Winter arts & Entertainment Guide

1/20/2016

Iowa winters are unpredictable, especially this year’s, which so far has been the warmest winter on record. But the snow finally hit the ground, and the outdoor activities have moved inside to warmer spaces. That doesn’t mean the metro event calendar has stopped, though.

Big-budget films like “Batman v Superman” and the celebrity-heavy “Zoolander 2” will hit the big screens in the upcoming months. Fall Out Boy and The Beach Boys are coming to Des Moines stages. Award-winning shows “Cabaret” and “Sister Act” will showcase traveling talent, while “The Realish Housewives of Waukee” is filled with local flair. Both local and international artists will display their work at galleries around the metro this spring. And the Iowa Energy and Wild teams will keep sports fans entertained with a full schedule of theme nights and specials. Read on to see what the rest of winter has in store for Des Moines.

Art

“Termespheres: Spherical Paintings by Dick Termes”
Through Feb. 13
Octagon Center for the Arts
www.octagonarts.org

Dick Termes is an artist with a very unique way of both seeing and painting. His art is displayed in the form of spheres, capturing his visuals in a revolving three-dimensional space. In his 32 years of artistry, Termes has explored more than 160 spherical surfaces, and his work has received high critical acclaim. “Termespheres” is a one-of-a-kind display of Termes’ work, where viewers can expect to find themselves fully immersed in his visuals. The Octagon Center will host the opening reception and Octagon Birthday Party on Jan. 29 from 5-7:30 p.m.

Mary Kline-Misol and Hilde DeBruyne
Feb. 22 – March 31
Polk County Heritage Gallery
www.polkcountyheritagegallery.org

This exhibition at the Polk County Heritage Gallery brings two talented artists together for one amazing showcase. Mary Kline-Misol is an independent artist from Des Moines and an alumnus of Drake University. She has worked on many public collections, including the Sprint Corporation in Kansas City, The Iowa Clinic, Grinnell College, Sioux City Art Center and the University of Iowa Hospitals, among others. Kline-Misol uses imagery revolving around figurative subjects, compositions, botanicals and landscapes, and she is influenced by literature, myth and poetry in her work. Hilde DeBruyne was born in Belgium and works with clay, metal and bronze. She comes from a family of artists, and her work reflects the nature and authenticity of the cycle of life. DeBruyne has showcased her artistry in both public and private collections and even international exhibits.

“Selfie: Self Portraits from the Permanent Collection”
Through April 24
Blank One Gallery, Des Moines Art Center
www.desmoinesartcenter.org

Old meets new in this culturally relevant exhibit, which showcases both well-known and seldom seen self portraits from the permanent collections of the Des Moines Art Center through the filter of society’s love for “selfies.” Rembrandt van Rijn, Anthony van Dyke, Chuck Close, Cindy Sherman and Danny Lyon are among the works spanning the 17th century to now in the exhibit. The unique part of “Selfie: Self Portraits from the Permanent Collection” is that visitors will be able to take part of the exhibit. Just post your own selfie with the hashtag #ArtCenterSelfie to have an image included in the gallery display. CV

Film

“Zoolander 2”
Feb. 12
Directed by Ben Stiller, starring Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, Will Ferrell and Kristen Wiig
Not rated, 100 minutes

Taking a page from the “Dumb and Dumber” playbook, Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson are reprising their roles as Derek and Hansen in “Zoolander 2,” set 10 years after the original movie. This time, they bring with them half of Hollywood, with cast mates Penelope Cruz, Benedict Cumberbatch, Kristen Wiig and Will Ferrell and appearances from Olivia Munn, Ariana Grande, Kim Kardashian West, Demi Lovato and Justin Bieber. The original actually came out 15 years ago (but who’s counting?) and received mixed reviews. “Zoolander 2” features a much more impressive all-star cast, but the real question is: Did Donald Trump take a minute out of his presidential campaign to make another cameo in the sequel?

“Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice”
March 25
Directed by Zack Snyder, starring Ben Affleck, Henry Cavill, Amy Adams and Gal Gadot
Rated PG-13, 151 minutes

Another highly anticipated blockbuster superhero film is on its way to theaters, but much of that anticipation is likely spurred by the following question: Is “Batman v Superman” actually necessary? Coming only four years after the release of the final “Batman” movie starring Christian Bale — let’s be honest: the one and only true Batman — and three years after the premier of Henry Cavill’s first foray into the world of superheroes with “Man of Steel,” is it truly the right time to bring a new cast to the big screen?

“The Boss”
April 8
Directed by Ben Falcone, starring Melissa McCarthy, Peter Dinklage, Kristen Bell and Kristen Schaal
Rated R

One of the cutest on-screen/off-screen duos in Hollywood is working again to bring audiences what will hopefully be another comedy hit starring Melissa McCarthy. Directed by her husband Ben Falcone, “The Boss” follows Michelle Darnell (McCarthy), an business titan who’s been sent to prison for insider trading. After her release, she’s ready to be rebranded as America’s sweetheart. But, of course, not everyone is soon to forgive her. McCarthy’s latest string of leading comedy roles (“Tammy,” “Identity Thief”) have received subpar ratings at best, but 2015’s “Spy” earned her several nominations, including a Golden Glob for Best Actress in a Comedy. Maybe not all hope is lost. Then again, the only other film Falcone directed was “Tammy”…

“Alice Through the Looking Glass”
May 27
Directed by James Bobin, starring Johnny Depp, Anne Hathaway, Helena Bonham Carter and Mia Wasikowska

Johnny Depp and the other characters of Wonderland are back in their whimsical roles as Alice’s friends (and foes) in “Alice Through the Looking Glass.” We find Alice (Mia Wasikowska) several years after the first film left off, when she returns to London after following in her father’s path and sailing the seas. She returns to Wonderland when she finds a magical looking glass and is reconnected with the White Rabbit, the Chesire Cat and the Mad Hatter. The Mad Hatter (Depp) has lost his Muchness, though, and the White Queen (Anne Hathaway) sends Alice on a journey to find the Chronosphere — a metallic globe inside the Grand Clock, which powers all time (obviously) — but she must return in time to save the Hatter. “Alice in Wonderland” won two out of three Academy Awards when it came out in 2010, but can the sequel live up to the original? CV

Sports

Iowa Energy basketball
Wells Fargo Arena
http://iowa.dleague.nba.com

The Iowa Energy ended the 2014-2015 season with a 26-24 record, hitting its stride in January and winning nine out of 13 games — the most wins the team logged in a single month for the season. The Energy has begun the new season in a similar fashion, splitting its record with a 7-8 mark at the time of this writing. The Energy plays next on Saturday, Jan. 23 at 7 p.m. against the Delaware 87ers.

The Energy hosts dozens of theme nights, giveaways and promotions throughout each season. January still has a few fun nights on the schedule, like the Lazer 103.3 sponsored Guys Night on Jan. 28 and Country Night on Jan. 30 with a post-game concert sponsored by 96.5 Country. Other events include Swipe Right Night (Feb. 25), Faith & Family Night (March 6) and Super Hero Night (March 31). For a full schedule, visit the Iowa Energy website.

Iowa Energy remaining home schedule:
Jan. 23 — vs. Delaware 87ers — 7 p.m.
Jan. 28 — vs. Grand Rapids Drive — 7 p.m.
Jan. 30 — vs. Canton Charge — 7 p.m.
Feb. 3 — at Texas Legends — 7 p.m.
Feb. 6 — vs. Canton Charge — 7 p.m.
Feb. 9 — vs. Westchester Knicks — 10:30 a.m.
Feb. 16 — at Canton Charge — 6 p.m.
Feb. 19 — at Westchester Knicks — 6 p.m.
Feb. 21 — at Westchester Knicks — noon
Feb. 23 — vs. Raptors 905 — 7 p.m.
Feb. 25 — vs. Sioux Falls Skyforce — 7 p.m.
Feb. 27 — at Grand Rapids Drive — 6 p.m.
Feb. 28 — at Fort Wayne Mad Ants — 4 p.m.
March 3 — at Maine Red Claws — 6 p.m.
March 4 — at Delaware 87ers — 6 p.m.
March 6 — vs. Delaware 87ers — 3 p.m.
March 11 — at Raptors 905 — 6:30 p.m.
March 12 — at Raptors 905 — 6 p.m.
March 16 — at Erie Bayhawks — 6 p.m.
March 18 — at Maine Red Claws — 6 p.m.
March 21 — vs. Erie Bayhawks — 7 p.m.
March 24 — vs. Fort Wayne Mad Ants — 7 p.m.
March 26 — vs. Fort Wayne Mad Ants — 7 p.m.
March 29 — at Sioux Falls Skyforce — 6:30 p.m.
March 31 — vs. Sioux Falls Skyforce — 7 p.m.
April 2 — vs. Erie Bayhawks — 7 p.m.

