The Des Moines Metro Opera is preparing to begin their 2022 shows, beginning with The Magic Flute in March. This year’s performances bring with it the company’s 50th Anniversary Season alongside the launch of the public phase of a $15 million fundraising campaign, 50 Next: Giving Voice to the Future. Performances this opera season include The Magic Flute, A Thousand Acres, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Porgy and Bess, and American Apollo. Porgy and Bess will honor Iowa native and international opera star, Simon Estes.

The launch of the public phase comes as DMMO has reached 85% of the $15 million goal. To date, $12.7 million in cash and estate gifts has been raised. With the launch of the public phase of this campaign, DMMO aims to exceed its goal of $15 million by the opening night of its 2022 Summer Festival Season next July, marking its 50th anniversary. The Magic Flute starts Saturday, March 5th.