Des Moines Symphony offering free tickets to furloughed federal employees

The Des Moines Symphony has announced that furloughed federal employees are eligible for two complimentary tickets to attend a Des Moines Symphony Masterworks concert of their choice. All Masterworks series concerts through May 2019 are included in the offer (subject to availability).

The ongoing government shutdown began on Saturday, Dec. 22, and has effected more than 800,000 employees.

Furloughed government employees are eligible for performances of Masterworks 4: Nelson Conducts Bernstein, Feb. 16-17; Masterworks 5: Ellis Island/The New World, March 16-17; Masterworks 6: Simon Sings Porgy & Bess, April 27-28; and Masterworks 7: Season Finale – West Side Story, May 18-19. Complimentary tickets must be reserved before Friday, March 1, and are available in person only at the Des Moines Civic Center Ticket Office (221 Walnut St., Des Moines; open 9 a.m to – 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and two hours prior to performances). Tickets cannot be reserved by phone or online. A government-issued ID is required when reserving tickets.

“Great music has the power to inspire, reduce stress and ease burdens,” said Maestro Joseph Giunta, Music Director & Conductor of the Des Moines Symphony. “The Des Moines Symphony believes everyone should have the opportunity to experience this art form, and we invite federal employees to join us as our guests for an upcoming Masterworks concert.”