The Desert Scene

Greg Hicks, Producer | Broadway Legends Unite For Sondheim Tribute

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0800

This episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. explores the artistry, challenge, and joy behind a special Broadway benefit celebrating the music of Stephen Sondheim. Producer Greg Hicks joins the conversation to discuss The Men of Broadway: Simply Sondheim, a fundraising concert for Revolution Stage Company featuring eight performers who have all appeared on Broadway. The discussion highlights why Sondheim’s music is both demanding and rewarding, the power of storytelling woven between songs, and the extraordinary creative team bringing the show to life. Listeners learn about guest star Terry Ralston’s historic connection to Sondheim, the vision of world-renowned director Paul Curran, and the lush musical direction of Christopher Marlowe. The episode also dives into Cabaret Riot, a popular performance competition nurturing new talent in the Coachella Valley, and Greg’s unique background studying happiness and joy through music and theater.

Takeaways:

Stephen Sondheim’s music challenges singers with speed, complexity, and emotion
Every performer in the show has appeared on Broadway
Personal stories deepen the audience’s connection to classic songs
Terry Ralston brings direct Sondheim legacy to the stage
Revolution Stage Company blends art with community support
Cabaret Riot gives performers a platform to launch solo shows
Audience participation plays a key role in live theater events
Music and storytelling are powerful tools for creating joy

#BonnieG #TheDesertScenePodcast #GregHicks #RevolutionStageCompany #TheMenOfBroadway #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValley #BroadwayBenefit #StephenSondheimMusic #BroadwayLegends #LiveTheater #MusicalTheatre #CabaretRiot #ArtsFundraiser #StagePerformance #TheaterCommunity #BroadwayStories #DesertArtsScene #BroadwayConcert #TheatreLife

Craig Wells, Director, Destroying David | Art, Humanity, and a Timeless Flaw

Sat, 07 Feb 2026 00:15:00 -0800

This episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. explores how art connects deeply to the human experience through an intimate conversation about Destroying David, a one-person play coming to Dezart Performs. Director Craig Wells joins Bonnie for a discussion that centers on Michelangelo’s iconic statue and a modern story that parallels physical imperfection, emotional vulnerability, and the enduring power of creativity. The play follows an art restorer in Florence whose personal life intertwines with her work caring for the famous sculpture, raising thoughtful questions about why art matters, how it shapes us, and whether it is meant to last forever or live on through memory. The episode also highlights the collaborative nature of theater, the challenges of solo performance, and the creative process behind directing and staging new work. Listeners gain insight into how storytelling, history, and personal reflection merge on stage to spark conversation, empathy, and connection through the arts.

Takeaways:

Art can mirror human imperfection and resilience
Destroying David connects physical flaws to emotional journeys
One-person theater can be deeply engaging and interactive
Art’s value lies in emotional impact, not perfection
Audience interpretation is central to the theatrical experience
Collaboration between playwright, director, and performer is vital
Theater invites reflection on memory and legacy
The Coachella Valley continues to foster bold, thoughtful productions

#BonnieG #TheDesertScenePodcast #CraigWells #DezartPerforms #DestroyingDavid #CoachellaValley #PalmSpringsCulturalCenter #MutualBroadcastingSystem #Theatre #Arts #Culture #Playwriting #SoloPerformance #VisualArt #HumanExperience #Storytelling #NewTheatre #WestCoastPremiere #PalmSprings #DesertArts

Estee Graham, Vocalist | Romantic Jazz Fundraiser Fuels Community Music

Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0800

This episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. dives into the heart of a Valentine-season jazz celebration that blends music, mission, and community spirit. The conversation spotlights an upcoming romantic jazz fundraiser featuring a beloved local jazz ensemble and guest vocal performances, all in support of arts education and scholarships with the Desert Winds Freedom Band. Listeners hear from guest artist Estee Graham how a once-small volunteer band grew into a 130-member musical family, expanding into jazz, symphonic, and ensemble programs while staying deeply connected to community outreach. The discussion explores what it takes to keep a nonprofit arts organization thriving—from logistics and fundraising to creative vision and mentorship. Along the way, the episode highlights the power of jazz and blues-infused vocals to move audiences, inspire authenticity, and unite people through shared experience. With details on the venue, brunch event, silent auction, and broader mission, this episode captures how live music can fuel both cultural enrichment and meaningful community impact in the Coachella Valley.

