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New Youth Show Choir For Branson Area Kids Ages 9-12

Branson area youth are invited to register to participate in an exciting musical show choir group called “Crescendo”. Under the supervision of the Branson Regional Arts Council, Crescendo Show Choir is a performance-based educational opportunity for students ages 9-12.

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 musical show choir routines under the direction of their talented and qualified instructors Caitlyn Secrest and Jacob Deck.

Crescendo classes may meet initially online via zoom, and then rehearse at the Historic Owen Theatre under strict social distancing and CDC guidelines for the safety of all involved. Classes meet on Tuesdays from 4:00pm – 5:30pm for 11 weeks beginning October 6, 2020. The rehearsals will culminate with a combined Christmas Concert performance for family and friends at the Historic Owen Theatre on Thursday, December 17th.

The registration cost per child to participate in all eleven weeks and the holiday performance of Crescendo is $110.

[fac_icon icon=”info-circle”] Residents who reside within the city of Branson may qualify for a tuition scholarship to cover the registration fee.  Contact the Arts Council as edu@bransonarts.org to see if you qualify.

Crescendo Class Schedule:

  • Oct 6, 13, 20, 27
  • Nov 3, 10, 17, 24
  • Dec 1, 8, 15
  • Christmas Concert – Dec 17 (tentative, may evolve into another event)
REGISTER FOR CRESCENDO NOW

Click the button above now, to register your child to participate in Crescendo! 

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Registration Open For Staccato Show Choir Audition Workshop

The Branson Regional Arts Council’s Youth Education Department invites all teens between the ages of 12-18 to participate in a FREE ONLINE VIRTUAL AUDITION WORKSHOP on Thursday, June 4, 2020 at 3pm.

Register to attend this free online virtual workshop and pre-audition for the Branson Regional Arts Council’s STACCATO SHOW CHOIR. All current choir members are encouraged to participate as well as any others who may be interested in being an active member of this exciting, high-energy performance troupe!

Visit BransonArts.org/freeworkshop for registration information.

REGISTER TO ATTEND VIRTUAL WORKSHOP

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO BEFORE THE WORKSHOP…

Each participant will need to prepare 32 bars of a pop or pop contemporary musical theatre vocal selection. You will present your vocal selection live, via a Zoom video conference, for our BRAC Youth Education Staff (Lloyd, Jacob & Kristen), with audition feedback and critique given after each performance.

This will then allow you one week to polish and work on your selection for the VIRTUAL AUDITIONS that will be held one week later on June 10th.

We will provide all registrants (limited to 100 participants) a link to the audition choreography video so you will have an opportunity to work on it prior to the audition.

  • Zoom Meeting links for the workshop and audition will be emailed automatically when you register.

You must provide your own music and sound during the zoom auditions by playing from your computer or another device. You may attend this zoom conference on a laptop or desktop computer, smart phone or pad device.

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BRAC Announces 2020-2021 Schedule Changes at Historic Owen Theatre

The Branson Regional Arts Council Board of Directors has made the difficult decision to postpone the majority of their 2020 Season of Community Theatre productions at the Historic Owen Theatre until next year with the opening of The Sound of Music in mid-February 2021.

“This move to next season includes our popular 4-week Summer Youth Institute classes and production of Peter Pan Jr.,” said BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber. “The health of our students, patrons, actors, technicians, volunteers and staff is our primary concern,” he added. “We carefully monitor the recommendations by the CDC, our Governor, County and City of Branson and feel that we will not be at a point this summer where we can be assured it is safe for a large group of young students to gather inside an intimate performance facility such as ours.”

There are a few exceptions to the announced schedule change. The Odd Couple by Neil Simon, originally scheduled to open just as occupancy restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic went into effect, will be slated to run September 10-13, 2020. “This hilarious comedy play has been ready to go since March. Out of respect to our amazing cast and our dedicated BRAC director Jody Madaras, we would like to present this show as soon as possible, following any recommended social distancing and occupancy guidelines that are still in force,” said Barber.

Some BRAC Education Department Classes, Staccato Show Choir and Arts Workshops are expected to resume at the Historic Owen Theatre, or virtually online, early this Summer. September 5th’s Song Writing Workshop with Prince Ivan, and the outdoor Shakespeare in the Park collaboration with Forte Theatrical Productions remains on schedule for late September and early October at Chad Fuqua Memorial Park in Hollister, MO. Additional theatrical programming may be announced this Fall if conditions warrant.

Anticipated theatre production date changes for the 2021 season include: The Sound of Music (Feb 11-14, 18-21, 25-28), The Glass Menagerie (Apr 8, 11,12), The Complete Works of William Shakespeare – Abridged (Apr 30, May 2-3), Summer Youth Theatre Institute (May 17-21, 24-28, 31-June 2), Peter Pan Jr. (June 3-6), Mama Mia! (July 8-11, 15-18), 9 To 5 The Musical (Sep 9-12, 16-19), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Nov 4-7, 11-14), and a yet to be announced Family Show (Dec 3-4, 10-12).

