UTOPIA
a musical revue with book, original music & origina/parody lyrics by Robert John Ford
ABOUT THE SHOW
"Utopia - The Iowa Musical Revue" features a wide variety of original sketches and parody songs that celebrate - and poke a little fun at the unique people, places, and traditions of the great state of Iowa. To date, more than 60 songs and sketches have been presented in five unique versions of the show, and new songs and sketches are being constantly added, guaranteeing something new for audiences to see at each performance. "Utopia" is the perfect entertainment option for Iowans who like to laugh at themselves and visitors who want a little taste of the Hawkeye State.
UPCOMING PRODUCTIONS
A new version of "Utopia" will be presented in the spring of 2024. Additional information about this production will be announced on this website in January 2024 - be sure to check back at that time.
PREVIOUS PRODUCTIONS, PRESS & REVIEWS, AWARDS
2021 - Greatest Hits Version - RJFcreative, Des Moines, IA - full production as part of Summer House Party Tour (12 performances)
2018 - Version 5.0 - Epic Stage Productions, Des Moines, IA - full production (16 performances)
2018 - Tour Version - Epic Stage Productions, Webster City, IA - full production (3 performances)
2018 - Tour Version - Epic Stage Productions, Newton, IA - full production (2 performances)
2018 - Tour Version - Epic Stage Productions, Pocahontas, IA - full production (1 performance)
2018 - Tour Version - Epic Stage Productions, Fort Dodge, IA - full production (1 performance)
2015 - Version 4.0 - Epic Stage Productions, Des Moines, IA - full production (10 performances)
2011 - Version 3.0 - Right Brain Productions, Des Moines, IA - full production (11 performances)
2010 - Version 2.0 - Right Brain Productions, Des Moines, IA - full production (17 performances)
2009 - Version 1.0 - Entertainment2Go, Iowa Tour (6 Towns) - full production (7 performances)
PRESS & REVIEWS
2018 - dsm Magazine - feature story: click here
2016 - Des Moines Register - review: click here
2016 - CityView Magazine - review: click here
2011 - Des Moines Register - review: click here
2010 - Des Moines Register - review: click here
AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS
2018 - Special Cloris Leachman Award - Outstanding Ensemble Performance
2018 - Iowa Arts Council - Major Project Grant
GALLERY
For photos and videos, click here.