Review: LES MISERABLES at Des Moines Performing Arts
by DC Felton - Nov 24, 2025
An epic musical is taking the stage this week as Des Moines Performing Arts gets ready for an epic change of its own. This week, it was announced that Monica Holt will take over as President and CEO of Des Moines Performing Arts, succeeding Jeff Chelsvig, who is retiring. A big thank you to Jeff Chelsvig for the work he has done over the years, introducing so many to the power of the performing arts. The epic tale taking the stage at Des Moines Performing Arts is none other than the return engagement of “Les Misérables.”
Industry Pro Newsletter: The Impact of NEA Grant Cuts, Global Arts at a ‘Tipping Point’
by Alex Freeman - May 19, 2025
This week's newsletter navigates a complex landscape for the theatre industry, from the immediate shockwaves of NEA grant terminations and their profound impact on individual organizations, as detailed by Cara Joy David, to A.R.T./NY's revealing 'Health + Wealth' report offering both stark realities and paths toward resilience in a challenging post-COVID environment. On Broadway, Andrew Lloyd Webber's potential acquisition of the former Mark Hellinger Theatre and the celebration of the Broadway League's latest award winners. Regionally, we see both ambitious growth with the announcement of David Rockwell's new magic theater in Chicago and concerning retrenchment as Berkeley's Aurora Theatre suspends its upcoming season.
Review: LIFE OF PI at Des Moines Performing Arts
by DC Felton - Mar 2, 2025
Stories are not just narratives, they are powerful tools that shape our understanding of the world. They can be about the legacy a person leaves, they can excite us about what is to come, or they can help us process the events in our lives. But most importantly, stories leave us with questions, sparking our curiosity and imagination.
Jeff Chelesvig Will Depart Des Moines Performing Arts
by Stephi Wild - Feb 28, 2025
The board of directors of Des Moines Performing Arts (DMPA) has announced the planned retirement of Jeff Chelesvig, president and chief executive officer of the organization since 1995.
Iowa High School Musical Theater Awards Announces Exciting Changes
by A.A. Cristi - May 22, 2018
Each year, more than 5,000 students are impacted through the Iowa High School Musical Theater Awards (IHSMTA) program, a year-long signature Des Moines Performing Arts (DMPA) community initiative. The program focuses on enhancing the talents of high school thespians and their schools' theater programs, while providing a platform for recognition. The IHSMTA program launched in 2013 with nine Central Iowa schools participating and has grown to serve 68 schools across the state.
THE LION KING Tour Sells Out Des Moines Engagement
by Tyler Peterson - May 19, 2015
Disney's THE LION KING continues to reign across North America with a sold-out engagement in Des Moines, which concluded on Sunday, May 17 at the Des Moines Civic Center. The triumphant three-week return grossed over $4.1 million at the box office and entertained nearly 60,000 patrons during 24 performances.
Broadway League Honors Des Moines Performing Arts Board Member E.J. Giovannetti
by Tyler Peterson - Jun 21, 2013
Des Moines Performing Arts (DMPA) board member E.J. Giovannetti is a recipient of the Broadway League's 2013 Star of Touring Broadway Award. Jeff Chelesvig, DMPA's President and CEO, presented the award to Giovannetti on behalf of the Broadway League during DMPA's annual board meeting on Thursday, June 20.
Photo Flash: Iowa High School Musical Theater Awards Honor 'Triple Threat' Performers
by BWW News Desk - Jun 12, 2013
Des Moines Performing Arts (DMPA) has announced the first-ever Triple Threat Award recipients for the Iowa High School Musical Theater Awards (IHSMTA). Announced in a surprise reveal during the inaugural Awards Showcase at the Civic Center on Monday, June 3, they are: Bridget Johnston - Waukee High School and Kellen Schrimper - Waukee High School. Scroll down for photos from the event!