Takeaways:

A Valentine-themed jazz fundraiser supports year-round music programming
The Desert Winds Jazz Band has grown into a 130-member musical organization
Fundraising keeps scholarships and summer operations alive
Jazz and swing classics set a romantic, engaging atmosphere
Community outreach is central to the group’s mission
Artistic leadership thrives with strong logistical support
Music is used as a tool for connection and inspiration
Local venues and partners play a key role in cultural events

#BonnieG #TheDesertScenePodcast #EsteeGraham #IsntItRomantic #DesertWindsFreedomBand #AguaCalienteCascadeLounge #CoachellaValley #MutualBroadcastingSystem #JazzFundraiser #LiveJazz #ValentinesJazz #CommunityArts #NonprofitMusic #JazzVocals #PalmSpringsEvents #DesertArts #MusicScholarships #JazzBrunch #LocalMusic

Siobhan Velarde, Performer | A Journey Through Blues, Theater, and Creative Resilience

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 00:15:00 -0800

This episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. explores the career, creativity, and resilience of Siobhan Velarde, a performer whose roots in acting and music have shaped a vibrant presence in the Greater Palm Springs entertainment scene. From early open-mic opportunities that sparked a lasting local career to years of performing blues, rock, pop, and theatrical material across iconic desert venues, the conversation traces how artistry evolves through collaboration and risk-taking. The discussion also previews They Had It Coming, an upcoming stage production built around empowerment, survival, and growth rather than victimhood, blending contemporary music with emotional storytelling. Listeners gain insight into the realities of making a living as a working performer, balancing artistic ambition with practical choices, and the joy of building creative community. The episode concludes with a look ahead to future goals, including directing, writing, and debuting an original theatrical work in the desert—highlighting how reinvention and teamwork continue to fuel a dynamic artistic life.

Takeaways:

A local performance career can begin with one open-mic opportunity
Blues and blues-rock form a powerful emotional foundation
Acting skills deepen musical storytelling
Collaboration strengthens creative outcomes
Empowerment themes resonate strongly with audiences
New material keeps performances fresh and vulnerable
Balancing income with artistic goals is essential
Community building is central to lasting success

#BonnieG #TheDesertScenePodcast #SiobhanVelarde #CoachellaValley #PalmSpringsCulturalCenter #MutualBroadcastingSystem #PalmSprings #DesertEntertainment #LivePerformance #BluesMusic #LocalArtists #TheaterLife #CabaretShow #WomenInArts #CreativeCommunity #StagePerformance #IndependentArtists #ArtsPodcast #CulturalVoices #DesertArts #RevolutionStageCompany

Luke Yankee, Event Producer | Honoring a Legendary Actress Through Film Memories

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0800

Producer Luke Yankee joins the program to discuss a heartfelt film series honoring his legendary mother, an acclaimed actress Eileen Heckart with an extraordinary career across stage, film, and television. The series, presented at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, pairs classic feature films with curated clips and behind-the-scenes stories shared before each screening. Audiences will see rare television moments, award-night memories, and the making of iconic roles, including the Oscar-winning performance in Butterflies Are Free. The conversation also explores a new play, Marilyn, Mom and Me, which traces a deep friendship formed during the filming of Bus Stop and the personal journey of a son seeking truth before it is too late. The episode highlights creative process, family legacy, and the power of storytelling to heal. Listeners learn how the series was selected, what surprises emerged from the archives, and how talkbacks will add context and connection for audiences throughout the run.

Takeaways:

A new film series honors award-winning actress Eileen Heckart’s career.
Each screening includes rare clips and pre-show presentations.
Eight feature films will be shown on Friday nights.
A special guest will join one screening for discussion.
The series begins with an Oscar-winning film role.
A new play explores a friendship with Marilyn Monroe.
Writing the play was a deeply personal, healing process.
Live talkbacks will add behind-the-scenes insight.

