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Cast Announcement For Godspell At Historic Owen Theatre

Congratulations to the following cast members of Godspell, with performances from March 31 – April 10, 2022.

Jesus: Christian RossJudas: Alex HarrisEnsemble:Heather Stolfa / Haley Moore-Haskin (double cast)Sonya GodfreyClaire DentonJacob DeckKayleigh DominishKaty KohlerLoran PolsonAbby ReeveTaryn Huffman

There will be eight (8) performances of Godspell from March 31-April 10 at the Historic Owen Theatre. Tickets are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255.

Director: Jeremiah Reeve
Musical Director: Kyle Denton
Choreographer: Jacob Deck

Godspell is the story of a small group of people help Jesus Christ tell different parables by using a wide variety of games, storytelling techniques and a hefty dose of comic timing. An eclectic blend of songs, ranging in style from pop to vaudeville, is employed as the story of Jesus’ life dances across the stage. Dissolving hauntingly into the Last Supper and the Crucifixion, Jesus’ messages of kindness, tolerance and love come vibrantly to life. Led by the international hit, “Day by Day,” Godspell features a parade of beloved songs, by 3-time Grammy and Academy Award winner Stephen Schwartz.

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Branson Goes Under The Sea With The Little Mermaid

The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to open the curtain on it’s 2022 Season of musical theatre this week in downtown Branson.

Disney’s The Little Mermaid opens Thursday evening at the Historic Owen Theatre with 17 public performances through February 27, 2022. Advance reserve tickets are recommended and can be purchased securely online at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

In addition to the stage musical, a special art exhibition entitled “Under The Sea” will be on display in the Rock Room Gallery of the Historic Owen Theatre featuring original works by local area artisans Meike Aton, Barbara Buso, Jennifer Buttell, Jessica Lowe, Terena Terry, Suzanne Torguson and Wanita Williams. All displayed pieces will be on sale in support of these talented artists.

  • dateFebruary 8, 2022
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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Directed by Jacob Deck, this family favorite musical transforms the Historic Owen Theatre into a magical kingdom beneath the sea, where the beautiful young mermaid, Ariel, longs to leave her ocean home to live in the world above.

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

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

The Branson cast 0f Disney’s The Little Mermaid are:

  • Ariel – Hayden Gish / Cat McWhirter
  • Prince Eric – Chaunery Kingsford Tanguay
  • Ursula – Jen Frost / Mesa Knife Chief
  • Sebastian – Shawntez D’Nadre Bell
  • King Triton – Traven Harrington
  • Flounder – A.J Turner / Charlee Mitchell
  • Flotsam – Carlos Morales
  • Jetsam – Michael Frost
  • Scuttle – Leah Jane Johnson
  • Chef Louis – Jerrod Cate
  • Grimsby – Jennifer Kersey
  • Aquata – Julie Brinkman
  • Adella – Laurel Kemper
  • Allana – Charis Boulden
  • Andrina – Sarah Williams
  • Atina – Velvet Dougharty
  • Arista – Somer Dean

Adult Ensemble cast members are:
Joey Blackwood, Alex Harris, Kayleigh Dominish, Pace Gillman, Sophie Douglas, Abby Wheeler, Joseph Schumacher, Megan Rodgers, Ashley Rodgers, Savannah Turner, Hallie Groff and Bekkah Williams.

Kid Ensemble cast members are:
Emma Chandler, Liam Hill, Lundyn Mitchell, Jemma Braica, Luke Johnson and Jael Frost.

The Production team includes:
Karie Dykeman, Kim Hale (Producers), Jacob Deck (Director, Choreographer and Set Design), Michelle Baker (Music Director), Emma Johnson (Stage Manager), Leah Johnson (Assistant Choreographer), Mac Hill (Technical Director and Sound Technician), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Director), Jim Barber (Marketing and Design), Lisa Murphy (Media Coordinator), Marshall Meadows (Photography), Josh Silvy (Theatre Operations) and Lorie Best (Volunteer Coordinator).

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Open Auditions for Godspell February 6-7

  • dateJanuary 30, 2022
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council is holding open auditions for their live musical production of Godspell on February 6 and 7, 2022 at First Presbyterian Church of Branson.

When: Sunday, February 6 and Monday, February 7 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Where: First Presbyterian Church, 420 W. Main St., Branson, MO 65616 (Use Sanctuary entrance)

Who: Auditions are open to adults age 18+. See below for more information.

What to bring:

  • 60-second singing audition in the musical style of the show (our production is of the 2012 revised version).
  • Bring your own tracks on your phone or player.
  • Printed headshot (if you have one)
  • Acting resume (if you have one)
  • Be prepared to list all known conflict between Feb. 13 and April 10.

Acting: Following individual singing auditions, you will be invited to perform cold readings from the script.

