- Bardapalooza -
Shakesperience Festival
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What should I bring/wear to make the most of this special evening of riverside entertainment?
2. Tell me about seating options at the Festival:
3. The idea of a “picnic with panache” sure sounds like fun. Tell me more!
4. Are concessions available on the grounds?
5. OK, you’ve intrigued me. What’s the scoop on VIP seating*?
6. I love how you are growing this Festival! How do I find out more, volunteer, or become a member?
7. “But for my own part, it was GREEK to me!” (Julius Caesar). I’m new to Shakespeare. Will I “get it?”
8. I love the special fun touches you bring to the Bard. You make is SO easy for people to get in on the fun. But I’m also into Renaissance! Like most Shakespeare Festivals, do you do “classic” or “traditional” Shakespeare - - or works by other classic playwrights, too?
9. How long do shows run? Do you have an intermission? And what about “the necessaries!”
10. What does “Repertory” mean?
11. What arrangements are there for those who are physically challenged?
12. What about Smoking?
13. What about Rain or other weird weather?
14. What about children?
15. How do I find the Amphitheater?
16. Where can I park?
Iowa Shakespeare Experience FAQs
17. Tell me more about The Iowa Shakespeare Experience and Shakesperience™ Festival!
18. Your “Mid-Summer Day Dreams”™ youth programs are impressive! What do you mean when you explain they are “outcomes-oriented”?
19. The Iowa Shakespeare Experience “Shakesper’ese!” (Shakespeare in Spanish) and other “English as a Second Language” Shakespeare and multi-cultural programs are amazing. Tell me more!
20. Does the Iowa Shakespeare Experience do anything special for Seniors?
SHAKESPERIENCE FEST FAQ ANSWERS :
1.) What should I bring/wear to make the most of this special evening of riverside entertainment?
Has anyone ever noticed that the weather in Iowa is –hmmmm–changeable? July is often fairly dry, so temperature fluctuations (especially near the river) are our most common “changability factor”. We’re an easy stroll from parking: do go ahead and bring the appropriate accessories!
For example, while we will have limited (but complimentary!) shade umbrellas which you can borrow (and special but equally limited shady seating areas) we strongly suggest you ensure you’ll have shade by bringing your own beach umbrella for the picnic hour. (All umbrellas will be lowered prior to the show.) But when the sun sets (it’ll be totally gone by 10 minutes into the show, we promise) the glorious river breeze can get even a bit chilly: a light wrap, sweater or sweatshirt (yes really!) is recommended. And isn’t that wonderful!
Other things to consider bringing: a moisture-proof groundcloth, cushions or a low lawn chair often adds to your comfort.
Should you bring bug spray? Actually, “Wee Beasties of the Aire” are generally not a large problem in the Amphitheater. However, just in case, we treat you right: we’ll provide some complimentary bug spray at tables in the plaza, or you are welcome to bring your own.
You may also want to have on hand some Coin of the Realm or a “Bill for Will”- we have fun programs for sale that will bring a lot of enjoyment to your experience of the show- as well as a chance for you to toss some change into our Intermission “Bard Bucket” to thank the Actors. You’ll really want to!
By the way, for major weather issues like rain, see the information below on our raindates and rain locations. We do our best not to let it rain on the parade!
2.) Tell me about seating options at the Festival:
The Amphitheater provides gently sloped, grassy ground seating surfaces suitable for blankets and lawn chairs, plus a limited amount of rear-area stone seating divans. ALL Amphitheater seats enjoy an excellent view of the stage!
With a request for cooperation from all who attend, we arrange the amphitheater so that those stretching out on blankets are unlikely to have their sightlines blocked by those who bring chairs.
Having said that all seats DO have a great view… still…closer to the stage is where its at! You may purchase special front-section VIP seating passes at the Gate (or may pre-purchase Premiere Platinum seating passes in advance) by calling 515-274-8989. See more information, below.
Or make a party of it! Whether for a romantic evening for 2 or for a group of friends, rent an affordable private cabana tent for “Box Seat” comfort! See below. Purchase a tent this year at our special inaugural price and you’ll have the option to keep introductory pricing opportunities for next year!
For groups of 30 or more, call us (5 days in advance) to make special arrangements for your entire group to sit together! Great for girl’s night out, office gatherings, or clubs.
3.) The idea of a “picnic with panache” sure sounds like fun. Tell me more!
Too bad Sonnet 18 is so right: “Summer’s lease hath all too short a date!” Summer will be gone before we know it- so our riverside picnics are a real, juicy slice of all the season’s best! And yes- you CAN bring your own food and wine.
Picnics are a time-honored tradition at many world-wide Shakespeare Festivals and are a wonderful part of the whole evening. There is something about the combination of the summer stars, Shakespearean sonnets, and our elegant, European-style amphitheater that often makes people break out their best for this special night.
