About Us
Fun in the Great Outdoors
Quality Facilities
Gray's Lake
Special Events
Cemeteries
Environmental Projects and Education
Community Gardening Coalition
Volunteer Opportunities
 
   
 

SYLVAN THEATER

Sylvan Theater was first opened in Greenwood Park in 1931 to a standing room only audience of approximately 1500 people. They came to watch a three -act musical called "Nights of Romance". Renovated with new bench style seating in 2004, it is one of about 15 "local historic landmarks" within the City of Des Moines. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Nestled in the shade of ancient towering oak trees, the outdoor amphitheater offers an oasis where one can reflect, view the beautiful surroundings, watch families and couples stroll, bike or play in the park. The recent repairs to the amphitheater encourage a revival of many of the activities that once occurred here: community theater, small group musical events, weddings, religious services, public meetings/discourse, etc. Provided also is a new handicapped parking area and walkway to the amphitheater.
  • The Sylvan Theater stage is 50' wide and 20' deep. There is 110v electricity at each end of the stage.
  • The Sylvan Theater is available for rental for groups up to 200 people. All rental requests are coordinated through the Des Moines Park and Recreation Administration office.
  • The renter shall be required to provide for the delivery and pick-up of portable restrooms and hand washing stations at a rate of one (1) unit per 100 persons.
  • All rentals shall comply with the City of Des Moines sound ordinance related to residential development areas with all amplified sound requests obtaining a sound permit from the City of Des Moines Permit and Development office.
  • Any event drawing over 100 persons shall be subject to staff review for parking considerations.

For reservations please call 515-237-1386, press 1 for reservations

Fees and Charges:

 
  1. Free Public Events--Any business, agency, or individual whose use is intended for the general public where no actual admission fee is charged at the site, but advanced fundraising has created the need for that use would be available Free of charge.
 
 
  1. Fee-Based--Any business, agency, or individual whose use is for a restricted or closed audience, i.e. employees, clients, or membership where the use will result in financial gain for the business, agency, or individual; OR, a "public use" where admission fees generate revenue for an individual, business, or agency, the rental fee would be $250 per day.
 
 
  1. Private weddings/parties--Any agency or individual whose use is for a restricted or closed audience, where no admission is charged, i.e., weddings, company picnics, etc., $300 for the first two hours and $150 per hour after

Parks and Recreation
602 Robert D. Ray Drive
Des Moines, Iowa 50309
Phone: (515) 237-1386

E-Mail: actionctr@dmgov.org
Web Site: www.dmgov.org

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contact Center Forms Center Mapping Center Service Center Transaction Center