Des Moines Community Playhouse Photos
You might also consider
More like Des Moines Community Playhouse
Recommended Reviews - Des Moines Community Playhouse
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
A show about faith, trust and pixie dust! The classic story from the side of Tinker Bell is a hilarious romp for the whole family. The funny thing is Smee somehow steals the show. Chris does a fantastic job taking a fun character and turning him love able and relatable. Everyone on the cast was terrific! Our five year old was enthralled throughout. We love the autograph session after to meet the cast.
This is a great family friendly place to go. My hard-to-keep-entertained 4 & 5 year old boys were glued to the action. The atmosphere is very casual and informal and ends up providing a relaxed environment to enjoy the show. The intermission is pretty clutch as well for a well timed bathroom break for everyone and then the cast comes out to the lobby and signs autographs and chat it up with the fans. The cast is a wide variety of ages too which is awesome to see. Highly recommend- will be back and back often! Tremendous event!!
Opening night for Silent Sky, and the experience is highly recommended. Not a bad seat in the house. I had forgotten how much I enjoy the theatre. It's easy to get caught up in streaming programs so this was a great reminder to slow down and be present and in the moment.
I attended a Yelp event for this review but this not my first time at the Play House. Tonight was West Side Story. I have not seen it before. Never saw the movie version or anything so was very excited to see it. The Play House was catching some heat about the casting when I first heard about the play. I had a discussion with my aunt who used to be in lots of plays at the Ingersoll dinner theater. She laughed at what people where "upset" about. "If they don't show up for auditions they are not going to get cast." "We used to have to go out and beat the bushes in DesMoines and beg for someone to play the Diana Ross character in Beehive. " I agreed with her that you got to show up to be in the show. You can tell the community is strong here. People recognize each other and greet each other like old friends. They gather for the preshow discussion and you can learn a few things about the play. Get a drink before you head in cause you can take it to your seat. The wait line for drinks gets a little long. There is only two bars for adult beverages and a lot of adults. When you sit down in the theater it's apparent that it's not really updated seats. It's a tight squeeze and no place to set your drink. So get comfy with your neighbor. The play was really good. There was a little volume issue at a couple places in the play. The music was over bearing the actors but I got the drift. Intermission is a bathroom battle. Not much for bathrooms and everyone is trying to go. Cool thing about the bar though you can order your drink ahead of time, pay, and it's waiting for you as you head back to your seat. I did this and it worked slick. The play was good, the dancing on this tiny stage was fantastic. I thought for sure a couple people were going to run into each other or off the edge. Parking is a trick, but if you get there early enough is a snap. I recommend checking out a play here.
I love this Playhouse. Each year they put on some really fun and kid friendly shows. From Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory to The Little Mermaid to Miss Neville is Missing. These are just fun, diverse shows that completely enthrall kids and even adults who have not grown up yet. I also love the ability to snack and drink in the theater. This helps parents by providing another tool to use to keep kids sugared up and attentive. And for the adults who want to just kick back and relax, you can order a pick me up cocktail or three. And with the reasonable prices for concession such as $2 for bottle water or pop, you can definitely have three or more cocktails and still have money to take an Uber home if your significant other also decided to partake in the affordable refreshments.
The Dsm Playhouse is so inviting! We've been to tons of the kids series plays in the past. More recently we saw the Adam's Family & last nights West Side Story. The choreography in West Side Story was stellar! We were so impressed with how well the choreography came together! Blown away by some of the voices highlighted in beautiful music. Drinks & snacks available. Comfortable seating. Bravo to the playhouse for great theatre work!
