Performing Arts

Writers Bob Leonard and Jason Walsmith share stories from their new series Portraits of Hunger in Iowa, documenting Iowans facing food insecurity and homelessness. Also, a conversation with members of the Des Moines Gamer Symphony Orchestra ahead of their first-ever honor orchestra concert.

After years of financial struggles and community fundraising efforts, Cedar Rapids’ Mirrorbox Theatre will close its doors by the end of the year.

As food insecurity grows, Iowa’s gardeners are stepping up to help feed those in need — plus, how an improv nonprofit is empowering Iowa's youth to grow confident on and off stage.

Monica Holt, a nationally recognized arts leader and former senior vice president of artistic planning at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, will serve as DMPA's next president and chief executive officer.

"Things that I had held sacred or had held as truths were challenged," Robbins says of the pandemic. His new play is about a chorus that loses its ability to sing together after COVID isolation.

Copeland says her final performance with American Ballet Theatre was a thank you to the communities that had supported her. "What I represented is something far bigger than me," she says.

Misty Copeland was the first Black principal dancer at the prestigious American Ballet Theatre.

Misty Copeland took one last spin on her pointe shoes Wednesday, as she retired after a trailblazing career in which she became an ambassador for diversity in an overwhelmingly white art form.

Misty Copeland took one last spin on her pointe shoes Wednesday, as she retired after a trailblazing career in which she became an ambassador for diversity in an overwhelmingly white art form.

Marching bands from across the state are currently competing against one another with high-energy spectacles, complete with props, costumes, sets and intricate sound systems.