BWW Preview: Des Moines Fall Season Aims to Please All

The summer theatre season in Des Moines is officially wrapping up, which means an impressive fall season is ready to launch. Whether you're a fan of classics, have children to please, or want something a little edgy, you will be pleased with one of the many shows offered in the Des Moines Metro.

For the Classic Lovers

Death Of A Salesman - Repertory Theater of Iowa (Sept. 23 - Oct. 2)

Repertory Theatre of Iowa launches their season with the Arthur Miller Classic about Willy Loman, a salesman searching for any glint of success in his dull life. Deemed one of America's best plays, RTI is sure to deliver an exceptional show with their impressive company of actors. This profound and thrilling show is not one to miss.
http://rtiowa.com/

West Side Story - The Des Moines Playhouse (Oct. 7-30, 2016)

The Des Moines Playhouse continues their 2016-17 season with this famous NYC take on Romeo and Juliet. Expect to see some Des Moines favorites, local college students, and a fantastic crew of dancers ready to bring the classic Sharks vs. Jets rivalry to life and remind audiences of this gorgeous score.
https://www.dmplayhouse.com/

Into the Woods - Knoxville Area Community Theatre (Oct. 27-30, 2016)

With a talented cast and production team prepared to tackle this fan favorite, Knoxville Area community Theatre promises to transport the audience into the fairy tale world of slippers and stubborn cows. With music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, Into the Woods has both the classic and familial appeal for those who have seen the Disney film or just want to support their community theatre.

For the Families

Roald Dahl's James and the Giant Peach - DM Young Artist's Theatre (Oct. 14-23)

This quirky and poignant 90-minute musical is perfect for families who want to experience top-notch children's theatre. Featuring a score by Broadway's Pasek and Paul (whose Dear Evan Hansen is opening on Broadway this fall) and a cast of creatures and children, DMYAT promises to entertain and teach audiences an important lesson of courage.
http://www.dmyat.org/

The Boxcar Children - The Des Moines Playhouse (Nov. 4-20)

Families can see this classic children's book series come to life on stage with The Boxcar Children. Telling the story of run-away orphans who learn to stick together during the depression era, The Des Moines Playhouse's children's theatre will tackle themes of maturity, kindness, and the power of family with this performance.
https://www.dmplayhouse.com/

For Edgy-Theatre Lovers

Hand to God - StageWest Theatre Company (Sept. 9-18)

Though not technically in the fall, this Iowa premiere of a recent Broadway favorite is not to be missed. Launching StageWest's 20th season, Hand to God tells the story of Jason who has complicated relationships with his mother, town pastor, girl next door, and his demonic possessed hand puppet. This outrageous and bone chilling play is perfect for those who want to see a new Broadway play right in the heart of Des Moines.
http://stagewestiowa.com/

Ugly Lies the Bone - StageWest Theatre Company (Nov. 11-20)

Continuing StageWest's 20th season is the Iowa premiere of 2015 Off-Broadway critic favorite Ugly Lies the Bone. Telling the story of Jess, a recently discharged soldier who returns to her Florida hometown with emotional and physical scars, StageWest presents themes of PTSD, modern technology, and fragile relationships with this play about virtual reality video game therapy.
http://stagewestiowa.com/

For an added bonus

Jason Robert Brown in Concert - Temple Theatre (Oct. 14-15)

The Tony Award-winning composer returns to Des Moines after his launch of the Bridges of Madison County tour to present a cabaret concert. As part of the Des Moines Performing Arts' Willis Broadway Series, Brown will perform a mix of the music of his career and bring a special guest to perform. With past concerts including Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, this small-scale concert with a Broadway legend is a hot ticket this fall.
https://www.desmoinesperformingarts.org/

Photo Credit: Katie Nordquist