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Lennon Brothers & Gail Lennon Reunion Concert Announced

After many years, The Lennon Brothers & Gail Lennon are excited to announce a reunion concert in Branson, Missouri for TWO SHOWS ONLY!

  • Saturday, November 24th at 8pm, and Sunday, November 25th at 2pm.
  • $25 (plus transaction fee) Reserved Admission for all seats at BransonArts.org/lennon.  (No discounts available)

LENNON REUNION CONCERT TICKETS

Enjoy authentic swing harmony, inside of Branson’s oldest and most historic entertainment venue!

This concert will not only be fun for Lennon fans of all ages, it will also be of benefit to the Branson Regional Arts Council and their new visual and performing arts programming being developed at the Historic Owen Theatre.

If you love the vocal swing harmony that was America’s favorite music in the 30’s and 40’s…you need look no further than The Lennon Brothers and Gail Lennon.

The Lennon Brothers & Gail Lennon

The Lennons capture the sound of legendary performers such as The Modernaires, The Pied Pipers, The Delta Rhythm Boys and The Four Vagabonds. They sing the works of some of the greatest American composers… Hoagy Carmichael, Johnny Mercer, Duke Ellington, Irving Berlin and more.

Brothers Dan, Bill, and Joe grew up in Los Angeles as members of a celebrated musical heritage. Their father, Bill, was the lead singer in the original Lennon Brothers, who performed in the 1940’s and 50’s. It was their sisters, however, who sang their way into America’s hearts as young performers on The Lawrence Welk Show. The Lennon Sisters’ “girl next door” beauty and charm endeared them to millions, but it was their harmonies that led them to be inducted into The Vocal Group Hall-of-Fame in 2002.

The boys have been singing from the time they were born. And as the times were a’ changing so was the music. They sang The Beatles, Crosby Stills and Nash, Jefferson Airplane…but also the music of an earlier time: Al Jolson, The Mills Brothers, and the original Lennon Brothers.

Bill, Dan, Joe and Gail Lennon

In 1983, Bill met his wife-to-be Gail. Gail was among the top studio singers in L.A. at that time. They discovered a mutual love for the music of the Swing Era and, with brother Dan, put together a vocal group called The Fatells. This was the fore runner of The Lennon Brothers of today.

In 1994, thirty members of the Lennon family moved to Branson, Missouri to perform at the new Welk Resort. The brothers and Gail opened the resort with a morning show that The Chicago Tribune hailed as “The BEST show in Branson!” The show featured not only a hot live band and tight swing harmonies, but also the brothers’ “…Monty Python meets Vaudeville” style of comedy.

Gail was voted “Female Vocalist of the Year” in 1994 at the Branson Entertainment Awards. Over the next several years, the group won awards so often they were given a spot in the Branson’s “Hall of Fame”.

The critics agreed:

St. Louis Dispatch “..one of Branson’s most respected shows.”
Tulsa World “…subversively hip!”
Springfield News Leader “Smoothly entertaining…Branson’s best!”
Chicago Tribune “The BEST show in Branson!”

And so did their fellow performers:

Andy Williams “…the best four-part vocals I’ve heard in years!”
Pete Fountain “They’re the best…unbelievable talent…the show was over way too soon!”
Les Brown Jr. – Band of Renown “Gail is a wonderful singer!”
Sunny Spencer – Sons of the Pioneers “They’re my favorite singing group in the whole world!”

The Lennon Brothers & Gail Lennon have released 3 CD’s: “Swing Away!”, “Swing Sandwich”, and “The 9:30 Special”. In The Groove magazine praises the recordings “…outstanding quality” and called the groups performances “…amazing!”

Since last headlining in Branson, the group has traveled for special events. They’ve been the headline performers at the “Indian Wells Jazz Festival”, have performed on the S.S. Rotterdam and have played venues throughout the Midwest and West Coast.

The Lennon Brothers & Gail Lennon Reunion Concert will be an exciting event for area locals and Branson vacationers alike.  Early purchase of tickets is highly recommended as both performances are expected to completely sell out. Visit BransonArts.org/lennon.

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Ventriloquism Workshop with Jim Barber Announced

Have you ever wondered how ventriloquists like Darci Lynn (America’s Got Talent) and Jeff Dunham (Comedy Central) are able to “throw their voices” and make their puppets talk clearly without moving their lips? Well here is your chance to participate in a fun and educational ventriloquism workshop at the Historic Owen Theatre in Branson, Missouri.