I had never been to a play at the Des Moines Playhouse, only special events. The children's play I attended was not on the main stage, but a smaller one downstairs, which I did not even know existed. It was very small but the size makes sense so that little ones can easily see. That being said, it wasn't easy to see from the far right of the stage and there were chunks of the stage the kids I brought could not see. Luckily, the seats were not all full and we moved down a few seats within our row and they got a better view of the action. The play was an hour total with a fifteen-minute intermission at the thirty minute mark which was good for their attention spans and bladders. Along with programs they handed out paper so kids could get the actor's autographs after the production. The cast went outside to talk to the kids, pose for photos and sign autographs. It was cute to see the excitement from both groups. Overall it was an intimate space and not a bad deal for something different that kids can enjoy. The only downfall was the lack of diversity. From the cast to the stage crew and the audience there was very little diversity and it made me sad that kids of color would have a hard time feeling welcome or seeing themselves as possible actors on that stage.
The silent sky is an interesting play. The basic stage is used through the entire play. There is a large half cirlce at the back they use to project scenes on to, to change to location of the scene. It is a very small cast four women and one man. The at is based in the 1900-1920 about a woman astrologer
"Ralphie saves the day!" This is a great show put on by the Des Moines Playhouse. There probably is no better musical rendition of this classic 80's beloved christmas movie. The hilarious spin on every plot twist will have you laughing within minutes. The narrator was spot on! Ryan Henzi as Ralphie is quite a delight. "Just 23 more days and it all comes down to Christmas." I'm sure will be stuck in my head for days. The "old man" did an amazing job of playing the stern and demanding father! The "old man" and Ralphies mother had a great back and forth that made it feel very believable. The boy who played Randy did an amazing job. He had that bratty little kid attitude down pat. The Santa at the mall was a great take on that classic scene that was a great addition that couldn't have gone better. You will be entertained from start to end. There is never a dull moment. They always go above and beyond here at the Des Moines Playhouse. This is one you dont want to miss! #yelp @Yelpdsm @DMPlayhouse #dmpachristmasstorythemusical
Recently saw A Chorus Line, it was wonderful! Lovely space, it's nice to see there's a commitment to updating the seats (as they are highly uncomfortable, specifically when the house is packed with audience members), and making the building safer to play in. Definitely enjoyed this production more than Rock of Ages, simply because the mics were working a lot better in this production with no static or feedback distracting from the beautiful singers voices. I was also happy to see that the casting was ethnically/racially accurate this time around as the previously produced West Side Story really broke my heart with the lack of Latinos for the Puerto Rican roles and the awfully stereotypical accents that were not necessary to use. Great comeback in professionalism from this gem of a performing arts venue.
7 months ago
9 months ago
7 years ago
Outstanding venue and play. Brought my 11 year old daughter to see Anne Frank. This was our first time at the Playhouse and it will not be the last. There is not a bad seat in the house. The venue is intimate and great to watch local talent wor their magic. Isabelle Piedras was outstanding as Anne Frank. I was amazed bY her composure and budding range. All Of the cast did a great job and I will be excited to see them in future plays. It was all in all a great evening out. read more
A show about faith, trust and pixie dust! The classic story from the side of Tinker Bell is a hilarious romp for the whole family. The funny thing is Smee somehow steals the show. Chris does a fantastic job taking a fun character and turning him love able and relatable. Everyone on the cast was terrific! Our five year old was enthralled throughout. We love the autograph session after to meet the cast. read more
This is a great family friendly place to go. My hard-to-keep-entertained 4 & 5 year old boys were glued to the action. The atmosphere is very casual and informal and ends up providing a relaxed environment to enjoy the show. The intermission is pretty clutch as well for a well timed bathroom break for everyone and then the cast comes out to the lobby and signs autographs and chat it up with the fans. The cast is a wide variety of ages too which is awesome to see. Highly recommend- will be back and back often! Tremendous event!! read more
Opening night for Silent Sky, and the experience is highly recommended. Not a bad seat in the house. I had forgotten how much I enjoy the theatre. It's easy to get caught up in streaming programs so this was a great reminder to slow down and be present and in the moment. read more
