BAT Theatre suffers over $1,000 in damages after sudden, intense windstorm hits outdoor performance in Des Moines Sunday

A sudden, intense wind squall swept through BAT Theatre’s outdoor staging of Fallen Angels at Des Moines Beach Park on Sunday afternoon, Aug. 18, 2024, causing significant damage to equipment and minor injuries to crew members and actors.

The windstorm, which hit around 4:26 p.m. with reported gusts around 50MPH, damaged four tents beyond repair, broke props, caused minor injuries and forced the theater company to cancel future park performances until replacements are made.

The intense gusts, lasting several minutes, bent and twisted the tent poles, knocked over prop tables and damaged items essential for the production (see video below).

BAT Theatre estimates replacement costs for the tents and props will be over $1,000.

“This was a once-in-a-lifetime event,” BAT Artistic Director Eric Dickman told The B-Town Blog. “Everyone in the BAT family acted exceptionally well. They all pitched in. Des Moines Parks staff were wonderful, jumping in to help during the event and providing support as BAT cleaned up. Audience members did the same. The quick actions by all helped to minimize harm.”

No major injuries were reported, but an actor was struck by a flying tent, sustaining cuts and a mild concussion. He received stitches in his ear and is recovering. Additionally, the stage manager suffered a mild concussion but did not require hospitalization.

“With approximately 30 minutes remaining before the start of the performance, weather was calm,” actor Rex Waters said. “Amit (another actor) and I were inside the stage right canopy when suddenly wind gusts hit the canopy walls. We each grabbed a supporting leg of the canopy to prevent the tent from shifting. The gusts strengthened, and the canopy began shifting as we struggled to keep it steady. The gusts grew stronger still, and the canopy began moving even as we held on to it, dragging us along with it – me supine on my belly with arms outstretched, holding on to a support, and Amit doing the same while on his knees.”

Organizers had monitored weather apps, but none predicted such fierce winds.

“Due to the topography of Des Moines Beach Park, the wind funneled directly where we were, creating what felt like a perfect storm,” Dickman said. “BAT is thankful that the injuries all appear to be minor. Property is replaceable; actors and crew are not.”

Despite the damage, BAT Theatre expressed gratitude for the quick response from its team, audience members, and Des Moines Parks staff, who helped manage the situation and minimize harm.

One of the Red Hat Ladies in attendance said:

“That was exciting. We’ll all definitely be coming back next year, and we’ll be at your Holiday show at Kennedy Catholic, too!”

Below is video provided by BAT Theatre of this rare event:

BAT Seeking Donations

BAT Theatre is seeking donations to replace the damaged equipment – if you can help, please scan the QR code or click below:

Donate to BAT Theatre Here