with personal discovery, heartache, hope and everlasting love. The original production starred the unparalleled Sutton Foster, who received Tony, Outer Critics Circle and Drama Desk nominations for her performance.

The BRAC Cast of Little Women – The Musical include: Lizzy Finnerty-Esmonde (Jo March),Kristen Ables (Marmee March),  Allie Lightfoot (Amy March), Bethany Stutzman (Beth March), Cat Blanchard (Meg March), Andrew Faggion (Laurie Lawrence), Connor Finnerty-Esmonde (Professor Bhaer), Carson Burkett (John Brooke), Nicole Sager (Aunt March/Mrs.Kirke) and Christopher Skillern (Mr. Lawrence).

BRAC Director Justin Ables

“For the last 150 years, readers around the world have enjoyed the famous words penned by Louisa May Alcott. Throughout our process, the cast and the artistic team dove into themes of the beauty of simplicity and finding ones truth. As artists, we continue to seek truth in all that we do just as Alcott did in her famous story of four sisters playing in an attic, for truth, is the essence of who we are at core of our being.

To my cast and artistic team, thank you for taking this journey of truth and identity with me. It’s been an honor and a joy to work with each of you. To our audience, as you experience the piece, I hope that you walk away from our production with a new hunger to find the truth in yourself.’
– Justin Ables, Director  

The production team includes: Karie Dykeman, Kim Hale (Producers), Justin Ables (Director), Josh Boulden (Assistant Director, Fight Choreographer), Nate Frank (Music Director), Audrey Noll (Choreographer), Teighlor Brewton (Stage Manager), Kyle Blanchard (Set Design), Anika Bryceson (Costume Design), McKenzie Marks (Wardrobe Head), Elizabeth Theune (Seamstress), Kristen Ables (Wig Design), Nicole Horton (Properties Design), Megan King (Properties Coordinator), Charis Boulden (Scene Dressing / Props), Sarah Briggs, Brandon Farrar, Christian Ross, Bethany Shaw (Scenic Dressing), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Cole Hill (Tech & Sound Technician), Lisa Murphy (Media Coordinator), Josh Silvy (Theatre Operations Manager), Lorie Best (Volunteer Coordinator), Marshall Meadows (Photography) and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director and Marketing).

 

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Announcing The Talented Cast Of Something Rotten!

  • dateApril 27, 2022
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council is proud to announce the cast of our upcoming summer musical at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson… Something Rotten!, directed by Jacob Estes.

Something Rotten! Cast List:

Nick Bottom – Joey Faggion / Henry Lange

Nigel Bottom – Ryan Hippie / Kade Gaunt

Shakespeare – Michael Phillips / Brian Miller

Nostradamus – Blake West / Benjamin Wegner

Beatrice Bottom – Juli Biagi

Beatrice Bottom – Grace Duncan 

Portia – Catherine Kennedy / Emily Hanner

Brother Jeremiah – TBA

Lord Clapham – Nathan Irwin

Shylock – Zeke Sidwell

Minstrel – Blake West / Benjamin Wegner

Robin – Aaron DeOrnellis

Peter Quince – Carter Hendrickson

Tom Snout – Dylan Whatley

Ensemble:
Brenna Bergeron
Aaron DeOrnellis
Kayleigh Dominish
Kylie Gaunt
Hallie Groff
Carter Hendrickson
Nathan Irwin
Ashley Rodgers
Megan Rodgers
Zeke Sidewell
Emma Spurling
Talya Tinoco
Delaney Whatley
Dylan Whatley

Producers Karie Dykeman and Kim Hale are excited to once again be working with Jacob and the talented production team for this outrageous crowd-pleasing musical. Caitlin Secrest is the Music Director and Kristen Dasto is the Choreographer.

Show Synopsis:
Set in the 1590s, brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom are desperate to write a hit play but are stuck in the shadow of that Renaissance rock star known as “The Bard.” When a local soothsayer foretells that the future of theatre involves singing, dancing and acting at the same time, Nick and Nigel set out to write the world’s very first musical. But amidst the scandalous excitement of opening night, the Bottom Brothers realize that reaching the top means being true to thine own self, and all that jazz. Something Rotten features large song and dance numbers, and a wacky cast of over-the-top characters, each given his or her own special moment in the show to shine. It’s become clear that “nothing’s as amazing as a musical,” so don’t miss your chance to be a part of this history-twisting tale on the BRAC stage!

