Reviews of Des Moines Community Playhouse. (Performing Arts Theater) in Des Moines (Iowa).

Des Moines Community Playhouse

351 Reviews

190 Comments

Performing arts theater

Performing arts theater

831 42nd St, Des Moines, IA 50312, United States

Description

Information of Des Moines Community Playhouse, Performing arts theater in Des Moines (Iowa)

Discover the opening times, the location, contact, popular times, photos and real reviews by internet users.

This place has a very good rate, they treat their customers well and you’ll feel welcome, super recommended

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Open hours of Des Moines Community Playhouse

Popular times

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Reviews of Des Moines Community Playhouse

Nancy Stapp McCurdy

Unfortunately I was unable to see the show as I was feeling under the weather with an old fashioned nasty cold, and didn't want to expose anybody to anything. I'm sure it probably would rate with the five stars like all of your productions do. Even though I was unable to see the play, the only way I could get this to post was to click on some of the stars. i will say keep up the good work as I enjoy all your good hard work on all the productions. I'll have to wait until later in the week (hopefully) to see if my cold is gone so that I can come, but I'll play that by ear. I'll also have to check my calendar to see if i have any of the other dates that the show is produced that will fit into my schedule so I can come. It all depends on how fast this cold decides to leave me (the sooner the better IMHO). Sorry I missed. I'm sure it was excellent!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Susan Judkins Josten

The Playhouse offers an outstanding theater for their main stage, and is undertaking planning for improvement of the Children’s Theater section also. Extremely talented local actors and musicians are featured in productions. The theater also provides an excellent location for other audiences, including a movie screening or panel discussion. Parking is somewhat limited but surrounded streets accommodate overflow issues.

Tracy Jackson

Guys and Dolls show is great fun! Music and vocals were coordinated that you can understand the singers (even when I didn't know the songs). Cast and orchestra seem to really enjoy doing the show. Only reason we didn't give 5 stars we were in middle of the upper level (row S) and it was very cold - Cold air was blowing on us the entire show. We were lucky to have sweatshirts in the car that Hubby retrieved at intermission, but it did detract from show prior to intermission not only for us and several people around us jokes/asked if we has one for them too. SOoo...do see the show, but bring a sweater or a jacket!

Michelle Zelnio

The show was amazing. Even more special though was the help I received. I was late and had trouble finding my seat. Right as I was about to leave, an usher noticed and very kindly helped me find a place to sit. The small things matter, and it was very much appreciated.

Spencer Feinberg

I've been to a few plays here now, and I can confidently say the level of production is shocking for a smaller to mid-level size theatre. It's truly a fantastic experience every time.

Marcella Mary Betts

Thank you you for giving my grandson Robert Thacker the opportunity to perform in the show. I am so proud of him. Hopefully he will want to perform again sometime. Loved the penguin project.

Cora Bartemes

We enjoyed The Piano Lesson very much. The combination of drama with ample humor worked well. The set and use of lighting were very well done.

NightTime Stories

This place is great. It has plenty of volunteer activities for off stage as well as free auditions for on stage. We really loved the most recent show, don't let the pigeon drive the bus, and the boys were very happy. Can't wait to see their next show tomorrow

Peggy Huppert

It was our first time back at The Playhouse since 2019, and they did not disappoint. "Singin in the Rain" was spectacular. So much fun! I couldn't stop smiling.

Aries Devers

The Piano Lesson was excellent! Enjoyed everything from the venue to the performance

Jeff Gearhart

I was not sure if I would like this.but I took my wife there for the first time to watch what turn out to be a fantastic play.my wife loved it and I enjoyed it more then I thought I would.i plan on taking my wife there again soon.

Timothy Daniels

Great show, nice venue, parking will be better once Des Moines stops re-doing streets.

ceyzar666

Never been to a play before. Didn't know what to expect. My wife and I enjoyed it and are talking about going again sometime soon.

Jennifer Hayes

I was there today, March 8th with Pleasantville Elem to watch Charlotte's Webb. I was very impressed. The performance was very well done. The cast/crew did great. The staff was kind and helpful. Would love to bring my family back for another production.

Ted Phillips

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.

Amber

Took our son to see Matilda, we all loved it. The talent was amazing, it was so good you just didnt want to take your eyes off the stage for fear of missing something.

