Introduction


Dr. Robert Larsen founded Des Moines Metro Opera in 1973 with the late Douglas Duncan. The Company's budget has grown from $22,000 to nearly $2 million and is now one of the most respected performing arts organizations in the state. After 38 successful seasons, DMMO continues its unwavering commitment to the mission and philosophy of its founders: To operate a progressive opera company with a national reputation that fosters the excellence, diversity and vitality of the arts in the United States with the objectives of:

  • PRODUCING opera as a living art form through performance and composition,
  • OFFERING a stage for American-trained principal artists,
  • PROVIDING a high caliber Apprentice Artist experience that provides greater than average opportunities to perform and to participate, and
  • DEVELOPING regional audiences of all ages through educational outreach programs.