Choreography: The show will have staged movement and choreography but there is no dance call at auditions. Feel free to show you can move during your singing auditions.

There will be eight (8) performances of Godspell from March 31-April 10 at the Historic Owen Theatre. The rehearsal schedule will be discussed during each audition time. There is a possibility of casting for swings or double casting for health and scheduling reasons. This is a community theatre production and actors are not paid to participate, as is standard with all BRAC productions.

Director: Jeremiah Reeve
Musical Director: Kyle Denton
Choreographer: Jacob Deck

For additional information or questions, please contact Karie at edu@bransonarts.org.

Godspell is the story of a small group of people help Jesus Christ tell different parables by using a wide variety of games, storytelling techniques and a hefty dose of comic timing. An eclectic blend of songs, ranging in style from pop to vaudeville, is employed as the story of Jesus’ life dances across the stage. Dissolving hauntingly into the Last Supper and the Crucifixion, Jesus’ messages of kindness, tolerance and love come vibrantly to life. Led by the international hit, “Day by Day,” Godspell features a parade of beloved songs, by 3-time Grammy and Academy Award winner Stephen Schwartz.

Casting
While traditionally cast as 5 males and 5 females, the majority of characters are not tied to any gender, ethnicity, or age. Actors are generally referred to by their own names – the names used below are those from the 2012 revised version.

Character Breakdown

Jesus
Must be the most charismatic individual in the cast. High energy, charming, funny, gentle but with strength. He is the sort of person others instinctively follow.

John The Baptist/Judas
He has attributes of both Biblical figures: He is both Jesus’ lieutenant and most ardent disciple and the doubter who begins to question and rebel. Like Jesus, he is also charismatic, but in more of an overt revolutionary way. He is the most “serious” and intellectual of the group, though as with all the actors, he must still possess a good sense of physical comedy.

Nick
Very high energy. Impish and playful. In the original, he played several musical instruments, including concertina, recorder and guitar.

Telly
Not the brightest in the bunch, he is a little slow on the uptake. But there is a great sweetness and innocence about him. Because he sings “All Good Gifts” he must be a very good singer.

George
The comedian, the class clown. The guy who can do a hundred voices and imitations.

Anna Maria
A bit of a tomboy, but basically open and sweet. Perhaps the youngest of the group. She is the first of the group to commit to following Jesus in the song “Day by Day.”

Lindsay
The confident one, the show-off. The first one to volunteer, sometimes she jumps in before she really understands what’s going on.

Uzo
The shy one. Sometimes a little slow to get things, but when she does, she commits all the way. Has an “earth mother” kind of warmth to her.

Morgan
Sassy and slightly cynical, the most urban of the group. Also the “sexy” one, but her sexiness contains a large element of put-on, in the manner of Mae West or Madonna (who in fact once played this role.)

Celisse
The female equivalent of the class clown. Goofy and a cut-up. In the 2012 Broadway revival, she played several instruments, including conga, ukulele and guitar.

 

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Show Your Support With A Full 2022 Season Playbill Ad

Would you like to put your ad in front of thousands of local residents who support the Arts?

Branson Theatre Program Ad SponsorshipsIn 2021, over six-thousand area patrons attended our amazing community theatre productions at the Historic Owen Theatre! We expect that number to grow even higher in 2022.

These ticket buyers were able to take home an officially licensed, PLAYBILL souvenir program that included not only the cast and production information, but also ads from many local businesses including full-season ad sponsors: Titanic Museum Attraction, City of Hollister, Branson Centennial Museum and Peter Engler Designs to name a few.

We invite you to consider placing an ad in our upcoming program for Disney’s The Little Mermaid, and then… keep your business message in front of our patrons all year long by extending your ad placement to the rest of our 2022 season of live musical theatre and plays here at the Historic Owen Theatre.

SPECIAL OFFER FOR FULL-SEASON AD SUPPORTERS…

RIGHT NOW, if you commit to a full-season of program ads, we will only charge for 7 show programs, and you’ll get the eighth program at no extra charge! Your ad will be seen in our official souvenir playbills for Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Godspell, Little Women – The Musical, Disney’s Beauty and The Beast Jr., Something Rotten, Hello Dolly!, Blithe Spirit, and Disney’s Frozen Jr!

Please ACT FAST as the deadline to be included in The Little Mermaid Playbill is NEXT FRIDAY (Jan 28, 2022).  Just click the information link below to pick your choice of ad sizes. You can purchase your “Full-Season Playbill Ads” now, securely online via credit or debit card.  If you prefer to pay by cash or check, send us an email (info@bransonarts.org) or call our box office at 417-336-4255 and let us know you’d like to be a “Full-Season Playbill Ad Supporter.” We will send your discounted invoice while you send us your digital artwork. You’ll be sponsoring a full-season of community theatre, and show our area residents that you support the Arts! It’s that simple!

