In today’s day and age, the “arts” are increasingly becoming neglected by the public. Society places heavy emphasis on sports and television, but what ever happened to the original forms of entertainment? Where to did the performing arts disappear? Why has visual art retreated into the shadows? I believe this tragic loss of interest in the arts is due partially to lack of information in the media. When was the last time you were aware of the latest ballet performance near you? How about the Broadway musical making its way through town? This article is meant to rectify this incredible injustice. Allow me to present a quick rundown of the arts scene this spring in Des Moines!

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Each year, the Civic Center hosts the Des Moines stop for national Broadway tours. In my opinion, this is the coolest thing to experience. These professional productions range greatly across the spectrum of musicals. Past performances (all of which I am extremely grateful to have personally attended) include Hamilton, Les Miserables, SIX, and Moulin Rouge. These Broadway shows are always guaranteed to be a good time; they never disappoint. The raw talent and sheer skill exhibited at each production is mind-blowing and will leave you speechless. If you are searching for a fancy night out and a certifiable good time, the Civic Center is the way to go.

Civic Center – https://www.broadway.org/theatres/des-moines-civic-center-des-moines

• “Life of Pi” 
  • Feb 25 – Mar 2 at the Civic Center
• “Hadestown”
  • Apr 11-13 at the Civic Center
• “& Juliet” 
  • May 6-11 at the Civic Center
• “Hamilton”
  • Jun 3-15 at the Civic Center

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If showtunes and jazz choreo don’t always float your boat, try the ballet: a timeless art form that will never fail to exceed your expectations. Beauty, grace, strength, and storytelling all wrapped into one show. Could there be anything better? Although I am thoroughly biased (being a ballet dancer myself), I can say with full confidence that going to the ballet is an experience everyone needs at least once in life. The state of Iowa, without any major ballet companies to call its own, is a bit lacking in this area. Thankfully, however, our capital city is home to the only fully professional ballet company in the state! Ballet Des Moines is currently thriving and working away on multiple performances to put on soon. In addition to Ballet Des Moines, local ballet schools heavily contribute to the city’s ballet scene. School of Classical Ballet & Dance is one such school and invites the public to a different story ballet each spring. Past performances include Alice in Wonderland, Beauty and the Beast, and Snow White. This year, Alice in Wonderland makes a major comeback. If you choose to attend the show this April, keep an eye out for several Dowling students making their appearance on stage (including yours, truly). Hope to see you there!

Ballet Des Moines – https://www.balletdesmoines.org/24-25season

• “Romeo & Juliet” 
  • Apr 26 at Stephens Auditorium

School of Classical Ballet & Dance – https://myscbd.com/alice/

• “Alice in Wonderland” 
  • Apr 5-6  at Hoyt Sherman Place

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Did you know that the city of Des Moines has its own symphony orchestra? How impressive is that? You may have heard them at downtown’s yearly fireworks display or accompanying other community gatherings, but have you ever witnessed them as the main event? This spring, show some support for our community’s ultra-talented group of musicians. 

Des Moines Symphony – https://www.dmsymphony.org/concerts-events/

• Youth Jazz Orchestra Winter Concert 
  • Feb 12, 7:30 
  • FREE at the Temple of Performing Arts
• “Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince” in Concert
  • Movie showing accompanied by the live orchestra
  • Feb 14, 7:30 at the Civic Center
  • Feb 15, 1:30 at the Civic Center

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If you’re looking for a low-commitment activity, casual adventure, or perhaps something to fill an empty afternoon, drop by the Des Moines Art Center to enlighten you in the realm of visual art. You may know the Art Center for its famous rose garden, but take some time to peek inside! The Art Center offers an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and rotating exhibitions for you to explore. Check out some upcoming exhibitions scheduled for this spring to broaden your palate (or palette, I should say).

Des Moines Art Center – https://desmoinesartcenter.org/art/exhibitions/

• Upcoming exhibitions
  • “Op Art” 
    •  Dec 20 – Apr 13
  • “Figments and Phantoms”
    • Jan 10 – Apr 20
  • “Time Travelers”
    • Feb 14 – May 11

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This spring, allow yourself to be entertained by the incredible talent this city has to offer. Go culture yourself! Support the local arts! Art doesn’t just take one form; there are many mediums to choose from. By exploring your options this spring, you are guaranteed to find the one that speaks (or sings) to you.