Professional ventriloquist Jim Barber has agreed to personally teach this course as a fundraiser benefiting the Branson Regional Arts Council.

The workshop will be held over 3 Saturdays in March 2018, for a total of 9 hours of intensive education and technical training.

  • COST: $149 (per person, includes all 3 sessions)
  • DATE: Saturdays, March 17, 24, 31
  • TIME: 9am – 12pm (3 hours each session)

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Jim will not only share his personal vocal techniques that he developed over his successful 40 year career, but he will also include an intensive overview of the official Maher Ventrilquist Studios Course of Ventriloquism, which has launched the careers of thousands of ventriloquists around the world since 1934.

Inclusion of this course is made possible by professional ventriloquist Tom Crowl, who owns and operates the famous Maher Studios.

KIDS OF ALL AGES… GREAT GIFT FOR YOUR CHILD, GRANDCHILD, OR YOURSELF!

ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR:

Jim Barber’s unique blend of comedy, ventriloquism, and vocal music have taken him around the world as a featured entertainer for International corporate events, major cruise lines, and as host of USO shows for our military families stationed across the United States and in the Mediterranean.  Based in Branson, Missouri, Jim is now the Executive Director of the Arts Council and will be appearing in his own show at the Shepherd of the Hills Attraction in a remodeled, indoor theatre this summer. Throughout his career, Jim has shared stage and toured with many celebrities including Glen Campbell, The Osmonds, Tony Orlando, The Bellamy Brothers, Jim Stafford, Eddy Rabbitt, Yakov Smirnoff and many others. His unique act has been featured on many national television shows including the Late Show with David Letterman. Jim also serves as an advisor for Vent Haven Museum in Ft. Mitchell, KY. Vent Haven is the world’s largest museum dedicated to the art of ventriloquism.

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Arts Council Volunteer Rally This Saturday

Join us at the Historic Owen Theatre for an informational “Volunteer Rally” and find out how you can be an active participant in the Branson Regional Arts Council. We are developing a full slate of amazing events this year, and are looking for enthusiastic folks who love their community, and LOVE TO HAVE FUN!

When: Sat, January 20, 2018 from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Where: Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S. Commercial Street, Branson, MO 65616

USHER? ACTOR? PAINTER? STAGE HAND? DIRECTOR? ARTIST? PROMOTER? GRANT WRITER?… something for everyone!

PLEASE RSVP to attend this FREE EVENT

FREE EVENT – PLEASE CLICK THE TICKETS BUTTON ABOVE TO RSVP IF YOU PLAN TO ATTEND!

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Celebrate New Years Eve at the Historic Owen Theatre

Branson Missouri New Years Eve

Branson New Years Eve

Click to Download Printable NYE Event Poster


Join us on Sunday, December 31st for an HISTORIC New Year’s Eve Celebration at the Owen Theatre in Downtown Branson.

Event: Dec. 31st, 8pm until 12:30am
Place: Historic Owen Theatre, 205 S Commercial St, Branson, MO 65616

This is an exclusive Branson Regional Arts Council event, and is limited to the first 200 people who register. Tickets are on-sale now for $75 per person and all funds raised benefit the BRAC.

This will be THE BRANSON NEW YEARS EVENT of the year!

Participants are invited to dress as though they are attending a 1930’s Movie Premiere in the Golden Age of Hollywood, but we welcome any festive attire that our patrons wish to wear that evening. Live cabaret entertainment will be provided by Forte’ Theatre Company as well as other surprise guest performers. A delicious assortment of finger foods and hors d’oeuvres will be served, as well as a nice variety of refreshments, from sodas, water, wine and even a champagne toast! Party favors for everyone and surprises galore!

When the clock strikes Midnight, we will all participate in a very special ceremony as the keys to the venue are handed over to the Branson Regional Arts Council Board of Directors.  On January 1st, 2018, the Historic Owen Theatre will become… YOUR COMMUNITY THEATRE and the new home office of the Arts Council.

PURCHASE NYE TICKETS NOW

More information on this exciting event will be announced in the coming weeks, but NOW IS THE TIME to get your tickets!  Only 200 seats are available! We also have a small block of discounted overnight lodging at the Branson Convention Center Hotel, which is a short, 5 minute walk from the theatre. Why drive home after the event when you can check in early, then walk over to the theatre for our event at 8pm!

The curtain is rising on a new-era of Arts Entertainment in Branson, Missouri. Join us for this fun and historic event!

