Excellent production, cast and orchestra. Organized team emailed me about the event, the parking, any ancillary activities (pre-opera talk, etc.) and pre-opera dining options. The Blank Theater is very nice, clean, good sightlines. My only complaint is the lack of post-opera dining options. We want to go eat after the show, and talk about it!

We drove in from Michigan to see our son perform in the production of Sweeney Todd. We were very happy that the Des Moines Metro Opera required confirmation of either vaccination or negative Covid test in order to purchase tickets and gain entry. All audience members were masked while inside and for the performance. All in all we felt safe thanks to their efforts at protecting both audience and performer. This production was held at the Blank Performing Arts Center and it is a very nice facility. Staff were kind and helpful, and the acoustics are fantastic. Not a bad seat in the house! It is a smaller, intimate setting where you are almost part of the stage as it was set up - very immersive. The cast did a great job.

I have loved every opera I have attended in the past 2 seasons at DMMO. The performers - from the dancers to the apprentices to the professionals - are all amazing in every way. The sets are incredible. Having super titles available for all performances is so very helpful - even when the opera is in English. The 2nd stage series offers the unique ability to see an opera in an alternate setting and to really feel the show in a different way! Every seat in the theater is good and the small feel of the theater makes you feel like you are right there, even from the back rows. The staff is friendly and the ability to greet the performers after the show is a nice added bonus. If you have the chance to attend an opera at DMMO - don't miss it!

I've attended opera productions at the Paris Opera, Opera Bastille, Covent Garden, Glyndebourne, Frankfurt, Vienna, the Met, Chicago Lyric and several others... believe it or not, the Des Moines Metro Opera is every bit as good musically and artistically, and certainly as enjoyable. Seriously. The singing is at a very high standard and is the orchestra. Stage direction is uniformly excellent. Over the years I've seen about a dozen productions -- this summer I saw A Little Night Music. Really outstanding. This reflects the high standard of singing in the US and the company's commitment to high quality. The smallish hall (seats about 500) is perfect, and, due to the position of the pit, allows action to completely surround the orchestra -- and get within inches of the audience. It's really a fabulous experience. Highly recommended!

Wonderful venue, all seats are good, and performers/costumes/sets are top notch. What a gem off the beaten path!