With regard to the financial challenges for the organization due to this postponement, Barber adds, “This will be a difficult time, no doubt. As a 501(c)(3) organization, we must be fiscally responsible with our funds. We carefully budget each theatrical production we present, and the investment in nearly all of our community events has been substantial. If we were restricted in our ability to sell enough tickets to cover our licensing expenses, set construction and costume needs, we would risk taking a loss on those shows. Despite the fact that many businesses will soon be opening with restrictions, it is very apparent that permissible occupancy rates and public confidence to attend performance events in an small, well-attended theatre environment will take several months to occur.”

The Arts Council asks loyal patrons to please hold their current tickets for use on the new dates, and if they can’t attend, transfer them to another show or perhaps consider converting their ticket purchase into a fully deductible tax donation to the organization.

Other ways to support the BRAC during these next 9 months would be to renew or purchase an annual membership; “Buy-A-Seat” with a personalized nameplate; or make a general donation.

General check donations may also be mailed to BRAC, PO Box 2004, Branson, MO 65615.

All current ticket holders for upcoming events will be contacted over the coming weeks with updated information. Ticketed seat locations and day of week performances will remain the same, only the monthly dates will change.

To see the updated schedule for the 2020 and 2021 seasons, please visit BransonArts.org/tix.

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Get Your #HereForGood417 Historic Owen Theatre T-Shirt

We’re all in this together! Help keep local business here… for good! Buy a Shirt and support BRAC.

Show your support for the Branson Regional Arts Council and our community arts programs at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson buy ordering an awesome “On With The Show!” theatre logo t-shirt. For every shirt sold, $10 will be donated to the Arts Council by our friends at Greek Corner Screen Printing and Embroidery.

We thank them for including us in the “417 Here For Good Campaign” to raise awareness and funds to assist small business and organizations in the Springfield/Branson area to help with the financial losses suffered during the shutdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The shirts are available in sizes from small to 4XL, with white lettering against a beautiful cotton/polyester blend Heather Midnight Navy colored t-shirt.

The shirts can be ordered securely online for $20 (plus tax/shipping/handling). $10 from each sale of this shirt will benefit the Branson Regional Arts Council.

[fac_icon icon=”arrow-circle-right” font_size=”20″] CLICK HERE TO ORDER YOUR HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE SHIRT

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Staccato Show Choir Christmas Concert This Tuesday

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 concert is on Tuesday, December 17th at 7pm 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.

General seating, no reservations required. Tickets may be purchased in advance online at BransonArts.org/showcase, 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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2nd Annual BRAC Talent Show This Friday

The 2nd Annual Talent Show to benefit the BRAC Youth Education Fund takes to the stage of the Historic Owen Theatre on Friday, November 22nd at 7pm.

Experience a wide variety of talented kids and adults as they perform their way into your heart! Open seating will begin at 6:30pm and all tickets are just a $10 donation per seat. Cheer for your favorite performers as they compete for your applause and some incredible trophies as selected by our panel of judges.

18 talented performers auditioned and were selected to appear in this year’s line-up. They include: Ralph Hepola and Luke Cooksey (Instrumentalists), Korey Brown (Vocalist), Jordan Kendrick (Vocalist), Sophie Douglas (Vocalist), Kaitlyn and Stephanie Schumacher (Ukelele Act), Wesley Brown (Vocalist), Bethany Brown (Vocalist), Dylan Pratt (Vocalist), Drake Bardwell (Vocalist), Molly Jones (Vocalist), Dominic Giannotti (Magical Dog Act), Savannah Jewsbury (Vocalist), Micah and Sheri Kuenzle (Vocalist/Pianist), Renee Elkady (Vocalist) and Ashley Rodgers (interpretive dance).

BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber will act a Master of Ceremonies, and a panel of celebrity judges will include Jody Maderas, Delyla Uebel, and Kevin Davis.

Jody Madaras is a New York based Producer, Actor, Director, Dancer and the creator of the “All Hands On Deck Show” now playing at the Dutton Family Theatre in Branson.

Delyla Uebel is a skilled performer on piano, keyboard, guitar and vocals from Lampe, MO. She has 25 years experience as a High School vocal director and accompanist, with professional touring credits across the country as well as international tours in Japan.

Kevin Davis is a professional musician, song writer, and event promoter from Kentucky. He’s worked with many of Branson’s best known performers and is excited to help the Branson Regional Arts Council with this important fundraising event for our area youth.

