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Disney’s Finding Nemo JR Entertains And Inspires Audiences In Branson

  • dateNovember 9, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council proudly presents it’s Winter Youth Theatre Production of Disney’s Finding Nemo JR, a musical adaptation of Disney-Pixar’s popular animated film Finding Nemo. This junior version of the musical is specifically designed for younger performers and audiences of all ages.

Rated G for Great Family Fun!

Performances at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson run November 30th through December 10, 2023. Showtimes are Thursday, Friday, Saturday (7pm) and Saturday, Sunday (2pm). Advance ticket reservations are highly recommended and can be purchased online at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Box Office at 417-336-4255. Tickets are $20 (Adults 18+) and $12 (Youth 4-17). Lap children under 4 are free.

Co-Directed by Kyle and Kellsey Bradley, the story closely follows the plot of the original movie, taking the audience on an underwater adventure with Marlin, a clownfish, and his forgetful friend Dory as they search for Marlin’s son, Nemo, who has been captured by a diver and placed in a fish tank. The musical includes many other beloved characters from the film, including Crush the Sea Turtle and Bruce the Shark, and features memorable songs such as “Just Keep Swimming,” “Fish Are Friends Not Food,” and “Go With the Flow.”

Finding Nemo JR. offers an opportunity for young area actors and actresses to showcase their talents while delivering important themes of family, friendship, and perseverance in a highly entertaining way!

Cast members of Finding Nemo JR include: Josslynn Silvy / Zoey Viola (Nemo), Ben Stevens (Marlin), Emma Spurling (Dory), Lundyn Mitchell (Professor Ray), Katie Linn (Scuba Mask Dancer), Josh Reed (Bruce), Jack Brown (Chum), Brooklyn Giannotti (Anchor), Indy Griffith (Bubbles), Hallie Groff (Bloat), Alivia Prince (Gurgle), Jillian Reed (Peach), Caleb Spurling (Gill), Ryan Merrifield (Nigel), Jael Frost (Crush), Alton Prince (Squirt), Scarlett McManus (Kai), Brenna Prince (Breeze), Paisley Buttram (Pearl), Emma Chandler (Sheldon), Greyson Stevens (Tad), Maggie Marks (Angelfish), Grady Stevens (Damselfish), Promise Brunson (Pearl’s Parent), Emma Callaway (Sheldon’s Parent), Evan Carr (Tad’s Parent), Rylin Chick, Giovanni Verastegui, Gracie Floer (Moonfish), Kate Sutherland, Luke Johnson, Kynadee Carter, Reagan Hoagland, Royal Steelman, Gwendolyn Tsahiridis, Scout McManus, Caleb Linn, Katy Patton, Anabella Meyer, ToriAnne Lyons, Lexi Carr, Ezra Williams, Xia McElwee and Layla Gabriel (Young Sea Chorus).

Supporting the BRAC Youth Theatre Education Programs and this production of Disney’s Finding Nemo JR is important for several reasons.

Nurturing Creativity: BRAC’s Youth theatre programs provide a platform for young residents to explore their creativity, develop their artistic talents, and express themselves through acting, singing, and dancing. It encourages a love for the arts and helps participants discover their potential.

Building Confidence: Involvement in theatre, especially for youth, can boost self-confidence. It teaches public speaking, teamwork, and the ability to perform in front of an audience, which are valuable life skills.

Fostering Inclusivity: Theatre promotes diversity and inclusivity, allowing participants of various backgrounds and abilities to come together and collaborate. It’s an opportunity to celebrate differences and work towards a common goal.

Community Engagement: BRAC’s youth theatre productions involve the local community, from parents and volunteers to audiences. This strengthens our community bonds and supports a sense of togetherness.

Educational Value: Theatre can be an educational tool, teaching history, culture, and various subjects through storytelling. Finding Nemo JR can teach environmental awareness and the importance of protecting marine life.

Entertainment: Youth theatre productions like Finding Nemo JR offer enjoyable and family-friendly entertainment. They give families the chance to share in the joy of a live performance in the intimate setting of the Historic Owen Theatre.

Future Talent Development: Many successful actors, directors, and artists started their careers in youth theatre. Supporting these endeavors contributes to the development of future talent in the entertainment industry.

Supporting youth theatre and Branson Regional Arts Council productions like Finding Nemo JR has a positive impact on the personal growth of young individuals, our community, and the arts as a whole. It’s a valuable investment in creativity, education, and cultural enrichment.

Swim on over to the Historic Owen Theatre and reserve your seats now, for this fun musical holiday production!

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Public Invited To Crescendo Youth Troupe Winter Showcase

  • dateOctober 29, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
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The public is invited to enjoy a free Holiday Community Concert at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

The Branson Regional Arts Council’s Crescendo Youth Troupe presents their 2023 Winter Showcase on Friday, November 17th (7pm) and Saturday, November 18th (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 Winter Showcase 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: Marshall Benton, Lee Brown, Lexi Carr, Emma Chandler, Rilyn Chick, Mia Hatten, Xia McElwee, Katy Patton, Alton Prince, Seth Roland, Danielle Stanley and Kaj Swanson.

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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Kim Hale Honored As Branson Art Citizen Of The Year 2023

  • dateOctober 29, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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At various times throughout it’s 58 year history, the Branson Regional Arts Council selects an individual to receive the prestigious “Art Citizen of the Year” award. The recipients are selected by the BRAC Board of Directors due to the significant contributions they have made to the field of arts and culture in our area.