Ronald Price

Update: Yet another amazing show put on by the des moines community playhouse. The preshow was great information about where the story came from and how long it has been around. If you are any bit of a sherlock Holmes fan you dont want to miss the pre show. As for the play Baskersville was a great 5 person show full of 35 personalities. From the opening scene to the last this is one show the has a great scene on the stage that keeps you interested. The show was upbeat and very fun. The actors and actresses were great at costume changes and keeping characters straight. It's a murder mystery that keeps you guessing like all Sherlock Holmes stories with a great comedic twist that kept the show upbeat and interesting. This is a great show for the whole family. This is one show you dont want to miss. The des moines play house has outdone them selves with the 26 foot rotating cinematic stage they put together for an amazing performance of misery. This one is for sure not a production for the kids. If you are a Steven king fan or just a fan of misery in general this one is for you. They make it seam so real and what's worse is you can actually see this happening. The crazed fan goes a bit to far and takes the show. Preshia does a great job as Annie. And believe me this Annie is not ok. Micheal as Paul did a great job playing the man in peril. This show has plenty of the "dirty birdie." Don't be the only one to not see misery on stage. This is one show you do not want to miss. Again the des moines play house has outdone it's self.

Tessi Glaser

Loved it. Everything was great! I wish they had a "what to expect" video embedded on their website to help new patrons with what a "play" or "musical" is since little ones don't have any schema for this kind of experience.

Inez Dawes

I am still having flashbacks from the matinee performance Sunday of "Cabaret". The acting, dancing and instrumentals were outstanding. Hilarious frivolity and stark, frightening reality. So very well done in all respects. Kudos to you all! You are an amazing gift to the Des Moines community. Congratulations on a stunning performance!

Bonnie Hodson

Sue and I saw Escaping the Labyrinth at the Des Moines Playhouse tonight. It was an excellent performance. The last day to see this production is Sunday. If you can fit it into your schedule, I would recommend that you see this show.

S D

Excellent community theatre experience! Well done productions in an intimate theater setting 🎭 …

Brian Bopp

Des Moines Playhouse has all the resources to keep up their great reputation in Community Theatre. Every show is well done.

suzanne talley

What a great experience! We sat in the upper section and next time we will spend a little more to sit in the main seating for more leg room. My son thought it was awesome that he could go on stage to meet the actors and get autographs. We will definitely be returning!

Lynn LaGrone

Fabulous show! Great acoustics and views are good from just about everywhere. Perfect concession and gathering area. Only downside: upper level seating can be very uncomfortable for anyone with long legs. The rows are pretty close together.

Charles Bischof

We've had season tickets since 1983 and have enjoyed almost every play we've seen. The recent remodeling project has really added to the beauty of the facility. Parking has also been improved. Another benefit is the New York theater trips organized by the Playhouse. It allowed us to see several great plays on Broadway.

chris johnson

Wonderful venue and always a great cast. Such amazing local talent, and never a bad seat in the house. I've been coming here for years, and can't wait to see the renovation next summer ('18).

Julie Woodhouse

Great community Playhouse featuring local talent. Original play we saw was good. Actors love what they are doing. 3 stars because of wonky box office service. Tried to buy tickets online using gift certificates. When going to pay /pick up tickets the day of the show, they would not use gift certificate and had to use credit card. No an 80.00 expense I planned on. And I still have gift certificates. Have to go to box office directly to buy tickets. Really inconvenient. They asked if I had read to posting online saying you cannot use gift certificates-aparently I hadn't seen it. Make this more noticeable, please.

Michelle Behne

Great show, actors were amazing!

Bryan Welch

The recent remodel greatly improved pretty much everything. Sounds and lights are excellent now. Highly recommended in general. One negative is they now sell drinks and snacks, so it can be hard to hear the play over audience candy wrappers and iced rattling in plastic cups.

Jerry Depue

The play was awesome. Local talent. Calender Girls was the play.

Nick Hermon

My girlfriend and I went to the playhouse and 30min before it started she got really sick. The ticket lady was super nice/ completely understanding and allowed us to switch ticket dates without any problems. That's the kind of service that deserves 5 stars. Looking forward to the show Friday and (hopefully) many more.

