Des Moines Playhouse Performance Academy presents THE MUSIC MAN JR.

The Des Moines Community Playhouse Performance Academy presents "Meredith Willson's The Music Man Jr.," July 28-29, 2017. Shows are on Friday, July 28, at 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM, and on Saturday, July 29, at 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Tickets are $10 all ages and can be purchased at dmplayhouse.com or at the Playhouse ticket office.

"Meredith Willson's The Music Man Jr." is a 60-minute version of the Tony Award-winning musical. Adapted for young performers, this junior version has all of the wit and warmth of the original story.

Each July, talented, dedicated teens from across the Des Moines metro flock to the Playhouse. Their destination: Summer Performance Academy. Students in grades 7-12 spend three weeks in intensive acting, singing, and dancing classes, all while rehearsing a musical that they perform for the public. Past Performance Academy productions have included "Disney's Camp Rock," "Shrek Jr.," and the world premiere of "Hairspray, Jr." Alumni of Performance Academy include Marisa Spahn and Jessica Martens, who both received Triple Threat Awards at the Iowa High School Musical Theatre Awards.

Performance Academy has made a tradition of presenting a version of the Mainstage summer show, adaptated for youth but performed on the same stage and set. "This gives audiences two opportunities to experience theatre for the whole family," explains Playhouse education director, Robin Spahr. "In addition, the Performance Academy adds something for the kids who are really serious about performing. The students work hard for three weeks to create a a high-quality show."

The full length version of "Meredith Willson's The Music Man" continues through August 6. For tickets please go online or visit the Playhouse ticket office.

For more information on Performance Academy, summer theatre classes, and other Playhouse educational offerings, contact the Playhouse education department at 515-974-5365.

The Playhouse is one of the oldest and largest community theatres in the US. Located at the 42nd Street exit of I-235, the theatre has presented a full season of shows since 1919 and also offers a wide variety of educational experiences including classes for ages 4 to adult, theatre trips to New York, and volunteer opportunities onstage and backstage.

"Meredith Willson's The Music Man Jr." Performances: July 28-29, 2017
10:00 AM and 1:00 PM, Friday, July 28, 2017
1:00 PM and 4:00 PM, Saturday, July 29, 2017

"Meredith Willson's The Music Man Jr." Tickets
$10 all ages, $5 per person for groups 15 or more
To purchase tickets:
dmplayhouse.com
515-277-6261
Des Moines Community Playhouse Ticket Office, 831 42nd St., Des Moines, IA 50312