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2023 Summer Youth Institute Productions Open At Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateJune 16, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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Rated G | Family Favorites
The 2023 BRAC Summer Youth Theatre Institute offers TWO DIFFERENT SHOWS during the SAME WEEKEND that will be summer favorites for kids and adults alike. Under the direction and supervision of the educational staff of the Branson Regional Arts Council, Sixty-three talented young actors from across the Ozarks have been rehearsing for three-weeks to bring these exciting musicals to the stage of the Historic Owen Theatre.

[fac_icon icon=”star”]  Ticket Proceeds benefit the Youth Arts Education Programing developed by the Branson Regional Arts Council.

High School Musical JR | June 22 – 25, 2023 on Thur (7pm), Sat (7pm), Sun (2pm)

Schoolhouse Rock Live! JR | June 22 – 25, 2023 on Fri (7pm), Sat (2pm), Sun (7pm)

[fac_icon icon=”star”]  Tickets are available online at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the Historic Owen Theatre box office at 417-336-4255.

Disney’s High School Musical JR features a cast between the ages of 13-18.

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.

The production team for High School Musical JR includes: Kyle Bradley (Director), Kellsey Bradley (Assistant Director), Danielle Hardin (Music Director), Emily Hanner (Choreographer), Dimitri Tsahiridis (Stage Manager) and Lacey Kellett (Education Assistant).

High School Musical JR cast includes: Erika Robles-Pesqueira (Gabrielle Montez), Ben Stevens (Troy Bolton), Georgia Griffith (Sharpay Evans), Jason Prince (Ryan Evans), Bekah Williams (Kelsi Nielson), Morgan Carlson (Chad Danforth), Caleb Spurling (Zeke Baylor), Macy Everett (Taylor McKessie), Renee Elkady (Martha Cox), Bee Rice (Ms Darbus), Josh Reed (Coach Bolton), Mercy Griffith (Cathy/Thespian), Juanita Wilson (Cyndra/Thespian), Jack Brown (James/Thespian), Millie Stauffer (Susan/Thespian), Emma Spurling (Jack Scott), Brooklyn Giannotti (Kratnoff/Brainiac), Kelsi Stokes (Moderator/Brainiac), Willow Rice (Ms Tenny), Kylee Chandler (Cheerleader Captain), Alivia Prince (Cheerleader), Lyndyn Mitchell (Cheerleader), Ashlei Rivera (Cheerleader), Brennan Bilberry (Cheerleader), Hallie Groff (Cheerleader), Harper Farley (Jock), Ember Straka (Jock), Mattie Cox (Brainiac), Alex Rivera (Brainiac), Sophia Terhardt (Brainiac) and Emma Callaway (Thespian).

School House Rock JR features our cast between the ages of 6-12.

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.

The production team for Schoolhouse Rock Live! JR includes: Jacob Deck (Director), Lara Menard (Assistant Director), Ellie Faggion (Music Director), Dimitri Tsahiridis (Stage Manager), Pamela Meadows (Education Assistant), Somer Dean (Education Assistant), Bee Rice (Student Helper) and Emily Rivere (Student Helper).

Schoolhouse Rock Live! JR cast: Evan Wolfe (Tom Mizer), Indy Griffith (George), Zoey Viola (Dina), Hope Menard (Schulie), Josslynn Silvy (Dori), Lee Brown (Joe), Scarlett McManus (Janet), Evan Carr (Bill), Royal Steelman (Elvis), Adelaide Allen (Ensemble), Eliza Allen (Ensemble), Sterling Brockhouse (Ensemble), Lexi Carr (Ensemble), Kynadee Carter (Ensemble), Emma Chandler (Ensemble), Zack Cole (Ensemble), Layla Gabriel (Ensemble), Mia Hatten (Ensemble), Luke Johnson (Ensemble), Xia McElwee (Ensemble), Scout McManus (Ensemble), Sully McManus (Ensemble), Anabella Meyer (Ensemble), Louise Morlang (Ensemble), Katy Patton (Ensemble), Alton Prince (Ensemble), Brenna Prince (Ensemble), Austen Rivera (Ensemble), Emery Shafer (Ensemble), Benni Lynn Stein (Ensemble), Berkley Tatum (Ensemble) and Gwen Tsahiridis (Ensemble).

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Open Auditions for A Midsummer Nights Dream Announced

  • dateJune 11, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council announces Open Auditions for William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream on Monday, June 26, 2023 – 5:00pm at the Historic Owen Theatre.

Production Description

Casting non-union actors, movers and musicians for all roles in BRAC’s first touring show, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” by William Shakespeare. A romantic magical comedy of music and movement put on by a traveling troupe of players.