CLICK HERE FOR PLAYBILL AD INFO

ONLY WANT A ONE-TIME AD?…

If you would prefer the be included in our programs one at a time, you may click on the link buttons below to purchase your ad now, securely online via credit or debit card.

FULL SIZE PHOTO/AD – $200 
  • Width: 2120 pixels (7.067 inches, 300 dpi)
  • Height: 3176 pixels (10.587 inches, 300 dpi)
1/2 SIZE PHOTO/AD – $100
  • Width: 2120 pixels (7.067 inches, 300 dpi)
  • Height: 1548 pixels (5.16 inches, 300 dpi)
1/3 BUSINESS CARD SIZE – $70
  • Width: 1856 pixels (3.497 inches, 300 dpi)
  • Height: 1032 pixels (1.993 inches, 300 dpi)
1/4 SIZE PHOTO/AD – $50
  • Width: 1020 pixels (3.4 inches, 300 dpi)
  • Height: 1548 pixels (5.16 inches, 300 dpi)
CLICK HERE FOR PLAYBILL AD INFO
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The Little Mermaid Cast Announcement

Congratulations to the cast members listed below who have been selected to appear in the upcoming Branson Regional Arts Council production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid at the Historic Owen Theatre, February 10 – 27, 2022.

[fac_icon icon=”star”] Rehearsals will begin January 3, 2022. Full rehearsal schedule will be announced to all cast members soon.

Advance reserved tickets are now on-sale for all performances at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255.

“We had an outstanding turnout for these auditions. There were many more actors auditioning for parts than there were available roles, so the producers and the Director had a difficult choice to make in casting this production. We thank everyone who participated in the auditions, and request that anyone not selected for this production, to please audition again for a future show.” – Jim Barber, BRAC Executive Director

The cast 0f Disney’s The Little Mermaid are:

  • Ariel – Hayden Gish / Cat McWhirter
  • Prince Eric – Chaunery Kingsford Tanguay
  • Ursula – Jen Frost / Mesa Knife Chief
  • Sebastian – Shawntez D’Nadre Bell
  • King Triton – Traven Harrington
  • Flounder – A.J Turner / Charlee Mitchell
  • Flotsam – Carlos Morales
  • Jetsam – Michael Frost
  • Scuttle – Leah Jane Johnson
  • Chef Louis – Jerrod Cate
  • Grimsby – Jennifer Kersey
  • Aquata – Julie Brinkman
  • Adella – Laurel Kemper
  • Allana – Charis Boulden
  • Andrina – Sarah Williams
  • Atina – Velvet Dougharty
  • Arista – Somer Dean

Adult Ensemble cast members are:
Joey Blackwood, Alex Harris, Kayleigh Dominish, Pace Gillman, Sophie Douglas, Abby Wheeler, Joseph Schumacher, Megan Rodgers, Ashley Rodgers, Savannah Turner, Hallie Groff and Bekkah Williams.

Kid Ensemble cast members are:
Emma Chandler, Liam Hill, Lundyn Mitchell, Jemma Braica, Luke Johnson and Jael Frost.

About the musical…
Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories and the classic animated film, Disney’s The Little Mermaid is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages. With music by eight-time Academy Award winner, Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater and a compelling book by Doug Wright, this fishy fable will capture your heart with its irresistible songs, including “Under the Sea,” “Kiss the Girl” and “Part of Your World.”
Ariel, King Triton’s youngest daughter, wishes to pursue the human Prince Eric in the world above, bargaining with the evil sea witch, Ursula, to trade her tail for legs. But the bargain is not what it seems, and Ariel needs the help of her colorful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull and Sebastian the crab to restore order under the sea.
There will be seventeen (17) public performances of The Little Mermaid over a three-week period of time in February. This will be the first of eight (8) mainstage productions at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson in the 2022 season.
For Full Season Pass information visit bransonarts.org/event-tickets/theatre-season-passes.
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2022 Theatre Season at Historic Owen Theatre Announced

2022 Branson Theatre Season Schedule

2022 Branson Theatre Season Schedule

The Branson Regional Arts Council proudly announces it’s 2022 Season of sensational community theatre for the Branson area.

ADVANCE RESERVE TICKETS for all shows are on sale now. Ticket prices are: $17.00 Adults (18+), $14.00 Youth (4-17). Lap children are admitted at no charge with parent or legal guardian. Individual show tickets may be purchased online at BransonArts.org/tix or via the button link below or by calling the box office for assistance at 417-336-4255.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

FULL 2022 SEASON PASS TICKETS are available for anyone wishing to SAVE 15% on their seats for all eight productions. Season Pass holders will also have the ability to reserve the same seats for each production. Seating choices may differ as more season passes are sold. (Season Passes must be purchased before February 27, 2022.) Click below to purchase your season pass now, or call the box office for assistance at 417-336-4255.