Performance dates: Jul 28 (Thu – 7pm), Jul 29 (Fri – 7pm), Jul 30 (Sat – 7pm), Jul 31 (Sun – 2pm), Aug 4 (Thu- 7pm), Aug 5 (Fri – 7pm), Aug 6 (Sat – 8pm), Aug 7 (Sun – 2pm).

Advance reserve tickets for Something Rotten! are on sale at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255.

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Branson Convention Center New Artist Reception Friday April 29th

The Branson Regional Arts Council invites the public to attend a FREE Community Arts Event on Friday, April 29, 2022 from 6-8pm at the Branson Convention Center Art Gallery on the 2nd level concourse.

Join in celebration of 14 area artists, featuring all new works now on display at the gallery. Featured artists include: Meike Aton, Diana Bogardus, Audrey Bottrell-Parks, Lana Braden, Lee Copen, Jessica Gambino, Dee Giles, Brent Holland, Lynnette Horn, Jenny Mayor, Gayle Page, Gary Parks, Terena Terry and Norma Wiedmeyer.

This will be an evening of incredible artistry, as we introduce several new artists joining the Art Gallery Exhibition. 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.

[fac_icon icon=”angle-right”] All displayed works of art in this exhibition will be available for purchase by donation at the event or online at BransonArtShop.com.

A cash-bar for refreshments will be available as well.

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

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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Autism Acceptance Month Features Pratt The Movie

In honor of April’s Autism Acceptance Month, the Branson Regional Arts Council is proud to present a public showing of a very special digital film entitled, “Pratt The Movie.”

This free community event is on Sunday, April 24, 2022 at 2pm at the Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S. Commercial St. in downtown Branson.

The movie was written, produced and directed by an exceptionally talented young man, Dylan Pratt, a twenty-six year old resident of Branson.  Dylan is a long-time Arts Council volunteer and has performed in several BRAC musicals and events at the Historic Owen Theatre including Anything Goes, Miracle On 34th Street, Beauty & The Beast, Seven Brides For Seven Brothers, The Wizard Of Oz, The Odd Couple, and The Sound Of Music.  In the movie, he documents his journey from being diagnosed, at the age of two, with both Tourette’s Syndrome and high functioning Autism, to his recent desires to fulfill his dream of becoming a full-time actor.

Dylan didn’t realize he had a disability until the age of 15, when he was put in psychiatric care for the many struggles and difficulties he was having throughout his life. After receiving treatment for his condition, and through the support of a Christian school and group home, he was able to turn around his problems and is now well on his way to making his dreams come true.

In 2018, the Branson Regional Arts Council hosted a premiere public showing of Dylan’s film at the Historic Owen Theatre. At that time our Board of Directors had already begun the process of developing a “Special Abilities” educational program to provide opportunities in the arts for young people in our community such as Dylan. The pandemic of 2020-2021 put the brakes on our ability to implement this new program, but we are now at a point where we can once again move forward with those plans. As April is Autism Acceptance and Awareness Month, we are excited to once again feature Dylan through this showing of his newly edited and updated film.
– Jim Barber, BRAC Executive Director

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. According to the Centers for Disease Control, autism affects an estimated 1 in 44 children in the United States today.

There is not one autism but many subtypes, most influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Because autism is a spectrum disorder, each person with autism has a distinct set of strengths and challenges. The ways in which people with autism learn, think and problem-solve can range from highly skilled to severely challenged. Some people with ASD may require significant support in their daily lives, while others may need less support and, in some cases, live entirely independently.

“Today and every day, we honor autistic people and celebrate the meaningful and measureless ways they contribute to our Nation.  We applaud the millions of educators, advocates, family members, caregivers, and others who support them.  As we continue to build a better America, we reaffirm our promise to provide Americans with autism the support they need to live independently, fully participate in their communities, and lead fulfilling lives of dignity and respect.”

– President Joseph R. Biden Jr – A Proclamation on World Autism Awareness Day 4-01-2022

Dylan wants to share his true, life story with anyone who would be interested in attending, and he will be on hand to personally welcome the audience and answer questions.

As this is a free event, no tickets are necessary to attend. Any donations will support the BRAC “Special Abilities” program.

Audience members are encouraged at arrive approximately 1:30pm for the 2:00pm showtime.  The movie is approximately 80 minutes in length, and features not only Dylan Pratt, but also Branson area entertainers Carrie Orlando, Dennis Pratt, Bobby Allynn, Jim Barber and Terry Wayne Sanders.

 

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