The BRAC Talent Show will be for one night only, this Friday evening at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

Visit http://BransonArts.org/talentshow for advance tickets! Seating is limited!

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Fall Theatre Arts Classes At Historic Owen Theatre

The Branson Regional Arts Council is excited to offer a full line-up of Fall Theatre Arts Education Classes at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson!

Parents who are interested in getting their kids involved in musical theatre, acting or dance are encouraged to sign up soon. Online registration is now open and class sizes are limited.

All classes begin the week of September 16th and run for six weeks.

BRAC Fall Education Classes Available

Acting II – Intermediate to Advanced Acting (ages 12-18 or by permission)
Instructor: Jake  Deck
Class Meets: Thursdays, 3:30pm – 4:30pm (6 weeks)
Cost: $65.00 [REGISTER NOW]
Description: Acting II is an upper level course, designed for intermediate to advanced students who want to further their skills and become the best actor they can be. Students will review technique and continue to learn and find new discoveries in their characters and performances.

Advanced Audition*
Instructor: Jacob Estes
Class Meets: Tuesdays, 4:30pm – 6:00pm (6 weeks)
Cost: $80.00 [REGISTER NOW]
*prerequisite: This class is open for advanced musical theatre students only…other inquiries will need to go through instructor.
Description: Students will go through a substantial six week audition intensive designed to break bad auditioning habits. This class will be set up so each student will be assigned new (appropriate for their type) materials each week to learn. Then, they will return the following week and perform these materials as a mock audition. Through different exercises and group discussion every student will leave this class feeling more prepared than ever to BOOK THAT ROLE!

Advanced Musical Theatre II*
Instructor: Jacob Estes
Class Meets: Thursdays, 4:30pm – 6:00pm (6 weeks)
Cost: $80.00 [REGISTER NOW]
*prerequisite: This class is open for advanced musical theatre students only…other inquiries will need to go through instructor.
Description: Students will focus on the exploration and discovery of the skills necessary to be a polished musical theatre performer (singing, dancing, acting). This class is not for beginners, as students will be expected to have a high level of prior theatrical knowledge in order to dive deeper into the craft. The work as a performer is NEVER complete. The journey to finding who you are on stage is a process that is ever changing, and the moment an actor embraces that, their world will be opened up to ALL possibilities!

Dance Fundamentals – Beginner to Intermediate (ages 8-18)
Instructor: Kristen Dasto
Class Meets: Fridays, 4:30pm – 6:00pm (6 weeks)
Cost: $80.00 [REGISTER NOW]
Description: Six, fun filled weeks of non-intimidating classes with your instructor, Kristen Dasto! Through this six week course, Beginner-Intermediate Dancers will learn and explore the details to dance basics and the technique behind it all.

PREFER TO PAY BY CHECK?
To pay by check for any of the above, please follow the online registration and select “Pay by Check” in the checkout process. Otherwise, please call Karie Dykeman at 417-336-4255 and ask to register for the class of your choice.

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First BRAC BBQ FEST A Tasty Success!

Hundreds of area residents gathered at Liberty Plaza in Downtown Branson this past Saturday (June 1st) to enjoy a fun-filled day of art, entertainment and some of the tastiest barbecue ever to be served out of a firetruck!

The purpose of the entire event, was to raise funds to assist the Branson Regional Arts Council (BRAC) to eventually obtain full ownership of the Historic Owen Theatre, built in 1936, and now the official home of the Arts Council and it’s community theatre and Youth Arts Conservatory program. In January 2018, BRAC acquired the venue through a long-term lease with an option to purchase. Since that time, they have presented over a dozen broadway musicals and plays for the community, and also founded a Youth Arts Education Program with emphasis on young students from all across the area who are between the ages of 8 and 18.

Fresh food and cold drinks served all day!

“The first annual BRAC BBQ FEST was a big success, especially when you consider how fast our incredible team of volunteers pulled it together,” said Branson Regional Arts Council Executive Director Jim Barber. “We were able to raise $13,000 after expenses, thanks to the generosity of our event sponsors, Dr. Tallon and Branson Dental Center (Premiere Sponsor), Dr. Munshi and the Branson Institute of Sleep (Backstage Sponsor), Mercy Hospitals (Backstage Sponsor), Chic-fil-A Branson (Iced Tea Supplier), as well as our incredible vendors and the hundreds of hungry townspeople who came downtown to enjoy a fantastic meal along with amazing live entertainment on stage.”

BRAC BBQ FEST event Chairperson Darla Howe said, “We especially thank Branson Dental Center and Dr. Richard Tallon who not only participated as our main event sponsor, but also provided the converted, antique firetruck that served up hundreds of plates of delicious pulled pork barbecue sandwiches, hamburgers and hotdogs. Their support of what the Arts Council is doing in our community goes above and beyond our expectations. The entire Branson Dental team were 100% behind this effort, and even assisted in the preparation and serving of the food to our patrons in attendance.”

