Episode 42

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Published on:

7th Mar 2025

The Weekend Pour: Iowa Stage Theatre Company's Next Act

On this special edition of Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast, The Weekend Pour, Maxwell sits down with three key leaders from Iowa Stage Theatre Company: Artistic Producers Davida Williams and Alex Wendel, along with Development Director Dove Haase. Together, they dive into the company's ongoing evolution, the triumphs and challenges of the past year, and the bold artistic vision driving their upcoming season.

The conversation opens with reflections on Iowa Stage’s recent growth, restructuring, and record-breaking season—both in ticket sales and philanthropic support. They discuss the company’s commitment to nurturing artists while maintaining a strong financial foundation, including their unique Resident Artist Company, which provides paid opportunities for local theater professionals.

Davida and Alex share insights into their collaborative leadership dynamic, explaining how mutual respect and creative synergy help them navigate the complexities of producing live theater. They also highlight the theater’s ISTC Launch initiative, which supports artists in developing their own original works.

Looking ahead, the team previews their much-anticipated 2025 Season Theatre Gala, a celebration of Iowa Stage’s rich theatrical history featuring an impressive lineup of Des Moines’ finest performers. They also provide a sneak peek at the new season, which explores themes of family, identity, and resilience through productions such as Grand Horizons, Torch Song, Shakespeare on the Lawn, and the edgy Buried Child by Sam Shepard.

The conversation also tackles a crucial issue for regional theater: accessibility. Iowa Stage is leading the way with community-sponsored ticketing and pay-what-you-can initiatives, ensuring that live theater remains within reach for a broader audience. They share touching stories of first-time theatergoers experiencing the magic of live performance, thanks to these efforts.

Finally, Maxwell and his guests discuss the challenges of audience engagement, marketing strategies to expand Des Moines’ theater-going population, and the importance of fostering the next generation of actors, designers, and stage managers. Aspiring company members and theater professionals will also find valuable insights into how they can get involved with Iowa Stage through auditions, design roles, and technical positions.

With humor, passion, and deep love for the art form, this episode of The Weekend Pour captures the energy of a theater company on the rise—committed to making bold artistic choices while staying deeply connected to its community.

Tune in and get inspired by the magic of Iowa Stage Theatre Company!

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About the Podcast

Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast
Maxwell's Fresh Brewed Conversations with Iowans
Ready to listen in to a great conversation over a delicious cup of coffee? Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast offers an engaging blend of candid interviews, commentary, and humor, providing listeners with fresh insight and perspective into the lives of fellow Iowans who have interesting stories to tell. Maxwell is a decades-long Iowa broadcaster and his easygoing and relatable hosting style, combined with the genuine and heartfelt nature of the conversations, creates a welcoming atmosphere for listeners and his guests. The podcast not only entertains but also provides valuable insights and reflections on personal and professional growth and the importance of staying true to one's values. And there is always a special focus on Iowan's who contribute to arts and culture in their communities. Listeners can expect the Iowa CoffeeCast to continue exploring diverse topics, featuring a range of guests who bring their unique perspectives and experiences. Whether discussing industry trends, personal stories, or broader societal issues, the podcast aims to foster meaningful dialogue and connect with its audience on a deeper level. Maxwell's commitment to authenticity and community shines through, making it a must-listen for those seeking thoughtful and engaging content.

About your host

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Maxwell Schaeffer

Maxwell Schaeffer is a 40+ year broadcast veteran and Iowa media influencer. Over his decades on the radio he has interviewed world famous entertainers, successful business leaders, Governors, Presidents and influential political figures. Above all - he prefers to interview Iowa friends and neighbors who have compelling personal stories of accomplishments, struggles and triumphs of the human spirit. In addition to being an inductee into the Iowa Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame (for his radio work) he is also an award winning theatrical director, actor, voiceover artist and producer.