By Jared Curtis
jared@dmcityview.com

‘Moonlight and Magnolias’ presented by The Des Moines Playhouse

Des Moines Playhouse, 831 42nd St.

June 8-24

http://www.dmplayhouse.com

“Moonlight and Magnolias” tells a humorous, behind-the-scenes story dealing with what is considered one of the greatest movies of all-time, “Gone with the Wind.” The story follows legendary movie producer David O. Selznick, who has shut down production of his new film, “Gone with the Wind.” The screenplay isn’t working for Selznick, so he brings together screenwriter Ben Hecht and director Victor Fleming. Together, the three men spend five days locked in an office trying to rework the story and emerge with plenty of stories to tell. Tickets are $20 to $29.

‘Urinetown’ presented by ACTORS, INC

Ames Community Theater, 120 Abraham Drive

June 8-9, 15-17, 22-24

http://www.actorsinc.org

“Urinetown” is a laugh-out-loud show dealing with love, greed, corruption and revolution. Audiences can expect plenty of laughs as the world is changed when water becomes worth its weight in gold. Tickets are $20.

‘Billy Elliot the Musical’ presented by the Civic Center of Greater Des Moines

Civic Center Main Stage, 221 Walnut St.

June 12-17

http://www.civiccenter.org

“Billy Elliot the Musical” takes over the Civic Center of Greater Des Moines for a one-week-only engagement. The story follows the journey of a young boy named Billy Elliot, who leaves the boxing ring and picks up ballet shoes. Reluctant at first, Billy discovers he has a hidden talent. As his passion for dance grows, he inspires not only his family, but the entire community. Along with the inspirational story, Elton John has created a magical score that will keep audiences captivated. Tickets are $20.50-$66.50.

‘The Meth Project’ presented by Locust Productions

Des Moines Social Club, 400 Walnut St.

June 14-23

http://www.desmoinessocialclub.org

“The Meth Project” is presented by Locust Productions and was collaboratively written by local artists. The story follows a 360-degree look at the problem of meth in Iowa, as well as examining the health, legal and family impacts of this pervasive drug. Tickets are $11-$15.

‘The Divine Sister’ presented by StageWest

Civic Center’s Stoner Theater, 221 Walnut St.

June 15-17, 20-24

http://www.stagewestiowa.com

“The Divine Sister” celebrates almost every Hollywood film about nuns including “Bells of St. Mary’s,” “The Sound of Music,” “The Singing Nun” and “Doubt.” The story follows St. Veronica’s tough Mother Superior, who is determined to build a new school for her convent. But building the school won’t be as easy as she thought as she must deal with a youngster who claims he is having visions and a sensitive student who needs guidance. Sexual hysteria also runs wild among the nuns. Tickets are $22-$25. On Friday, June 15, attendees can enjoy the “Red Carpet Opening Night” event at the Kirkwood Lounge from 6-7 p.m. (free with show ticket). On Sunday, June 17, enjoy the “Sunday Talk-Back” session immediately after the show.

‘Suessical Jr.’ presented by the Story Theater Company

Ames City Auditorium, 520 6th St.

June 22-30

http://www.storytheatercompany.org

The musical about beloved children’s author Dr. Seuss has been shortened and adapted for the younger theatergoer in a new version called “Seussical Jr.” The show brings together a number of Seuss’ most famous books including “The Cat in the Hat” and “Horton Hears a Who” for a fun-filled show suitable for all-ages. Admission is $6-$8.

‘Red’ presented by StageWest as part of the Scriptease series

First Unitarian Church, 1800 Bell Ave.

June 26

http://www.stagewestiowa.com

“Red” was the 2010 Tony Award winner for Best Play and follows the story of abstract expressionist Mark Rothko. After landing the biggest commission in the history of modern art, Rothko works on the project for two years but soon discovers that his proudest moment could be his undoing. Admission is free. CV