Dr. Richard Tallon prepares the BBQ meat!

Several local entertainers quickly offered their support of the Arts Council’s efforts to own and restore the Owen Theatre. “These are some of the nicest performers in our community,” said Jim Barber, “and because they graciously shared their amazing talents, we were able to offer free admission to the public, so everyone could enjoy the live music and comedy.”

Exciting performances throughout the day were provided by: Java Jived (acapella group from St. Louis), Branson Comedy Company (improv), Forte Theatre Productions (broadway cabaret music), BRAC Youth Troupe (solos and vocal selections from upcoming productions), Dylan Pratt (vocalist), Micheal Horn (guitar and vocalist), Joey Heard (songwriter and vocalist), Gary Dooms (Saxophone),  Robert Morris (Balloon Twister), and Rick McEwen (guitar and vocalist).


Forte Theatre Production’s Traven Harrington Performs at BRAC BBQ FEST

Multiple Vendors filled the plaza to the max with works of art, custom jewelry, and unique services. Participation vendors included:

James Bartley Shined with Solar Energy!

  • Peter Engler Designs – Jewelry, woodcarvings, free gifts, oil candles and more
  • Joplin Peace Frogs – T-shirts, hats, bags, jackets, purses, decals and jewelry
  • EBBboutique – Acrylic Pour Paintings, Shadow Boxes, Leather Jewelry and Accessories
  • Carolyn Cambronne-Hayes – Framed and matted digital original art prints
  • Silver Jewelry Artist – Sterling and gemstone jewely by award-winning artist Jayme Woodall
  • Sticks, Spoons & More – Handmade wooden spoons, ladles and measuring cups
  • Taneyhills Community Library – Promoting summer reading for kids and library services

  • Branson West Art Gallery Booth

    Scentsy – Scented Wax and Decorative Wax Warmers, and a variety of other home fragrance products.

  • Branson West Art Gallery – Original paintings, photography, jewelry, and wood carvings
  • Concept 24 By Design – Original Art, Crafts, and Prints
  • Salvation Army of Branson – Salvation Army services and community awareness
  • Carolyn DeJager – Young Living Essential Oils
  • Skywire Solar – Solar Energy Information

Jim Barber & Melonie Brown Enjoying The Day

In addition to all the vendor booths and entertainment offerings, the Branson Parks and Recreation Department provided a huge Bounce House for the kids to enjoy. Face painting was led by Melonie Brown with assistance from Roz Slavik and Kristen Ables. To top it off, a special bake goods tent provided tasty treats under the direction of Viola Beyer.

Mercy Hospital hosted the First Aid Booth, and even offered complimentary sunscreen to anyone who needed it. Dozens of BRAC volunteers joined the effort to assist with donation collection, food serving, event set-up and tear-down, and also promotional distribution of posters, flyers and signage all over the Branson area.

The Arts Council extends their sincere appreciation to the City of Branson, Branson Parks & Recreation, the DBBA, and everyone who assisted in this fundraising effort, and they organization looks forward to an even bigger BRAC BBQ FEST event in 2020.

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Shrek the Musical Jr Features 71 Talented Young Actors!

Excitement is high as the Branson Regional Arts Council’s 2019 Summer Youth Institute production of Shrek the Musical Jr. opens for 6 hilarious performances at the Historic Owen Theatre.

Performances run June 6-9 at the Historic Owen Theatre in Downtown Branson. Advance reserved tickets are recommended and available online at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255. Adult (18+) tickets are $16.95, and Youth (4-17) are $11.45.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

“Enrollments for this summer’s Institute were through the roof, so we recruited additional teaching and directing staff to make this our BIGGEST and BEST Youth Troupe production yet,” said BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber.

71 students are enrolled for this production. In order to allow this many students to participate while presenting the best performance possible, the producers and directors decided to divide them into two separate casts, the Hansel Cast and the Gretel Cast. Each cast will perform 3 shows, and the individual cast members are all listed below.

“My favorite thing about this program is how it acts as a family, and everyone works together. We all learn from each other, and it’s a really fun experience getting to work with so many great kids! Come see it because it’s action packed and the music is very catchy!”
– Dani Groff (Fiona – Hansel Cast)

“This production is so special because it’s made up of a whole bunch of students from all over the region, coming together to create a really fun show.  I love that we can hang out and create a bond we never thought we’d have. Come see it because your kids are in it!”
– Joey Blackwood (Shrek – Hansel Cast)

I live in Springfield and I enjoy this program because I get to learn so much and be challenged each and every day to become a better actor, singer, dancer and overall person, thanks to the BRAC! Come see it because it’s Shrek!!!!”
– Renee’ Elkady (Fiona – Gretel Cast)

My favorite song is called Make A Move, because the characters all start to bond after quarreling up until that point.  They discover their similarities and it becomes a very good moment! Also, there is a lot of funny (but slightly crude) humor at the end with “gas” and other things… you’ll have to just come see it to find out!”
– Wesley Brown (Shrek – Gretel Cast)

The “Hansel” cast performs: Friday, June 7th (7pm), Saturday, June 8th (7pm), and Sunday, June 9th (2pm).

