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! 

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

 

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.

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.

    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).

    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.

    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 JRIt’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.

    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).

    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: Thursday, January 26, 2023 from 4:00pm – 5:30pm
    • Historic Owen Theatre (205 S Commercial St, Branson, MO 65616)
    • Class Schedule: Thursdays 4:00pm – 5:30pm
    • Class Dates: February 2 – April 27, 2023

       

      Members of Crescendo will meet on a regular basis (see class schedule below) and will be presenting two public performances of an exciting musical at the Historic Owen Theatre, April 28-29.

      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 (Thursdays 4:00 – 5:30pm)

      • Feb 2, 9, 16, 23
      • Mar 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
      • Apr 6, 13, 20, 27
      • Public Performance musical TBA – April 28, 2023 (7pm), April 29, 2023 (2pm)

      Tuition & Fees (if selected):

      • $25 Registration Fee* (covers entire class schedule).  *Grant & Scholarship funding has been applied to keep cost affordable

      [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.

      ORDER YOUR 2023 SEASON PASSES TODAY

      CLICK THE BUTTON BELOW TO ORDER ONLINE or call 417-336-4255 for assistance.

      NOTE: All 2023 SEASON PASS SALES END ON FEBRUARY 26, 2023 (6pm).

      This Pass is for 9 Mainstage Productions Only. Other special events throughout the year will be individually sold or available to BRAC Members. Show Tickets may be exchanged to other mainstage shows or dates during the 2023 Season. No Refunds, except in case of emergency.

      2023 FULL SEASON PASS (See 9 Productions)

      GET SEASON PASS THEATRE TICKETS

      • $146.20 – Adult (18+), $105.40Youth (under 18, lap children with adult free) note: some shows rated PG-13
      • Reserve your preferred seat for all 8 shows in our 2023 season.
      • SAVE 15% On Your Purchase
      • Makes a GREAT GIFT for a loved one that LASTS THROUGH THE YEAR!
      • All Pass Tickets Discounted! This is our best value pass!

      NOTE: BRAC has no plans to alter this line-up, but show schedules and titles are subject to change.

      2023 INDIVIDUAL SHOW TICKETS (Select One Show at a Time)

      HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS
      • $20.00 – Adult (18+), $12.00 – Youth (under 18, lap children with adult free)
      • Reserve your preferred seat for one or more shows at our regular ticket rate. 

      Mary Poppins – The Broadway Musical

      Dates: Feb 9 – 26, 2023 (15 shows)

      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!

      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 before Mary 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.”

      Puffs

      Dates: March 17 – 26, 2023 (6 shows)

      RATED PG | Parental Guidance (Family Friendly Version) 

      Puffs is a play for anyone who ever felt like they weren’t the hero in their own story!
      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”.
      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.

      BONUS SHOW: Emma! A Pop-Musical

      Dates: March 30 – April 2, 2023 (5 shows)

       

      RATED G | Family Favorite

      The Branson Regional Arts Council’s Staccato Show Choir (ages 14-18) presents a super entertaining pop-musical for the entire family!
      Emma, a senior at Highbury Prep, is certain she knows what’s best for her classmates’ love lives, and is determined to find the perfect boyfriend for shy sophomore Harriet by the end of the school year. But will Emma’s relentless matchmaking get in the way of finding her own happiness?
      Based on Jane Austen’s classic novel, this sparkling new musical features the hit songs of legendary girl groups and iconic female singers from The Supremes to Katy Perry. Girl power has never sounded so good!

      Nunsense – The Mega Musical

      Dates: May 11 – 21, 2023 (8 shows)

      RATED PG | Parental Guidance

      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.

      High School Musical JR (BRAC’s Summer Youth Institute)

      Dates: June 22 – 25, 2023 (6 shows)

      Rated G | Family Favorite

      Disney Channel’s smash hit movie musical comes to life at the Historic Owen Theatre in Disney’s High School Musical JR. This BRAC Summer Youth Institute production will be a summer favorite for kids and adults alike.
      NOTE: The 7pm shows are the older kids (13-18) and the 2pm shows are the younger kids (6-12)
      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.

      Monte Python’s Spamalot

      Dates: July 27 – Aug 6, 2023 (8 shows)
      PG13 | Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.

      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.”

       A Midsummer Nights Dream           

      Dates: Sept 8 – 17, 2023 (6 shows)

      Rated PG-13

      The Branson Regional Arts Council’s production of William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream is the magical story of star crossed lovers, overly ambitious homespun clowns and misadventures with the fairies. The fun can be multiplied by mixing and matching the male/female roles.
      The action begins at the beautiful court of Theseus, Duke of Athens, and later moves to the mystical forest inhabited by Oberon and Titania, king and queen of the fairies. And don’t forget Puck fairyland was never like this!
      If you saw the Shakespeare in the Park production, you’ll love this indoor version on the stage of the Historic Owen Theatre.