Iowa Wild hockey
Wells Fargo Arena
www.iowawild.com

The Iowa Wild, is now in the midst of its third season and first full season for new coach John Torchetti, who joined the team in November 2014. The American Hockey League (AHL) franchise won 21 games in the 2014-2015 season.

The Wild also has a variety of theme nights and specials to give spectators an all-around enjoyable experience at the arena. John Torchetti Bobblehead Day is on Jan. 30, and the first 1,500 fans will receive a bobblehead figure of the Wild coach. February brings a long list of fun nights at the Wild games, including Health and Wellness Night (Feb. 5), Pink in the Rink (Feb. 12), a Mascot Party (Feb. 13) and Winning Wednesday (Feb. 24). Don’t miss the $2 beer nights and Bring Your Buds Bundle nights, which include one ticket, a 16-ounce Bud or Bud Light, a hot dog, popcorn and $1 off 25-ounce cans of Bud Light during the game.

Iowa Wild remaining home schedule
Jan. 26 — Chicago Wolves — 7 p.m.
Jan. 29 — Charlotte Checkers — 7 p.m.
Jan. 30 — Charlotte Checkers — 12:30 p.m.
Feb. 5 — Chicago Wolves— 7 p.m.
Feb. 12 — Grand Rapids Griffins — 7 p.m.
Feb. 13 — Grand Rapids Griffins — 7 p.m.
Feb. 22 — Manitoba Moose — 7 p.m.
Feb. 24 — Manitoba Moose — 7 p.m.
March 13 — Milwaukee Admirals — 5 p.m.
March 25 — Chicago Wolves — 7 p.m.
March 26 — Chicago Wolves — 12:30 p.m.
March 30 — Manitoba Moose — 7 p.m.
April 1 — Manitoba Moose — 7 p.m.
April 11 — Grand Rapids Griffins — 7 p.m.
April 13 — Rockford Ice Hogs — 7 p.m.
April 15 — Chicago Wolves — 7 p.m.

Iowa Deer Classic 2016
March 4-6, Hy-Vee Hall/Community Choice Credit Union
730 Third St., Des Moines
www.iowaeventscenter.com

The Iowa Deer Classic brings hunters of all ages and skill levels together in one place each year for world class seminars, trophy whitetails, exhibits, hands-on activities and more. Visitors can check out the Iowa’s Biggest Big Buck Contest and the Iowa Whitetail Hall of Fame or shoot in the Legendary Classic 300 Tournament and the Team Bowmasters 3D Pop-Up Shoot. Several kids activities will be available, including archery shooting and a BB gun shooting booth. Admission is $12-$20 for adults, $5 for ages 10-15 and free for kids 10 and younger. The Friday special for women is $5 admission all day.

Harlem Globetrotters 90th Anniversary World Tour
Sunday, April 10, 3 p.m.
Wells Fargo Arena
www.iowaeventscenter.com

Mark your calendars for a special event featuring the Harlem Globetrotters this April. The Globetrotters began their 90th Anniversary World Tour on Dec. 27, 2015, at Madison Square Garden in New York, and this special anniversary tour promises to be one for the books. With more than 320 games just in North America, the new tour offers a star-studded roster and one-of-a-kind family entertainment. Join the Globetrotters at Wells Fargo arena on April 10 for hours of fun you won’t soon forget. Admission to the event ranges from $26.50 to $99.50. CV