Hansel Cast Members include: Joey Blackwood (Shrek), Dani Groff (Fiona), Millie Jo Stauffer (Young Fiona), Sydney Patrick (Teen Fiona),  Carter Hendrickson (Lord Farquaad), Nathanel Bond (Donkey), Emma Hesemann (Dragon), Lola Zobel (Mama Ogre), Xander Greenamyer (Little Ogre), Wesley Brown (Papa Ogre), Sophie Douglas (Pinocchio), Lauren Tiefry (Little Pig 1 / Blind Mice 1), Eden Burgess (Little Pig 2 / Blind Mice 2), Emma Melton (Little Pig 3 / Blind Mice 3), Sylvie Barbour (Ugly Duckling), Arthur Selzer (Papa Bear), Sydney Pride (Mama Bear), Josslynn Silvy (Baby Bear), Kylee Moody (Wicked Witch), Liam Leven (Big Bad Wolf), Addison Patrick (Gingy), Pace Gillman (Peter Pan), Uriah Guevel (Captain Of The Guard), Hoyt Gubin (Dwarf), Chelsey Qualkenbush (Story Teller 1), Jackson Guffey (Story Teller 2), Aubrey Melton (Story Teller 3), Sailor Tillis (Puss In Boots), Mia Johnson (Pied Piper), Ashleigh Williams (Bishop), Jude Barbour (Knight), Hallie Groff (Goldie Locks), Madeline Cox (White Rabbit), Cassie Greenamyer (Elf), Haley Guffey (Fairy Godmother), Addison Russell (Humpty Dumpty), Sydney Rickman (Sugar Plum Fairy), Sophie Douglas, Sydney Patrick, Sylvie Barbour and Addison Patrick (Dungeon Knights), Sophie Douglas, Pace Gilman, Hallie Groff, Mia Johnson, Sydney Pride, Addison Patrick and Sydney Patrick (Duloc Dancers), Sophie Douglas, Pace Gillman, Hallie Groff, Emma Melton, Aubrey Melton and Ashleigh Williams (Rat Tappers).

The “Gretel” cast performs: Thursday, June 6th (7pm), Saturday, June 8th (2pm), Sunday, June 9th (7pm).

Gretel Cast Members include: Wesley Brown (Shrek), Renee’ Elkady (Fiona), Charlee Mitchell (Young Fiona), Bekah Williams (Teen Fiona),  Cole Hill (Lord Farquaad), Jake Musser (Donkey), Liya Rivere (Dragon), Johanna Luthardt (Mama Ogre), Lee Brown (Little Ogre), Joey Blackwood (Papa Ogre), Grace Clark  (Pinocchio), Kylee Chandler (Little Pig 1 / Blind Mice 1), Charlee Roberts (Little Pig 2 / Blind Mice 2), Madison Lundeen (Little Pig 3 / Blind Mice 3), Jael Frost (Ugly Duckling), Morgan Brown (Papa Bear), Sydney Pride (Mama Bear), Lundyn Mitchell (Baby Bear), Lara Elkady (Wicked Witch), Cameron Morrison (Big Bad Wolf), Alexis Fischer (Gingy), Ashley Rodgers (Peter Pan), Liam Hill (Captain Of The Guard), Tyler Tees-Webster (Dwarf), Molly Jones (Story Teller 1), Korey Brown (Story Teller 2), Gigi McAdara (Story Teller 3), Halle Horn (Puss In Boots), Megan Rodgers (Pied Piper), Savannah Turner (Bishop), Colin McAdara (Knight), Anastacia Petri (Goldie Locks), Elyse Smith (White Rabbit), Gianna Daniels (Elf), Emma Hess (Fairy Godmother), Taylor Miller (Humpty Dumpty), Loughlynn Murphy (Sugar Plum Fairy), Jael Frost, Sydney Pride, Alexis Fischer, Beckah Williams (Dungeon Knights), Kylee Chandler, Grace Clark, Alexis Fischer, Ashley Rodgers, Megan Rodgers, Madison Lundeen, Sydney Pride and Savannah Turner (Duloc Dancers), Grace Clark, Ashley Rodgers, Liya Rivere and Savannah Turner (Rat Tappers).