GET SEASON PASS THEATRE TICKETS

Disney’s The Little Mermaid

Dates: Feb 10 – 27, 2022 (17 shows)

Rated G | General Audiences

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

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

Godspell

Dates: March 31 – April 10, 2022 (8 shows)

Rated PG | Parental Guidance Suggested

Godspell was the first major musical theatre offering from three-time Grammy and Academy Award winner, Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin, Children of Eden); and it took the world by storm. Led by the international hit, “Day by Day,” Godspell features a parade of beloved songs, including “Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord,” “Learn Your Lessons Well,” “All for the Best,” “All Good Gifts,” “Turn Back, O Man” and “By My Side.”

A small group of people help Jesus Christ tell different parables by using a wide variety of games, storytelling techniques and a hefty dose of comic timing. An eclectic blend of songs, ranging in style from pop to vaudeville, is employed as the story of Jesus’ life dances across the stage. Dissolving hauntingly into the Last Supper and the Crucifixion, Jesus’ messages of kindness, tolerance and love come vibrantly to life.

Little Women – The Musical

Dates: May 12 – 23, 2022 (8 shows)

Rated PG | Parental Guidance Suggested

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

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

Beauty and the Beast Jr (BRAC’s Summer Youth Institute)

Dates: June 23 – 26, 2022 (6 shows)

Rated G | General AudiencesThe Award-winning animated film and stage play comes to life in this romantic and beloved take on the classic fairytale.

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

The classic story tells of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity. *note: title subject to change due to script availability

Something Rotten – A Very New Musical

Dates: July 28 – Aug 7, 2022 (8 shows)

PG13 | Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.

Two brothers set out to write the world’s first musical in this hilarious mash-up of sixteenth-century Shakespeare and twenty-first-century Broadway.

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

Set in the 1590s, brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom are desperate to write a hit play but are stuck in the shadow of that Renaissance rock star known as “The Bard.” When a local soothsayer foretells that the future of theatre involves singing, dancing and acting at the same time, Nick and Nigel set out to write the world’s very first musical. But amidst the scandalous excitement of opening night, the Bottom Brothers realize that reaching the top means being true to thine own self, and all that jazz.

Hello Dolly!

Dates: Sept 8 – 25, 2022 (12 shows)

Rated G | General Audiences

This musical adaptation of Thornton Wilder’s hit play The Matchmaker bursts with humor, romance, energetic dance and some of the greatest songs in musical theatre history.

The romantic and comic exploits of Dolly Gallagher-Levi, turn-of-the-century matchmaker and “woman who arranges things,” are certain to thrill and entertain audiences again and again.

A Broadway Classic that will no doubt be a huge hit with Branson audiences!

 

Blithe Spirit 

Dates: Oct 27-30, 2022 (5 shows)

Rated PG-13 | for spiked drinks and saucy dialogue

The Branson Regional Arts Council presents a hilarious Halloween weekend production!

The smash comedy hit of the London and Broadway stages, this much-revived classic from the playwright of Private Lives offers up fussy, cantankerous novelist Charles Condomine, re-married but haunted (literally) by the ghost of his late first wife, the clever and insistent Elvira who is called up by a visiting “happy medium,” one Madame Arcati. As the (worldly and un-) personalities clash, Charles’ current wife, Ruth, is accidentally killed, “passes over,” joins Elvira, and the two “blithe spirits” haunt the hapless Charles into perpetuity.

Frozen Jr (BRAC’s Winter Youth Institute)

Dates: Dec 1 – 11, 2022 (8 shows)

Rated G | General Audiences

The enchanting modern classic from Disney is ready for your Broadway Junior stars! Frozen JR. is based on the 2018 Broadway musical, and brings Elsa, Anna, and the magical land of Arendelle to life, onstage. The show features all of the memorable songs from the animated film, with music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, plus five new songs written for the Broadway production.

A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, Frozen JR. expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. When faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. With a cast of beloved characters and loaded with magic, adventure, and plenty of humor, Frozen JR. is sure to thaw even the coldest heart!

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The Sound of Music Opens At Historic Owen Theatre

The Ozark Hills are alive with The Sound Of Music as the Rogers and Hammerstein classic comes to the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson for ten performances from December 2-12, 2021.

Show schedule and ticket information can be found at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255. Admission is $17 (Adults 18+) and $14 (Youth 4-17). Proceeds benefit the Branson Regional Arts Council, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that provides a wide variety of artistic events, youth arts education and theatrical programs for all residents in the Ozarks.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

“After having to postpone this show last season, we are thrilled to finally bring this incredible family production to the stage of the Historic Owen Theatre,” says BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber. “We appreciate the support of our fantastic patrons for their patience, and we know you and your entire family will have a great time together at this holiday production,” he added.