CLICK Photo for High Resolution Version of Kim Hale & Jim Barber by Marshall Meadows

This year, BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber was thrilled to present the award to Kim Hale at the first annual Arts Gala at the Branson Convention Center on October 13, 2023. Kim has been involved heavily in the Arts Council for over ten years, including several years as the Board President. Kim has been working as a physical therapist at Mercy Branson Therapy Services for over 20 years and currently is the Therapy Manager for Mercy Branson Therapy Services. She is an orthopedic physical therapist with specialty in Dance and Performing Arts Medicine providing rehabilitation to dancers and performing artists working professionally in Branson. She has a Masters Degree in Physical Therapy and a Bachelor of Arts in Human Biology. She also served on the board of Tri-Lakes Community Theatre (TLC ) as Vice-President before it was incorporated into the Branson Regional Arts Council.

Kim has co-produced over 35 musicals and plays over the past 10 years and has enjoyed the collaboration of BRAC with the community. She organized and collaborated with local school administrators for the induction Thespian Society chapters and serves as an outreach resource for local schools and the Arts community. She is passionate about continuing to bring awareness to the importance of arts education to the youth in the Tri-Lakes area.

“The Arts foster creativity and creative thinking and intellectual curiosity and BRAC offers a place in the community where the youth and adults can grow as an Arts community.” – Kim Hale

Though Kim recently stepped away from the Board of Directors after completing her 5th 2-year term, she remains as active as ever in her volunteer role of Education Director for BRAC’s Youth Theatre Arts program.  Arts and Culture are essential components of human society, contributing to our intellectual, emotional, and social well being, while also playing a vital role in the preservation of our collective heritage advancement of society.

“We recognize Kim for her excellence in youth arts education, and celebrate her with this award as a way to acknowledge her value and impact on the lives of so many young people in our area communities.” – Jim Barber, BRAC Executive Director

The Art Citizen of the Year award has been presented to several deserving individuals, though not necessarily every year. The following is a running list to date of past recipients:

  • 1997 – Bill Godsey
  • 1998 – John & Shirley Mizell
  • 2000 – Viola Hartman
  • 2001 – Jack & Sherry Herschend, Pete & JoDee Herschend
  • 2002 – Steve Wehr
  • 2003 – Andy & Debbie Williams
  • 2006 – Americanna Magness
  • 2007 – Marilyn Droke & Deb Corbin
  • 2009 – Kristin Weingertner & Mary Elizabeth Bradley
  • 2010 – Greg Hoffman
  • 2011 – Bob & Ruth Abbott
  • 2012 – Shanda Watts-Stringer, Bucky & AJ Heard
  • 2013 – Robert & Barbara Cohn
  • 2016 – Marc Mulherin & the Branson Convention Center
  • 2017 – Bonnie Herrmann (past Arts Council Executive Director)
  • 2023 – Kim Hale

A very special thank you to all of the past winners of this award, as well as to all of our generous donors, patrons, actors, directors, technical crew, students and hard working volunteers for helping us bring the arts to life in the Branson region! 

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The Addams Family is a Graveyard Smash – Final Weekend at Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateOctober 24, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view3850 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council’s production of The Addams Family – A New Musical is definitely a smash hit production with audiences who attended the first week of shows. Standing ovations and rave reviews with each and every performance. With only four shows left on Thursday Oct 26th, Friday Oct 27th, Saturday, Oct 28th (7pm), and Sunday Oct 29th (2pm), this is a must see musical that the entire family will enjoy!

Tickets are $20 (Adults 18+) and $12 (Youth 4-17) and can be purchased online at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Historic Owen Theatre Box Office at 417-336-4255.

👍…one of the Best Shows ever!!! Everyone had a fun part. I say “Do Not Miss” this hilarious, well played show!! One more thing…”Lurch” was fantastic!!! Amazed at how he was able to not smile AND to be able to walk in his shoes with 3” or higher heels!! – Judy Rockenback

This musical is Rated PG-13. Parental guidance is suggested due to adult innuendo, profanity, and scenes containing comical torture.

Fantastic Show!! We went on the 21st and loved it!! Very fun, campy, engaging show. My family and I enjoyed it all. – Bethanee Bartrand

This award winning stage production features an original story and it’s every father’s nightmare: Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family– a man her parents have never met. And if that wasn’t upsetting enough, Wednesday confides in her father and begs him not to tell her mother. Now, Gomez Addams must do something he’s never done before– keep a secret from his beloved wife, Morticia. Everything will change for the whole family on the fateful night they host a dinner for Wednesday’s “normal” boyfriend and his parents.

We LOVED IT!!!!! So, so brilliant! – Brandei Harris-Clifton

Great show…even my 97 year old father thought the show was great! – Kathy Broser

In the kooky, upside-down world of the Addams Family, to be sad is to be happy, to feel pain is to feel joy, and death and suffering are the stuff of their dreams. Nonetheless, this quirky family still has to deal with many of the same challenges faced by any other family.

