Q2 Newsletter

Branson Regional Arts Council (BRAC) — Quarterly Newsletter

Q2 2026 • Shows • Arts • Community

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A Note from BRAC

As we move into the heart of our season at the Historic Owen Theatre, we’re grateful for the
artists, volunteers, sponsors, and audience members who make our work possible. This quarter
brought young performers to the stage, community support behind the scenes, and moments that
remind us why the arts matter. Here’s a look at what you helped create this quarter—and what’s
just ahead.

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Feature Story

A Spring Full of Heart at the Owen Theatre

This quarter brought one of my favorite parts of the BRAC season—our
Summer Youth Institute productions. So far, our young performers have brought
Alice in Wonderland Jr. and High School Musical 2 Jr. to the stage, filling the
Historic Owen Theatre with energy, creativity, and the kind of moments that remind you why we
do this in the first place. And there’s still more to come—Annie Jr. is coming up in
July, and we can’t wait to see it come together.

Summer Youth Institute is so much more than putting on shows. It gives our young performers the
chance to step into roles, learn the craft, and grow into themselves on stage. Watching
them rehearse, support each other, and take risks in front of an audience is something
special. Every time I see them perform, I’m reminded just how much these programs matter.

One moment from this season really stuck with me. During High School Musical 2 Jr.,
there was a little mishap on stage—the kind of unexpected thing that can throw anyone off.
But the two young actors in the middle of it didn’t miss a beat. They just kept going,
stayed in the moment, and the audience absolutely loved it. The whole theatre laughed
together, and what could have been a stumble turned into one of the best memories of the
night. Those are the moments that make live theatre—and these kids—so special.

None of this happens by accident. Behind every Summer Youth Institute show is a group of
volunteers, instructors, parents, and supporters helping shape the experience. From
costumes to choreography, from sets to stage management, these productions come together
because so many people show up and pour their time and heart into them.

Programs like the Summer Youth Institute create more than performances. They create confidence,
friendships, and a love for the arts that sticks with these kids long after the curtain
comes down. We’re so grateful to be able to offer this experience—and we’re excited to
keep building on it.

Thank you for supporting our young performers and the next generation of BRAC artists.

That energy continues as we look ahead to what’s next at the Historic Owen Theatre.

With appreciation,
Lorie Best
BRAC Board Secretary

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Coming Up at BRAC

Here’s what’s on the calendar:

• 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

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Community & Impact

• BRAC’s Youth Institute brought three productions to the stage this season, supporting young performers in our community.
• Volunteers, instructors, and supporters continue to make educational programming possible at BRAC.
• Every show is a reminder of how the arts help build confidence, creativity, and connection.

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From Our Audience

“Enjoyed watching the production my granddaughter was in the cast and it was great to see her enjoy herself cant wait for another production”
— Audience Member, Diary of a Wimpy Kid

“All the kids were great! I could tell they worked so hard to learn all their lines, songs, and dances! We’ll keep coming back for more shows!!”
— Audience Member, Alice in Wonderland JR

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