Josh Boulden – Director, Madi Trammel – Music Director, Audrey Noll – choreographer

Performance Dates

  • Historic Owen Theatre: Sept 7 – 17, 2023
  • School Tour Dates: TBD (Cast and Band must be available mornings on school days between Sept 7 – 18)

Rehearsals begin July 24th, Monday (Evenings), Tuesday – Friday (Mornings).

Audition Breakdown

Auditions will begin with a movement/dance call for all actors at 5:00pm. All actors must attend. Dress accordingly. This will be followed by audition packages, followed by callbacks with scenes and monologues from the show.

Note: Musicians may audition for only the band.

Auditionees should bring printed headshot and resume with theater and/or music experience.

Actors: Please prepare a 1-2 minute monologue from Shakespeare’s works, preferably in verse. Actors may audition using material from the show.

Actors/Musicians: Please prepare a 90 second monologue from Shakespeare’s works, preferably in verse. Actors may audition using material from the show. In addition, prepare a 90 second demonstration of musical ability in the style of the Celtic band “Omnia.” Full audition not to exceed 3 minutes.

Musicians: Please prepare a 2 minute demonstration of musical ability in the style of the Celtic band “Omnia.” Musicians may play as many instruments as desired in the time allotted.

Instrumentation Needed: Classical and acoustic guitar, world strings, Irish and world whistles/winds, various hand drums/percussion, didgeridoo.

Note: A guitar and drum will be provided at auditions. Please bring any other instruments.

Show Synopsis

The play 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.

Character Breakdown

Note: Musical and movement ability is a plus for all roles. All actors will play multiple roles, some varying genders, some in the band.

Oberon (20s-40s): Male. King of Fairies. At odds with his wife. Kingly, jealous, and conniving, yet takes pity on Helena. Doubled with Theseus.

Titania (20s-40s): Female. Queen of Fairies. At odds with her husband yet seeks resolution. Proud, womanly, strong-willed. Doubled with Hippolyta.

Robin/Puck (20s-30s): Any gender. A mischievous and magical spirit in Oberon’s employ. Delights in chaos. Strong dancer/mover. Small build. Athletic and acrobatic ability preferred. Doubled with Philostrate.

Hermia (20s): Female. Daughter of Egeus and in love with Lysander. Loyal, mild yet strong-willed and confident. Short build preferred. Strong Mover. Doubled with Fairy Ensemble.

Lysander (20s): Male. In love with Hermia, they flee into the forest to escape her father. Caring, romantic, and valiant. Strong Mover. Doubled with Fairy Ensemble.

Helena (20s): Female. Once betrothed to Demetrius, her confidence was crushed when he began to pursue Hermia. Loyal to a fault, peacemaker, passionate. Tall build preferred. Strong Mover. Doubled with Fairy Ensemble.

Demetrius (20s): Male. Picked by Egeus to marry Hermia. Brash, rude, and even violent in his pursuits. Strong Mover. Doubled with Fairy Ensemble.

Nick Bottom (20s-40s): Any gender. A weaver turned overconfident actor. Full of advice yet makes frequent mistakes. Comically, foolishly, and charmingly arrogant. Must have comedic ability.

Peter Quince (20s-40s): Any gender. A carpenter, and director of the mechanical’s rendition of Pyramus and Thisbe. Often usurped by the overconfident Bottom. Old, task oriented, people pleaser. Must be able to play an old man. Doubled with Egeus and Fairy Ensemble.

Theseus (20s-30s): Male. Duke of Athens, and conqueror of the Amazons. Sense of justice and reason, yet self-oriented. Doubled with Oberon.

Hippolyta (20s-30s): Female. Queen of the Amazons, now Theseus’s bride. A strong and measured woman, can disagree with and at times calm Theseus. Doubled with Titania.

Egeus (20s-40s): Any gender. Hermia’s overbearing and rigid father. Doubled with Peter Quince and Fairy Ensemble.

Francis Flute (20s-30s): Male. A bellows-mender. Young and aspiring. Looks up to Bottom. Doubled with Fairy Ensemble.

Tom Snout (20s-30s): Female. A Tinker. Old and just over it. Must be able to play an old man. Doubled with Fairy Ensemble.

Snug (20s-30s): Female. A Joiner. Old and fearful. Must be able to play an old man. Doubled with Fairy Ensemble.

Robin Starveling (20s-30s): Female. A Tailor. Old and trying to do his best. Must be able to play an old man. Doubled with Fairy Ensemble.