#BonnieG #TheDesertScenePodcast #LukeYankee #CoachellaValley #PalmSpringsCulturalCenter #MutualBroadcastingSystem #MomAtTheMovies #FilmSeries #ClassicFilms #BehindTheScenes #Talkback #PalmSprings #DesertArts #BroadwayLegacy #HollywoodHistory #CulturalEvents #FilmRetrospective #TheaterLife #MovieNight #ArtsAndCulture #EileenHeckart

Eric Frankson, Well In The Desert | Community Benefit Concert Reimagined to Fight Hunger and Homelessness

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0800

This episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. shines a spotlight on a powerful community effort dedicated to fighting hunger and homelessness in the Coachella Valley as she speaks with Well In The Desert Board Member Eric Frankson. The conversation explores a newly reimagined annual benefit concert designed to raise funds and awareness for an organization that provides thousands of free meals each year. Listeners learn how the event blends live entertainment, celebrity impersonators, and a more intimate concert setting with a mission-driven purpose. Beyond the gala, the discussion highlights year-round outreach efforts, including a unique bicycle program that provides dependable transportation to unhoused individuals seeking medical care, employment, or essential services. The episode emphasizes dignity, respect, and practical solutions that change lives every day. From feeding over 81,000 meals annually to helping people rebuild stability, this conversation captures how community support, creativity, and compassion come together to create meaningful impact—while inviting listeners to be part of the solution.

Takeaways:

A longtime local fundraiser has been rebranded with a renewed mission focus
The benefit concert features top local performers and celebrity impersonators
Funds raised directly support free meals and outreach programs
Over 81,000 warm meals were served in the past year alone
The organization offers more than food, including clothing and medical referrals
A bicycle program provides transportation for jobs, parole, and medical needs
Nearly 300 donated bikes have been refurbished and distributed
Respect and dignity are central to every service offered

#BonnieG #TheDesertScenePodcast #EricFrankson #CoachellaValley #PalmSpringsCulturalCenter #MutualBroadcastingSystem #WellInTheDesert #CommunitySupport #EndHunger #HomelessOutreach #BenefitConcert #NonprofitLife #PalmSpringsEvents #GivingBack #LocalImpact #CharityGala #SocialGood #CommunityCare #DesertLife #SupportLocal

Michael Shaw, Dezart Performs | New Theater Space Transforms Historic Church into Arts Hub

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes Michael Shaw, Artistic Director of Dezart Performs, to discuss the exciting transformation of a 1957 historic church into the new Dezart Playhouse performance space in Palm Springs. Michael shares how the organization purchased the structure, carefully renovated it while preserving its architectural significance, and successfully opened with a three-night West Side Story in Concert gala featuring a full orchestra and choir. He walks through the challenges, milestones, and community support that fueled the project, as well as what’s still ahead in Phase Two — including a box office, full bar, studio upgrades, and accessible restrooms. Michael also previews Dezart Performs’ upcoming season with Eureka Day, Destroying David, and Love! Valor! Compassion!, plus future plans to host cabaret, opera, and more community arts programming. An uplifting conversation on creativity, collaboration, and the evolution of theater in the Coachella Valley.

Takeaways:

Dezart Performs purchased and renovated a 1957 church into a theater.
West Side Story in Concert launched the new venue with great success.
The building is historically significant and required sensitive preservation.
Phase Two upgrades include a bar, box office, and ADA-compliant restrooms.
New programming aims to expand into cabaret, opera, and community projects.
Upcoming plays include Eureka Day, Destroying David, and Love! Valor! Compassion!
The space also offers rehearsal rooms and community access.
Collaboration and support made the renovation journey smooth and timely.

#BonnieG #TheDesertScenePodcast #MichaelShaw #CoachellaValley #PalmSpringsCulturalCenter #MutualBroadcastingSystem #DezartPerforms #PalmSpringsTheatre #DesertArts #HistoricPreservation #WestSideStory #EurekaDay #DestroyingDavid #LoveValorCompassion #CommunityTheatre #PerformingArts #PalmSpringsEvents #NewTheaterSpace #ArtsInTheDesert #CreativePalmSprings

Joe Croyle, Jazz Artist | A Lifetime of Music, Mentors, and Memorable Stages

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G, listeners are treated to an engaging journey through the remarkable career of Joe Croyle, a veteran jazz vocalist and pianist whose life has been shaped by music, hard work, and unforgettable opportunities. Beginning in Pittsburgh, he reflects on early breakthroughs with nationally recognized musical groups, years performing on legendary stages, and collaborations with iconic entertainers. His stories include time with celebrated acts, surprising turns into dance, and work with Motown. He also shares how a move to the desert opened new musical connections and community, leading to steady performances and creative inspiration. With insights into his stylistic evolution, favorite repertoire, current shows, and personal philosophy for young performers, the conversation paints a vivid portrait of a seasoned artist who has embraced every chapter with passion and resilience. This warm, lively interview offers music lovers a behind-the-scenes look at a life devoted to performing.

Takeaways:

Early professional experience included global touring and television appearances.
Performed with major entertainers across Vegas and international venues.
Contributed background vocals for Motown artists thanks to his high, rich tone.
Spent decades performing with a historic five-part harmony group.
Relocated to the desert for quality of life and community connection.
Built a strong local presence through collaborations with top jazz musicians.
Honors Mel Tormé’s legacy with a tribute album defining his current style.
Believes aspiring musicians succeed by showing up, working hard, and learning from great players.

#BonnieG #TheDesertScenePodcast #DougGraham #CoachellaValley #PalmSpringsCulturalCenter #MutualBroadcastingSystem #JazzLife #LiveJazz #PalmSpringsMusic #JazzPianist #JazzSinger #MusicHistory #VegasEntertainment #ClassicJazz #SwingStandards #MusicianLife #DesertMusicScene #PianoBarStories #JazzCommunity #PerformanceLife

Gina Zollman, Vocalist | From Childhood Performer to Award-Nominated Songwriter’s Inspiring Journey

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G, listeners are treated to an inspiring and candid conversation with vocalist and songwriter Gina Zollman, whose artistic path has traveled from childhood performances to national recognition. Gina reflects on her early start in music, her love of humor and parody, and her challenging family dynamics that shaped — and at times complicated — her creative ambitions. She shares how an unexpected career in stockbroking eventually led her back to the stage, where comedy clubs and cabaret became the gateway to her true artistic voice. Gina also discusses her evolution into songwriting, the mentors who shaped her craft, and the remarkable trajectory that brought her Canadian radio success and a coveted nomination at the Josie Awards in Nashville. With honesty, resilience, and an unshakable passion for storytelling through music, Gina’s journey offers insight, laughter, and inspiration to anyone pursuing a creative life.

Takeaways:

Early performance talent emerged at age six
Humor, parody, and musical comedy shaped her artistic foundation
Family expectations initially limited creative pursuits
Corporate and stockbroking years delayed her performance career
Standup comedy led her naturally into cabaret performance
A filmed “second-act comeback” reignited her artistic momentum
Songwriting became a major focus, with over 80 pieces written
Recent achievements include Canadian radio airplay and Josie Awards nomination

#BonnieG #TheDesertScenePodcast #GinaZollman #CoachellaValley #PalmSpringsCulturalCenter #MutualBroadcastingSystem #SingerSongwriter #CreativeJourney #IndieArtist #MusicInterview #PalmSpringsArts #RadioShow #DesertCulture #WomenInMusic #MusicInspiration #BehindTheMusic #ArtsCommunity #PodcastEpisode #SongwritingLife #AnneMurray #JosieAwards

Doug Graham | Celebrating 1980s Movie Magic to Support Local Arts

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this inspiring episode, The Desert Scene spotlights a dynamic local effort to sustain the arts in Palm Springs. Entertainer and producer Doug Graham joins host Bonnie G. to discuss What a Feeling, the third annual fundraiser for the Palm Springs Cultural Center. This high-energy concert event celebrates the Oscar-winning songs of the 1980s, blending nostalgia, talent, and community spirit. Graham shares insights into the creative process of curating iconic hits from films like Dirty Dancing, Rocky III, and Back to the Future, while highlighting the importance of keeping the Cultural Center thriving as a hub for film, music, and live performance. Listeners will hear about the returning hosts, the talented cast, and how every dollar raised helps maintain this vital local arts institution. Tune in for a conversation filled with passion, creativity, and the joy of giving back through entertainment.

Takeaways:

What a Feeling is a benefit concert for the Palm Springs Cultural Center.
The show features Oscar-winning and nominated songs from 1980s movies.
It follows two highly successful past fundraising events, raising over $90,000.
Returning hosts Craig Ramsay and Catherine Wreford bring humor and heart.
The cast includes local favorites and new talents discovered at open mics.
Musical direction is by Alex Stanson, with a live combo band.
Proceeds will help fund operations and new seating at the Cultural Center.
The event celebrates creativity, community, and the power of performance to inspire.