Music

Kip Moore with Chase Bryant
Seven Flags Event Center
Saturday, Feb. 6, 7:30 p.m., $29.50-$35
www.sevenflagseventcenter.com

Kip Moore’s first album, “Up All Night,” was released four years ago on April 24, 2012. It was the best-selling debut album by a male in both 2012 and 2013, and Moore followed up with his second album, “Wild Ones,” on Aug. 21, 2015. His 2011 hit “Somethin’ ‘Bout a Truck” put him on the country music radar, hitting double platinum. Born in Tifton, Georgia, Moore spent four years as a store manager for Abercrombie & Fitch in Nashville before he signed a record deal with MCA Nashville. Now he’s touring the U.S., starting Jan. 28 in Milwaukee and making his way to Des Moines on Feb. 6.

Fall Out Boy with AWOLNATION and PVRIS
Wells Fargo Arena
Monday, March 14, 7 p.m., $29.50-$59.50
www.iowaeventscenter.com

Get ready to rock out at Wells Fargo Arena this spring, because Fall Out Boy is bringing its lineup of hits to Des Moines with its “Wintour Is Coming” tour, featuring AWOLNATION and special guests PVRIS. Fall Out Boy has been in the music biz since 2001 and has a long list of awards and accolades on its resume. The four-man group has recent singles getting tons of airplay, including “Uma Thurman” and “Irresistible,” which features Demi Lovato. The band even got a song on the soundtrack of “Pitch Perfect 2,” when one of the a capella groups performed a mash up cover of “My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark.”

The Beach Boys
Des Moines Civic Center
Sunday, May 15, 7:30 p.m., $50-$90
www.desmoinesperformingarts.org

The Beach Boys have reportedly played more concerts than any major rock band in history, but that’s not stopping them from 50-year-old band from setting out on another tour. The Boys hit the Des Moines Civic Center in May, and guests can expect to hear hits from the band’s nearly 30 studio albums. Forming in 1961, The Beach Boys is one of music’s most iconic groups, selling more than 100 million records worldwide, being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and earning the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2001 Grammy Awards. As the band members have changed over time, the tour will feature Mike Love and Bruce Johnston, along with Jeffrey Foskett, Brian Eichenburger, Tim Bonhomme, John Cowsill and Scott Totten. CV

Theater

“The Realish Housewives of Waukee”
The Temple Theater
Feb. 23-28
$28-$38
www.desmoinesperformingarts.org

Bringing the guilty pleasure of reality TV to the stage can be a tricky feat, but Second City writers Kate James and Tim Sniffen have done it with their show “The Realish Housewives of Waukee.” In this hometown parody, you’ll meet Randy, the self-absorbed host; Rovanka, the baroness of unknown ethnicity; Claudia Louise, who is both pretty and conniving; and Gwen, the one (and only) with half a brain. The best part about this performance is the local aspect, which features current events and figures in the headlines right here in the metro. And don’t forget — audience participation is encouraged.

“Cabaret”
Des Moines Civic Center
March 1-6
$35-$101
www.desmoinesperformingarts.org

The classic Broadway hit, “Cabaret,” is coming to Des Moines as part of the Roundabout Theatre Company’s 50th Anniversary Season. The Tony Award-winning show, created by Sam Mendes and Rob Marshall, takes place at the Kit Kat Klub, where Sally Bowles and her lively group do their best to excite the crowd onstage every night. The production features memorable songs like “Cabaret,” “Willkommen” and “Maybe This Time.”

“Sister Act”
Des Moines Community Playhouse
April 1-24
$25-$45 (senior and student prices available)
www.dmplayhouse.com

Based on the movie by the same name, “Sister Act” is a musical comedy that takes place in — where else — a convent. After “disco diva” Deloris Van Cartier witnesses a murder, she’s put into protective custody at a convent and disguised as a nun. The lifestyle turns out to be a bit of a change for Van Cartier, especially when it comes to Mother Superior. Deloris blows her cover when she uses her disco talents to inspire the choir, but her new sisterhood is there to back her up when the gang comes after her. “Sister Act” is full of powerful gospel music, eccentric dancing and a story that will leave audiences laughing long after they’ve left the theater. CV

 

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