Branson Regional Arts Council (BRAC) — Quarterly Newsletter
Q1 2026 • Shows • Arts • Community
A note from BRAC:
As we move into a new season at the Historic Owen Theatre, we’re grateful for the artists, volunteers, sponsors, and audience members who make our work possible. Here’s a look at what you helped create this quarter—and what’s ahead.
⭐ Feature Story
A Strong Start to the Season — Thanks to You. Opening a season with not one, but two productions in the same quarter is no small thing—and thanks to this incredible community, it made for a strong and exciting start to the year at the Historic Owen Theatre.
With The Prince of Egypt and Murder on the Orient Express both taking the stage, we had the opportunity to share two very different kinds of storytelling. One was powerful and moving, the other full of mystery and intrigue. From the first performances, the energy in the theatre was unmistakable, applause was generous, and it was clear how much live theatre continues to matter in our community.
Behind each production was a dedicated group of performers, designers, and volunteers who brought their time, talent, and heart to the work. Whether it was the sweeping emotion of The Prince of Egypt or the sharp ensemble work of Murder on the Orient Express, these shows came together through collaboration, care, and a shared commitment to doing good work on stage.
What made this opening stretch especially meaningful was the mix of people who came through our doors—longtime BRAC supporters alongside first time patrons, families, and visitors, many experiencing the Owen Theatre for the first time. That shared experience and sense of connection is a powerful reminder of how the arts bring people together.
Productions like these don’t happen without a strong network of support. From volunteers and sponsors to donors and audience members, the success of both shows was truly a community effort. That support set a positive tone for the season ahead and reaffirmed why BRAC’s mission matters.
As we look forward, the momentum from these two productions energizes us to keep building thoughtful, meaningful, and inclusive arts experiences right here in Branson. Thank you for being part of this strong start—and for continuing to support the arts at the Historic Owen Theatre.
🎭 Coming Up at BRAC
Here’s what’s on the calendar:
- Special Abilities Showcase: 4/3 & 4/4
- Youth Theatre Showcase: 4/10 & 4/11
- Diary of a Wimpy Kid: 5/7-5/15
- Summer Institute: Alice in Wonderland JR: 6/11-6/14
- Summer Institute: High School Musical 2 JR: 6/11-6/14
- Summer Institute: Annie JR: 7/10-7/12
- Grease: 7/30-8/9
- Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: 10/1-11
- Christmas Belles: 12/3-13
🤝 Community & Impact
- The success of The Prince of Egypt and Murder on the Orient Express was made possible by an incredible team of volunteers, artists, and supporters working together.
- From front‑of‑house to backstage, volunteers continue to play a vital role in every BRAC production.
- Seeing our community fill the Historic Owen Theatre reminds us how powerful live theatre can be.
💬 From Our Audience
“This was nothing short of amazing. I was so impressed!”
— Audience Member, The Prince of Egypt
“One of my favorite shows I have seen here! Amazing performance by all!!”
— Audience Member, Murder on the Orient Express
✅ One Way to Help Right Now
Attend a performance and bring a friend. Nothing supports BRAC more than full houses and shared experiences. By attending a show—and inviting someone new—you help sustain live theatre and introduce more people to the magic of the Historic Owen Theatre.📣 Quick Notes
- Audiences that filled the Historic Owen Theatre for The Prince of Egypt and Murder on the Orient Express—thank you for such an incredible start to the season.
- Additional performances, events, and arts programming are already in the works.
- Be sure to watch for audition announcements and volunteer opportunities throughout the year.
About BRAC
BRAC serves the Branson region with artistic, cultural, and educational opportunities and calls the Historic Owen Theatre home. The Owen Theatre was originally built in 1936; BRAC acquired it in 2017 and launched its first season there in 2018.
With gratitude, BRAC Board of Directors & Luke Menard, Executive Director