4 years ago
7 years ago
10 years ago
I attended a Yelp event for this review but this not my first time at the Play House. Tonight was West Side Story. I have not seen it before. Never saw the movie version or anything so was very excited to see it. The Play House was catching some heat about the casting when I first heard about the play. I had a discussion with my aunt who used to be in lots of plays at the Ingersoll dinner theater. She laughed at what people where "upset" about. "If they don't show up for auditions they are not going to get cast." "We used to have to go out and beat the bushes in DesMoines and beg for someone to play the Diana Ross character in Beehive. " I agreed with her that you got to show up to be in the show. You can tell the community is strong here. People recognize each other and greet each other like old friends. They gather for the preshow discussion and you can learn a few things about the play. Get a drink before you head in cause you can take it to your seat. The wait line for drinks gets a little long. There is only two bars for adult beverages and a lot of adults. When you sit down in the theater it's apparent that it's not really updated seats. It's a tight squeeze and no place to set your drink. So get comfy with your neighbor. The play was really good. There was a little volume issue at a couple places in the play. The music was over bearing the actors but I got the drift. Intermission is a bathroom battle. Not much for bathrooms and everyone is trying to go. Cool thing about the bar though you can order your drink ahead of time, pay, and it's waiting for you as you head back to your seat. I did this and it worked slick. The play was good, the dancing on this tiny stage was fantastic. I thought for sure a couple people were going to run into each other or off the edge. Parking is a trick, but if you get there early enough is a snap. I recommend checking out a play here. read more
I love this Playhouse. Each year they put on some really fun and kid friendly shows. From Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory to The Little Mermaid to Miss Neville is Missing. These are just fun, diverse shows that completely enthrall kids and even adults who have not grown up yet. I also love the ability to snack and drink in the theater. This helps parents by providing another tool to use to keep kids sugared up and attentive. And for the adults who want to just kick back and relax, you can order a pick me up cocktail or three. And with the reasonable prices for concession such as $2 for bottle water or pop, you can definitely have three or more cocktails and still have money to take an Uber home if your significant other also decided to partake in the affordable refreshments. read more
10 years ago
The Dsm Playhouse is so inviting! We've been to tons of the kids series plays in the past. More recently we saw the Adam's Family & last nights West Side Story. The choreography in West Side Story was stellar! We were so impressed with how well the choreography came together! Blown away by some of the voices highlighted in beautiful music. Drinks & snacks available. Comfortable seating. Bravo to the playhouse for great theatre work! read more
8 years ago
I had never been to a play at the Des Moines Playhouse, only special events. The children's play I attended was not on the main stage, but a smaller one downstairs, which I did not even know existed. It was very small but the size makes sense so that little ones can easily see. That being said, it wasn't easy to see from the far right of the stage and there were chunks of the stage the kids I brought could not see. Luckily, the seats were not all full and we moved down a few seats within our row and they got a better view of the action. The play was an hour total with a fifteen-minute intermission at the thirty minute mark which was good for their attention spans and bladders. Along with programs they handed out paper so kids could get the actor's autographs after the production. The cast went outside to talk to the kids, pose for photos and sign autographs. It was cute to see the excitement from both groups. Overall it was an intimate space and not a bad deal for something different that kids can enjoy. The only downfall was the lack of diversity. From the cast to the stage crew and the audience there was very little diversity and it made me sad that kids of color would have a hard time feeling welcome or seeing themselves as possible actors on that stage. read more
The silent sky is an interesting play. The basic stage is used through the entire play. There is a large half cirlce at the back they use to project scenes on to, to change to location of the scene. It is a very small cast four women and one man. The at is based in the 1900-1920 about a woman astrologer read more
13 years ago
