MUSCATINE, Iowa–For a third summer, the dancers of Ballet Des Moines will grace Muscatine with a performance in Riverside Park as part of their STEM Tour. An event that explores science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through hands-on activities and artistic expression, curious citizens may attend these events for free on June 9, with STEM activities beginning at 5 p.m. and the performance starting at 7 p.m.
During the STEM Tour, Ballet Des Moines visits communities across the state to share highlights from their season and to help audiences uncover the connections between STEM subjects and art. “The intersection of the arts and sciences is rich with opportunities to engage a broad audience, and it forms the basis for our annual summer tour,” said the CEO of Ballet Des Moines, Blaire Massa. This year’s repertoire includes original choreography by female choreographers, a world premiere performance set to the music of renowned composer Sergei Rachmaninoff, and selections from the classical ballet “Don Quixote.” To help audiences link together artistic concepts with STEM ones, several local speakers will give brief insights throughout the performance. Ballet Des Moines Creative Director Tom Mattingly will also remark on each piece of the show, helping audience members fully appreciate them.
Following a well-received season in its home city, Ballet Des Moines appreciates the chance to go on the road and bring its creations to art lovers of all ages. “The dancers in our company are truly world-class, and this program demonstrates their athleticism, artistry, and the breadth of our art form,” stated Massa. “My favorite thing about going on tour is watching people experience the power of the arts in their own communities.”
The dancers of Ballet Des Moines visited with young dancers in Muscatine. Photo courtesy of Ballet Des Moines.
Though Ballet Des Moines crisscrosses the state on its tour, its dancers always look forward to coming to Muscatine. “Muscatine is incredible!” Massa enthused. “Every time we visit, we are greeted so warmly, and we are blown away by the crowd that comes to our performances. We are grateful to be invited back to this wonderful community.”
Whether you have enjoyed going to the ballet throughout your life or would like to experience it (or bring a child to see it) for the first time, Massa believes you will have an outstanding experience: “Dance is a universal art form: no matter what your cultural background, which language you speak, or where you live, movement and music speak to each of us. I would challenge anyone to watch these powerful performances and not feel something, and the magic of art is whatever you feel is right!”