From gourmet foods to bringing your fine linen tablecloths and even a candelabra or two- go for it! We call it “Shakespeare Tailgating!” A midsummer eve at its finest!
And although casual, comfortable clothes are always in style, some folks even come in theme Costumes, Renaissance attire, or in their best frocks and summer frippery!
Our advice: since parking and access to the amphitheater is so easy, do your picnic up proud- and bring along that sun umbrella!
(But because we are an all-volunteer run festival, we do beseech thee and thou: please take ALL thy picnic remnants out with you -or to our handy trash receptacles- as you leave. Many thanks!)
And remember: you’ll have fun regardless, but those who really get into the spirit of being “Lords and Ladies of the land” may find themselves awarded special “on the spot” VIP seating options, if you so move our volunteer usher’s hearts! Picnic with Panache!
· Is it a special occasion? For those attending in celebration of a birthday, anniversary or other special occasion – even a first date!- let us know by 7:45, and we will do our best to make an honorary “Shout out” to you from the stage. “Shall we compare thee to a summer’s day?” We shall!
The grounds open at 6pm for picnics.
4.) Are concessions available on the grounds?
A limited number of yummy treats, gourmet picnic box suppers and beverages will be available for purchase. But when they’re gone, they’re gone! Bakeries and cafes are within a short stroll.
5.) OK, you’ve intrigued me. What’s the scoop on VIP seating*?
Oh, you’re gonna love this!
Why rush to get the best? “Some are born great!” (Twelfth Night).
So let us treat you as a King or a Queen! We have 4 count-‘em 4 levels of VIP seating – and each of them makes a special evening that much more memorable.
And best of all- proceeds go to supporting our terrific, outcome-based youth programs- and to keep our Festival free! (Yep- a portion of some purchases is even tax-deductible!)
Options include: (Rates given are basic rates; rates increase on certain special event nights)
· The “Rennaisance Row” VIP sections: a mere $5 gets you the front rows of your choice of our chairs or blanket sections- keeps you close and comfy! With some exceptions, this section is typically not reserved in advance, but you may purchase this upgrade at the gate without a reservation, as space permits. Not tax deductible.
· Premiere “Royal Court” VIP section: the grassy front “triangle” close to the stage – a very limited area super-close to the stage! Usually requires advance purchase/reservations.
Special Introductory rate: $15 per person, not tax deductible.
· VIP “Box Seat” Tent Pavillions: These tents are perched high on the hill-line overlooking the entire scene –for parties of 2-6 (8 if you really like each other – plus a few more can spill onto the adjacent lawn! But don’t worry- we never charge you beyond 8!)
Here, guests enjoy a stylish, luxurious cabana feeling – within their own personal, airy shelter from sun or wind. Perfect for that romantic date …or treat special friends to a private little picnic party! Very limited quantity – they’ll go fast! Usually requires advance purchase/reservations.
Special Introductory rate: $75 advance; $25 tax deductible. PURCHASE THROUGH MIDWESTIX.COM. Limited availability to purchase at the door may exist: Door-purchased Tent tickets are $ 100
· Purchasing a tent seat this year entitles you to purchase a tent the following year at last year’s prices!
· VIP Café Tables for 2 or 4: So close you are almost in on the action! “Cabaret” style seating at intimate café tables right along the stage; we provide you with chairs, table, table-cloth and when possible, even your own personal electric fan! Very limited quantity. Snap up a table while you can! Usually requires advance purchase/reservations.
Special Introductory Rate: $50 per person; two-person minimum; $40 tax deductible. PURCHASE THROUGH MIDWESTIX.COM. Limited availability to purchase at the door may exist: Door-purchased Cabaret Table tickets are $75 per person ($150 for 2.)
· Purchasing a café table this year entitles you to purchase a table the following year at last year’s prices!
*IMPORTANT NOTICE: At the discretion of management, VIP seating not claimed by 8pm may be donated to volunteers, other special festival friends – or lucky Groundlings!
6.) I love how you are growing this Festival! This is certainly a cultural amenity a Capital City should have. How do I find out more, volunteer, or become a member?
“Thou art as wise as thou are beautiful!” (Midsummer Night’s Dream) - and we love ya for it! At the very least, the wise will sign up for our free e-newsletter! (Do so on here on our web or at the Festival.)
It’s hard to think of a group more fun than the Bard Bunch. Our members and volunteers have a great time- they’re invited to all “the best” parties, and have many rewarding opportunities to help. Check out the membership and newsletter opportunities at the booth in the plaza, or fill out the basic information form on this website.
7.) “But for my own part, it was GREEK to me!” (Julius Caesar). I’m new to Shakespeare. Will I “get it?”