The education staff and production team members include: Kim Hale, Lisa Murphy, Karie Dykeman (Producers), Melissa Rivera, Kyle Bradley, Jacob Estes, Kristen Dasto (Directors), Jake Deck (Assistant Director), Kellsey Bradley, Mesa Mitchell (Education Specialists), Kristen Dasto (Choreographer), Jake Deck (Assistant Choreographer), Nicole Dasto (Assistant Stage Manager), Melissa Rivera (Music Director), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Mac Hill (Audio Director), Jonathan Crum (Costume Designer), Kim Hale, Melody Snyder (Costumers), Heather Douglas (Makeup), Jacob Estes (Hair and Wigs), Roz Slavik (Props), Jacob Estes, Jake Deck (Set Design), Jacob Estes, Jake Deck, Art Hale, Kim Hale, Kyle Bradley (Set Construction), Velvet Case (Photographer), and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director – Marketing and Design).

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Shrek The Musical Jr Swamps Historic Downtown Branson

Shrek The Musical Jr. Swamps the Historic Owen Theatre June 6-9

The Branson Regional Arts Council presents their 2019 Youth Troupe Summer Institute performance of Shrek the Musical Jr., June 6-9 at the Historic Owen Theatre in Downtown Branson. Advance reserved tickets are recommended and available online at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417-336-4255. Adult (18+) tickets are $16.95, and Youth (4-17) are $11.45.

HISTORIC OWEN THEATRE TICKETS

“This swamp is huge! Since we first announced this production in August of last year, enrollment requests for our summer theatre program has increased exponentially! In order to accommodate all 71 participating students, we’ve added additional teaching, directing, and other support staff to create two separate casts of kids, who will perform three shows each.”
– Jim Barber, BRAC Executive Director

Shrek the Musical Jr. is based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film and the Broadway production that received a total of twelve Drama Desk Awards and eight Tony Award nominations, including Best Musical! Beauty is in the eye of the ogre! It’s a “big bright beautiful world” as everyone’s favorite ogre, Shrek, leads a cast of fairytale misfits on an adventure to rescue a princess and find true acceptance. Part romance and part twisted fairy tale, Shrek JR. is an irreverently fun show with a powerful message for the whole family.

The talented young stars of Shrek the Musical Jr. range from 6-18 years of age. In addition to learning their music, choreography and dialogue, many also assist with set construction, decor and costuming. The entire production comes together after only three weeks of challenging classes, culminating in six spectacular performances. The students work very hard, while having a lot of fun, to master this fantastic family musical.

“The financial investment we make in each of our theatre productions at the Historic Owen Theatre is very high. For this particular production, we were very honored to receive a generous grant of assistance towards our licensing fees from Neighbors and Friends of Table Rock Lake. This organization understands and appreciates what the Arts Council is doing for all residents in our community, especially our youth.” – Jim Barber

The “Hansel” cast performs: Friday, June 7th (7pm), Saturday, June 8th (7pm), and Sunday, June 9th (2pm).

Hansel Cast Members include: Joey Blackwood (Shrek), Dani Groff (Fiona), Millie Jo Stauffer (Young Fiona), Sydney Patrick (Teen Fiona),  Carter Hendrickson (Lord Farquaad), Nathanel Bond (Donkey), Emma Hesemann (Dragon), Lola Zobel (Mama Ogre), Xander Greenamyer (Little Ogre), Wesley Brown (Papa Ogre), Sophie Douglas (Pinocchio), Lauren Tiefry (Little Pig 1 / Blind Mice 1), Eden Burgess (Little Pig 2 / Blind Mice 2), Emma Melton (Little Pig 3 / Blind Mice 3), Sylvie Barbour (Ugly Duckling), Arthur Selzer (Papa Bear), Sydney Pride (Mama Bear), Josslynn Silvy (Baby Bear), Kylee Moody (Wicked Witch), Liam Leven (Big Bad Wolf), Addison Patrick (Gingy), Pace Gillman (Peter Pan), Uriah Guevel (Captain Of The Guard), Hoyt Gubin (Dwarf), Chelsey Qualkenbush (Story Teller 1), Jackson Guffey (Story Teller 2), Aubrey Melton (Story Teller 3), Sailor Tillis (Puss In Boots), Mia Johnson (Pied Piper), Ashleigh Williams (Bishop), Jude Barbour (Knight), Hallie Groff (Goldie Locks), Madeline Cox (White Rabbit), Cassie Greenamyer (Elf), Haley Guffey (Fairy Godmother), Addison Russell (Humpty Dumpty), Sydney Rickman (Sugar Plum Fairy), Sophie Douglas, Sydney Patrick, Sylvie Barbour and Addison Patrick (Dungeon Knights), Sophie Douglas, Pace Gilman, Hallie Groff, Mia Johnson, Sydney Pride, Addison Patrick and Sydney Patrick (Duloc Dancers), Sophie Douglas, Pace Gillman, Hallie Groff, Emma Melton, Aubrey Melton and Ashleigh Williams (Rat Tappers).

