INNOVATIVE LEADERSHIP AND BOLD VISION DRIVE INGERSOLL THEATER REVIVAL

Set to reopen for the 2025 Holiday Season, the historic venue blends diverse programming with premier dining in the heart of Des Moines.

The historic Ingersoll Theater is making significant strides toward its highly anticipated reopening. Renee Crowell has been named Executive Director, while Max Wellman and Napoleon Douglas will oversee the venue’s programming, ensuring a vibrant and engaging lineup of events.Owned by Steve Peters (VenuWorks founder) and Connor Delaney (Delaney Enterprises founder), the theater is on track to reopen for the 2025 Holiday Season, offering a unique blend of dynamic performances and elevated dining in the Des Moines Avenues District, the city’s premier entertainment hub.

Renee Crowell, an experienced arts administrator, will oversee the theater’s transformation with a focus on community engagement and operational excellence. Crowell’s leadership will guide the theater toward a successful reopening while ensuring it serves as a vibrant cultural landmark for Des Moines residents. “This project is about more than just restoring a building,” said Crowell. “It’s about bringing together our community to celebrate the arts, share unforgettable experiences, and honor the stories that make Des Moines such a special place. It’s a privilege to help lead this incredible endeavor.”

Programming Directors Max Wellman and Napoleon Douglas are curating a compelling lineup of performances for the theater’s first season. The programming will feature holiday revues, tribute bands, musical theater, comedy shows, and events showcasing the new Ingersoll House Band. The duo is also developing and producing original shows specifically designed to highlight the theater’s historic charm while offering innovative and contemporary entertainment. “Our goal is to craft a season that resonates with everyone and pays homage to the venue’s rich history while breaking new ground,” said Wellman.

Located in the heart of the Des Moines Avenues District, the historic 225-seat theater is undergoing a comprehensive renovation, supported by a $728,818 state historic tax credit. Once complete, the venue will combine world-class performances with exceptional food and beverage experiences. Guests can look forward to gourmet menus and innovative cocktails created by expert mixologists, offering a dining experience that complements the theater’s top-tier entertainment.

The restored Ingersoll Theater aims to become a premier destination for arts, community, and dining, setting a new benchmark for live entertainment in Des Moines. Des Moines residents can sign up for updates on programming, dining options, and the renovation project, by visiting http://www.theingersoll.com/.

The revitalization of the historic Ingersoll Theater is led by VenuWorks, a national leader in venue management, and Delaney Enterprises, known for revitalizing historic spaces into community landmarks. Supporting partners include DEV Partners, Estes Construction, and Sequel Architecture + Interiors, all contributing to the preservation of the venue’s legacy and the creation of a vibrant future for the Des Moines community.