Mixology: Science of Happiness
February 12, 2026 - February 12, 2027 - 12:00 am at Science Center of Iowa
401 W MLK Jr Parkway
Science of Happiness – February 12th
21+ Science of Happiness event (paired with our Mind Matters traveling exhibit)
Discover what truly makes us feel good at the Science Center of Iowa’s 21+ Science of Happiness night! In partnership with our Mind Matters traveling exhibit, this uplifting evening explores the psychology and neuroscience behind joy, connection, gratitude, and well-being in a fun, interactive setting designed just for adults.
During this evening you’ll answer the questions: What ingredients do we need to be happy? What is happiness anyway? We will have a fun, interactive look at the science of happiness as part of the Mind Matters exhibit. We’ll shake up common myths about happiness, stir in interesting research, and explore simple ingredients that can contribute to our happiness, life satisfaction and flourishing. Join us to discover the main ingredients of happiness and mix your own recipe.
Bengü Ergüner-Tekinalp, PhD, is a Distinguished Professor of Counseling at Drake University whose work explores happiness, positive psychology, and culturally grounded approaches to wellbeing. She has taught and written about happiness across cultures and enjoys turning research into practical ideas people can use in everyday life.
AUDITIONS: Junie B Jones in Boo… and I Mean It!
August 31, 2026 - 6:00 pm at Des Moines Playhouse
831 42nd Street
Cast: 6 Youth Roles | 5 Adult Roles
Synopsis:
Junie B. Jones is terrified of Halloween due to scary secrets told by a classmate. To combat her fear, she plans to create the scariest costume ever to “out scare” the monsters. She decides on a clown, but ultimately her efforts lead to a humorous, unexpected scare for her father.
- Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled audition time to check in.
- Upon arrival, you’ll sign in, receive a name tag, and have your photo taken. You’ll be introduced to the production team present at the start of the audition.
- Please prepare the sides provided for any character or characters you are interested in reading for (CLICK HERE FOR SIDES)
- Walk-in auditions are welcome. Please arrive at 5:45 PM to sign up in person. Depending on availability, you may be asked to come back for a 7 pm or 8 pm spot.
- If you are needed for callbacks, you will be notified by 12:00 PM on Tuesday SEPT. 1.
- All who audition will receive an email regarding final casting, whether cast or not. The cast list will also be posted online.
Important Dates:
Audition Date: Monday August 31 , 2026
Callback Date: September 1 , 2026
First Rehearsal: September 7, 2026
Performance Dates: October 16 – November 1, 2026
.38 Special-50 Year Legacy Tour
September 5, 2026 - 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm at Vibrant Music Hall
2938 Grand Prairie Pkwy
Doors: 6:30 Show Time 7:30
Tickets on sale 6/12. Get them HERE!
Open Books: Inside Youth Mental Health Services
September 9, 2026 - 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm at Community Support Advocates
1516 Valley West Dr.
Open Books is a quarterly community conversation series designed to make mental health support more transparent, understandable, and human. Through real stories and candid discussion, we explore how support actually works—what helps people stay engaged in care, where systems fall short, and how community-based approaches like peer support, youth services, and creative programming make a meaningful difference. These sessions are open to families, community advocates & leaders, and anyone who wants a clearer picture of how the mental health support system works in practice. All sessions will be held at Community Support Advocates headquarters, unless otherwise noted. Dates and topics are as follows:
- Inside Youth Mental Health Services
- Wednesday, September 9, 2026
- The Role of Art in Mental Health
- Thursday, December 10, 2026 (@ Mainframe Studios)
- Mental Health and the Justice System
- Wednesday, March 3, 2027
Blues Traveler & Gin Blossoms
September 10, 2026 - 7:30 pm - 11:00 pm at Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park
2251 George Flagg Pkwy
With special guest, the Spin Doctors.
Come From Away
September 11, 2026 - October 4, 2026 - 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm at Des Moines Community Playhouse
831 42nd Street
A small town on the eastern Canadian shore suddenly became an international refuge when 38 planes carrying 7,000 passengers were diverted on September 11, 2001. Unfazed, the people of Gander, Newfoundland, provided not only the essential comforts of food and shelter but a profound sense of joy and shared humanity that turned thousands of strangers into a lifelong family.
Performance times are 7:30 PM Wednesdays through Saturdays & 2:00 PM Sundays.
Come From Away
September 11, 2026 - 7:30 pm - 11:00 pm at Des Moines Community Playhouse
831 42nd Street
Come From Away is based on the true story of the time when the isolated community of Gander, Newfoundland, played host to the world. What started as an average day in a small town turned into an international sleepover, when 38 planes, carrying thousands of people from around the globe, were diverted to Gander’s airstrip on September 11, 2001. Undaunted by culture clashes and language barriers, the people of Gander cheered the stranded travelers with music, an open bar and the recognition that we’re all part of a global family.
Come From Away
September 11, 2026 - 7:30 pm - 11:00 pm at Des Moines Community Playhouse
831 42nd Street
Come From Away is based on the true story of the time when the isolated community of Gander, Newfoundland, played host to the world. What started as an average day in a small town turned into an international sleepover, when 38 planes, carrying thousands of people from around the globe, were diverted to Gander’s airstrip on September 11, 2001. Undaunted by culture clashes and language barriers, the people of Gander cheered the stranded travelers with music, an open bar and the recognition that we’re all part of a global family.
Jefferson Starship: Runaway Again Tour
September 11, 2026 - 7:30 pm - 11:30 pm at Hoyt Sherman Place
1501 Woodland Ave.
Come From Away
September 12, 2026 - 7:30 pm - 11:00 pm at Des Moines Community Playhouse
831 42nd Street
Come From Away is based on the true story of the time when the isolated community of Gander, Newfoundland, played host to the world. What started as an average day in a small town turned into an international sleepover, when 38 planes, carrying thousands of people from around the globe, were diverted to Gander’s airstrip on September 11, 2001. Undaunted by culture clashes and language barriers, the people of Gander cheered the stranded travelers with music, an open bar and the recognition that we’re all part of a global family.