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Neil Diamond and Karen Carpenter Appreciation Shows To Benefit Arts Council

The Branson Regional Arts Council invites all area residents to experience two amazing Branson shows for equally amazing prices!

Keith Alynn’s A Neil Diamond Tribute and Dianna Lynn’s Carpenters Christmas Once More, are both showing their support of the Arts Council by inviting area residents to see their award-winning shows in exchange for a $10 per seat donation to the Branson Regional Arts Council.  These seats can only be reserved through the payment links below.  All major credit cards or PayPal is accepted.

If you prefer to pay by check, please send payments to: Branson Regional Arts Council (Carpenters Show or Neil Diamond Show), P.O. Box 2004, Branson, MO 65615

Checks should be made payable to: Branson Regional Arts Council

Please join the Arts Council in showing appreciation for these wonderful performers who have endeared themselves to the Branson community for many years.  Their shows are tremendous, and their support of the Arts Council’s upcoming transition into the Historic Owen Theatre is appreciated.

 

The Carpenters Christmas Once More | Friday, November 17th – 1:00pm Showtime – $10 Donation Per Seat

“The Carpenters Christmas Once More” features the incredible hits from the brother and sister duo that delighted the world with their love songs! This show stars Dianna Lynn and her amazing ability to replicate the unique vocal qualities of Karen Carpenter; an exceptional singer and gifted drummer whose smooth and beautiful vocals made you smile and cry as she helped create the soundtrack for dances, weddings, and other celebrations in the 70’s and 80’s. She may have left us far too soon, but her legacy lives on in gorgeous songs that have endured throughout decades of hair bands, hard rock, house music, and rap. Good music never loses its appeal!

Come celebrate one Unforgettable Voice and one unforgettable duo, with the sounds of The Carpenters Christmas Once More featuring Branson Show Awards 2016 Tribute Show of the Year. From the birth of this dynamic duo to the last of their public performances, this heartwarming show highlights hits like Close To You, For, Postman, Ticket To Ride, No Place Like Home, I’ll Be Home For Christmas, Sleigh Ride, The Christmas Song and many more! You never know who might pop in to Celebrate the Sounds of Carpenters Christmas Once More during the show. Quick Change, multi media, comedy and incredible vocals round out this 90 minute, heartfelt tribute.

CARPENTERS CHRISTMAS ONCE MORE
CLICK “ADD TO CART”,THEN SELECT # OF SEATS DESIRED







A Neil Diamond Tribute | Wednesday, November 15th – 7:00pm Showtime – $10 Donation Per Seat

“A Neil Diamond Tribute” gives Branson its very own pop legend, or the closest thing to the real Neil Diamond you’ll ever see and hear, courtesy of veteran tribute artist, Keith Allynn! It’s not hard to find look- alikes; it’s not hard to find sound-alikes, it’s rare to find both embodied in one sensational artist, and he’s performing right here in Branson’s historic downtown district. Few artists ever achieve the level of superstardom enjoyed by Neil Diamond; he’s won both a Golden Globe and a Grammy, been recognized at the Kennedy Center Honors in 2011, and found a long list of his songs on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart, including #1 hits, Cracklin’ Rosie, Song Sung Blue, and You Don’t Bring Me Flowers. His other Top Ten hits include America, Sweet Caroline, I Am…I Said, and Longfellow Serenade. It’s a daunting task to take on such a legend, but Keith Allynn assumes the role with ease…the look, the voice, even the mannerisms; it’s not merely an impersonation, it’s a passionate tribute of epic proportions!

In addition to his uncanny Neil Diamond act, Keith Allynn has captured the true essence of Elvis Presley, landing himself on Graceland’s Top Ten Elvis Artist list, and he’s racked up the laughs as a stand-up comedian opening for the likes of comic legends, Robin Williams, Chris Rock, and Tim Allen. But it’s his “Neil Diamond Tribute” that’s gained him fans and endorsements from folks like Tom Jones and Tony Orlando. Come see why Branson audiences just can’t get enough of “A Neil Diamond Tribute!”

A NEIL DIAMOND TRIBUTE
CLICK “ADD TO CART”,THEN SELECT # OF SEATS DESIRED







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Old Fashioned Wooden Christmas Toys Benefit The Arts

Old Time Christmas Handcrafted Toys are simple and safe gifts, built to last a lifetime!

Looking for a unique Christmas gift that will not only be treasured for years to come, but will also make a difference in our community? When you order a Louis Allen original hand crafted wood toy, you are also supporting the Youth Troupe Theatre program of the Branson Regional Arts Council.

