Des Moines Performing Arts Reveals 26-27 Broadway Series - HELL'S KITCHEN, JUST IN TIME and More
The season will also feature Monty Python’s Spamalot, Maybe Happy Ending, Buena Vista Social Club, The Phantom of the Opera and more.
Des Moines Performing Arts has revealed its 2026-27 Willis Broadway Series, bringing a lineup of Broadway’s biggest hits and new productions to the Des Moines Civic Center. The season delivers six shows as part of the season ticket package, along with five add-on engagements.
The six-show season ticket package features: Monty Python’s Spamalot, Maybe Happy Ending, Buena Vista Social Club, The Phantom of the Opera, Alicia Keys’ Hell’s Kitchen and Just in Time – a dynamic mix of groundbreaking new musicals and Broadway sensations. The package add-on engagements include Waitress, Legally Blonde - The Musical, Mark Twain Tonight!, The Sound of Music and Mamma Mia!
The 2026-27 season is highlighted by the return of The Phantom of the Opera for a two-week engagement, marking its fifth time at the Civic Center since 1997 and will be here for two weeks.
The only way to guarantee seats to all six shows in the Willis Broadway Series is by becoming a season ticket holder. Season tickets are on sale at 10 a.m. at http://DMPA.org, at the Civic Center Ticket Office (221 Walnut Street), or by phone at (515) 246-2300. Groups of 10+ can also reserve seats now. On-sale dates for tickets to individual shows will be announced at a later date.
Monty Python’s Spamalot
October 20–25, 2026
Hot off its 2023 Broadway revival, the Tony Award-winning Best Musical Monty Python’s Spamalot comes to Des Moines.
Lovingly ripped off from the classic film Monty Python and the Holy Grail, the musical features a book and lyrics by Eric Idle and music by John Du Prez and Eric Idle. Packed with flying cows, killer rabbits, French taunters, dancing girls, and the unforgettable Lady of the Lake, Spamalot delivers a night of comedy and spectacle.
The score includes fan-favorite songs such as “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life,” “The Song That Goes Like This,” and “Find Your Grail.”
Maybe Happy Ending
December 1–6, 2026
Winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Maybe Happy Ending tells a deeply human story of connection, adventure, and love sparked by a chance encounter.
Directed by Tony Award winner Michael Arden (Parade), this original new musical explores what it means to be human—even for those who may not be.
Buena Vista Social Club
January 19–24, 2027
When legendary Cuban singer Omara Portuondo is given a rare chance to return to the recording studio, she must confront her past and reclaim her voice.
The Tony and Grammy Award-winning Buena Vista Social Club brings the iconic album to life through a story of music, memory, and second chances set in Havana.
The Phantom of the Opera
March 3–14, 2027
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary musical returns in a revitalized new production. Cameron Mackintosh presents this reimagined staging, featuring Maria Björnson’s original design and based on the celebrated direction of Harold Prince, with choreography by Gillian Lynne.
One of the most successful productions in theatrical history, The Phantom of the Opera has been seen by more than 160 million people worldwide. Its iconic score includes “The Music of the Night,” “All I Ask of You,” and “Masquerade.”
The story follows a mysterious musical genius who haunts the Paris Opera House and becomes obsessed with a young soprano, Christine.
Alicia Keys’ Hell’s Kitchen
July 27 – August 1, 2027
Inspired by the life and music of Alicia Keys, Hell’s Kitchen is a coming-of-age story set in New York City.
The musical follows Ali, a 17-year-old searching for purpose, passion, and independence, guided by a mentor, her family, and her community. Featuring a mix of Alicia Keys’ greatest hits and new songs, the show blends powerful storytelling with high-energy choreography.
Directed by four-time Tony nominee Michael Greif, with choreography by Camille A. Brown and a book by Kristoffer Diaz, Hell’s Kitchen is a New York Times Critic’s Pick hailed as “thrilling from beginning to end.”
Just in Time
August 24–29, 2027
The new musical Just in Time tells the story of Bobby Darin, charting his rise from teen idol to global superstar. The musical features hits like “Beyond the Sea,” “Mack the Knife,” “Splish Splash,” and “Dream Lover".
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Britten’s BILLY BUDD Blank Performing Arts Center (7/20-7/20) |
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Offenbach’s THE TALES OF HOFFMANN Blank Performing Arts Center (7/14-7/14) |
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Wicked - only children age 5 and over with tickets will be allowed into the theater Des Moines Performing Arts Center - Civic Center (9/02-9/20) |
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