Ballet Des Moines is set to enchant audiences with a captivating lineup of performances, featuring the timeless classic 'The Nutcracker,' the innovative 'See The Music,' and the poignant 'Romeo & Juliet.' Each performance offers a unique exploration of storytelling through the dynamic and graceful medium of ballet. From Tchaikovsky's enchanting melodies to a world premiere with the Aizuri Quartet, to the tragic romance of Prokofiev's masterpiece, audiences will be transported on a journey of emotion and artistry across Iowa's most prestigious venues.

A Symphony in Motion: Ballet Des Moines Celebrates Artistic Excellence

Ballet Des Moines takes center stage with a captivating blend of music and dance in their latest offerings. The performances 'See The Music' and 'Romeo and Juliet' promise an artistic feast, featuring the collaborative brilliance of Tom Mattingly, the Aizuri Quartet, and the emotional depth of Prokofiev's timeless score. With a series of events held at Iowa State University and other prestigious venues, this ballet ensemble pushes the boundaries of creative expression, uniting live music, dynamic choreography, and passionate storytelling.

Ballet Des Moines' Unforgettable Journey: From 'See The Music' to 'Romeo and Juliet'

Ballet Des Moines returns to Cedar Rapids with this year’s Summer STEM tour: See the Music. From coding and choreography to sound waves and virtual reality, this year’s tour explores how we can “see the music” and visualize the invisible. 

Experience mini-science demonstrations from the stage from the NASA Iowa Space Grant Consortium and the Science Center of Iowa, Brucemore’s Artisan Studio bringing spoken word poetry and live music performances to every stop, and the dancers of Ballet Des Moines performing excerpts from their 24-25 season. 

This free event includes accessible, hands-on activities that will spark understanding, curiosity, and creativity in the midst of an immersive live performance. Join us to experience what happens when you approach a concept from a creative and unexpected direction.

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Ballet Des Moines Summer STEM Tour

Brucemore

Exclusively at Stephens Auditorium, Ballet Des Moines brings to life the timeless tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, in a world premiere choreographed by Tom Mattingly with live music by the Ballet Des Moines Orchestra. Set to the beloved score by Sergei Prokofiev, this ballet unfolds with passion, drama, and heart-wrenching emotion. Caught in the crosshairs of their feuding families, Romeo and Juliet face insurmountable odds, but their love defies all expectations, leading to a devastating climax. The incredible dancers of Ballet Des Moines pour their hearts into their roles, embodying the intensity of love, longing, and despair. From the languid balcony scene to the fiery fight sequences, every movement reflects the characters’ inner turmoil. Witness the power of love and destiny as Romeo and Juliet unfolds on stage—a ballet that transcends time and touches the soul.

Ballet Des Moines’ Romeo and Juliet

Iowa State University

Romeo & Juliet

Ballet Des Moines presents See the Music (Hear the Dance), a mesmerizing ballet performance featuring choreography by Artistic Director Tom Mattingly. The performance opens with a world premiere collaboration between Ballet Des Moines and the acclaimed Aizuri Quartet playing the haunting strains of Philip Glass’ String Quartet No. 5. Mattingly’s choreography wields an incredible collection of world-class artists to bring the soaring piece to life, showcasing the power of live music and movement, from delicate introspection to athletic crescendos.

See the Music (Hear the Dance) Featuring Ballet Des Moines and Aizuri Quartet

Featuring Tom Mattingly's Four Seasons with pianist Douglas-Jayd Burn and a world premiere collaboration with the Aizuri Quartet.

See The Music

Hoyt Sherman Place

Grinnell College

The Nutcracker

Movimiento

Based on the classic Shakespearean comedy, Peter Anastos’ A Midsummer Night’s Dream takes audiences on a whimsical journey full of love, trickery, and magic. Set to the music of Felix Mendelssohn, this joyous production features a robust cast of professional and youth dancers from the greater Des Moines area.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

A midsummer night's gala

Historic Temple Theatre of Viroqua

Ballet Des Moines once again brings back the father of American ballet, George Balanchine, alongside work from internationally renowned choreographer Christopher Wheeldon. This triple bill concludes with the world premiere of Love Letters, Tom Mattingly’s ode to the queer community of Iowa. The full program includes:

Love Letters

Henry Jekyll, a good but troubled man, laments his thoughts of violence, jealousy, and lust before realizing he’s late for a party. Once he arrives in the great hall, he is greeted by his wife Sarah. As the two dance a romantic pas de deux, their friends admire the obvious affection for each other. Later, Henry’s eyes meet a beautiful young woman. The room slows to a standstill as Henry imagines the two dancing a flirtatious and lustful duet. The room comes back to life as Henry snaps out of the fantasy. He is overcome with feelings of shame and embarrassment and quietly slips away from the crowd.

Ballet Des Moines

Jun 14, 2025

Ballet Des Moines Summer STEM Tour

Apr 26, 2025

Ballet Des Moines’ Romeo and Juliet

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