We truly enjoyed this show! The cast did an amazing job. – Misty Stroud

The production is directed and choreographed by Jacob Deck, along with his assistant directors Leslie Austin and Kyle Blanchard. The production team includes: Karie Dykeman, Kristine Brown and Kim Hale (Producers), Julie Brinkman (Music Director), Dimitri Tsahiridis (Stage Manager), Cyrsten Rainey (Assistant Stage Manager/Props Manager), Kyle Blanchard (Technical Director and Set Design), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Designer), Myles Stevens (Audio Technician), Lacey Kellett (Social Media), Josh Silvy (Theatre Inventory), Marshall Meadows (Photography), and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director / Marketing and Design).

Show was fabulous!!! – Denise Snider-Wilson

The cast of The Addams Family include: Kyle Blanchard (Gomez), Michelle Baker (Morticia), Kyle Denton (Uncle Fester), Jennifer Buttell (Grandma), Avery Tillette (Wednesday), Hope Menard (Puglsey), Brenna Prince (Puglsey), Joshua McGeough (Lurch), Joey Blackwood (Lucas), Kyle Bradley (Mal), Kellsey Bradley (Alice), Charis Boulden, Somer Dean, Emily Hanner, Madison Hatfield, Jason Prince, Melinda Prince and Michael Sager (Ancestors).

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The Addams Family Musical Now On Stage In Downtown Branson

  • dateOctober 16, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view3686 Views

They’re creepy and they’re kooky, Mysterious and spooky, They’re all together ooky, The Addams Family! (snap snap)

The Branson Regional Arts Council is thrilled to present The Addams Family, a comical new musical that embraces the wackiness in every family!

Live stage shows are running now through October 29, 2023. Showtimes are 7pm (Thursday, Friday, Saturday) and 2pm (Sunday). Tickets are $20 (Adults 18+) and $12 (Youth 4-17) and can be purchased online at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Historic Owen Theatre Box Office at 417-336-4255.

This musical is Rated PG-13. Parental guidance is suggested due to adult innuendo, profanity, and scenes containing comical torture.

This award winning stage production features an original story and it’s every father’s nightmare: Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family– a man her parents have never met. And if that wasn’t upsetting enough, Wednesday confides in her father and begs him not to tell her mother. Now, Gomez Addams must do something he’s never done before– keep a secret from his beloved wife, Morticia. Everything will change for the whole family on the fateful night they host a dinner for Wednesday’s “normal” boyfriend and his parents.

In the kooky, upside-down world of the Addams Family, to be sad is to be happy, to feel pain is to feel joy, and death and suffering are the stuff of their dreams. Nonetheless, this quirky family still has to deal with many of the same challenges faced by any other family.

The production is directed and choreographed by Jacob Deck, along with his assistant directors Leslie Austin and Kyle Blanchard. The production team includes: Karie Dykeman, Kristine Brown and Kim Hale (Producers), Julie Brinkman (Music Director), Dimitri Tsahiridis (Stage Manager), Cyrsten Rainey (Assistant Stage Manager/Props Manager), Kyle Blanchard (Technical Director and Set Design), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Designer), Myles Stevens (Audio Technician), Lacey Kellett (Social Media), Josh Silvy (Theatre Inventory), Marshall Meadows (Photography), and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director / Marketing and Design).

The cast of The Addams Family include: Kyle Blanchard (Gomez), Michelle Baker (Morticia), Kyle Denton (Uncle Fester), Jennifer Buttell (Grandma), Avery Tillette (Wednesday), Hope Menard (Puglsey), Brenna Prince (Puglsey), Joshua McGeough (Lurch), Joey Blackwood (Lucas), Kyle Bradley (Mal), Kellsey Bradley (Alice), Charis Boulden, Somer Dean, Emily Hanner, Madison Hatfield, Jason Prince, Melinda Prince and Michael Sager (Ancestors).

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Auditions for BRAC’s Winter Youth Production of Finding Nemo JR Announced

  • dateAugust 30, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view2936 Views

Auditions for the Branson Regional Arts Council’s production of Disney’s Finding Nemo JR. will be held Sunday, September 10, 2023 at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson beginning at 4:45pm.

We are looking for cast members ages 8 to 18!

Please plan to be in attendance for the duration of the dance call audition 4:45-5:45pm. For the dance audition please come dressed accordingly. You may bring clothes to change into for your vocal audition. Wear/bring appropriate clothing and footwear you are comfortable moving in.

Vocal auditions will take place following the dance call. Auditionees will be seen in age order (beginning with younger performers). Performers will be released after they have sung. Prepare a 60 second cut of a musical theatre or Disney song that shows off your range and acting skills. An accompanist will NOT be provided. Please bring an MP3 or Youtube karaoke track. Please NO ACAPELLA auditions.

You must attend the dance call AND stay for an individual vocal audition.

Disney’s Finding Nemo JR. is a 60-minute musical adaptation of the beloved 2003 Pixar movie Finding Nemo, with new music by award-winning songwriting team Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez. Marlin, an anxious and over-protective clownfish, lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his kid Nemo, who longs to explore the world beyond their anemone home. But when Nemo is captured and taken to Sydney, Marlin faces his fears and sets off on an epic adventure across the ocean. With the help of lovable characters such as optimistic Dory, laid-back sea turtle Crush, and the supportive Tank Gang, Marlin and Nemo both overcome challenges on their journey to find each other and themselves.