Louis Allen is an amazing area artist, whose works of art can be seen up and down the Branson strip, as well as on many of our Branson theatre stages. From the giant Rooster in front of the Great American Steak & Chicken House, to a huge, outdoor Duncan Donut, Louis has left his mark on our community in a BIG way!  He also has a heart for kids, and appreciates the work the Branson Regional Arts Council is doing for area youth.  That’s why he offered to create this series of five classic wooden toys… just like your Great Grandpa might have had as a young boy.

A limited quantity of these one-of-a-kind vintage style toys will be available, so place your order now!

Place your order below, and we will contact you as soon as your custom toys are ready!

TIP: If you wish to order a variety of toys, click “Add to Cart” then “Continue Shopping” to return to this page!

WOOD SLEIGH
$22.00

AIRPLANE
$22.00

PUZZLE BOX
$27.00

WOOD HORSE
$12.00

WOOD TOP
$12.00

 

SHIPPING: If you request to have your items shipped, we will need to invoice you for a modest shipping/packaging fee. Branson area purchasers may pick up your items when they are ready.

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Branson Regional Arts Council To Purchase Historic Owen Theatre

The Branson Regional Arts Council has entered into a contract to purchase the Historic Owen Theatre at 205 South Commercial Street in downtown Branson, Missouri.

Local residents Ron and Diane Mathes have owned the venue for many years, providing a showcase for a variety of live music shows including the current productions “A Neil Diamond Tribute” starring Keith Allynn, and “Carpenters Once More,” starring Dianna Lynn. Both shows have a full schedule through mid-December, with the Arts Council assuming operation of the venue in January 2018.

“We truly appreciate that the Mathes’s understand and support the vision of the Branson Regional Arts Council in our quest to improve the lives of area residents and visitors by providing artistic and theatrical community programs,” said Executive Director Jim Barber. “After 52 years as an organization, the Arts Council will have, for the first time, a permanent venue dedicated to presenting community theatre and other arts related programming. This investment will be a catalyst for new economic growth opportunities through arts initiatives that serve our entire area,” added Barber.

(Left to Right) Dr. Hayden Head (BRAC Board Member), Lisa Murphy (BRAC President), Ron & Diane Mathes (Owen Theatre Owners), Harry Styron (BRAC Attorney), Jim Barber (BRAC Executive Director), Kim Hale (BRAC Board Member).

Built in 1936, Branson’s very first theatre was originally owned by Jim Owen, who served as Mayor of Branson for 12 years and achieved International fame as the “King of the River,” for entertaining tourists, corporate executives and even Hollywood celebrities with his popular White River float trips. His passion for promoting the natural beauty of the Ozarks, and his extraordinary entrepreneurship attracted guests such as Gene Autry, Joe DiMaggio, Forrest Tucker, Charleston Heston, and Rose O’Neill.

The Owen Theatre was initially called the “Hillbilly Theatre” and incorporated large, hand painted Ozarks scenes by famed area artist Elsie Bates Fruend, who Mr. Owen lovingly referred to as his “Hill Girl.” Elsie’s paintings and custom jewelry were also displayed in a small, lobby gallery. Several years ago, the City of Branson and the Branson Arts Council commissioned a bronze plaque, which is still on display at the theatre entrance to commemorate Elsie’s work.

Jim Owen had a long list of credentials. His career began as an advertising manager for a Jefferson City Newspaper. After visiting the Ozarks in 1933, he fell in love with the area, making it his permanent home. Before his death in 1972, he had owned a drug store, theatre, and an auto dealership. He was president of a bank and even wrote a fishing column for the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock, AR. In addition, he owned champion fox hounds and bird dogs, produced his own brand of pet food, and owned a large dairy. In addition to that, he authored a book entitled: “Jim Owen’s Hillbilly Humor” and became the subject of feature magazine articles in Look, Life, and The Saturday Evening Post, with his hilarious and heartwarming stories of life in the Ozarks.

The theatre was designed for Mr. Owen by Carl and Robert Boller of Kansas City, Missouri. The Boller Brothers, who’s family roots were in Vaudeville, are credited with designing, or consulting on the design of, over 300 classic theatre venues nationwide, ranging from small vaudeville houses to large movie palaces. Each theatre was unique, with designs influenced by the history of the towns in which they were located.
Approximately 20 of the Boller Brothers works are listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

By the end of the 1920’s, the brothers were well established as specialists in the architectural field of theater and movie palace design. The stock market crash of October 29, 1929, lead to the great depression, nearly destroying the Boller Brothers firm due to cancelled contracts. By June 1932, Robert, now close to bankruptcy, was forced to close the Kansas City office and move his family to a cabin in the Ozarks in hopes of weathering the bad economy. Over the next few years, he received a handful of commissions, including the design of Branson’s very first movie house, the Owen Theatre. These jobs were enough to allow him to move back to Kansas City and reestablish a small home office where he focused on theatre remodeling, as well as a few new venues of simple modern design.