Think Iambic Pentameter should be a race at the Drake Relays? Have no fear- our expert Shakespearean Artists will “Get Thee to the Funnery!” (See – you are getting it already!) All over the world, Shakespeare is beloved for time-tested stories (and reeeaaally wacky in-jokes). So stick with us- we’ll make sure you fit right in!
Want an extra “Bill Boost”? Plop down A BUCK FOR BILL for a PLAY- BILL program that will walk you through the scenes- or better yet, attend our opening night Director’s Talk for the insider’s view.
After all- Shakespeare is hot! And so very cool!
8.) I love the special fun touches you bring to the Bard. But I’m also into Rennaisance! Like most Shakespeare Festivals, do you do “classic” or “traditional” Shakespeare - - or other classics, too?
You bet! The more the merrier, we always say! In upcoming seasons and in our incomparable winter indoor productions, watch for many more interpretations of the Bard and other classic Playwrights – from the exquisitely classical to Renaissance revels to the most scholarly pensive.
9.) How long do shows run? Do you have an intermission? And what about “the necessaries!”
We often shorten exceptionally long-running Shakespearean works- our shows run about 2 and a half hours. There is at least one intermission per show, sometimes two.
About our intermissions: although our shows are free, many want to contribute to keep them that way! Participate in “FREE (ahem) WILL” offerings taken during intermission. We thank thee!
And as for the “necessary”, we provide the finest portable “Thrones” (perhaps “potty” is the term you moderns use?) that our rental money can buy! So give more- and give often!
10.) What does “Repertory” mean?
Repertory is one of those theatre words that stage freaks argue about. But essentially, during seasons when we do “Repertory”, “Repertory” means that we are doing not just one, but TWO different shows, back to back, for your entertainment delight. “Can one desire too much of a good thing?” (As You Like It). We think not- and many come to the Festival on several nights, to see both shows- - because they don’t want to miss a thing!
When we present two shows, each show will be very different- and we term our approach to Repertory as offering “true repertory”- meaning that many of our Actors have mastered being cast in both of these two different shows virtually at once. This is a wonderful artistic challenge worthy only of the best theatre artists.
So during a Repertory season, come back for both shows- after all, its FREE- and you will marvel as our talented troupe of Actors takes on the rich reward of mastering two shows simultaneously!
11.) What arrangements are there for those who are physically challenged?
MOBILITY: The amphitheatre and plaza area contains no stairs, but the slope into the seating area is at a somewhat steep grade - -so caution is advised. The City of Des Moines maintains an elevator but due to flooding, it is currently inoperable. However, special areas for wheelchair and “top of the hill” seating are available.
HEARING: We use amplified sound. However, for a refundable deposit, we make hard-of-hearing assistance devices available courtesy of the City of Des Moines.
STROBE-LIGHT: Note that occasionally, we may use a strobe light during a performance.
12.) What about Smoking?
To ensure the enjoyment of all and in compliance with regulations, there is no smoking inside the Amphitheater or in the entry plaza. There may occasionally be smoke used as stage prop only.
13.) What about Rain or other weird weather?
Being Iowans, we go up in any hot temperature- but we do watch cold, wet weather and wind! The Bard wrote “The Tempest”, after all. So we do our best not to let it rain on the parade!
We handle weather with a systematic approach. First, if there is merely a chance of rain, do bring umbrellas-because we will likely proceed with the show. We usually have a good idea where any pesky storm cells are and will keep audiences advised. Our shows will continue during a very light rain, or for as long as possible prior to any closure. If radar shows the wet will pass, we may take an unscheduled break until things clear. There are plenty of very nearby cafes and other places for the audience to keep dry while we pause – tho your umbrellas will come in handy! And the amphitheater drains nicely- we DO open even after a heavy rainy day. Although that would be a great time to bring a waterproof blanket liner or a lawnchair.
Second, if we are certain a show will not be able to go up due to weather, or in very doubtful situations, a message will be available at 515 274 8989. Also check this website for updates.
Third, especially if it has been a particularly rainy stretch, we are likely to offer an indoor free show on the same nights as we’d planned for the outdoor festival. Our indoor locations are set up to be virtually as fun and festive as is our outdoor location! The atmosphere will still be pretty great- it can be romantic to cozy up inside during a raging thunderstorm! In fact, you are likely to still be able to bring picnics to the indoor show- think of it as an indoor picnic or “dinner theatre”.
To find out about whether (and where) we are offering an indoor show on the same nights as we had planned for an outdoor show, check this website’s “Weather” page - - and especially the phone message line. The messages will also tell you if you need to bring lawn chairs to the indoor location.
Finally, in addition to our indoor show rain locations, we also have certain limited capacities for Raindates - -on which we will hold an additional show or two in the Amphitheater itself. Most of these shows take place on weekdays between our weekend dates. More information will again be on this website but also check 515 274 8989.
