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The forecast calls for occasional rain, sprinkled with lots of song and dance. Definitely something to sing about. This month’s offerings include the eagerly anticipated return of the pandemically thwarted “Singin’ in the Rain” at the Des Moines Community Playhouse. Add a diversity of live performan
It’s a piece of cake. Iowa Stage Theatre Company has developed a wonderful recipe for performance success over the years. With a dash of classics, some flavoring with occasional musicals, and bold spicing with modern classics and new works, this company has found its niche in central Iowa’s theatri
As the refrain proclaims, “Tra-la! It’s May! The lusty month of May!” (from “Camelot”) promises performances to engage, entertain and inspire. As venues open, led by the Des Moines Playhouse’s “Some Enchanted Evening” through May 9, outdoor theater options abound as invitingly as the bursting of spr
By John Busbee 3/3/2021 Stuart (Will C. Johnson) is a little mouse on a big adventure in âStuart Little,â playing through March 14, in repertory with âLeaving Iowa,â at The Des Moines Playhouse. Photo Credit: Brent Isenberger This month marks the one-year anniversary of when stages across central Iowa went dark. As local producers mourn the loss, they remain resolved to adapt and find ways to overcome the situation. A key ingredient has been the support from patrons and the government. Each of these sources is a testament to the vital contributions that performing arts add...
By John Busbee Photo by TheatreMidwest One truth always seems to emerge from cultural chaos: creativity will find a way to adapt, overcome and continue to engage the public. Central Iowa is showing its mettle during these challenging times, and some wonderful offerings are arising, phoenix-like, from the pandemic fires. The end of COVID-19 is not known, but the promise of vaccines helps. The economy is fighting back, including the creative economy. Many theatre companies remain publicly dormant, yet behind the scenes, each continues to pencil in plans for their future. When the time is right,...