• Events
  • TOMÁS AND THE LIBRARY LADY

TOMÁS AND THE LIBRARY LADY

February 5 - 9, 2024 Temple Theater

Event Details

Venue Temple Theater
Please note: all children who enter the theater for this production must have a ticket and be at least three years old.

Grades K-5 

Tomás loves stories. As the young son of migrant farm workers, he spends the summer with his family, following the crops north from Texas to Iowa, passing long days in the fields and listening to his grandfather tell stories. Before long, Tomás knows all of Papa Grande’s tales by heart.... 

When a chance encounter brings him to the local Carnegie Library, he meets the “Library Lady” who recognizes his thirst for knowledge and encourages him to read. His delight in books is equaled by his pride in teaching Spanish to the Library Lady, trading knowledge and respect between generations and cultures.  By the end of the summer, Tomás has gained pride in becoming his family’s new storyteller, the guidance of a colorful mentor, and a lifelong love of reading. 

This bilingual musical is based on the beloved book about the true story of the Mexican-American author and educator Tomás Rivera, who became the first minority Chancellor in the University of California system. This inspirational production shows how reading and education — and believing in one’s self — can make anything possible. 

Show Date Time   Availability
Monday, February 5, 2024 10:00 AM    WAIT LIST
Monday, February 5, 2024 12:00 PM    
Tuesday, February 6, 2024 10:00 AM    
Tuesday, February 6, 2024 12:00 PM    
Wednesday, February 7, 2024 10:00 AM    
Wednesday, February 7, 2024 12:00 PM    
Thursday, February 8, 2024 10:00 AM   WAIT LIST
Thursday, February 8, 2024 12:00 PM    
Friday, February 9, 2024 10:00 AM    
Friday, February 9, 2024 12:00 PM   WAIT LIST

We Recommend

THE PEKING ACROBATS

February 15 - 16, 2024 Learn More

THE PA’AKAI WE BRING

March 25 - 29, 2024 Get Tickets

WHAT DO YOU DO WITH AN IDEA

April 18 - 19, 2024 Get Tickets
Curriculum Connections

Literacy, Social Studies, Music, Theater

Teacher Resources

Teachers will be granted access to supplemental materials to help students prepare for and to reflect on their experience at the theater. Materials are generally available four-six weeks before the performance. 

Reservation, Payment and Cancellation Policies

Before placing your order, be sure to read our reservation guidelines and payment and cancellation policies.

Reservation Guidelines

Applause Payment and Cancellation Policies

Questions

Contact education@dmpa.org or 515-246-2355 with questions about content or the reservation process.

Event Details

Venue Temple Theater
Please note: all children who enter the theater for this production must have a ticket and be at least three years old.
You Make The Difference

"The fact that our son was working with Broadway professionals and getting vocal and acting lessons from people who actually acted on Broadway was stunning."

- Jennifer, Altoona parent

Learn More
Des Moines Performing Arts Partnerships: