Jobs/Auditions

House and Box Office Staff

Des Moines Metro Opera currently has three positions open on the House Staff and three positions open on the Box Office Staff. These are full-time positions from May 19-July 18. More...

James M. Collier Apprentice Artist Program

Des Moines Metro Opera's Apprentice Artist Program is a comprehensive career training program that bridges the gap between academic studies and a professional career in opera for some of the brightest and best talents in America. Since the program began in 1975, over 1000 singers have benefited from this professional training experience. More...

Principal Artists

Principal artists are auditioned in several cities across the country between August and October each year. Those contracted will be in residence from late May through mid-July of the following year rehearsing and performing the three mainstage opera productions. Principal artists receive a performance fee, shared apartment housing, and travel to and from Indianola. Artists are engaged for one or two roles. Principal artists for the Des Moines Metro Opera are generally engaged through management. Principal Artist auditions are held in conjunction with Apprentice Artist and OPERA Iowa auditions each year in various cities. More...

Orchestra

Musicians come from all over the United States and Canada to play in the Des Moines Metro Opera Orchestra. Most perform during the year with professional orchestras that do not have a summer season. Many return year after year and are promoted through our tenure system. Informal chamber music concerts are voluntary and offer our orchestra players musical variety and the opportunity to get better acquainted with our colleagues. More...

Tech Crew

Des Moines Metro Opera hires approximately 60 theater technicians to work the carpentry, electrics, properties, flys, wardrobe and wigs & make-up crews each summer. It’s a great opportunity to use your theatrical skills to gain experience working in a professional environment. Crew members are in residence at the Summer Fesival site from late May though mid-July. Housing and stipend are provided. More...

Music/Directing Staff

Des Moines Metro Opera annually engages a staff of twelve to fourteen including musical coaches, assistant conductors, stage directors and a chorus master. Contracted individuals are in residence with the company from late May through the last day of the summer festival in mid-July. In addition to their mainstage responsibilities, members of the staff work very closely with the 40-42 members of the James Collier Apprentice Artist Program, preparing important scene assignments, leading seminars and working individually with young singers. Members of DMMO's music and directing staff generally possess a wide range of experience in both professional and academic arenas. More...