Des Moines Playhouse Announces Act Two of Capital Campaign

By: Apr. 28, 2017
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The Des Moines Community Playhouse is raising the curtain on Act Two, the second phase of its capital campaign, at a public kick-off, 5:30 PM, Tuesday, May 2, at the theatre. The event is free; reservations are requested and may be made by calling Anna Zimney, Playhouse administrative assistant, at 515-974-5356.

The Playhouse has secured $2.6 million to date for Act Two from philanthropic foundations, including a lead gift from the Ruan Family Foundation, corporate donors, and dedicated volunteers and subscribers. Priorities for Act Two, with a $4.5 million project goal, are safety, ADA accessibility, and up-to-date theatre standards. This includes:

  • Full renovation of the Mainstage auditorium including new seats, ceiling, and carpeting
  • ADA and safety improvements including Mainstage access
  • The addition of catwalks and an updated proscenium
  • Updated lighting, sound, and rigging equipment
  • Renovation of all restrooms and concessions areas
  • Updating of a lower level classroom
  • New mechanical systems

Fundraising will continue through 2017, with renovations scheduled to begin in Spring 2018. The fully renovated space will be unveiled to the community for The Playhouse's 100th season, beginning in Fall 2018.

The Playhouse's Act One capital campaign began in 2009. With the help of the community, more than $5.6 million was secured to meet immediate needs. This included a new west entrance and lobby/meeting space, renovated classroom spaces, and initial mechanical updates. While Act One was successful, there is still more to do to ensure The Playhouse can continue to serve the Greater Des Moines community for the next 100 years.

The Playhouse, founded in 1919, is one of the oldest and largest community theatres in the US. While the theatre's impact and reach has grown substantially over 98 seasons -now serving more than 70,000 people each year with another 10,000 involved in theatre classes - the mission remains the same: to change lives by entertaining, enriching, and engaging the people of Greater Des Moines through high-quality theatrical presentations, meaningful volunteer experiences, and life-long educational opportunities.

For more information about The Playhouse and Act Two, contact Nikki Syverson, director of advancement, at 515-974-5370.



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