Philostrate (20s-30s): Any gender. Theseus’s master of revels. Doubled with Robin/Puck.

Fairy Ensemble (20s-30s): Fairies that attend Oberon and Titania. Must have dance and/or movement ability. Doubled with various roles.

Band: A variety of world/celtic instruments to be played live for the show. Option to be doubled with various roles.

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Save The Date For ARTS GALA 2023 At The Branson Convention Center

  • dateMay 26, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council invites you to attend our First Annual ARTS GALA this Fall at the Branson Convention Center.  It’s an exciting evening of Delicious Dining, Excellent Entertainment, Incredible Artwork, and a Classic Masquerade Game of Jeopardy!

More details will be announced in the coming weeks, but for now, please…

SAVE THE DATE!!! 10-13-23

Mark the evening of Friday, October 13, 2023 on your calendar now to participate in OUR GREATEST ARTS EVENT OF THE YEAR!

It’s not superstition… this will be THE PLACE TO BE on Friday the 13th!

 

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Free Lighting Design Workshop At Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateMay 9, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council invites anyone interested in theatrical lighting design to attend a free educational workshop presented by BRAC Lighting Designer Pamela Meadows on Monday, May 22nd from 5pm- 7pm at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

Pamela has been the lighting director for all of the incredible musicals, plays and special events presented at your community theatre.  This is your chance to learn some basic production techniques of programming the lighting equipment used at the Historic Owen Theatre from a true professional.

A graduate of the University of Missouri – Kansas City, Pamela earned her Master of Fine Arts in Theatre: Design & Technology, as well as Lighting & Projection Design. Her phenomenal abilities have been a blessing to the Historic Owen Theatre, and now she is offering to share her knowledge and lighting tips with anyone who may be interested in getting involved here at the Branson Regional Arts Council.

Again, this is a free workshop, no registration required. Simply come to the theatre on Monday, May 22nd at 5pm ready to learn and have a great time!

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Crescendo Youth Theatre Troupe Spring Concert This Week

  • dateApril 26, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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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
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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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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Nunsense The Mega Musical May Be Habit Forming

  • dateApril 13, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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RATED PG | Parental Guidance

The Branson Regional Arts Council presents a comedy musical, so hilarious… it would be a sin to miss it!

Nunsense, is a popular musical revolving around eight nuns, one Revered Mother and one Father. These however, are not your normal nuns, but self-proclaimed “fun nuns,” who are faced with financial issues after losing 52 of their fellow sisters to food poisoning caused by the infamous Sister, Julia Child of God.

The musical is portrayed as a “fundraiser” towards the audience, as they attempt to raise the money they need to bury the remaining four nuns, who are currently being kept in the freezer of the Mount Saint Helen’s Catholic Middle School in Hoboken, New Jersey.

The BRAC version of this comedy is super-sized to present a mega-musical extravaganza!

The production, directed by Jeremiah Reeve, will run for eight performances at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson from May 11 – 21, 2023 on Thursdays (7pm), Fridays (7pm), Saturdays (7pm), and Sundays (2pm). Advance reserved tickets are on-sale now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255.

The cast includes Claire Denton (Reverend Mother Mary Regina),  Loran Polson (Sister Mary Hubert), Kellsey Bradley (Sister Robert Anne),  Jennifer Buttell (Sister Mary Amnesia),  Madison Hewitt (Sister Mary Leo), Abby Reeve (Sister Julia, Child of God),  Kyle Bradley (Brother Brendan),  Mindy Law (Sister Mary Luke), Christina Schanda (Sister Mary Wilhelm), Jimmy Bratz (Father Virgil), Beth Lambeth (Sister Mary Timothy) and Kyle Denton (Father Patrick). The Singing/Dancing Sisters of Hoboken include: Kayleigh Dominish, Emily Hanner, Madison Hatfield, Peyton Seymore, Amy Lynne Sorenson, Jenny Steelman, Brittony Tiger and Sarah Williams.

The production team includes Karie Dykeman and Kim Hale (Producers), Kristine Brown (Assistant Producer), Jeremiah Reeve (Director), Kyle Denton (Music Director), Heather Stolfa (Choreographer), Brooke Sams (Stage Manage), Dimitri Tsahiridis (Assistant Stage Manager),  Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Myles Stevens (Sound Technician), Kyle Blanchard (Theatre & Special Events Manager), Lorie Best (Volunteer Coordinator), Josh Silvy (Theatre Inventory), Marshall Meadows (Photography), and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director, Marketing and Design).