#BonnieG #TheDesertScenePodcast #DougGraham #CoachellaValley #PalmSpringsCulturalCenter #MutualBroadcastingSystem #Fundraiser #LocalArts #PalmSpringsEvents #1980sMusic #OscarSongs #LivePerformance #BroadwayTalent #SupportTheArts #CulturalCommunity #EventSpotlight #CreativePalmSprings #EntertainmentNews #ArtsFundraiser #MusicAndFilm

Gregg Ostrin | New Play Explores Diplomacy and Identity in 'The Beverly Hills Hotel Peace Talks'

Fri, 09 May 2025 00:15:00 -0800

In this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G, playwright Gregg Ostrin shares insights about his new play, "The Beverly Hills Hotel Peace Talks," making its world premiere at CV Rep on May 21st. Inspired by a historical controversy involving Barbra Streisand and Omar Sharif during the creation of "Funny Girl," the play delves into complex themes such as identity, religion, and cultural conflict. Gregg discusses his journey from acting to writing, the fluid nature of his writing process, and how the evolving world events have made his story more relevant than ever. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs of bringing a play to life and the collaborative efforts essential in theater.

Takeaways:

• The play is based on a real diplomatic crisis involving Barbra Streisand and Omar Sharif.

• Ostrin's writing process is fluid and dynamic, with constant revisions.

• He transitioned from acting to writing, discovering a passion for storytelling.

• The themes of identity and cultural conflict are central to the narrative.

• Writers have more creative control in theater than in film productions.

• Collaboration with directors is essential for the success of a play.

• Ostin's background as an actor informs his writing approach.

• The play has significantly evolved since its initial reading and incorporates audience engagement.

Available from our website at www.TheDesertScene.com or any of our distribution partners where you can subscribe for free including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. This is our final show until the new season begins in September. By subscribing, you’ll be notified when new episodes resume!

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #GreggOstrin #CVRep #WorldPremiere #TheBeverlyHillsHotelPeaceTalks #PalmSprings #CoachellaValleyTheatre #MutualBroadcastingSystem #culturalconflict #creativeprocess #writingjourney

The Desert Scene | Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Vibrant Palm Springs Fiesta

Sat, 19 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode of The Desert Scene, host Bonnie G. is joined by Jeff Hocker, executive producer and PR pro extraordinaire, to discuss the highly anticipated Cinco de Mayo celebration in Palm Springs. Taking place in the Arenas District, this lively event will transform the area into a vibrant Mexican fiesta, featuring an array of local talent and entertainment. Enjoy performances by the top LGBTQ Mariachi band, Cathedral City Folklorico dancers, and more. Explore a variety of traditional Latin food options and enjoy beverages from local vendors. The event, hosted in collaboration with local charities and businesses, emphasizes cultural celebration and community involvement. Entry is free for everyone over 21, and for those seeking a premium experience, a $75 VIP ticket offers open bar, exclusive access, and meet-and-greets with artists. Join the fun from 2 pm to 10 pm on Sunday, May 4th, and celebrate the rich culture and community of Palm Springs.

Takeaways:

• Free Cinco de Mayo event in Palm Springs' Arenas District.

• Top LGBTQ Mariachi and folkloric dancers to perform.

• Local talent, including DJs, and traditional Latin cuisine.

• Special $75 VIP tickets with open bar, exclusive perks.

• Community support crucial, with local businesses involved.

• Contributions encouraged for local LGBTQ organizations.

• Mechanical bull riding, fun activities, food, and drinks.

• Aim: celebrating diversity and bringing cultures together.