"Ralphie saves the day!" This is a great show put on by the Des Moines Playhouse. There probably is no better musical rendition of this classic 80's beloved christmas movie. The hilarious spin on every plot twist will have you laughing within minutes. The narrator was spot on! Ryan Henzi as Ralphie is quite a delight. "Just 23 more days and it all comes down to Christmas." I'm sure will be stuck in my head for days. The "old man" did an amazing job of playing the stern and demanding father! The "old man" and Ralphies mother had a great back and forth that made it feel very believable. The boy who played Randy did an amazing job. He had that bratty little kid attitude down pat. The Santa at the mall was a great take on that classic scene that was a great addition that couldn't have gone better. You will be entertained from start to end. There is never a dull moment. They always go above and beyond here at the Des Moines Playhouse. This is one you dont want to miss! #yelp @Yelpdsm @DMPlayhouse #dmpachristmasstorythemusical read more
Recently saw A Chorus Line, it was wonderful! Lovely space, it's nice to see there's a commitment to updating the seats (as they are highly uncomfortable, specifically when the house is packed with audience members), and making the building safer to play in. Definitely enjoyed this production more than Rock of Ages, simply because the mics were working a lot better in this production with no static or feedback distracting from the beautiful singers voices. I was also happy to see that the casting was ethnically/racially accurate this time around as the previously produced West Side Story really broke my heart with the lack of Latinos for the Puerto Rican roles and the awfully stereotypical accents that were not necessary to use. Great comeback in professionalism from this gem of a performing arts venue. read more
Update. At intermission of Billy Elliot first half was great. The Playhouse provides great theater with local talent, and tonight even a world premiere event watching "Choice". A great brand new comedy. Give the Playhouse a try and you will fall asleep n love with the stories they share. The sound was perfect and the acting was amazing. I was wisped away to the scene to become an onlooker in the corner. You'll have a great time. read more
8 years ago
10 years ago
My first time at the Des Moines Playhouse was rousing success. I recently was able to catch the 'West Side Story'. It is great to have this local place close to me. I am excited to see a few more. This should be a must for any local that loves Theatre! read more
Business owner information
Lee Ann B.
Belated thanks for your comments. We hope to see you again in our…
Amazing! We just saw Elf the Musical there and we were blown away. The talent was extraordinary. We didn't quite know what to expect and we parked in the parking lot which is actually in the back of the building and offers free parking. We were a little confused as we didn't know we were supposed to go upstairs to the main theater and noticed a few other people wandering around down there as well until somebody came and showed us the way. They have a small concession area where you can buy a few select drinks. If you want to take them into the theater, you have to purchase a special cup with a lid for $3 which you can take home and reuse. If I remember correctly the pop was $2, beer and wine were $6, and bottled water was $1.50. They also had a basket of candy which I believe was also $1.50. Before the show there was also entertainment out in the front lobby. We are definitely excited to go again! read more
8 years ago
We went to see Elf on opening night. This was not only my first time at the Des Moines Playhouse, it was also my first community theater experience. I was very impressed!! The sets, the costumes, the acting, the singing, and the dancing were all very professional!! There's a parking lot behind the theater and lots of street parking too. Having never been here, we entered at the ticket office. The staff members were friendly and quick to answer questions. Seating starts 30 minutes before the show but the consessions were open when we got there about 40 minutes before showtime. Apparently the mainstage theater has been recently remodeled. Because of this, only drinks with lids are allowed inside. You can purchase a $3 cup to use and you get $1 off refills. You can even use the cup for beer/wine/mixed drinks!! The line during intermission gets long at the restrooms and concessions, but we made it back to our seats with plenty of time. Tip-- use the girl's restroom downstairs. It has more stalls and a shorter line. read more
10 years ago
After sitting, had to remove a star. I am 6'4 and hate how these venues always put in seating like it's a discount airline. Just a little leg room would be amazing. read more
10 years ago
10 years ago
Business owner information
Lee Ann B.
Thanks for your great words. We look forward to seeing you in our…
17 years ago
9 years ago
10 years ago
12 years ago
More info about Des Moines Community Playhouse
831 42nd St
Des Moines, IA 50312
Directions
(515) 277-6261
Call Now
Visit Website
https://www.dmplayhouse.com
Hours
Indoor Amenities
Other Amenities
From the Business