Featuring memorable songs such as “Just Keep Swimming,” “Fish Are Friends Not Food,” and “Go With the Flow,” Finding Nemo JR. brings a vibrant underwater world to life on stage in a story full of family, friendship, and adventure.

  • Directors: Kyle & Kellsey Bradley
  • Musical Director: Julie Brinkman

Callbacks will be Tuesday, September 12th – 6:00-8:30pm (You will be notified if you are needed at the callback audition)

The cast list will be posted Wednesday, September 13th on Branson Regional Arts Council social media and you will be contacted via email.

There will be a mandatory parent meeting Thursday September 14th, 5:15-5:45pm.

(10) public performances will occur on Nov 30th, Dec 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 9 & 10.
Thursdays and Fridays (7pm), Saturdays (2pm & 7pm), and Sundays (2pm).
Performers must be available for ALL performance dates.

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

Please review the proposed rehearsal schedule and make known conflicts with any and all rehearsals and tech/set days on your audition form.

Online Rehearsal Schedule: Click Here For The Current Finding Nemo JR Rehearsal Schedule

The following are mandatory dates that you can NOT have a conflict with:

  • 11/20 – Tech/Dress Rehearsal
  • 11/21 – Tech/Dress Rehearsal
  • 11/26 – Dress Rehearsal
  • 11/27 – Dress Rehearsal
  • 11/28 – Dress Rehearsal
  • 11/29 – Final Dress Rehearsal
  • 11/30 – Performance
  • 12/1 – Performance
  • 12/2 – Performance
  • 12/3 – Performance
  • 12/7 – Performance
  • 12/8 – Performance
  • 12/9 – Performance
  • 12/10 – Performance

 

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Stage Adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream Presented At Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateAugust 23, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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  • view4540 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council’s 2023 Theatre Season continues with William Shakespeare’s classic play, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, as adapted for the stage by Josh Boulden.

Four public performances are scheduled at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson on Thursday, September 7th (7pm), Sunday, September 10th (2pm), Thursday, September 14th (7pm), and Sunday, September 17th (2pm).

Advance Reserved Tickets are recommended and available online at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Historic Owen Theatre Box Office at 417-336-4255. $20 Adults (18+), $12 Youth (4-17).

Attention Area Schools: A special matinee performance is being  planned for Monday, September 11th  at 11:00am for area public, private and home schools to attend. This will include an educational aspect where the students will have an opportunity to learn more about Shakespeare and this production. Interested teachers or education leaders should contact BRAC for further information at edu@bransonarts.org or 417-336-4255.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a comedy written by William Shakespeare in about 1595 or 1596. The BRAC production, as adapted by Josh Boulden, is set in Athens, and consists of several subplots that revolve around the marriage of Theseus and Hippolyta. One subplot involves a conflict among four Athenian lovers. Another follows a group of six amateur actors rehearsing the play which they are to perform before the wedding. Both groups find themselves in a forest inhabited by fairies who manipulate the humans and are engaged in their own domestic intrigue. The play is one of Shakespeare’s most popular and is widely performed.

The production is under the direction of Josh Boulden, and cast members include: Megan King (Hermia), Jon Michael Thompson (Lysander), Josie Holman (Helena), Seth Coker (Demetrius), Cody Croxford (Oberon/Theseus), Olyvia Shaw (Titania/Hippolyta), Sara Boehm (Robin Goodfellow/Philostrate), Mariah K. Garrett (Nick Bottom),  Jackie Zliczewski (Peter Quince), Brandon Farrar (Francis Flute/Egeus), Natalie Hensarling (Tom Snout), Kahrie Stegman (Snug), and CJ McElhiney (Robin Starveling).

Josh Boulden – Director

“This specific adaptation will tell the classic story of crossed lovers, magical fairies, and fantastical transformation we’ve grown to love. But this version will bring the play to life utilizing the powers of not only the text, but of music, movement, and mask. I wanted to tell this story with minimal costumes, props, and sets to bring greater attention to the actors themselves as they double roles, play instruments, and translate the story through movement. It is the desire of the cast and crew for the audience to understand the poetic text Shakespeare penned so long ago. Combining a tribute to classical traveling theatre with modern theatrical devices every element of this production has been designed to whimsically take the audience on a journey of magical romance and comical mayhem.” – Josh Boulden – Director

Josh Boulden is a professional actor, acting coach, and fight choreographer from Annapolis, MD. He trained at the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Academy at The George Washington University in D.C. where he spent an intense year immersed in classical acting and Shakespeare’s text. He’s been in the theatre industry for over 10 years, has performed in a dozen works of Shakespeare, and is blessed to be in his seventh 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.

The production crew for A Midsummer Night’s Dream include: Josh Boulden (Director), Ryan J. Hippe (Ass. Director and Media Producer), RosAlie Burr (Production Stage Manager), Daylin Paulson (Lighting Designer/Ass. Stage Manager),  Madi Trammell (Music Director and Composer), Jonathan Crum (Costume Designer), Tori Hurley (Ass. Costume Designer), Audrey Noll (Choreographer), Josiah Mayer (Ass. Choreographer), Forrest Wilson (Poster Design) and Ian Lalhum (Set Engineer).

The band of musicians include: Elisha D. Qalo (Guitar), Madi Trammell (Clarinet & Supporting winds/strings), Tori Hurley and  Jon Michael Thompson (Drums), Kahrie Stegman (Flute & Lead Winds), Natalie Hensarling (Supporting Winds).