Chris Acton

This is my favorite Community Theater. I loved the time I volunteered here and it is still a very talented and dedicated group of people. The shows are always well done and you can tell how much fun the actors have doing the shows.

Dylan Roth

Experienced Baskerville: Sherlock Holmes this evening. What an incredible show! Beautiful and tidy facility. Faculty was friendly and welcoming. All five actors exceeded expectations. Looking forward to coming back soon!

Steve Hamilton

A first class community theater. Local talent is exceptional, and the costuming and directing make this a terrific local attraction.

Jeff Cook

Easy to locate. Handicap accessible & elevator available. Staff & cast did excellent job. Highly recommend attending. Update: Yes, I attended Silent Sky & highly encourage folks to attend.

Ginny McFarland

Great community theater in newly remodeled space. Great pre show talks. Comfortable seating. Pleasant staff. The actors appear to be enjoying performing. Very pleasant.

Daniel Hodapp

Great performances and ticketing system. However, the theater is in need of some updating. Also, the soundboard or speaker system needs to be replaced. Every time a cast member hits a high note there would be static interruption.

Erin Blair

My friend, who is in their current musical, Rock of Ages, fell ill the day that another friend of ours and I was going to see her and had pre-purchased for. The Playhouse switched our tickets without an extra fee and put us in the front row of a Saturday performance. Mind you, we purchased tickets for a Thursday night. But that's all beside the point because Playhouse performances are excellent and they have a great theater. :)

K Pogge

Stewart Little was a great production! My five yo grandson loved it! The play was the perfect length!

Janet Whiteside

I love the playhouse! Great entertainment! Top-notch actors & actresses. Staff very friendly. Also appreciate the volunteers. Good place to go for good entertainment. Highly recommend!

chris beck

Love the Playhouse! Always top-level productions. We attend multiple shows a year and the new upgrades really put the experience over the top!

Mike Scoblic

We saw Matilda Jr. and it was soooo good!!

Gracie H

I have done 1 play when I was in first grade and it was awesome if looking for plays for your kids I highly recommend it! Also I have a question I have been looking for acting agents and can’t find we’re to start if any suggestions please do respond. This place Is AWESOMEREEEEEE!!

Mr. Whiskers

Catch Me If you Can was a blast to go see. Absolutely phenomenal job by cast , director, stage workers and orchestra. Never seen a bad show at DSM Playhouse

Tammy Wood

The energy was great. The seats were roomy. The concessions can be ordered ahead of intermission. Bright & spacious with lots of parking.

Herman/kim Clark/burch

Wow! What a grrr treat experience. The actors were fabulous and the ambiance was like being in little New York! A must do if you say Des Moines is boring.

Mary Whisenand

A true gem in Central Iowa. Dedicated volunteers have kept it operating for 100 seasons. You will be astonished at the high level of talent on stage and behind the scenes.

James Kolnik

This is so much more than a community theatre. The level of profession from the actors to the set to the audience seating is top notch. Can not give enough stars!

Kevin Crowley

great show fun night

Dennis Dennis

Phenomenal show but the seats are too narrow.

Maggie Shaw

Attended Rounding 3rd base at the drive in. It was amazing!! Actors were awesome!! Thank you doing the drive in during Covid!!

Jason Mason

This place is a hidden gem. A beautiful building with great facilities and great entertainment. I would highly recommend catching a show at this venue.

Benjamin Humpal-Pash

Love the performances, amazing actors, singers, dancers, and crew. Would definitely see another performance, and I would 10/10 recomend this place to others

Tamera Mayo

My First play ever, the seating was good, I could hear everything well. All the actor's were really good.

Mike Gloden

The play was great. It was in the lower theater but still good. It's great that play houses like this are still in business. Go take in a play and enjoy.

Jason Reis

Had child in their after school program learning about plays. Teacher was excellent. Kid had great time. Would certainly recommend.

Al Rey

Great singing and dancing! The Abignale Orchestra. Wonderful songs, very engaging! Over too soon! #desmoinesplayhouse

Pj Jackson

Awesome and very affordable! I went here for a gospel concert and had the time of my life! It's newly renovated and beautiful!

Greg Wilhelmi

I seen Freaky Friday play a couple weeks ago and it was amazing. Really entertaining. I would definitely go back.