Based on the true story of the Von Trapp Family Singers, this play captures a personal tale of growth and hope amidst the horrors of World War II. The Sound of Music tells the tale of young postulant Maria Rainer, whose free spirit has trouble fitting into the rules and regulations of Nonnberg Abbey. Commissioned by the Mother Abbess to serve as the governess for seven motherless children, Maria transforms the Von Trapp family home from a place of dour rules and regulations to one filled with joy, with laughter, and with music. In the process, Maria wins the hearts of all seven children–and their widower father, Captain Von Trapp.

With the Mother Abbess’ blessing, and to the children’s delight, Maria follows her heart, and Maria and the Captain marry. Upon returning home from their honeymoon, Maria and the Captain learn that their beloved Austria has been taken over by the Nazis, and the retired Captain is asked to report for immediate service in the Nazi Navy.

When the Nazis show up at their door to take Captain Von Trapp away, it is a family singing engagement (wily navigated by their friend Max) that buys the family time to make their narrow escape. Their Austrian convictions compel Maria, the Captain, and the children to flee over the mountains of Switzerland to safety, taking the words of the Mother Abbess to heart: “Climb Every Mountain… till you find your dream.”

The Branson Regional Arts Council production of The Sound of Music is under the direction of Jacob Deck who also serves as choreographer and set designer for the musical.

The production team includes: Delyla Uebel (Music Director), Karie Dykeman and Kim Hale (Producers), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Mac Hill (Sound and Technical Director), Melody Snyder (Costumes), Jennifer Vaugh (Costumes), Jordan Alexander-Holt (Costumes and Wig Design), Loran Polson (Stage Manager), Lisa Murphy (Media Coordinator), Marshall Meadows (Photography), Jim Barber (Marketing and Design), and set construction by Jeremiah Reeve, Art Hale, Jacob Deck, Mac Hill, Loran Polson and Jennifer Kersey.

The large cast includes: Hayden Gish (Maria Rainer), Loran Polson (The Mother Abbess), Esther Weicht (Sister Berthe), Mindy Law (Sister Margaretta), Julie Brinkman (Sister Sophia), Tom Baker (Captain Georg von Trapp), Dylan Pratt (Franz / Herr Zeller), Jennifer Kersey (Frau Schmidt), Talya Tinoco (Liesl von Trapp, A & B), Pace Gillman (Friedrich von Trapp, A & B), AJ Turner (Friedrich von Trapp, B), Abby Wheeler (Louisa von Trapp, A), Sophie Douglas (Louisa von Trapp, B), Liam Hill (Kurt von Trapp, A), Lee Brown (Kurt von Trapp, B), Savannah Turner (Brigitta von Trapp, A & B), Kylee Chandler (Brigitta von Trapp, A & B), Johanna Thornsberry (Brigitta von Trapp, A & B), Lundyn Mitchell (Marta von Trapp, A), Jael Frost (Marta von Trapp, B), Zoey Viola (Gretl von Trapp, A), Emma Chandler (Gretl von Trapp, B,) Cole Hill (Rolf Gruber / Baron Elberfeld), Charis Boulden (Elsa Schraeder), Amy Sorenson (Ursula / Nun / Ensemble), Randy Simmon (Max Detweiler), Beth Lambeth (Baroness Elberfeld / Nun / Ensemble), Anna Weicht (A New Postulant / Nun / Ensemble), Jim Barber (Admiral Von Schreiber) and Melody Snyder (Nun / Ensemble).

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4th Annual Staccato Show Choir Winter Holiday Showcase Concert

Branson area residents are invited to enjoy a special, one-of-a-kind Holiday Showcase Christmas Concert featuring the young talented members of the Branson Regional Arts Council’s Staccato Show Choir.

The 4th Annual Winter concert will take place on Monday, December 6, 2021 at 7:30pm at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson. All seats are $10 and proceeds benefit the BRAC Youth Education Fund, which provides performing opportunities for area youth between the ages of 8 and 18.

Staccato Show Choir is an energetic advanced musical group that combines a challenging music repertoire with entertaining choreography. The choir focuses on elevating and applying its formal training into lively, breath taking “show” style performances. Students meet at the Historic Owen Theatre and study advanced music theory, vocal warm up, stage etiquette, presence and showmanship, as well as multi-part choral music.

The choir is directed by Jacob Estes, with vocal direction by Delyla Uebel.

GET YOUR HOLIDAY SHOWCASE SEAT

General seating, no reservations required. Tickets may be purchased in advance online at BransonArts.org/showcase2021, or at the door.

The Branson Regional Arts Council is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization and provides a wide variety of artistic events and theatrical programs for all residents in the Ozarks. Financial support for many of these programs is provided by the Missouri Arts Council and through the generous contributions of private donors and Arts Council members.

