The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Greater Des Moines Partnership have joined forces to showcase Iowa at opening night of The Bridges of Madison County musical, February 19, 2014 on Broadway in New York City. The organizations will bring clients to experience the show first-hand, including business and event prospects. The goal: leverage Iowa’s cultural brand to spur economic development and tourism in Iowa. 

“Strategic marketing to meeting planners in New York City will open new doors for Greater Des Moines tourism,” says Greg Edwards, President and CEO of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Our hope in this outreach initiative is to lure new events to Greater Des Moines, bringing more tourism dollars for the local economy.”

“Educating clients on Central Iowa’s quality of life enhances our region’s image in attracting new talent and businesses,” says Jay Byers, CEO of the Greater Des Moines Partnership. “Exposing prospects to the cultural brand of Greater Des Moines leads to relocation, business expansion and economic development.”

In addition, another local organization has been supporting this Broadway show behind the scenes. As a member of the Independent Presenters Network (IPN), a nationwide group of independent theaters who invest in Broadway and national touring shows, Des Moines Performing Arts has invested financially to The Bridges of Madison County.

“It’s exciting to invest in this burgeoning Broadway show with strong Iowa ties,” says Jeff Chelesvig, President and CEO of Des Moines Performing Arts. “Of course, it’s our hope that a successful run in New York will lead to a future national tour so we can share this lovely production with Broadway fans in our great state and beyond.” 

“We are thrilled to bring Bridges to life on Broadway. This beloved story is made richer by the unforgettable backdrop of Winterset, and it is our hope that the musical—through its actors, its lush score, and its book—pays homage to the unique culture of Iowa. We are honored to have Des Moines’ support in this endeavor and look forward to welcoming Iowans to The Bridges of Madison County,” said Stacey Mindich, Jeffrey Richards and Jerry Frankel, Producers of The Bridges of Madison County.

The Bridges of Madison County is an $8 million show based on the bestselling novel by Robert James Waller, depicted in Madison County, Iowa. Opening night will debut at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre in New York City, New York.

A special ticket discount for up to $55, exclusive to Iowans, is available at broadwayoffers.com or by calling (800) 432-7250 with offer code BRBLST125.

For more information on the show, visit bridgesofmadisoncountymusical.com.