DES MOINES, Iowa (June 20, 2025) – This June, Des Moines takes center stage as the American Association of Community Theatre (AACT) brings two of its largest national events to the city:
- AACT YouthFest 2025 | June 22 – 24 | Des Moines Playhouse
- AACTFest 2025 | June 25 – 28 | Hoyt Sherman Place & Downtown Marriott
Theatre enthusiasts from across the country will take part in the weeklong celebration. Together, these events showcase 19 productions selected through rigorous regional competitions, from dynamic youth ensembles to top-tier adult community theatre companies.
These festivals celebrate the artistry, storytelling, and community-building power of theatre at both youth and adult levels.
"It's more than performances, they’re celebrations of creativity, connection, and culture,” said Greg Edwards, president and CEO of Catch Des Moines. “We are thrilled to welcome AACTFest and YouthFest to Des Moines. Not only do these events spotlight incredible talent, they bring visitors from across the country to experience our city’s vibrant arts scene and warm hospitality.”
AACT YouthFest 2025, hosted at the Des Moines Community Playhouse, will spotlight six youth companies, each receiving valuable stage time, professional adjudication, and immersive workshops designed to educate and inspire the next generation of performers. Those participating in YouthFest are in primary school through high school.
AACTFest 2025 will bring 12 award-winning productions to the historic Hoyt Sherman Place, offering a national showcase of community theatre excellence. These participants are primarily aged 18 and older. Beyond the stage, the festival includes workshops, technical competitions, and networking opportunities centered at the Des Moines Marriott Downtown.
“This is community theatre at its best, storytelling that brings people together, empowers voices, and reflects the heart of every hometown,” said AACT Executive Director Quiana Clark-Roland. “Des Moines is the perfect partner and host, with an arts-forward spirit and a community that understands the value of live performance and shared experience.”
The public is invited to see performances. Performances include “Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr.,” “Mac Beth,” and “Men on Boats,” just to mention a few. Tickets can be purchased here: aact.org/show-passes.
About Catch Des Moines
The Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau and the Des Moines Area Sports Commission, collectively known as Catch Des Moines, is the official destination marketing organization promoting and representing Greater Des Moines to leisure travelers and meeting/sports planners. Our focus is to increase visitors to the metro and elevate the visitor experience to drive economic success and enhance the quality of life in the 14 local Greater Des Moines communities we represent. For more information, visit catchdesmoines.com.