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Open Auditions for Disney’s Little Mermaid at Historic Owen Theatre

  • dateNovember 17, 2021
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
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The Branson Regional Arts Council is holding open auditions for their February 2022 live musical theatre production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid on December 16, 17 and 18, 2021 at the Historic Owen Theatre.

  • When: Thursday, Dec 16, Friday Dec 17, & Saturday Dec 18, 2021
  • Where: Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S. Commercial St., Branson, MO 65616
  • Time: 5:00 – 10:00 PM (sign up for a one-hour slot here)
  • What to Bring: 60 Second Singing Audition in the musical style of the show. Bring your own tracks (on your phone or player).
  • Also Bring: Printed headshot (if you have one) & Acting Resume (if you have one).
  • Clothing for Audition: Bring comfortable shoes you can dance in as well as a change of clothes you can move and dance in.
  • Dance Requirements: Jazz, Contemporary, Partnering and Tap

Scheduled auditions will be held in groups of ten per hour, with a dance call run through during the last 15 mins of each group.

Click the button below or follow this link to register for an audition date and time slot.

There will be seventeen (17) public performances of The Little Mermaid from February 10 – 27, 2022. The rehearsal schedule will be discussed at each audition time. Some roles may be double cast to allow scheduling flexibility, and actors of all ages are encouraged to audition. This is a community theatre production and actors are not paid to participate, as is standard with all BRAC productions.

Director: Jacob Deck

For additional information or questions, please contact Karie at edu@bransonarts.org.

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

Casting

Cast Size: Medium (11 to 20+ performers – subject to change)
Cast Type: Adults & Children
Dance Requirements: Standard

Character Breakdown

Ariel
A mermaid and King Triton’s youngest daughter. She is obsessed with everything about the human world, and dreams of becoming a part of life above the water. Hardheaded, naive, and emotional, but also kind hearted.
Gender: Female
Age: 16 to 25
Vocal range top: Gb5
Vocal range bottom: Ab3
Prince Eric
A human monarch who has no interest of taking the crown. A handsome, affable lad with a buoyant, adventurous nature. After Ariel saves his life, he becomes obsessed with finding her and hearing her voice once more.
Gender: Male
Age: 20 to 30
Vocal range top: G4
Vocal range bottom: B2
Grimsby
Prince Eric’s British guardian. Droll, stuffy, and constantly urging Eric towards his royal duties, specifically marriage.
Gender: Male
Age: 40 to 60
Vocal range top: C4
Vocal range bottom: C3
Flounder
A fish and smitten with Ariel, his best friend. Rambunctious but cautious, fearful of the dangers that lurk in and above the water.
Gender: Male
Age: 15 to 20
Vocal range top: G4
Vocal range bottom: A2
Scuttle
A disheveled seagull and expert in human artifacts. Loudmouthed, optimistic, and a bit ignorant, despite his supposed expertise.
Gender: Male
Age: 25 to 40
Vocal range top: G4
Vocal range bottom: C3
King Triton
King of the Sea and Ariel’s father. Beneath his imposing presence and commanding nature lurks a harried single father who will do anything to protect his daughters. The death of his wife has also given him an irrational fear of humans.
Gender: Male
Age: 35 to 45
Vocal range top: F4
Vocal range bottom: Ab2
Sebastian
A crab and advisor to King Triton. A musical virtuoso who is constantly distraught from keeping after Ariel. Despite his paranoia, he can’t bring himself to stand in Ariel’s way.
Gender: Male
Age: 30 to 45
Vocal range top: C5
Vocal range bottom: Bb2
Flotsam
An eel and one of Ursula’s lackeys. Oily and spineless, he will say anything you want or need to hear.
Gender: Male
Age: 20 to 40
Vocal range top: C5
Vocal range bottom: E3
Jetsam
An eel and one of Ursula’s lackeys. Oily and spineless, he will say anything you want or need to hear.
Gender: Male
Age: 20 to 40
Vocal range top: A4
Vocal range bottom: B2
Ursula
The banished Sea Witch and sister of King Triton. Supposedly spurned at childhood, she will use whatever method necessary to steal the kingdom and claim it as her own. Malevolent, calculating, and deceptive.
Gender: Female
Age: 35 to 45
Vocal range top: C5
Vocal range bottom: Eb3
Chef Louis
The French palace chef, diabolical and violent. A culinary perfectionist with an affinity for blades, seafood in particular.
Gender: Male
Age: 30 to 50
Vocal range top: A4
Vocal range bottom: Bb2
Ensemble
Crew Members (Pilot, Sailors); Sea Creatures; Mersisters (Aquata, Andrina, Arista, Atina, Adella, Allana); Gulls; Maids; Chefs; Animals; Princesses
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City of Branson Receives 2022 Missouri Arts Award

The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to share an exciting announcement from the Missouri Arts Council, naming the City of Branson as Missouri’s 2022 recipient of the “Creative Community” award. [click for official announcement]

Since 1983, the Missouri Arts Council and the State of Missouri have been honoring our state’s arts heroes—the people who make the arts happen.