#TheDesertScene #BonnieG #JeffHocker #CincodeMayo #PalmSprings #CoachellaValley #MutualBroadcastingSystem #MexicanFiesta #CommunityEvent #LGBTQCulturalCelebration #LocalTalent #DiverseEntertainment #LatinCuisine #CulturalHarmony #CharitySupport #EventInvolvement #VIPExperience #LiveMusic #FestivalVibes #PalmSpringsEvents

Jerry Soria-Foust, Artistic Director | Disney, Pride, and Music Collide in an Unforgettable PSGMC Event

Sat, 12 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode of The Desert Scene, host Bonnie G. welcomes the vibrant and visionary Jerry Soria-Foust, Artistic Director of the Palm Springs Gay Men's Chorus. The discussion dives into the much-anticipated Disney Pride in Concert, a groundbreaking collaboration with Disney Concerts. Jerry shares insights into the meticulous preparation behind the event, which features 42 Disney songs and imaginative visual experiences transformed to celebrate LGBTQIA+ lives and stories. Emphasizing inclusion, creativity, and the importance of community, Jerry passionately details how this concert uniquely reshapes beloved characters and narratives to uplift the voices of the marginalized. Don't miss this exciting episode that highlights the joyous intersection of the arts and advocacy, complete with Jerry's personal journey in music education. Join The Desert Scene as they capture the essence of unity in diversity through the magic of music and Disney.

Takeaways:

• Disney Pride in Concert is a collaboration with Disney Concerts.

• The event features beloved Disney songs and stories.

• The music takes on new meaning for the LGBTQIA+ community.

• PSGMC has developed a great partnership with Disney.

• The production includes 42 songs packed into two hours.

• The event is ambitious with technical elements like a giant video wall.

• Jerry emphasizes the importance of community in choral music.

• Audience feedback is encouraged for future programming.

#TheDesertScene #BonnieG #JerrySoriaFoust #PSGMC #PalmSpringsGayMensChorus #DisneyMusic #PalmSprings #CoachellaValley #MutualBroadcastingSystem #Events #CommunityArts #LGBTQIAPride #MusicConcert #DisneyPride #Inclusivity #ChoralMusic #ArtLeadership #PrideInArts #VocalMagic #MusicalJourney

Barbara Rogers, Loving All Animals | Paws and I Do's: Unique Dog Wedding Fundraiser

Sat, 05 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this delightful episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. talks with Barbara Rogers about an innovative and entertaining fundraising event—a luxurious dog wedding. Designed to benefit Loving All Animals, the event will include a high-end wedding ceremony for Sushi and Tinkerbell to wed Sammy and Lucky, complete with strolling violins, sit-down dinner, and a lively social gathering on a golf course setting in Palm Desert. Barbara, who serves on the Board for Loving All Animals, passionately discusses the organization's mission focused on the adoption, spaying, and neutering of animals as well as tackling the growing issue of stray pets in Coachella Valley. Throughout the episode, the importance of education on responsible pet ownership and the continued need for community support and donations are emphasized. Listeners will enjoy insights into the planning of this extraordinary event and are invited to join and contribute to the cause.

Takeaways:

• The dog wedding is an original and luxurious fundraising idea.

• Barbara Rogers created this event to support animal welfare causes.

• Loving All Animals is committed to adoption, spaying, and neutering efforts.

• Community gatherings help raise necessary awareness and funds.

• There's a noticeable rise in abandoned animals across the Coachella Valley.

• Educational programs on pet care are essential to reduce stray populations.

• Barbara's long-standing passion for animal welfare dates back to her childhood.

• Live music, dinner, and church settings enhance the event experience.

FOR TICKETS, CLICK HERE

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #BarbaraRogers #LovingAllAnimals #PetWedding #PalmSprings #CoachellaValley #MutualBroadcastingSystem #DogLovers #AnimalWelfare #AdoptDontShop #FundraisingEvent #AnimalRescue #SpayAndNeuter #AnimalCharity #UniqueEvents #DogWedding #CommunitySupport #PetEvents #AttireRequired

Lee Mills, Executive Director | 2026 Season Unveiled: Palm Springs Friends of Philharmonic's Musical Highlights

Sat, 29 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this insightful episode, dive into the upcoming 2025-2026 concert season with special guest Lee Mills, Executive Director of the Palm Springs Friends of Philharmonic. Host Bonnie G. engages in a riveting discussion on the lineup featuring world-renowned orchestras like the Chicago Symphony and the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, under the direction of acclaimed conductors such as Riccardo Muti and Joshua Bell. Beyond the musical performances, this episode sheds light on the vibrant landscape of music education within the Coachella Valley. Mills elaborates on the organization's scholarships and programs supporting young musicians, underscoring the indispensable role of the arts in community development. With picturesque Coachella Valley as the backdrop, this conversation offers listeners intriguing insights into the orchestration of a concert season while highlighting the profound impact music has on individuals and communities alike.