Corey Fischer

My stepdaughter and I watched them perform Sherlock Holmes. It was a great play and it it looked like the actors were having fun too.

Andrew Walling

Great productions and great seats!

Beaty Family

I have been to 5 plays now and always enjoy myself. Good value though the drinks are a bit pricey.

CLEMENTINE GIADOM

It was amazing. The school got free tickets for the dress rehearsal. We had a great time

Jan Pitcher

Great place to volunteer. Remodel project is impressive. Cast members are very talented.

Hinton Stokes

Great as always. I have only seen two plays but will see lots more with casts like this.

Krista Kielty

Great community playhouse with top rated performers. Recently renovated, it is a wonderful place to see a musical or drama.

Ann Kessler

The production of Elf the Musical was wonderful. Enjoyed every minute of it!! So did my grandkids.

Londa Fuller

"Elf the Musical" was a wonderful experience today. A great show for the old and the young!

Brad Beltman

The remodel is great, and each production is top notch. We haven't had a bad experience yet!

Josh E.

This is a modest venue for smaller productions. Keep an open mind and you should have a fun time here.

Jenny lovan

I went to see Choices and it was amazing!! I loved the story and the actors. Great night

Stacia Taylor

We had a blast! Great facility and wonderful show!

Richard Latch

Great show yes real folks and feeling

Ct Midnite

Have had season tickets for years. Don't think I've ever been disappointed. Really A Cut Above.

Nishant Kumar

It was my first visit. Liked this place. I did not know about this place earlier. I hope to visit often here to watch the play.

Ryan Lynch

They are great for kids with regular programming aimed at them. My daughter goes every month!

Elizabeth Salih

Nice place to take the kids to introduce them to drama and plays. Gave it only 4 stars because the short selection of snacks and drinks

Patrick Dahlen

Went to see the Sound of Music. It was phenomenal!

Derek Bittick

I've been on both sides of the stage and this place is great for learning how to act or take in a show

Ann Grant

Get, seating doesn't provide a lot of leg room but great seats wherever you are.

Eva Williams

Terrific show. Can hardly wait for the remodel and new seats.

Kyle Kloppe

This place is so cute and always puts on great performances!! I definitely recommend !

Danny Vierling

Another amazing production!! Well done to the cast of Catch Me If You Can!!!

Nick Souza-Personal Account

Always a good show and great value. The remodel has only helped.

Cy-Hawk State

Really good shows here and I always go in the winter. Something to look forward to in the cold months.

Jesse McLearn-Montz

Young Frankenstein: FABULOUS. Should consider bringing it back next year. Edit: great location for the playhouse as well!

Matt Besser

A community treasure. The shows are very well done. Intimate setting. They are half way through an update.

Christee Lee

The shows can be good. A lot of variation in quality. Remodel is nice

Harold Bertelsen

I attended a class presentation for my granddaughter. It was a small gathering that was well prepared for.

Gail Olson

Newly renovated, more women's restrooms. Great shows with local talent

Annie Novak Clough

Wonderful theater. Recently renovated. Great talent.

Bret Grimes

"Catch Me if You Can" was awesome! They always do a great job.

Dan Coyle

Excellent venue. Excellent performers. Great entertainment.

Connie Jetter

Freaky Friday was awesome. Great performer's

Lee Kessler

This place does dsm proud, always enjoyable

joan mahaffey

Loved the show! Great acting and effects!

Shawn Baker

A world class community theater in the Midwest. We are so lucky to have this in Des Moines.

Kate Thompson

The play was amazing!! Seating is very close together and uncomfortable.

Diana O'Leary

The Des Moines Playhouse found a way to deliver in 2020...drive up theater!

April Backous

Great little play house with plenty of kids plays to choose from. Reasonably priced

Julie K. Munden

Great place to see a show and friendly customer service!!

KENT BLUNCK

Amazing show. Full of energy and excitement.

Curt Brooks

Very nice. Enjoyed the Sherlock Holmes mystery, great job!!!

Cole Rixner

Fantastic renovations, they have a vision and that is what theater is all about.

Vicky Hansen

Local Theater. Be sure to come to pre show presentation. Season Tickets resonbaly priced entertainment.

Travis Stewart

Had a great time. Amazing production value

Bettie Danley

Very talented performers. Great entertainment!

