Movers and Shakers
Pilobolus, the world’s most famous dance company named after a fungus, returns March 27 to the Des Moines Civic Center, where the dancers have wowed crowds with works inspired by love, ninjas and “SpongeBob SquarePants,” among others. This time, in the wake of its 50th anniversary, the company’s “Re: Creation” tour explores new territory with composer and radio producer Jad Abumrad (Radiolab, “Dolly Parton’s America”), storyteller Darlene Kascak from the Schaghticoke Tribal Nations and other luminaries in various fields. Photo: Grant Halverson. dmpa.org
Skin in the Game
At the fourth annual Middle of the Map Tattoo Convention, April 12-14 at the Iowa Events Center, some of the country’s most skilled tattoo artists will compete for best-in-show honors by inking original designs right on site. (There’s nothing like a deadline to get the old blood flowing.) The contest may be the event’s most dramatic attraction, but visitors of all ages can stop by to enjoy live music, painting demonstrations, vendor displays and more. Photo: Jose Pinto. middleofthemaptattoo.com
Revolutionary Voice
If there’s ever a “Hamilton” spinoff, let’s agree to call it “Angelica.” No doubt, the eldest Schuyler sister could have pulled off the revolution with more flair and less fuss if she’d only been allowed in the room where it happened. She was portrayed on Broadway by another dynamo, Renee Elise Goldsberry, who won a Tony for originating the role and will perform with the Des Moines Symphony on April 27 at the Des Moines Civic Center. Photo: Justin Bettman. dmsymphony.org
Run for the Roses
The “greatest two minutes in sports” marks its sesquicentennial on May 4 this year with the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby. If you can’t make it to Churchill Downs, fasten your fancy hat and head out to Prairie Meadows, where the annual derby to-do has become a tradition in its own right. Enjoy a mint julep, live music, contests for the best hats and seersucker suits, and, of course, a live broadcast of the main event in Louisville. prairiemeadows.com