Special Note: Because our riverside location cools nicely, we do go up no matter the heat index. But for the same reason, during a particularly cold night (especially if its damp), we may opt for an alternative indoor location —even if it is not outright raining. A sign will be posted at the Amphitheater, but as always, check this website and our message line at 515 274 8989.
14.) What about children?
We love children- and children love our shows! Naturally, during a show is not the time for children to run around or play in any way distracting to others. However, any child able to sit and marvel at the wonder of live theatre is extremely welcome, although parents should be advised that some of our shows have certain (very limited) amounts of adult content. That Bard was a sexy –and sometimes bloodthirsty- guy!
Also, feel free to have your child meet some of the Actors after the shows! And be sure to check out the FREE youth learning opportunities we often offer through community organizations such as area libraries. Check this year’s detailed Festival schedule for more information.
One special note about children at the Festival: sound carries in the amphitheater. So out of courtesy to the Actors and audience, we do request that parents quickly escort restless or talkative children to the top of the Amphitheater, well into the plaza area.
We also request that for safety reasons, children stay close with their parents while on the grounds. Remember: there is electrical equipment and wiring on the premises!
15.) How do I find the Amphitheater?
The beautiful, European-style Simon Estes Amphitheater is located in the heart of downtown Des Moines (Iowa) on the East side of the Riverwalk - a short stroll takes you to the cafes, shops and after-show entertainment of the East Village or the Court Avenue District. Nearby hotels are plentiful.
The amphitheater features a sensational view of the river and the twinkling skyline!
Find the Amphitheater on East First Street between the Locust and Walnut street Bridges, directly across from the Embassy Suites Hotel and just south of City Hall.
Several I-235 exit options will take you there.
16.) Where can I park?
Ample FREE parking is extremely convenient to the Amphitheater.
After 5:30 pm, you are welcome to use the “cattycorner” city lot just north-east of the Amphitheater, directly across from City Hall.
Or feel free to use an UNHOODED meter space – check the hours, but in the evening meters near the Amphitheater most likely are free.
QUESTIONS ABOUT THE IOWA SHAKESPEARE EXPERIENCE:
17.) Tell me more about The Iowa Shakespeare Experience and Shakesperience™ Festival!
The Iowa Shakespeare Experience (ISE) is a registered Non-profit Corporation in the State of Iowa. All contributions are fully tax deductible through our partnership with our Fiscal Agent, the enormously well-respected Metro Arts Alliance of Des Moines, Iowa, a 501 (c) 3 Corporation.
Our signature event is the annual summer “Shakeperience™ Festival” – but the ISE is much more than just a summer festival producer. Watch as we grow this website for much more information on our winter classic playwright entertainment series, our “Found Space” theatre series (we are experts in this special art form that creates some of the most memorable theatre imaginable) and our truly extraordinary youth and multi-cultural programs.
See the “About ISE” tab on this website for more information
18.) Your “Mid-Summer Day Dreams”™ youth programs are impressive! What do you mean when you explain they are “outcome-oriented”?
Under our reorganization as the ISE, our popular “Mid-Summer Day Dreams”™ youth programs - featuring original curriculum we developed and field tested for years- are now able to be implemented using national best-practice “Logic Model” methods which ensure both optimal and measurable outcomes.
Our staff are nationally-published experts in creating optimal outcomes for youth using arts-based strategies. They are certified in multiple areas of education- from multi-cultural efforts to working with gifted and talented youth - - to working with the most vulnerable, high-risk youth populations. Our methodology allows us to measure our youth program outcomes using statistically measurable change markers in various risk characteristics, such as risk of school drop-out, drug/alcohol/gang involvement, teen suicide and teen pregnancy.
We have a full set of professional evaluation criteria for youth and artistic programming, and many other professional tools that we routinely use. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information, and watch for much more as we develop this website- and further develop much more enhanced versions of our programs.
See the “About our Educational programs” tabs on this website for more information
19.) The Iowa Shakespeare Experience “Shakeper’ese!” (Shakespeare in Spanish) and other “English as a Second Language Shakespeare and multi-cultural programs are amazing. Tell me more!
Yes, we are frequently asked about this very unique programming- programming that we are uniquely qualified to create! These types of programs garner us statewide, regional and even national notice among a select few artists around the country doing this type of work. Watch for further information on this website- but for now, suffice it to say that we don’t just offer “color-blind” casting or merely translate Shakespeare into other languages for ESL speakers. We do all that, of course- but we ALSO work with emerging or professional artists from the ESL community to involve them directly in the production of ESL-oriented shows- both on stage and back stage!
20.) Does the Iowa Shakespeare Experience do anything special for Seniors?
Of course! We are active instructors with several of the area’s “Senior Colleges” – to rave reviews! Check our Education pages, and don’t hesitate to contact us to learn more!