Get your tickets now to make sure you don’t miss a single holy moment

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Auditions For Monty Python’s Spamalot Announced

  • dateApril 4, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council is holding open auditions for Monty Python’s Spamalot on Saturday,  April 29th and Sunday April 30th at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

Callbacks will be held on Friday, May 5, 2023.

All auditioners need to be ready to begin the Dance Call at 5pm, but PLEASE SCHEDULE YOUR VOCAL AUDITION (takes place after dance call) by signing up at this link:

[fac_icon icon=”file-video-o”]  Video Audition Submissions may also be sent to edu@bransonarts.org.

  • Director: Jacob Estes
  • Music Director: Caitlin Secrest
  • Choreographer: Kristen Dasto

When: April 29, 2023 (Saturday) & April 30, 2023 (Sunday)
Where: Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S. Commercial St., Branson, MO 65616

  • 5:00-6:00 Dance Call each day of auditions. (Everyone who signs up for a singing slot must attend at least one day of the dance call.)
  • 6:00– 9:00 pm Vocal Auditions (sign up for a time slot)

What to Bring: 60-90 second song in the style of the show. (Musical theatre repertoire only) Bring your own tracks (on your phone/player, no sheet music)

Also Bring: Printed headshot (if you have one) & Resume (if you have one).

Clothing for Audition: You may wear dance attire to the auditions. Bring comfortable shoes you can dance in/character heels (ladies) if you have them, also if you have tap shoes, bring those as well.

Dance Requirements: including elements of Jazz, Tap, & Musical Theatre styles

Additional Notes: Rated Pg-13. Students in high school can audition with permission slip from parent/guardian (provided at auditions). These will be “open auditions” – those who are waiting after dance call are welcome to sit in back of theatre and observe until they are called.

Performance dates: Jul 27 (Thu – 7pm), Jul 28 (Fri – 7pm), Jul 29 (Sat – 7pm), Jul 30 (Sun – 2pm), Aug 3 (Thu- 7pm), Aug 4 (Fri – 7pm), Aug 5 (Sat – 8pm), Aug 6 (Sun – 2pm).

(Typically rehearsals will be in the evenings from 5-9:30 pm)

Show Synopsis

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. Did we mention the bevy of beautiful showgirls? 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 “always look on the bright side of life.”

Character Breakdown

Please note that the ages listed just serve as a guide. All roles are available and casting is open, and newcomers are welcome and encouraged. Also, character doublings are only suggested here and may be changed based on audition results and production needs.

KING ARTHUR (Baritone, Late 30s-60s) – The King of England, who sets out on a quest to form the Knights of the Round Table and find the Holy Grail. Great humor. Good singer.

THE LADY OF THE LAKE (Alto with large range, 20s-40s) – A Diva. Strong, beautiful, possesses mystical powers. The leading lady of the show. Great singing voice is essential, as she must be able to sing effortlessly in many styles and vocal registers. Sings everything from opera to pop to scatting. Gets angry easily.

SIR ROBIN (Tenor/Baritone, 30s-40s) – A Knight of the Round Table. Ironically called “Sir Robin the Brave,” though he couldn’t be more cowardly. Joins the Knights for the singing and dancing. Also plays GUARD 1 and BROTHER MAYNARD, a long-winded monk. A good mover.

SIR LANCELOT (Tenor/Baritone, 30s-40s) – A Knight of the Round Table. He is fearless to a bloody fault but through a twist of fate discovers his “softer side.” This actor MUST be great with character voices and accents, as he also plays THE FRENCH TAUNTER, an arrogant, condescending, over-the-top Frenchman; the KNIGHT OF NI, an absurd, cartoonish leader of a peculiar group of Knights; and TIM THE ENCHANTER, a ghostly being with a Scottish accent.

PATSY (Tenor/Baritone, 30s-40s) – King Arthur’s horse and servant. Under-appreciated but always longing for Arthur’s approval. Good, funny, physical mover with some tap dancing. Also plays MAYOR, a jolly red-faced man who advertises the merits of his hometown; and the drunken, useless GUARD 2. Very good mover. Tap skills a bonus.

SIR GALAHAD (Tenor, 30s) – A Knight of the Round Table. Begins as Dennis, a lower class “mud gatherer” who becomes knighted and transforms into the dashing Sir Galahad. Also plays PRINCE HERBERT’S FATHER, a wealthy, brutish Yorkshireman at odds with his sensitive son; and THE BLACK KNIGHT, who is always ready to duel despite multiple injuries. Strong bari-tenor singing required.

SIR BEDEVERE (Tenor/Baritone with falsetto, 20s-40s) – A Knight of the Round Table. An inept scholar. Also plays DENNIS GALAHAD’S MOTHER, a shrill peasant woman; and CONCORDE, Sir Lancelot’s horse.

