Our Impact
350K people connected to the arts each year through Des Moines Performing Arts programs in the theater, in our schools, and in our communities.
50,000 students and educators inspired and supported each year through curriculum-connected performances, workshops, and professional development.
$50 M in annual economic impact, supporting businesses and economic vitality in our community as one of Iowa’s most significant cultural assets.
Mission
Bringing people together through arts experiences that spark imaginations, inspire creativity, and strengthen communities across Iowa.
Key Services Provided
Des Moines Performing Arts enriches lives through world-class performances, arts education, and community engagement. Through a wide range of live performances, student matinees, camps, free events, and community partnerships, Des Moines Performing Arts sparks curiosity, expands perspectives, and creates meaningful opportunities to experience and participate in the arts across Iowa.
Key Audiences Served
Des Moines Performing Arts serves more than 350,000 people annually, including audiences from all 99 Iowa counties. We engage students and educators, families, arts enthusiasts, emerging artists, and community members through performances, educational experiences, and community programs designed to nurture wellbeing and inspire creativity.
Ways to Give
Each year, generous individuals, corporate partners, and foundations invest more than $4 million to advance Des Moines Performing Arts’ mission. Philanthropy reaches beyond the main hall, bringing the arts into schools and communities across the state and creating new, accessible, and free experiences.
$1,000 opens the door for 80 students to experience the power of live theater by making an Applause Series matinee accessible for just $1 per ticket.
$4,000 ensures one school has the transformative opportunity to participate in the Iowa High School Musical Theater Awards.
$8,500 creates a free community arts experience, bringing live performances to a Des Moines metro park.
Learn more or make a gift at DMPA.org/donate.
Signature Events
Willis Broadway Series
Prairie Meadows Live at the Temple Concert Series
Prairie Meadows Temple Comedy Series
Wellmark Family Series
National Geographic Live
The Dance Series
Made in the Midwest
Iowa High School Musical Theater Awards presented by
EMC Insurance
Free Outdoor Family Events
Applause Series for Curriculum-Connected Performances
Professional Development for Arts-Integration Teaching
Board of Directors
Chair: Ardis Kelley
Vice chair: Rich Willis
Treasurer: Melinda Ruperto
Secretary: Maribeth Mulready
Past chair: Nola Cartmill
Nick Andersen
Chuck Freeman
Vanessa Howell
Kathryn M. Kunert
Jared Landin
Matt McCoy
Josh Mandelbaum
Dennis Menken
Kevin Patrick
Timothy Perkins
Emily Reiman
Mike Simonson
Aaron Wiese
Joshua Woodvine