DMPA Welcomes Students and Educators from Across the State for an Afternoon of Arts, Connection and Creativity

Des Moines Performing Arts (DMPA) proudly hosted 130 middle school students – from Meredith Middle School in Des Moines, West Branch Middle School in West Branch and East Union in Afton – for an immersive afternoon of workshops, performance and collaboration. This community initiative, inspired by the national tour of The Outsiders’ Stay Gold Project, highlighted the musical’s messages around resilience, identity and finding your place in the world.

Led by DMPA’s Education and Engagement team and local teaching artists, students explored the story and themes of The Outsiders book, learned about elements of theatrical production, and engaged in activities designed to build community. Students then watched theater arts students from Des Moines Lincoln High School perform scenes from the play The Outsiders before attending the Friday evening performance of the national touring production of the musical at the Des Moines Civic Center. For many, it was their first time seeing a Broadway production, adding an unforgettable layer to the learning they had experienced earlier in the day.

This event reflects DMPA’s ongoing commitment to providing meaningful arts experiences for young people, helping them see themselves bravely, boldly and authentically through stories on stage and opportunities off stage – made possible through the generous support of DMPA’s donors, whose contributions help fund transformative arts events and fuel our Access Broadway ticket program.

DMPA also extends special thanks to SONIC Drive-In and the SONIC Foundation for their funding of The Stay Gold Project.

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