HISTORIAN/NOT DEAD FRED/ PRINCE HERBERT/ MINSTREL/ FRENCH GUARD (Tenor, 20s-30s) – A tweedy academic. Also plays NOT DEAD FRED, a sickly little fellow who — despite others’ beliefs — claims he is “not yet dead”; a FRENCH GUARD, the condemnatory sidekick to the French Taunter; a MINSTREL in Sir Robin’s band; and PRINCE HERBERT, the hopeful and frilly prince who loves to sing and pines for his love atop a tower. Tenor singing required. Very good mover.

MALE ENSEMBLE (6 men) – Seeking strong dancers and singers to play many roles including the other Knights of the Round Table, Sir Not Appearing, Sir Bohrs, Bodies in “Not Yet Dead,” the Dancing Monk, the Dancing Nun, French Citizens, Finland Citizens, a French Guard, Robin’s Minstrel, and more! Strong dance skills preferred; tap skills a bonus.

FEMALE ENSEMBLE (6 women) – Seeking strong dancers and singers to play many roles including the Camelot Girls, the Laker Girls, a French Guard, Knights of Ni, two of Robin’s Minstrels, French Citizens, Finland Citizens, and more! Strong dance skills preferred, tap skills a bonus.

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

  • dateMarch 22, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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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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Puffs or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic

  • dateMarch 15, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view12077 Views

The Branson Regional Arts Council presents a comedy play for anyone who ever felt like they weren’t the hero in their own story! 

RATED PG | Parental Guidance (Family Friendly Version) 

Six performances are slated from March 17 – 26, 2023 with showtimes on Fridays & Saturdays 7pm, and Sundays 2pm.

Tickets are on sale now by calling the box office at 417-336-4255 or online at BransonArts.org/tix.

Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic is a 2015 original play by New York-based playwright Matt Cox. The comedy is a parody as presented from the perspective of the “Puffs”.
Directed by Kyle Bradley, Puffs tells the story of the Puffs, who just happened to also attend the same wizard school where for seven years a certain young boy wizard conquered evil. 

 The cast of Puffs, at the Historic Owen Theatre include:
  • Narrator — Loran Polson
  • Wayne Hopkins — Lucas Dahlgren
  • Oliver Rivers — Ruben Dutton
  • Megan Jones — Kellsey Bradley
  • Harry / Mop Ron — Molly Tennison
  •  Leanne / Hermeoone / Frenchy — Lacey Kellett
  • Sally Perks / Rowena — Maddy Hatfield**
  • Susie Bones / Professor McG — Charis Boulden
  • Ernie Mac / Uncle Dave / Fat Friar — Jimmy Bratz**
  • Hannah / Ghost History Teacher — Emily Hanner
  • J. Finch Fletchley / Scorpy / Viktor — Trenton Bryant**
  • Cedric / Goyle — Alex Harris*
  • Mr. Voldy / Mr. Nick / Real Mr. Moody — Jeremiah Reeve
  • Xavia Jones / Ms Babble — Mindy Law*
  • 1st Headmaster / Ginny / Mr. Bagman / Sal / Certain Potions Professor — Abby Reeve*
  • 2nd Headmaster / Ric Gryff / Professor Lanny / Hermeoone #2 — Ari Franks*
  • Helga / Myrtle / Runes Teach — Juanita Wilson**
  • Professor Sproutty / Colin / Hermeoone #3 / Seamus — Aubriana Chambers*
  • Blondo Malfoy / Professor Turban / Rita Scooter / Dragon / Bippy — Ellen Barney*
  • A Very Tall Man / Clumsy Longbottom / Professor Locky / Goldstein — Gavin Deel*
*Ensemble: (Death Buddies, Soul Sucking Security Guards, and Wizard Students)
**Swing Performer / Ensemble
This clever and inventive play “never goes more than a minute without a laugh” (Nerdist) giving you a new look at a familiar adventure from the perspective of three potential heroes just trying to make it through a magic school that proves to be very dangerous for children. Alongside them are the Puffs, a group of well-meaning, loyal outsiders with a thing for badgers “who are so lovable and relatable, you’ll leave the theater wishing they were in the stories all along” (Hollywood Life). Their “hilariously heartfelt!” (Metro) and epic journey takes the classic story to new places and reimagines what a boy wizard hero can be.
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Final Week To See Mary Poppins – The Reviews Are Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious

  • dateFebruary 20, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view23332 Views

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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Mary Poppins Kicks Off This Week At Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateFebruary 8, 2023
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
  • view13018 Views

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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