A new season in Iowa
Local producers plan for live shows in 2021-2022. With the irrepressible determination of fresh flora emerging from the devastation of a forest fire, the cultural landscape is sprouting new theatrical [...]
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Posted August 04, 2021in Center Stage
Posted June 30, 2021in Center Stage
Musicals lead an expanded return to more live theatre
Broadway shows back to Des Moines. With the exuberance of an oxygen-starved swimmer gulping in a huge breath of air, many of the region’s best musical theatre performers are expanding [...]
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Posted June 02, 2021in Center Stage
More companies offering live theatre options
There are sunnier days ahead for the live arts scene. The performing arts landscape has been like an Iowa springtime. Patrons impatiently endure an extended winter of desolation, waiting and [...]
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Posted May 05, 2021in Center Stage
Renaissance fairs mark their 2021 return
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 [...]
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Posted March 31, 2021in Center Stage
The evolution of central Iowa theatre continues
Performances persist. Creativity will find a way to release, fulfilling the needs of both the creators and the consumers. Central Iowa’s producers have proven to be resolute in their commitment [...]
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Posted March 03, 2021in Center Stage
Creativity and adaptability drive pandemic performances
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 [...]
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Posted February 03, 2021in Center Stage
New varieties of performance arts arise from the pandemic
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 [...]
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Posted January 06, 2021in Center Stage
Short-, mid- and long-term performing arts strategies
One thing that we’ve learned about a pandemic such as this is that this virus has no concept of calendars, seasons, economics or aesthetics. This relentless Covid-19 invasion doesn’t care [...]
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Posted December 02, 2020in Center Stage
The local performing arts scene finding pandemic niches
Creatives often have to embrace patience. This contradicts their strong “take charge” mindset during the creative process. The patience side of performing artists’ yin-yang is currently being tested. They thrive [...]
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Posted November 04, 2020in Center Stage
Is that a glimmer of stage lights we see at the end of this dark cultural tunnel?
Two-hundred-and-nine days. That is how long it has been since the Des Moines Community Playhouse has presented live theater in its mainstage performing hall. It was the last of the [...]
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