Since 1979, the Civic Center of Greater Des Moines has grown from a dream of a small group of local Des Moines business leaders, to the cornerstone of the downtown Des Moines redevelopment initiative. The Civic Center of Greater Des Moines serves as an outstanding community performing arts center, accessible to all, where people may be educated, entertained and enlightened. The Civic Center is home to the Betts Broadway Series and is the performing home of the Des Moines Symphony and Stage West. Since opening in 1979, the Civic Center has been host to major Broadway touring companies, performers and groups. It is nationally recognized as an excellent facility in which to perform.