Behind the scenes of the BRAC production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream!

 

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Staccato Performance Troupe Auditions For 2023-2024 Season Scheduled

  • dateAugust 8, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view3627 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council is holding auditions for new students to participate in the 2023-2024 Staccato Performance Troupe on Saturday, August 19, 2023 at 9am. Auditions will be held at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson. No pre-registration required, just show up prepared to audition!

We are looking for students between the ages of 13-18 who have a passion for performing and building their skills.

BRAC’s Staccato Audition Info:

  • Saturday, August 19, 2023, 9 am – 12 pm (be prepared to stay the entire time)
  • Historic Owen Theatre (205 S Commercial St, Branson, MO 65616)
  • Class Schedule: Saturdays 9:00am-12:00pm (rehearsal times may be adjusted to work best with the troupe)
  • 1st Semester Dates: Saturdays, Sept 26 – November 11, 2023. 2nd Semester Dates: Saturdays, Jan 6 – March 30, 2024

Tuition & Fees (if selected):

$25.00 Registration Fee (Covers both Semesters)

[fac_icon icon=”star”] BIG NEWS: BRAC will provide a $425.00 tuition scholarship TO ALL STUDENTS this year! We want every interested student to be able to participate!

Costume and/or Dance Shoes are Required at cost to student. 

Our Staccato Performance Troupe is an ADVANCED MUSICAL GROUP that combines a challenging music repertoire with entertaining choreography, ending with a MUSICAL THEATRE PRODUCTION!

Under the direction of Jacob Estes, students will focus on elevating their “triple threat” skills while studying:

  • ADVANCED MUSIC THEORY
  • VOCAL & PHYSICAL WARM UPS
  • MUSICAL THEATRE VOCAL TECHNIQUES (belting, mixing, telling a story)
  • STAGE ETIQUETTE
  • HIP HOP – JAZZ – MUSICAL THEATRE DANCE

Staccato Audition Information:

Please have two contrasting songs, one minute in length, each in the style of a musical theatre / pop song. (You will  most likely only be asked to sing one, but have two just in case we need to hear more).

  • Submission songs must be no longer than 60 seconds.
  • Please, NO a cappella singing
  • Bring an MP3 instrument track (on Bluetooth phone or ipad type device, we provide speaker)
  • Please be prepared to dance (arrive in dance-wear for the entirety of the audition)

  We prefer you audition in person, but if you absolutely cannot make it, video submissions or other questions can be sent to edu@bransonarts.org no later than August 19, 2023.  The easiest way to submit your video auditions is to upload it to YouTube, set the video to unlisted, then email the link to BRAC.

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Fall Semester for Crescendo Youth Performance Troupe Announced

  • dateAugust 8, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view3402 Views

Calling All Kids Ages 7-12!!! Come audition to be a part of Crescendo /krəˈSHenˌdō/!

The Branson Regional Arts Council is gearing up for the return of an exciting educational youth performance troupe featuring children who love to sing, dance and act!

BRAC’s Crescendo Audition Info:

  • AUDITION: Monday, August 14, 2023 from 4:30pm – 6:00pm
  • Historic Owen Theatre (205 S Commercial St, Branson, MO 65616)
  • Class Schedule: Mondays, 4:30pm – 6:00pm
  • Class Dates: August 21 – November 13, 2023

     

    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 17-18, 2023.

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

    Students will have fun developing their performance skills in the areas of voice 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 Jacob Deck and Julie Brinkman.

    Additional Audition Notes:

    Those auditioning will be asked to sing a cut from a song of their choice, no longer than a minute. Karaoke or mp3 track preferred, but a cappella is also welcome.
    There will also be a short movement call at the end of the singing portion of the audition. Everyone is encouraged to wear clothes that they can move in. Jazz shoes or tennis shoes preferred.

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

    • Aug 21, 28
    • Sept 11, 18, 25 (no class on Labor Day)
    • Oct 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
    • Nov 6, 13
    • Public Showcase Performances – Nov 17, 2023 (7pm), Nov 18, 2023 (2pm)

    Tuition & Fees (if selected):

    • $150 Registration Fee* (covers entire semester class schedule).  *Scholarships available to qualified candidates

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] We prefer you audition in person, but if you absolutely cannot make it, video submissions or other questions can be sent to edu@bransonarts.org no later than January 25, 2023.  The easiest way to submit your video auditions is to upload it to YouTube, set the video to unlisted, then email the link to BRAC.

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    Final Week To Laffalot With Spamalot – Historic Owen Theatre

    • dateAugust 3, 2023
    • userBranson Regional Arts Council
    • commentNo Comments
    • view2141 Views

    RATED PG13 | Mature and Risqué Content (May not be appropriate for younger audiences)

    The Branson Regional Arts Council presents a comedy musical, lovingly ripped off from the classic film comedy Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Monty Python’s Spamalot retells the legend of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, and features a bevy of beautiful show girls, not to mention cows, killer rabbits, and French people.

    The 2005 Broadway production won three Tony® Awards, including Best Musical, and was followed by two successful West End runs. The outrageous, uproarious, and gloriously entertaining story of King Arthur and the Lady of the Lake will delight audiences as they search for the Holy Grail and “[fac_icon icon=”music”] always look on the bright side of life. [fac_icon icon=”music”]”

    Public performances at the Historic Owen Theatre run July 27 – August 6, 2023 with 7pm showtimes on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday (no matinee).

