Meet the Residents
John Bush
"Is ‘Triple Espresso’ back in town?" That’s what comedian John Bush is often asked when he’s recognized out and about in downtown Des Moines these days. Bush, who played naively optimistic Bobby Bean in "Triple Espresso" during most of its 16 month run at The Temple for Performing Arts in Des Moines, decided to make downtown Des Moines his home.
The engaging comedian spent his early years in Hawaii before his family moved to Minnesota when he was 12. He most recently lived in New York City while establishing himself in the world of comedy. The "Triple Espresso" production brought him to Des Moines temporarily. "When the show ended, I asked myself ‘where do I go now?’ I found myself loving Des Moines. It’s a great hub when you constantly have to travel to different parts of the country for your job. It’s just a great place to come home to."
John cites convenience and the expanding entertainment options as a major reason for choosing a downtown loft. "I can walk or ride my bike to most anywhere I need to go", remarked Bush. "I can take a run out to Gray’s Lake and I might even see a bald eagle. Where else can you get that so close to a downtown area?" Bush calls Grey’s Lake one of the true gems of Des Moines.
"I can’t say enough about Racoon River Brewery. They always treat me well there," replied John when asked about his favorite hang-outs. "I love that I can go there alone and always run into people I know." He also lists The Grand Piano Bistro, The Royal Mile and Kung Fu Tap & Taco as places he enjoys.
Other frequent haunts for Bush include Gym FX ("incredibly well run"), the Gateway Market ("awesome") and the Des Moines Public Library where his interest in history recently led him to research a speech Charles Lindbergh gave at an America First rally in 1941 at the old Des Moines Coliseum, now the site of the Downtown YMCA.
Another thing he likes about downtown is how friendly the ‘cool, young people’ are. "I’m amazed at how many people will start a conversation with you", commented the affable Bush. "It’s just not like that in New York or even Minneapolis."
John bills his stand-up act as "Big comedy from an odd little man" and has appeared in "A Thomas Crown Affair", "Law and Order" and "Spin City". He has also performed on "Late Night with Conan O’Brien" and opened for Howie Mandel. He is currently doing stand-up comedy and is available for private and corporate bookings.