The 2022 honorees are:

Creative Community | Branson

Southwestern Missouri city that since the 1960’s has burgeoned into a national tourism magnet centered on theater, traditional Ozark arts, and especially music—now boasting nearly 40 theaters along nine miles east to west, from the 1936 Historic Owen Theatre in Branson’s historic downtown to the Silver Dollar City theme park’s outdoor amphitheater, that each week present more than 100 shows of country, pop, swing, rock, bluegrass, Broadway, and gospel music, plus magic, circus, comedy, and drama.

Arts Organization | Kansas City Public Theatre

Four-year-old professional theater company that has already made its mark through its mission of deploying “Radical Hospitality” to provide theater to every person: presenting all shows free of charge in a variety of accessible locations, performing plays both classic and contemporary that are topical and full of diverse actors and stories, hiring area playwrights for the Theatre Lab series of staged readings and small productions, and further building community through audience conversations and local partnerships.

Individual Artist | Carmen Sofia Dence, St. Louis

Dancer, choreographer, teacher, costume designer and maker, arts volunteer, community champion, five-time Master Artist in the Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Program of the Missouri Folk Arts Program—a shining light of Missouri’s dance community for decades; born in Columbia, a St. Louisan since 1976; devoted to preserving and sharing the music, dance, and folklore of her homeland especially through the Grupo Atlántico performance troupe she founded in 1995 and continues to direct.

Leadership in the Arts | Jeffrey J. Bentley, Kansas City

Executive director of Kansas City Ballet since 1998, who has taken the company on a constantly rising path to serve its vision of “outstanding dance experiences accessible to all”: leading it to quintuple its budget, quadruple its school, construct its own permanent home, build a substantial endowment, expand community engagement and education programs, diversify its artistic offerings, and most recently, keep dancers and staff employed and audiences involved during the pandemic shutdown of live performances.

Philanthropy | Kathie and Richard Winter, St. Louis

Longtime arts supporters who exemplify the classic contribution of time, talent, and treasure to benefit an array of St. Louis organizations—serving individually and together, past and present, as board members and officers, committee members and chairs, fundraising leaders, and financial mainstays of Big Muddy Dance Company, Dance St. Louis, Grand Center Arts District, Jazz St. Louis, St. Louis Shakespeare Festival, Springboard to Learning, Stray Dog Theatre, St. Louis University Museum of Art and more.

CHOOSING THE HONOREES

An independent panel of Missourians representing the arts community throughout the state selects the honorees from among public nominations. These panelists chose the 2022 honorees:

•  Kelly Downes, Cape Girardeau; director, Arts Council of Southeast Missouri
•  Sarah Dresser, Columbia; manager, Office of Cultural Affairs, City of Columbia
•  Priya Kambli, Kirksville; professor of art, Truman State University; 2021 Individual Artist honoree
•  Jorge Leyva, Joplin; 2018 signature image artist
•  Cecilia Nadal, St. Louis; founder and executive director, Gitana Productions, St. Louis; 2019 Leadership in the Arts honoree
•  Alison Schieber, St. Joseph; president, Missouri Citizens for the Arts
•  Laura Shultz, Kansas City; retired executive director, Northeast Community Center / Harmony Project KC; 2021 Leadership in the Arts honoree

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Carrie The Musical Brings Steven King’s Hot Classic To The Stage

  • dateOctober 12, 2021
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
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The Branson Regional Arts Council presents the Broadway version of Steven King’s Classic Thriller, Carrie The Musical, to the stage of the Historic Owen Theatre for 7 hot performances October 21st through the 30th. Advance reserve tickets are on sale at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255.

Ticket prices are as follows: Adults (18+) are $17.00, Youth (17 and under) are $14.00.

Performance Dates/Times: Oct 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30 (7:30 pm), Oct 30 (11:00 pm late show).

Rated PG-14 | This musical production deals with mild-adult themes and may not be suitable for youth under age of 14. Subject matter includes bullying and mental illness issues, graphic images, strong language and may not be for everyone.