       


      The Addams Family

      Dates: Oct 19-29, 2023 (8 shows)

      Rated PG-13

      THE ADDAMS FAMILY, a comical feast that embraces the wackiness in every family, 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.
      This musical is Rated PG-13. Parental guidance is suggested due to adult innuendo, profanity, and scenes containing comical torture.

      Disney’s Finding Nemo JR (BRAC’s Winter Youth Institute)

      Dates: Nov 30, Dec 1 – 10, 2023 (10 shows)

      Rated G | Family Favorite

      Our Holiday Winter YouthTheatre production of Disney’s Finding Nemo JR, brings the beloved animated tale to the live stage with a talented cast of young performers!
      This 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.
      This is a perfect way for families to celebrate the holidays together! A great family show for all ages!

      The Branson Regional Arts Council proudly presents it’s 2022 Crescendo Youth Performance Troupe production of A Year with Frog and Toad KIDS, featuring a cast of talent young actors between the ages of 7-12.

      Two public performances will be held at the Historic Owen Theatre on Friday, December 16th – 7pm and Saturday, December 17th – 2pm.

      General open seating with a suggested $10 Donation at the Door to benefit the BRAC Youth Education Program. (Advance reserved seat tickets will not be sold for this event.)

      Card carrying BRAC Members admitted at no charge!

      Adapted from the three-time-Tony-nominated Broadway hit comes A Year with Frog and Toad KIDS. Based on Arnold Lobel’s well-loved books, the jazzy, upbeat score bubbles with melody. Part vaudeville, part make-believe, and all charm, A Year with Frog and Toad KIDS tells the story of a friendship that endures throughout the seasons.

      This whimsical show follows two great friends – the cheerful, popular Frog, and the rather grumpy Toad – through four fun-filled seasons. Waking from hibernation, Frog and Toad plant gardens, swim, rake leaves, go sledding and learn life lessons along the way. Throughout the year, two best friends celebrate and rejoice in the differences that make them unique and special.

      As a bonus… Crescendo will also present some Holiday themed music in addition to the theatre production.

      This is a great show for kids of all ages and the entire evening of fun is expected to run approximately 60-75 minutes.

      The Branson Regional Arts Council proudly presents a Winter Holiday Youth Production of Disney’s Frozen JR at the Historic Owen Theatre with eight spectacular performances this December.

      Directed by Kyle Bradley, the production features a cast of 37 talented young actors from across the Ozarks. Families and patrons of all ages will have a great time at this enchanting musical.

      Shows run Thursday (7pm), Friday (7pm), Saturday (2pm & 7pm), and Sunday (2pm) from December 1 – 11, 2022.

      Reserved seats are on sale now at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255. Community priced tickets are $17.00 Adults (18+), $12.00 Youth (4-17).

      Abby Wheeler (Elsa) and Bekah Williams (Anna)

      Rated G, for all audiences, Frozen JR is based on the 2018 Broadway musical, and brings Elsa, Anna, and the magical land of Arendelle to life, onstage at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson. 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!

      The cast of Frozen JR includes: Paisley Pritchett (Young Anna), Tensley Asbury (Middle Anna), Bekah Williams (Anna), Sophie Douglas (Anna Understudy), Josslynn Silvy (Young Elsa), Rebecca Barney (Middle Elsa), Abby Wheeler (Elsa), Trenton Bryant (King Agnarr), Macy Everett (Queen Iduna / Elsa Understudy), Emma Spurling (Pabbie), Kate Heard (Bulda), Georgia Griffith (Bishop), Jacob Smith (Young Kristoff), Pace Gillman (Kristoff), Caleb Spurling (Sven), Ben Stevens (Hans), Jack Brown (Weselton), Ella Kroll (Olaf), Jael Frost (Olaf Understudy), Juanita Wilson (Oaken) and Savannah Alkire, Jessica Barney, Olivia Buttram, Paisley Buttram, Kynadee Carter, Emma Chandler, Indy Griffith, Hallie Groff, Katherine Linn, Maggie Marks, Scarlett McManus, Ryan Merrifield, Lundyn Mitchell, Greyson Stevens, Ember Straka, Kate Sutherland and Zoey Viola (Ensemble).

      The production crew of Frozen JR includes: Kyle Bradley (Director / Set Designer), Julie Brinkman (Music Director), Karie Dykeman, Kim Hale (Producers), Stephanie Callahan, Ellen Barney (Choreographers), Kellsey Bradley (Stage Manager / Costumes), Brooke Sams (Assistant Stage Manager), George Haltom (Sound Technician / Set Construction), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Director), Abbie Moulin, Lauren Tiefry, Cyrsten Rainey, Gilbert Stevens (Lighting Assistants), Jacob Estes (Wigs), Lorie Best (Volunteer Coordinator), Josh Silvy (Inventory Manager), Marshall Meadows (Photographer), and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director/Marketing).


       

      PUT YOUR BUSINESS CENTER STAGE…

      Businesses or cast families interested in placing an ad in the official Frozen JR PLAYBILL program should visit BransonArts.org/adpayment for more information.

      Let our patrons and audiences know that you support youth arts education for residents of our community!

      Ad submission deadline is November 18, 2022.