While many of the Boller Brother theatres have now been demolished or renovated, the Branson Regional Arts Council is excited for this opportunity to preserve the original aspects of the Historic Owen Theatre, while providing a wide variety of artistic, cultural and educational opportunities that support, strengthen, and enhance the lives of Branson area residents and visitors from around the world.

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Support the Arts For Less Than 15 Cents A Day

Share your love of the arts with your family by purchasing an annual Branson Regional Arts Council membership!

We offer many theatre, music, artistic, and educational events throughout the year! As a BRAC member, you will receive many valuable perks and discounts to our events throughout the year

– $50.00 / 1 Year  – Purchase Now

You and your immediate family living at home can support and participate in the activities of the Branson Regional Arts Council, helping to shape the future of arts in our area. You will receive membership news, monthly newsletter, and free or reduced event admissions. (Membership dues amount to just $0.96 per week.)

– $20.00 / 1 Year – Purchase Now

You can support and participate in the activities of the Branson Regional Arts Council, helping to shape the future of arts in our area. You will receive membership news, monthly newsletter, and free or reduced event admissions. (Membership dues amount to just $0.38 per week.)

– $10.00 / 1 Year – Purchase Now

Students in high school and college are especially important to our organization. Your reduced fee membership of just $0.19 a week allows you to support and participate in the activities of the Branson Regional Arts Council. You will receive membership news, monthly newsletter, and free or reduced event admissions.

If you are in a position to support the Branson Regional Arts Council in a more meaningful way, please consider becoming a valued SPONSOR or PATRON.

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ART WALK 2016

IT’S ALMOST HERE!!

ArtWalkNewspaperAd2016

BAC’s 2nd Annual Art Walk in Historic Branson and Hollister is Saturday, June 18, from 5:00 PM until 9:00 PM. Join us in a festive evening enjoying the visual arts. Area artists and local businesses in historic Branson and Hollister are participating by, hosting new art exhibits and featuring artists demonstrating their skills in various media. Musicians will be performing in locations around town for your listening pleasure. Food trucks will be serving up goodies in Hollister in addition to other fine eating establishments in both Branson and Hollister.

Enjoy this opportunity to meet local artists and experience the wonderful variety of fine art that is being created in our community! Artists working in oil, watercolor, acrylic, digital media, ceramics, woodworking, sculpture, and more, will be exhibiting and demonstrating at Art Walk. It promises to be a memorable summer evening for art and music lovers!

PLUS- don’t miss “Music Man, Jr” presented by Branson Arts Council’s Youth Theatre Troupe will be performing at the Historic Owen Theatre- June 18 at 4pm and 7pm during Art Walk and again on Sunday, June 19 at 2pm.

Add this event to your summer calendar of “must do” activities. Branson Arts Council’s Art Walk is FREE!!! It will transform Historic Branson and Hollister into a lively, friendly and varied art gallery for the evening. Most art will be available for purchase and will remain on display until 9:00 PM.

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Support Branson Arts Council… by SHOPPING!

belk_logo_detail

What a GREAT IDEA- Shop to support the ARTS!

Belk is having a PRIVATE TICKETED EVENT Charity Sale on Saturday, April 30th, 2016 for four hours only- from 6 AM until 10 AM! Get the fashion you want while supporting local charities! Branson Arts Council has $5 coupons for sale beginning April 24.

Here’s how it works: Purchase your $5 Charity Sale Tickets from Branson Arts Council and take to the Belk store at Branson Landing on Saturday May 2 between the hours of 6 am and 10 am. For every $5 Charity Sale Ticket you redeem, $5 will be taken off your purchase price. The more Charity Sale Tickets you buy, the more items you may purchase for $5 off, AND the more BAC benefits from your shopping! YOU MUST HAVE TICKETS TO SHOP DURING THIS PRIVATE EVENT!


Click on the “Buy Now” button or call Branson Arts Council at 417-336-4255 to purchase Charity Sale Tickets.

Belk is located at 5 Branson Landing Blvd, Branson, MO 65616

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