Carrie White is a teenage outcast who longs to fit in. At school, she’s bullied by the popular crowd, and virtually invisible to everyone else. At home, she’s dominated by her loving but cruelly controlling mother. What none of them know is that Carrie’s just discovered she’s got a special power, and if pushed too far, she’s not afraid to use it.
Directed by Jacob Deck, the cast of Carrie The Musical includes: Jennifer Kersey (Margaret White), Emma Puerta (Carrie White), Cat McWhirter (Sue Snell), Caitlin Secrest (Lynn Gardner), Zoe Zelonky (Chris Hargensen), Andrew Wilson (Tommy Ross), Robert Hazlette (Billy Nolan), Loran Polson (Ms. Stephens), Justin Zickefoose (George), Olivia Mottl (Norma), Noah Duwe (Freddy), Megan Rodgers (Helen) and Teghan Breiner (Frieda).
The production team includes: Jacob Deck (Director, Choreographer and Set Design), Caitlin Secrest (Music Director), Loran Polson (Stage Manager), Mac Hill (Technical Director), Cole Hill (Sound Technician), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Jeremiah Reeve, Abby Reeve and Loran Polson (Set Construction), Jim Barber (Marketing and Design).

Set in the present in the small New England town of Chamberlain, Maine, Carrie: The Musical features a book by Lawrence D. Cohen (screenwriter of the classic film), music by Academy Award winner Michael Gore (Fame, Terms of Endearment), and lyrics by Academy Award winner Dean Pitchford (Fame, Footloose).
Winner! 1988 Theatre World Award for Best Broadway Debut (Linzi Hateley)
Winner! 2012 Off Broadway Alliance Award for Best Musical Revival
Winner! 2016 WhatsOnStage Award for Best Off-West End Production
Winner! 2018 Matilda Award for Best Musical (Brisbane Powerhouse)
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The Tempest Is A Shakespearean Hit In Hollister

The Branson Regional Arts Council is getting rave reviews of it’s 4th Annual Shakespeare in the Park production of The Tempest. 

Final Performances: Chad A Fuqua Memorial Park, 312 Esplanade Dr., Hollister, MO

  • Sunday – Oct 3 – 8pm
  • Monday – Oct 4 – 8pm
Family friendly production!
Tickets are$10(Adults 18+),$5(Students with ID, or Youth 4-17)
“Amazing performance of The Tempest in Chad A Fuqua Park yesterday evening. Thank you to Branson Regional Arts Council for bringing theatre to our Hollister Park.”
– Denise Olmstead – Deputy City Administrator, City of Hollister

Bring your own lawn chair or blankets as seating is open in the grass in front of the stage. Bring your own coolers, snacks and refreshments. Jackets are highly recommended as it may cool down in the evening.

“Shakespeare in the park was excellent! So much talent! We enjoyed this SO much! Ariel was incredibly graceful and spirit-like, Caliban was AMAZING, very unearthly, and creepy! We loved Prospero. Trinculo and Stephano kept us in stitches. Amazing performance! Thank you for a great venue and performance!”
– Terena Terry

The production team includes:Justin Ables(Director), Audrey Noll (Choreographer), Nate Frank (Music Arranger), Katie Pohlheber (Stage Manager), Anika Bryceson (Costume Design), Kyle Blanchard (Set Design), Kristen Ables (Puppet Design), Josh Bouldon (Speech and Text Coach), Alex Schriver (Lead Builder).
The Tempest features a talented cast of talented actors including: Nicole Horton (Prospero), Catherine Kennedy (Miranda), Joey Faggion (Ferdinand), Cat Blanchard (Ariel), Josh Bouldon (Caliban), Kyle Blanchard (Caliban), Charis Bouldon (Antonia), Michael Sager (Boatswain), Brandon Farrar (Ship Master), Zack Bucky Buckner (Alonso), Nick Carrano (Sebastian), John Paul Fox (Gonzalo), Jameson Clanton (Trinculo), Blake West (Stephano), and Lindsay Lee, Elizabeth Theune, Kyra Carrano, Michael Sager, Brandon Farrar (Ensemble/Puppeteers).

Summary of The Tempest:Prospero uses magic to conjure a storm and torment the survivors of a shipwreck, including the King of Naples and Prospero’s treacherous brother, Antonio. Prospero’s slave, Caliban, plots to rid himself of his master, but is thwarted by Prospero’s spirit-servant Ariel. The King’s young son Ferdinand, thought to be dead, falls in love with Prospero’s daughter Miranda. Their celebrations are cut short when Prospero confronts his brother and reveals his identity as the usurped Duke of Milan. The families are reunited and all conflict is resolved. Prospero grants Ariel his freedom and prepares to leave the island.

Recyclable trash helps to create the theatrical magic of The Tempest.

Past BRAC Shakespeare in the Park performances have been in cooperation with Forte Theatrical Productions and includedA Midsummer Night’s Dream,Romeo and Juliet, and a Rock version ofHamlet. Each of these productions were held outdoors on the pavilion stage in Chad A Fuqua Memorial Park, and the Branson Regional Arts Council thanks theCity of Hollisterand theHollister Parks Departmentfor their support and cooperation in making these community events possible.
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