    Advance Reserved Tickets on Sale at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Box Office at 417-336-4255.
    – Ticket prices are $20.00 (Adults 18+) and $12.00 (under 18)

    Here’s just one of our many rave reviews for this production…

    “Just wanted to share with you how much we enjoyed Spamalot on the opening night! What a marvelous performance by one and all. I met a woman during intermission who said she had buried her mother that day and really needed the show. Then she happened to be the audience member picked to go up on stage. She thoroughly enjoyed herself and made the show doubly memorable for her. I told several cast member including King Arthur the story and they immediately went over to her to express their condolences and hug her as we were leaving. What a great cast! We love all the shows but this was our very favorite. Our daughters were huge Monty Python fans when they were 10 and 12 so we took them to Minneapolis to see Spamalot as that was the only place in the midwest where we could find it. Thanks for bringing it to Branson!” – Debbie Redford and Jae Jones

    Spamalot is under the direction of Jacob Estes, who has directed many BRAC productions including Something Rotten!, The Marvelous Wonderettes, A Christmas Carol – The Musical, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Legally Blonde – The Musical and many others.

    Music Director Caitlyn Secrest, Choreographer Kristen Dasto, and Assistant Director Dimitri Tsahiridis round out the talented directorial team!

    Spamalot features a hardworking, talented cast of eighteen actors, most of whom play multiple roles to fill out this high-energy musical.

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Adam Henry (King Arthur)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Michael Phillips (Sir Robin / Mother Galahad / French Taunter / Brother Maynard / Lancelot Dancer / Knight tapper)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Chase Sumner (Sir Lancelot / Tim the Enchanter)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Andrew McCoy (Patsy / Finland Mayor / Guard 2)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Andrew Castleman (Sir Galahad / Prince Herbert’s Father / Knight of Ni / Black Knight / Finland Dancer / Lancelot Dancer / All Alone Knight)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Jose Delatore (Sir Bedevere / Concorde (Lancelot horse) / Kevin / Monk in beginning / Herbert’s Guard 2 / Lancelot Dancer / All Alone Knight)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Juli Biagi (The Lady of the Lake)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Jake Deck (Prince Herbert / Historian / Not Dead Fred / Dancing Guard / Singing Minstrel)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Oscar Gillam (Sir Not Appearing in Show / Dancing Monk / Featured Monk / French Guard / Minstrel / Finland dancer / Dead Body / Tap Dancing Camelot Knight / Lancelot Dancer / All alone Knight / Finale Ensemble)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Carter Hendrickson (Sir Bors / French Guard / Minstrel / Finland dancer / Monk / Dead Body / Tap Dancing Camelot Knight / Herbert’s Guard 1 / Lancelot Dancer / All Alone Knight / Finale Ensemble)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Briton Szydloski (One of Robins Minstrels / Finland dancer / Monk in Beginning / man in rags / Tap Dancing Camelot Knight / Lancelot Dancer / All Alone Knight / Rabbit Puppeteer / Finale Ensemble)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Morgan Sweeney-Legore (One of Robins Minstrels, Lancelot Dancer / Knight of Ni / Dead body / Tap Dancing Camelot Knight)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Bridget Mahoney (Woman 1- Finland dancer / Dead Body / Laker Girl / Camelot Showgirl / Can Can Dancer / Knights of Ni / Lovely Lady, Dancer in Succeed on Broadway / Finale Ensemble)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Emily Hanner (Woman 2- Finland dancer / Dead Body / Laker Girl / Camelot Showgirl / Knights of Ni / Dancer in Succeed on Broadway / Finale Ensemble)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Adele Hebert (Woman 3- Finland dancer / Dead Body / Laker Girl / Camelot Showgirl / Knights of Ni / Can Can Dancer / Dancer in Succeed  on Broadway / Finale Ensemble)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Sierra Anastasia (Woman 4- Finland dancer / Laker Girl / Camelot Show Girl / Knights of Ni / Can Can Dancer / Dancer in Succeed on Broadway / Finale Ensemble)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Emma Spurling (Woman 5- Finland dancer / Laker Girl / Dancer in Succeed on Broadway / Camelot Cocktail Maid / Knights of Ni / Can Can Dancer: Finale Ensemble)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Megan Bone (Woman 6- Finland dancer / Laker Girl / Camelot Cocktail Maid / Knights of Ni / Dancer in Succeed on Broadway / Finale Ensemble)

     

     

    The production team for Spamalot include: Karie Dykeman, Kim Hale, Kristine Brown (Producers), Jacob Estes (Director), Dimitri Tsaharidis (Assistant Director), Caitlin Secrest (Music Director), Kristen Dasto (Choreographer), Myles Stevens (Audio Technician), Cyrsten Rainey (Audio Assistant), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Designer), Bee Rice (Lighting Assistant), Emily Rivere (Spotlight), Lexi Keaton (Spotlight), Josh Silvy (Theatre Inventory), Lorie Best (Volunteer Coordinator), Kyle Blanchard (Set Design & Construction), Marshall Meadows (Photographer) and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director, Marketing & Design).