Takeaways:

• The Palm Springs Friends of Philharmonic season opens January 21, 2026, with elite orchestras.

• Chicago Symphony's performance, led by Riccardo Muti, promises a notable experience.

• Joshua Bell conducts and performs in an Academy of St. Martin concert.

• Gustavo Dudamel concludes his final season with the LA Phil's emotive show.

• Meticulous planning incorporates orchestra availability and audience desires.

• Friends of the Philharmonic foster music education and offer scholarships.

• Comprehensive musician scholarship support exists for the Coachella Valley students.

• Music education programs flourish in Coachella Valley under funding initiatives.

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #LeeMills #PalmSpringsFriendsOfThePhilharmonic #LocalEntertainment #PalmSprings #CoachellaValleyLiveMusic #MutualBroadcastingSystem #2025ConcertSeason #MusicEducation #Orchestras #RicardoMuti #JoshuaBell #GustavoDudamel #ChicagoSymphony #SAPhil #AcademyofStMartin #ClassicalMusic #PalmDesertArts #OrchestralSeason

Links referenced in this episode:

psphil.org

Companies mentioned in this episode:

Mutual Broadcasting
Palm Springs Friends of the Philharmonic
Los Angeles Philharmonic
Minaria Symphony Orchestra
Dallas Symphony Orchestra
San Diego Symphony
Academy of St. Martin in the Fields
Gustavo Dudamel
Carlos Miguel Prieto
Fabioluisi
Rafael Payare
Royal Conservatory of Music
University of Redlands
Oklahoma State University

Steven Skeels | Path from Stage to Songwriting with Heartfelt Project

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 18:00:00 -0800

In this episode of The Desert Scene, host Bonnie G welcomes the multi-talented Steven Skeels, whose expansive career includes acting, singing, songwriting, and producing. Steven shares his incredible journey from growing up in Indiana to tackling the entertainment world. He recounts his early discovery by a producer that launched his performance career, leading to life-altering stints in both Los Angeles and New York. Steven discusses his late-budding songwriting career, fueled by powerful personal experiences, which culminated in the heartfelt album Thankful. The album notably supports the Actors Fund. Steven also highlights Dreamer, his upcoming show that encapsulates his rollercoaster life and career journey. Throughout the episode, Steven generously shares wisdom and advice for budding performers, drawn from his extensive experience and various creative roles. He emphasizes the importance of embracing every opportunity and the thrill of turning dreams into reality. Listen or View Now at www.TheDesertScene.com or from your favorite podcast portal or YouTube.

Takeaways:

• Steven Skeels began performing professionally at 15.

• His music career started after being discovered at a high school musical.

• He began songwriting in his late 20s, inspired by personal experiences.

• The album Thankful was launched in response to personal challenges and supports the Actors Fund.

• His forthcoming show Dreamer reflects pivotal moments in his life journey.

• Everyday life and dreams inspire Steven’s songwriting process.

• He originated a lead role in Starlight Express.

• He encourages young performers to take every opportunity and learn through experience.

#StevenSkeels #BonnieG #TheDesertScenePodcast #MusicCareer #SongwritingJourney #PerformingArts #ActorsFundSupport #PalmSprings #CoachellaValley #CreativeJourney #RazzleDazzle #StarlightExpress #LifeChallenges #ActingRoles #ArtistsAdvice #Inspiration #DreamerShow #LocalEntertainment #PalmSpringsTalent #PalmSpringsCulturalCenter #MutualBroadcastingSystem

Siobhan Velardé | Local Performer Spotlights Palm Springs' Eclectic Live Music Scene

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 17:00:00 -0800

In this lively episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G welcomes back the multifaceted performer, Siobhan Velardé. A staple in Palm Springs' entertainment scene, Siobhan shares insights into her various residencies, including the lively V Wine Lounge & Martini Bar and the unique PSAIR venue. With a penchant for bluesy, eclectic, and occasionally cheeky performances, Siobhan discusses her love for engaging audiences and the challenges of performing with music tracks. From her origins as a film director hopeful to a seasoned singer, Siobhan outlines her journey into the world of live music. Listeners will also learn about her intriguing new show, "Turbulence," at PSAir, co-created with notable local talents. Join Bonnie G and Siobhan Velardé for an episode that delves into the vibrant Coachella Valley music scene and captures the humor, talent, and charisma of one of its beloved entertainers.

