The Guilds

Des Moines Metro Opera is unique in many ways among local arts entities and regional opera companies. The company is particularly proud of its guild chapters that encompass a nearly 150-mile radius from our home offices. DMMO would not be able to generate the reach and scope of its activities without the tireless work from its four guild chapters in Ames, Des Moines, Indianola and Newton. Together, they make up a corps of volunteers that assist the DMMO office in many ways.

GUILD COUNCIL PRESIDENT
Julia Hagen

2023 VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
John Hill and Fay Gish Hill


Ames Chapter

The Ames Chapter of the Des Moines Metro Opera Guild became a reality in March 1989. It is with joy and pride that this opera calendar year, the Ames Chapter celebrates its 35th anniversary! Over 61 members are active within the Ames Chapter.

Join the Ames Chapter

To join the Ames Chapter, please contact Membership Chair Jane Farrell-Beck at (515) 292-8302 or jfarrell@iastate.edu.

Upcoming Events

Ames Guild: ISU Opera Studio

Tuesday October 10, 2023 6:30 PM

Ames Guild: "Donizetti: Titan of Bel Canto Opera"

Tuesday November 14, 2023 6:30 PM

Ames Guild: Salome Preview

Tuesday December 12, 2023 6:30 PM

Ames Guild: Social Justice & Opera

Tuesday January 9, 2024 6:30 PM

Des Moines Chapter

The Des Moines Chapter of the Des Moines Metro Opera Guild is the largest of the four chapter, with over 150 active members! This chapter maintains an active schedule of events throughout the year that educate and enrich the lives of its members. See the calendar below for exciting upcoming events!

Join the Des Moines Chapter

To join the Des Moines Chapter, contact membership chair Dennis Hendrickson at dennis.p.hendrickson@gmail.com.

Upcoming Events

DSM Guild: Trivia Night

Tuesday October 24, 2023 6:30 PM

Des Moines Guild: Holiday Party

Thursday December 14, 2023 6:00 PM

Indianola Chapter

The Indianola Chapter of the Des Moines Metro Opera Guild is the oldest chapter, having been established during the opera's second season in 1974. This chapter maintains an active schedule of events and serves as a crucial volunteer and organizing base for DMMO. 

Join the Indianola Chapter

To join the Indianola Chapter, please contact Guild representative Chari Kruse at 515-979-1879 or charikruse@gmail.com

Upcoming Events

Indianola Guild: The Barber of Seville Preview

Tuesday October 17, 2023 6:30 PM

Champagne Brunch & Bingo Benefit

Saturday November 4, 2023 9:30 AM

Indianola Guild: American Apollo Preview

Tuesday January 16, 2024 6:30 PM

Indianola Guild: OPERA Iowa Welcome Potluck

Sunday February 4, 2024 6:00 PM

Newton Chapter

Upcoming Events

Stay tuned for the unveiling of the complete Newton Chapter event lineup!

Past Events

October 2 at 4pm: Guild Kick-Off Event at the home of Jane Ann Cotton (1327 S 4th Ave W, Newton)
December 4 at 4pm: Guild Holiday Party at the home of Steve Farver and Eric Lindberg
March 26 at 3pm: OPERA Iowa Spotlight Concert
April 2 at 4pm: Carmen Preview by DMMO's Scott Arens
April 30 at 4pm: Preview of Bluebeard's Castle and The Love for Three Oranges

Join the Newton Chapter

To join the Newton Chapter of the DMMO Guild, contact Newton Chapter President Joan Tyler at jtyler@iowatelecom.net or 641-840-2094.