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    Monty Python’s Spamalot Will Make You Laffalot At Historic Owen Theatre

    • dateJuly 20, 2023
    • userBranson Regional Arts Council
    • commentNo Comments
    • view12273 Views

    RATED PG13 | Mature and Risqué Content (May not be appropriate for younger audiences. Please read reviews below.)

    The Branson Regional Arts Council presents a comedy musical, lovingly ripped off from the classic film comedy Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Monty Python’s Spamalot retells the legend of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, and features a bevy of beautiful show girls, not to mention cows, killer rabbits, and French people.

    The 2005 Broadway production won three Tony® Awards, including Best Musical, and was followed by two successful West End runs. The outrageous, uproarious, and gloriously entertaining story of King Arthur and the Lady of the Lake will delight audiences as they search for the Holy Grail and “[fac_icon icon=”music”] always look on the bright side of life. [fac_icon icon=”music”]”

    Public performances at the Historic Owen Theatre run July 27 – August 6, 2023 with 7pm showtimes on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday (no matinee).

    Advance Reserved Tickets on Sale at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Box Office at 417-336-4255.
    – Ticket prices are $20.00 (Adults 18+) and $12.00 (under 18)

    REVIEW: Monty Python’s Spamalot bears the warning “irreverent adult content”. Here’s the good news: the irreverence is based on equality: the ridicule reaches out to all people and institutions on an equal basis, so no one can take particular offense. The show makes fun of Royals, the English, the Finns, the French, Gays and Jews, and yes; there is a poke at Christians, too. It takes shots at ancient legends, traditions, religion, Las Vegas and Broadway. There is no respect shown for anything or anyone, and I have never heard so much laughter in a theatre!
    – Mary Anderson – EntertainThisThought.com

    The musical is under the direction of Jacob Estes, who has directed many BRAC productions including Something Rotten!, The Marvelous Wonderettes, A Christmas Carol – The Musical, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Legally Blonde – The Musical and many others.

    REVIEW: If you’re a fan of Monty Python you will definitely want to see Spamalot. If you want to share your enjoyment of Monty Python with your kids, well – if they’re younger than 13 you may want to start somewhere else. There is some risqué content that isn’t appropriate for younger audiences.
    – John Kubalak – EclecticDad.com

    Spamalot features a hardworking, talented cast of eighteen actors, most of whom play multiple roles to fill out this high-energy musical.

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Adam Henry (King Arthur)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Michael Phillips (Sir Robin / Mother Galahad / French Taunter / Brother Maynard / Lancelot Dancer / Knight tapper)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Chase Sumner (Sir Lancelot / Tim the Enchanter)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Andrew McCoy (Patsy / Finland Mayor / Guard 2)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Andrew Castleman (Sir Galahad / Prince Herbert’s Father / Knight of Ni / Black Knight / Finland Dancer / Lancelot Dancer / All Alone Knight)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Jose Delatore (Sir Bedevere / Concorde (Lancelot horse) / Kevin / Monk in beginning / Herbert’s Guard 2 / Lancelot Dancer / All Alone Knight)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Juli Biagi (The Lady of the Lake)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Jake Deck (Prince Herbert / Historian / Not Dead Fred / Dancing Guard / Singing Minstrel)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Oscar Gillam (Sir Not Appearing in Show / Dancing Monk / Featured Monk / French Guard / Minstrel / Finland dancer / Dead Body / Tap Dancing Camelot Knight / Lancelot Dancer / All alone Knight / Finale Ensemble)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Carter Hendrickson (Sir Bors / French Guard / Minstrel / Finland dancer / Monk / Dead Body / Tap Dancing Camelot Knight / Herbert’s Guard 1 / Lancelot Dancer / All Alone Knight / Finale Ensemble)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Briton Szydloski (One of Robins Minstrels / Finland dancer / Monk in Beginning / man in rags / Tap Dancing Camelot Knight / Lancelot Dancer / All Alone Knight / Rabbit Puppeteer / Finale Ensemble)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Morgan Sweeney-Legore (One of Robins Minstrels, Lancelot Dancer / Knight of Ni / Dead body / Tap Dancing Camelot Knight)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Bridget Mahoney (Woman 1- Finland dancer / Dead Body / Laker Girl / Camelot Showgirl / Can Can Dancer / Knights of Ni / Lovely Lady, Dancer in Succeed on Broadway / Finale Ensemble)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Emily Hanner (Woman 2- Finland dancer / Dead Body / Laker Girl / Camelot Showgirl / Knights of Ni / Dancer in Succeed on Broadway / Finale Ensemble)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Adele Hebert (Woman 3- Finland dancer / Dead Body / Laker Girl / Camelot Showgirl / Knights of Ni / Can Can Dancer / Dancer in Succeed  on Broadway / Finale Ensemble)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Sierra Anastasia (Woman 4- Finland dancer / Laker Girl / Camelot Show Girl / Knights of Ni / Can Can Dancer / Dancer in Succeed on Broadway / Finale Ensemble)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Emma Spurling (Woman 5- Finland dancer / Laker Girl / Dancer in Succeed on Broadway / Camelot Cocktail Maid / Knights of Ni / Can Can Dancer: Finale Ensemble)

    [fac_icon icon=”star”] Megan Bone (Woman 6- Finland dancer / Laker Girl / Camelot Cocktail Maid / Knights of Ni / Dancer in Succeed on Broadway / Finale Ensemble)

     

    The production team for Spamalot include: Karie Dykeman, Kim Hale, Kristine Brown (Producers), Jacob Estes (Director), Dimitri Tsaharidis (Assistant Director), Caitlin Secrest (Music Director), Kristen Dasto (Choreographer), Myles Stevens (Audio Technician), Cyrsten Rainey (Audio Assistant), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Designer), Bee Rice (Lighting Assistant), Emily Rivere (Spotlight), Lexi Keaton (Spotlight), Josh Silvy (Theatre Inventory), Lorie Best (Volunteer Coordinator), Kyle Blanchard (Set Design & Construction), Marshall Meadows (Photographer) and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director, Marketing & Design).