Steve Miller

Great place Great people Great shows!

Joann Tucker

I just can't gush over the Playhouse enough, such a wonderful organization!

Jeff Omans

Recommend taking kids and grand kids too small stage productions as an introduction

Sean Heitmann

We really enjoy the children's theatre productions.

JoAnn Scharlau

Great show, but seating a bit cramped.

austin woodin

Fantastic place that provides wonderful local entertainment.

Sharon Hill

It's amazing the incredible talent right here in Des Moines.

Laura Schieber

Children's theater shows are just perfect!

Grant Golden

Went and saw the little mermaid here for my wife's Christmas present.

Mary Wiedmann

Fantastic play. Everyone was so good

Julia Shebarshov

Decent play house that provides a good variety of shows.

Lisa Damhof

Love taking my kids to this theater!

Francis Butruille

Always great shows with great performers

Garnet Johnson

Great show. We'll done.

Laura Love

Great show!!! Fun times.

Frank Millerfrankie

Enjoyed the performance, (Misery) even though I thought it was a little long.

Matt Denner

Great place to see a show locally

Linda Salvini

Very nice playhouse. Seating up close

Elizabeth Austin

My daughter LOVES Second Saturday!!

Jesse Sass

Completely blown away by the fact this is just local talent!

Linda Paschell

Was so much fun and such talent.

Timothy Butler

Great production of Godspell! :-)

Becky Smith

My sister and I watched newsies it was awesome

Kristin Johnson

Small but not a bad seat in the house

Paul Schwegler

Such a valuable asset to the community.

Brian Bum Hutzel

Great little theater with great effort.

Amia Johnson

Go see miss Nelson is missing is awesome for kids

Greg Bailey

Beautiful facility, great performance!

carla becker

I greatly enjoyed the performance!

Tracey Stovall

Local talent and great production value.

Regina Wicks

Really enjoyed the show!

St. John from Des Moines

Great venue for great shows!

Rob Dobek

Lovely atmosphere and comfortable seating

Greg Smith

Small theater with good service and shows

Melissa Chavas-Miller

Best theater in Central Iowa!

C B

Elf was excellent and the playhouse was great .

Dr. Cris Wildermuth

Love the Playhouse! Great talent!

Peter Xain

Great local tallent, clean facility

Sally Phippen

Always a great performance!

Susan Leedom

Excellent place to watch a show

Debora Halvorson

We saw Billy Elliot, fantastic

Ron Hyde

Great people and quality entertainment.

Cyn K

The quality of these players always amazes me.

Maureen Ryan

Awesome job on Catch Me 👍👍 …

David Johnston

Nice stage, comfortable seats

Brewer

Loved it!! And its Handicap friendly!!

Bill Hickey

A nice evening at a great venue

Tom Anderson

Always GREAT performances!

Kristel Howell

Best community theater and actors

Pamela Leming

Fun evening at the Des Moines Playhouse with friends

jessica van essen

Beautiful, newly renovated space.

Kathy Polson

A great community theatre!

Kevin Mier

Great community theater experience

Kasha Smith

Always a pleasure to go!

Douglas Arterburn

Elf the Musical is fantastic!

Matt Harvey (Harv)

Good place to watch a play

Josh Doughan

Newly remodeled. Nice!

Lorenzo Garcia

I did a play here when i was young

Napapan Habier

Always impressive performance.

Melissa Chavas-Miller

Best community theatre!

Valerie Wiese

Fun place to see musicals

James Hartman

A unique and fun experience.

Elaine Bohling

Community theatre at its best!

Sarah Howk

Great show!

Thomas Murphy

My voting and entertainment place.

Aristarchus Metto

A lot of good resorces

Mr. Van

Love the show

Norine Moulsoff

Great community theater

Chris Nelson

Great parking!!!

Therese Riordan

Fun evening 👍 …

Rob Cox

David is awesome

Andrew Sullivan

always entertaining

Christy Christensen

Fun

Jeff Osborne

Great entertainment

Tonia White

Up scale entertainment

Paul Osmundson

Fun entertainment

Alissa Doocy

CESAR FONSECA

(Translation) Well (Original) Bueno

Morgan Pech

Mike Erickson

Mary Dowd

sydney parker

Jon P

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