“My friends, this is not a normal election,” Vice President JD Vance said near the end of his speech at a campaign rally in Des Moines Tuesday. “This is not a normal political environment.” Vance then demonstrated a major reason why this is not a normal political environment. Republicans who follow the lead of Donald […]
Central Iowa
Posted inArts & Entertainment
Searching for ‘something more,’ Sara Routh left L.A. to return to Iowa. Now, making music is a family affair
Des Moines singer-songwriter Sara Routh lives her life with a passion, anchored by her love of music, family and making music with family. She also performs a rad acoustic cover of “Killing in the Name.” Routh shared her story with Little Village with a trademark candor also found in her songwriting and live shows. Talk […]
Posted inCommunity/News
Blood, sweat and jeers: Pro wrestlers with central Iowa’s 3XW open up about the thrill of the ring
Between tribute bands, themed raves and touring acts, Des Moines venue Wooly’s hosts events produced by 3XWrestling, an independent wrestling promotion company based in Central Iowa, active since 2005. I attended 3XW’s bout on Friday, March 6 for a crash course in kayfabe.
Posted inCommunity/News
Judge orders hearing for ICE detainee in Polk County Jail after immigration officials fail to comply with two previous orders for a hearing
For the third time, a judge in Iowa has ordered the federal government to provide a bond hearing for a truck driver detained 10 weeks ago by the Iowa State Patrol and immigration officials. U.S. District Judge Stephen H. Locher ruled this week that the government must provide a hearing at which truck driver Suraj […]
Posted inBook Reviews
Fully Booked at DMPL: Prose books authored by poets
I am a lifelong poetry lover. It began with my Shel Silverstein obsession as a child and carried through into my adulthood, as I discovered amazing poets like Lucille Clifton, Sharon Olds and Sandra Cisneros. I love poetry the same way I love short stories; it’s incredible the way a skilled writer can distill complex emotions […]
Posted inArts & Entertainment
A quick guide to excellent arts venues in central and eastern Iowa
Good venues can serve as essential third spaces for neighbors to come together and witness, celebrate and commiserate. They’re also easy to take for granted. Each time you buy a ticket and attend a performance, you’re helping to increase the viability of your favorite spaces and keep Iowa’s arts economy strong. These top-notch spots are […]
Posted inArts & Entertainment
Artist Frank Hansen makes work that’s messy, freaky, angry and silly — whatever he’s feeling that day
“Frank Hansen openings always flirt with lawlessness,” reads a description of the Des Moines artist’s work from 2009. “This year his show will feature a painting that needs to be driven like a car.” At that point, Hansen was well on his way to carving out a niche in the Des Moines art scene. Twenty-five […]
Posted inArts & Entertainment
Review: An envelope opened and the About Time Theater Company discovered its latest show alongside the audience
On the night of Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at approximately 7:30 p.m. CDT, myself and about 34 other people saw a production by About Time Theatre of White Rabbit Red Rabbit at the xBk Annex, as performed by Mary Bricker. It was, I imagine, a different show than what a largely different audience saw the […]
Posted inArts & Entertainment
Review: Complexions proves ballet is as compelling as ever with performances set to Hans Zimmer, U2, ‘Ave Maria’ and more
Complexions Contemporary Ballet graced the stage this past week for the stunning conclusion to Des Moines Performing Arts’ 2025-2026 Dance Series. The program was a celebration of artistry and skill, featuring dancers of varying heights, ethnicities and cultures as well as music of differing eras and genres.
Posted inCommunity/News
ICE accused of maliciously staging a ‘sham’ hearing for Iowa detainee denied bond
The attorney for an immigration detainee held in the Polk County Jail says federal officials maliciously staged a “sham” court hearing orchestrated to keep his client behind bars. The case involves Suraj Vasal, who four years ago came to the United States from India seeking asylum and was then released on his own recognizance. Court […]
Posted inCommunity/News
Linzi Murray and her West Des Moines bookstore/cafe are hitting their stride
Linzi Murray, owner of Reading in Public Bookstore and Cafe, lifted her pants leg, pointing to a tattoo on her left ankle. Although her dad, Keith, died of lung cancer 10 years ago, “he still jokes with me,” she said with a chuckle. They had a special bond, despite his drinking, her trauma as an […]
Posted inArts & Entertainment
Des Moines screenwriter Joshua Johnson on how a Hitchcock spoof he penned 10 years ago became Jason Biggs’ directorial debut
As a kid, it’s easy to see Iowa as lacking in spectacle. But I’d wager we Iowa kids have the best imaginations because of it. With fewer shiny distractions, creatives are able to devote themselves to a craft. Joshua Johnson, raised in West Des Moines, is one of those former kids. His childhood love for […]