The “Gretel” cast performs: Thursday, June 6th (7pm), Saturday, June 8th (2pm), Sunday, June 9th (7pm).

Gretel Cast Members include: Wesley Brown (Shrek), Renee’ Elkady (Fiona), Charlee Mitchell (Young Fiona), Bekah Williams (Teen Fiona),  Cole Hill (Lord Farquaad), Jake Musser (Donkey), Liya Rivere (Dragon), Johanna Luthardt (Mama Ogre), Lee Brown (Little Ogre), Joey Blackwood (Papa Ogre), Grace Clark  (Pinocchio), Kylee Chandler (Little Pig 1 / Blind Mice 1), Charlee Roberts (Little Pig 2 / Blind Mice 2), Madison Lundeen (Little Pig 3 / Blind Mice 3), Jael Frost (Ugly Duckling), Morgan Brown (Papa Bear), Sydney Pride (Mama Bear), Lundyn Mitchell (Baby Bear), Lara Elkady (Wicked Witch), Cameron Morrison (Big Bad Wolf), Alexis Fischer (Gingy), Ashley Rodgers (Peter Pan), Liam Hill (Captain Of The Guard), Tyler Tees-Webster (Dwarf), Molly Jones (Story Teller 1), Korey Brown (Story Teller 2), Gigi McAdara (Story Teller 3), Halle Horn (Puss In Boots), Megan Rodgers (Pied Piper), Savannah Turner (Bishop), Colin McAdara (Knight), Anastacia Petri (Goldie Locks), Elyse Smith (White Rabbit), Gianna Daniels (Elf), Emma Hess (Fairy Godmother), Taylor Miller (Humpty Dumpty), Loughlynn Murphy (Sugar Plum Fairy), Jael Frost, Sydney Pride, Alexis Fischer, Beckah Williams (Dungeon Knights), Kylee Chandler, Grace Clark, Alexis Fischer, Ashley Rodgers, Megan Rodgers, Madison Lundeen, Sydney Pride and Savannah Turner (Duloc Dancers), Grace Clark, Ashley Rodgers, Liya Rivere and Savannah Turner (Rat Tappers).

“Our dedicated education staff are the best! I’m impressed how they can smoothly work with such a large, diverse group of students, yet present such phenomenal theatre productions for our community. The self esteem and confidence they are instilling into these young people is tremendous.” – Jim Barber

The education staff and production team members include: Kim Hale, Lisa Murphy, Karie Dykeman (Producers), Melissa Rivera, Kyle Bradley, Jacob Estes, Kristen Dasto (Directors), Jake Deck (Assistant Director), Kellsey Bradley, Mesa Mitchell (Education Specialists), Kristen Dasto (Choreographer), Jake Deck (Assistant Choreographer), Nicole Dasto (Assistant Stage Manager), Melissa Rivera (Music Director), Pamela Meadows (Lighting Design), Mac Hill (Audio Director), Jonathan Crum (Costume Designer), Kim Hale, Melody Snyder (Costumers), Heather Douglas (Makeup), Jacob Estes (Hair and Wigs), Roz Slavik (Props), Jacob Estes, Jake Deck (Set Design), Jacob Estes, Jake Deck, Art Hale, Kim Hale, Kyle Bradley (Set Construction), Velvet Case (Photographer), and Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director – Marketing and Design).

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BRAC Youth Show Choir Concert This Thursday

 

  • dateMay 12, 2019
  • userBranson Regional Arts Council
  • commentNo Comments
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Free Community Concert at the Historic Owen Theatre This Thursday!

Branson area residents are in for a real treat this week as the Branson Regional Arts Council’s STACCATO Youth Show Choir and SHOWSTOPPERS Youth Theatre Troupe will present a free community concert on Thursday, May 16th – 7pm at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson.

There is no charge for admission, but as seating is limited to 200, advance online reservations are recommended at BransonArts.org/may16 or by calling the Branson Regional Arts Council at 417-336-4255.

FREE TICKETS

The concert will include solo, duet and small group vocal selections, as well as full cast production numbers.

Twelve of these young performers recently experienced a journey of a life-time as they participated in one of the Nation’s leading high school music education programs, Festival Disney in Orlando, Florida.

The students (from youngest to oldest) include; Hallie Groff (9), Jake Musser (13), Sydney Pride (13), Megan Rodgers (13), Jordan Kendrick (15), Noah Beyer (15), Moritz Mund (16), Jacob Deeter (16), Alex Knudsen (16), Carter Hendrickson (16), Dani Groff (18) and Brenna Kellem (18).