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    Auditions Announced For The Addams Family Musical Comedy

    • dateJuly 20, 2023
    • userBranson Regional Arts Council
    • commentNo Comments
    • view6056 Views

    The Branson Regional Arts Council announces open auditions for it’s October 2023 production of The Addams Family – A Musical Comedy!

    Directed by Jacob Deck, the auditions will be held at the Historic Owen Theatre (205 S. Commercial St., Branson, MO 65616) on Sunday, August 6, 2023 from 2pm – 4pm, and Tuesday, August 8, 2023 from 6pm – 8pm.

    WHAT TO BRING:

    Those auditioning are asked to bring:

    • a music cut, no longer than a minute, in the style of the show. Songs from the show are acceptable and are even preferred if you’re auditioning for a specific role.
    • bring your own music tracks on phone or player to connect to sound board (no sheet music)
    • a short jazz combo will be taught at auditions so please dress accordingly.

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

    Anticipated Rehearsal Schedule will be discussed at auditions.

    Performance dates at the Historic Owen Theatre are October 19 – 29, 2023. Thu (7pm), Fri (7pm), Sat (7pm), Sun (2pm).

    ROLE BREAKDOWNS:

    Gomez Addams, Stage Age: 35-55, Vocal Range: Bb2 – G4
    A suave man of Spanish descent who adores his wife and children and takes immense pride in being an Addams. Gomez finds himself trapped between his daughter and his wife, being forced to hide Wednesday’s big secret from Morticia. He has great comedic timing and is a strong dancer. Spanish accent is a plus!

    Morticia Addams, Stage Age 35-55, Vocal Range: G3 – Bb5
    The beautiful, leggy and mysterious head of the Addams family who believes strongly in family tradition. Morticia is unnerved thinking that Gomez is hiding something from her. She is confident and sexy with a side of dry wit. She is a strong mover (tango skills a plus!)

    Wednesday Addams, Stage Age: 18 – 22, Vocal Range; A3 – E5
    Gothic big sister Wednesday who has her father’s heart and her mother’s sensibility falls in love with a “normal” boy who she brings home to meet the family. Wednesday is trying to balance her relationships with “strange” family with that of her new love and his “normal” family. Wednesday showcases compassion, a bit of stubbornness and strong will. She has a strong belt.

    Pugsley Addams, Stage Age 10 – 13, Vocal Range: A3 – F5
    The youngest of the Addams Family, Pugsley loves to be tortured by his big sister. He is lost trying to figure out his place now that she has a new boyfriend and family dynamics are changing. Pugsley is charming and funny, ideally with an unchanged singing voice.

    Uncle Fester, Stage Age: 30-50, Vocal Range; C3 – G4 (optional C5)
    Serving as the narrator of the show, Uncle Fester is lovable, childish, enthusiastic and highly incorrigible. Fester has great comedic timing and a tenor voice. Ukulele skills a plus!

    Grandma, Stage Age: 102, Vocal Range: G4 – F5
    Fun, quirky and feisty, Grandma always has a trick up her sleeve. Grandma is wise, wacky and sometimes a bit crass. She has great comedic timing and physicality.

    Lurch, Stage Age: 25 – 50, Vocal Range: Eb2 – E4
    A man of few words, Lurch is the Addams Family butler. His unmistakable commanding presence is accented by grunts, moans and deliberate movement. Must have great non-verbal story-telling abilities (think: facial expressions and sound). Lurch has a rich bass voice.

    Mal Beinecke, Stage Age 35 – 55, Vocal Range: C3 – A4
    The uptight and father of Lucas and cold-shouldered husband to Alice, cynical Mal meets the Addams with skepticism. He finds the Addams to be too bizarre for his liking and cannot fathom being related to them.

     Alice Beinecke, Stage Age: 35 -55, Vocal Range: Ab3 – G#5
    Lucas’s mother and Mal’s wife, Alice is strongly devoted to her family. She presents herself as reserved and collected (even when speaking in rhyme) until she learns to unleash her wild side at dinner with the Addams. She is a strong comedic actress with a strong belt.

    Lucas Beinecke, Stage Age : 18 – 22, Vocal Range: C3 – C5
    The hopeful romantic and son of Alice & Mal, Lucas has fallen in love with Wednesday and intends to marry her. He is optimistic and hopeful yet struggles to find the balance between his ‘normal’ family and the macabre Addams. Strong singer.

    The Ancestors, Age: 18+, All Vocal Ranges, Male & Female
    The Addams ancestors from various eras serve as the chorus for the show and help bring the story to life. They will be featured both singing and dancing throughout the entire show (once relapsed from the family crypt!). Seeking actors with both vocals and dancing abilities.

     

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