Defend Stories on Screen in Des Moines
Late in the night on Friday, May 2nd, we and other arts orgs around the country were informed our National Endowment for the Arts funding had been terminated. Our mission was deemed to not reflect the “priorities of the president.”
If you believe Des Moines deserves a space where every voice can be heard and where powerful stories ignite conversation and community, please make a donation today. We’re seeking community support to raise the funds we had anticipated through our NEA grant.
Coming Soon
Enjoy prestige new releases, the best of art house & international, curated repertory series and classics, upscale genre and late-night movies, and kids and family series!
Upcoming Special Events
From Q&A’s to partnership events, don’t miss these one-night-only celebrations of cinema
Explore Film Series
See All SeriesCommunity Partnership
Screenings in partnership with local organizations and businesses.
Varsity Pride
Proudly programing LGBTQ+ stories 12 months a year.
Restoration Celebration
Classic films and hidden gems that are back on the big screen at The Varsity.
Filmmaker in Person
Q&As and discussions with filmmakers. Presented by Iowa Arts Council.
One Night Only
Join us for special one night only screenings.
Movie Bash
Classic, Nostalgic, Quotable, Memeable Movies.
Audience interaction, such as call and response, loud laughter, quoting iconic lines, etc., throughout the film is encouraged!
National Theatre Live
The best of British Theater exclusively at the Varsity Cinema, presented in collaboration with Des Moines Playhouse.
+ MORE
News & Blog
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