Iowa Dance Theatre

- 2100 SE 5th St, Des Moines, IA 50315

In the heart of Iowa, where community and the arts are deeply intertwined, a unique organization stands out for its commitment to both. The Iowa Dance Theatre is not your typical dance studio; it is a not-for-profit organization that has been a staple of the Des Moines arts scene since its formation in 1983. What makes IDT truly special is its collaborative spirit—it is a consortium of dancers, teachers, choreographers, and art enthusiasts who work together to create high-quality, artistic dance productions. For those in Central Iowa, this organization represents a powerful platform for local talent, providing opportunities for both seasoned dancers and emerging artists to perform and perfect their abilities in a theatrical setting. In a state known for its strong community bonds, IDT embodies this spirit by bringing together diverse talents from over 30 different Central Iowa dance studios to produce affordable and accessible live dance performances.

The mission of Iowa Dance Theatre is clear: to raise awareness, develop appreciation, increase opportunities, and support dance as a performing art within the community. Unlike a private studio that might focus on classes and competitions, IDT's primary goal is to produce exceptional shows for the public. Their innovative approach allows them to draw from a wide pool of talent, showcasing the best of what the local dance community has to offer. This unique model means that the organization focuses on excellence in production and presentation, from the artistic vision to the technical execution. By giving talented people in the area a chance to perform in major productions, IDT plays a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of dancers and choreographers in Iowa. It is a place where passion for dance is transformed into beautiful, live art for everyone to enjoy.

Location and Accessibility

Iowa Dance Theatre is officially located at 2100 SE 5th St, Des Moines, IA 50315, USA. While this address serves as the organization's office, it is important for prospective participants and audience members to note that rehearsals and performances are typically held at other venues, such as the Des Moines Civic Center. The central location in Des Moines makes it a convenient hub for a consortium of dancers who come from various parts of Central Iowa. Being situated in the state capital ensures that the organization is accessible to a broad audience, drawing people from all over the region who are eager to experience live dance.

The organization is committed to making its productions and activities as accessible as possible. This is evident in its publicly available information, which highlights the importance of accessibility for patrons. Iowa Dance Theatre provides a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot. These features are essential for ensuring that everyone, regardless of mobility, can enjoy the performances and participate in the community. This commitment to inclusivity aligns with IDT's mission to make dance a performing art that is accessible to all. The thoughtful consideration for accessibility makes attending a show or participating in a rehearsal a more comfortable and stress-free experience for individuals and families in the Iowa community.

Services Offered

• Live dance productions: Iowa Dance Theatre produces three main shows annually, including the beloved holiday tradition, "The Nutcracker," a spooky fall show like "Dracula," and a Spring repertory program. These productions feature a unique blend of talent from different studios.

• Auditions and performance opportunities: The organization holds auditions that are open to dancers from various local studios, providing a rare opportunity for performers to be part of a large-scale, professional-quality production.

• Workshops and training opportunities: To supplement the training received at local studios, IDT offers workshops and brings in guest teachers. This provides dancers with a chance to expand their skills and learn from diverse choreographers and instructors.

• Community collaboration: IDT serves as a central hub that unites dancers and teachers from over 30 Central Iowa dance studios. This fosters a unique collaborative environment where everyone can work together for a common artistic goal.

• Arts education and appreciation: By presenting high-quality, live dance performances that are both affordable and accessible, Iowa Dance Theatre helps to educate the public and increase appreciation for dance as a performing art in the region.

Features / Highlights

• Not-for-profit status: As a non-profit organization, IDT is driven by its mission to support the arts, not by profit. This ensures that their focus remains on providing high-quality productions and opportunities for the community.

• The "Nutcracker" tradition: The annual production of "The Nutcracker" is a cornerstone of the organization and a beloved holiday tradition in Des Moines. It is known for its high artistic quality and serves as a major draw for audiences from all over Iowa.

• A consortium of local talent: One of the most unique features is how IDT brings together dancers from numerous local studios. This collaborative model creates a powerful artistic synergy and highlights the collective strength of the Central Iowa dance community.

• Good for kids: The productions, especially "The Nutcracker," are well-known for being good for kids. They offer a wonderful introduction to the arts for young audiences and a chance for young dancers to see their peers perform on a big stage.

• Financial responsibility: The organization is committed to sound financial decisions, which helps ensure that they can continue to produce their shows and provide opportunities for the community for years to come.

Contact Information

For more information on upcoming auditions, performances, or to get involved, you can contact the Iowa Dance Theatre.

Address: 2100 SE 5th St, Des Moines, IA 50315, USA

Phone: (515) 979-6622

What is worth choosing

For anyone in Iowa with an interest in dance, whether as a performer or an audience member, Iowa Dance Theatre is worth choosing for several key reasons. It offers a truly unique model in the performing arts landscape. Instead of being a single school with a limited pool of talent, IDT acts as a central hub, bringing together the best from over 30 different studios. This collaborative spirit not only elevates the quality of the productions but also strengthens the entire dance community in Central Iowa. By providing a stage for local dancers and choreographers, the organization helps to keep the arts alive and thriving in the region.

The commitment to producing high-quality, affordable, and accessible performances makes IDT an invaluable cultural asset. For families, especially, the annual productions of "The Nutcracker" are an accessible and magical way to introduce children to the world of live ballet. The fact that the organization is non-profit means that every ticket purchased and every donation made directly supports the mission of promoting dance in the community. This gives patrons a sense of ownership and pride in the art they are supporting. By choosing to attend an Iowa Dance Theatre performance or to get involved as a volunteer or performer, you are choosing to support a foundational part of the local arts scene. It's a choice that contributes to the artistic growth of the community and ensures that Des Moines continues to be a vibrant center for culture and creativity.

Iowa Dance Theatre

2100 SE 5th St, Des Moines, IA 50315, USA