Scenic Shop

The large-scale, highly detailed sets that become the foundation of each production, blend traditional craftsmanship with modern fabrication techniques. As the engine behind our biggest visual ideas, the scenic shop team offers substantial hands-on opportunities in carpentry, welding, scenic painting, foam carving, and problem-solving for opera’s unique demands. It’s a collaborative, skill-building environment where staff and interns gain real-world training, work closely with designers, and take pride in seeing their work transform the stage. Working with our full-time, year-round carpenters and scenic artists, festival staff and interns get a unique opportunity to delve into the intense process that is creating opera scenery.

CURRENT OPEN POSITIONS

Scenic Art & Run Crew Intern
Scenic Carpentry Intern

Testimonials

Marshall Duggan

Head Scenic Carpenter (2025)
Associate Technical Director (2026)

“Due to extraneous circumstances, I had to arrive two weeks late into the 2025 season and felt quite behind when compared to my colleagues. Clayton Rodney, the Director of Production, quickly helped to ensure I had all the information I needed to succeed and lead my team appropriately. At Des Moines Metro Opera, my time was respected and breaks were emphasized. During the 2025 season, whenever problems arose that required collaborative and time-intensive solutions, my input was valued and my skills were recognized. Throughout my time working with DMMO, I felt included and respected and grew closer to my colleagues so that we became fast friends by the end of the season. I look forward to returning to DMMO to meet more great people, and contribute my skills to a wonderful company.”