Their performance at Festival Disney was reviewed by nationally respected members of the National Music Adjudication Coalition including Dr. Gregory Fuller (Director of Choral Activities at The University of Southern Mississippi), Dr. Craig Zamer (Director of Choral Activities at Tennessee Tech University), and Dr. Kathleen Shannon (Conductor and Vocal Pedagogue with extensive credits) who also spent several minutes with the students and directors after the performance to offer her expertise and professional assessment and guidance for further improvement. Comments from these professionals were extremely enthusiastic and positive, providing a perfect conclusion to an exciting week of Disney Magic for these deserving students.

In August 2018, the Branson Regional Arts Council (BRAC) announced this new youth education program to provide vocal music, dance and theatre training for area students between the ages of 8 and 18. Open auditions were held at the Historic Owen Theatre, and from the dozens of youth who tried out, the musical show choir group “Staccato” and the Youth Troupe Theatre group “Showstoppers” were created. These unique performance troupes combine challenging musical repertoire with entertaining choreography to provide a unique, one of a kind, arts education experience for young students in the Branson area.

Kim Hale is the Vice President of BRAC and serves as the Educational Advisory Chair for this youth vocal arts program. Lloyd Alexander-Holt is the BRAC Education Director and Director of Vocal Studies, Kristen Dasto is the Director of Dance Studies, and Jacob Estes is the Director of Theatre Education.

Auditions for the 2019-2020 cast of Staccato will be held in July at the Historic Owen Theatre. Interested students are asked to watch the Branson Regional Arts Council Facebook page, or official website, BransonArts.org, for upcoming information.

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First Annual BRAC BBQ FEST Announced

The First Annual BRAC BBQ FEST Is Coming To Downtown Branson!

Excitement and fun waits for everyone at the First Annual Branson Regional Arts Council (BRAC) BBQ Festival in Liberty Plaza behind the Historic Owen Theater in Downtown Branson!


The BRAC BBQ Fest is set for Saturday, June 1st from 10am until 6pm. Admission is free, and attendees will enjoy a large assortment of live entertainment, crafts booths, and artisans throughout the day. “We’ll have fun activities for kids of all ages including a bounce house and face painting, as well as delicious, mouthwatering BBQ cooked on location in an actual firetruck,” said BRAC Executive Director Jim Barber. “You’ll have to see it to believe it,” he added, “fantastic food and delicious drinks will be available for a reasonable price throughout the day!”

BRAC BBQ Fest is produced by the Branson Regional Arts Council in cooperation with Branson Parks & Recreation, and the premier event sponsor, Dr. Richard Tallon and Branson Dental Center. Additional event sponsors include Mercy Hospital and Dr. Munshi – Branson Institute of Sleep.

The purpose of the event is to raise awareness and funds to help the Branson Regional Arts Council preserve the history and entertainment legacy of the Historic Owen Theatre built in 1936.

CURRENT LIVE ENTERTAINMENT INCLUDES:

  • Java Jived (St. Louis based Mixed Vocal Octet Group) – 10am
  • Forte Theatrical Group – Cabaret Music – 11am
  • Preview Selection from Forte’s Hamlet – 12pm
  • Lori Locke and Friends – 1pm
  • Preview of Shrek the Musical Jr. – 2pm
  • Rick McEwen – 4pm
  • Robert Morris – Balloon Twister Extraordinaire (all day)

More entertainment acts will be listed soon… performance times subject to change.

Area Businesses, Artists, Crafters, and other Vendors will have an opportunity to rent a display area and sell their products. Booth space rental information is available on the Branson Regional Arts Council website at BransonArts.org/bbqvendor, or by contacting BRAC at 417-336-4255 or info@bransonarts.org for more information.

VENDOR REGISTRATION

CURRENTLY REGISTERED BRAC BBQ FEST VENDORS INCLUDE:

  • Peter Engler Designs – Jewelry, woodcarvings, free gifts, oil candles and more
  • Joplin Peace Frogs – T-shirts, hats, bags, jackets, purses, decals and jewelry
  • EBBboutique – Acrylic Pour Paintings, Shadow Boxes, Leather Jewelry and Accessories
  • Carolyn Cambronne-Hayes – Framed and matted digital original art prints
  • Silver Jewelry Artist – Sterling and gemstone jewely by award-winning artist Jayme Woodall
  • Sticks, Spoons & More – Handmade wooden spoons, ladles and measuring cups
  • Taneyhills Community Library – Promoting summer reading for kids and library services
  • Scentsy – Scented Wax and Decorative Wax Warmers, and a variety of other home fragrance products.
  • Branson West Art Gallery – Original paintings, photography, jewelry, and wood carvings
  • Concept 24 By Design – Original Art, Crafts, and Prints
  • Salvation Army of Branson – Salvation Army Thrift Store Clothing Specials and community awareness

 

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