Takeaways:

• Siobhan Velardé performs every Friday at V Wine Lounge.

• PSAir showcases a unique speakeasy-styled lounge and her show "Turbulence."

• Siobhan enjoys pushing the envelope with cheeky, adult-themed tunes.

• Performing with tracks poses unique challenges for singers.

• She started her career contemplating a path in film direction.

• Siobhan's engaging stage presence makes audiences part of her act.

• She's been a staple at Street Bar for nearly 24 years.

• Siobhan values storytelling and audience connection over flawless vocals.

#TheDesertScene #BonnieG #SiobhanVelarde #LocalEntertainment #PalmSprings #CoachellaValleyLiveMusic #MutualBroadcastingSystem #LiveMusic #PalmSpringsEvents #SiobhanMusic #TurbulenceShow #PalmSpringsNightlife #LocalMusicScene #VWineLounge #PSAir #PSFactionNights #EclecticPerformances #AudienceEngagement #BluesAndRock #SpeakeasyStyle #PalmSpringsArtist

John Corr | Journey from Math to Theater: A Passionate Actor's Story

Sat, 01 Mar 2025 00:15:00 -0800

In this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G, Coachella Valley actor John Corr takes us on his unique journey from the world of math and chemistry to the vibrant stage of theater. John shares how his love for acting blossomed during college, supported by his encouraging family. He recounts his experiences in the revived Palm Springs theater scene post-COVID, balancing a full-time job in client services with his passion for acting. John delves into his creative process, describing his use of physicality and psychological gestures to breathe life into characters, and how memorizing lines is a natural skill, especially when plays are well-written. He reflects on his award-winning performance in Kafka's Joke and his excitement for his role in Desert Ensemble Theatre’s God of Carnage, discussing the intricate dynamics and themes of the play. With aspirations to tackle lead roles in Sondheim musicals, John’s story is one of resilience, passion, and familial support.

Takeaways:

• John Corr transitioned from a focus on math and science to theater during college.

• His parents were supportive of his decision to pursue acting.

• The theater scene in Palm Springs quickly revived after COVID shutdowns.

• John has a full-time job in client services alongside his acting career.

• He uses physicality and psychological gestures to develop his characters.

• Memorizing lines comes naturally to him, especially with well-written plays.

• Kafka's Joke allowed for creative freedom in character development.

• God of Carnage explores adult conflicts through a seemingly simple premise.

• John aspires to tackle lead roles in Sondheim musicals.

• His family is supportive and proud of his achievements in theater.

The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. | DeAnn Lubell | Save Pets from Wildlife Threats: Essential Awareness

Sat, 15 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G., we welcome DeAnn Lubell from Amy's Purpose, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers predators like coyotes pose to pets. DeAnn opened up about the tragic event that spurred her family to establish Amy’s Purpose and how it has since transformed lives through education. Discover the significant impact community members are making through resources and the upcoming Third Annual Amy’s Purpose Mixer on March 3rd at Willie's. This mixer aims to further the organization's mission by financing educational endeavors and awareness initiatives. Also introduced is a scholarship program via a COD partnership that addresses the critical shortage of animal health care professionals in the Coachella Valley.

Takeaways:

• Amy's Purpose was created after a tragic pet incident.

• Coyotes and other predators are real threats.

• Small pets should never be unattended outside.

• High fences don't deter predators like coyotes.

• Education and awareness boost pet safety.

• Amy's Purpose provides vital resources to pet owners.

• There's a shortage of animal healthcare workers locally.

• Mixer event offers fun while promoting vital awareness.

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #DeAnnLubell #AmysPurpose #MutualBroadcastingSystem #PetSafety #Coyotes #Nonprofit #AnimalWelfare #Awareness #Education #Fundraiser #CommunityEvent #VeterinaryAssistance #PetOwners #WildlifeSafety #SupportLocal #AnimalHealthcare #CoyoteThreat #CoachellaValleyCommunity

Christin Byrdsong | Exploring a Complex Character: Actor Discusses Transformative Role as Judas

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode of The Desert Scene, host Bonnie G sits down with the talented Christin Byrdsong to discuss his upcoming role as Judas in CVRep’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar, opening on March 5th. Christin shares his unique perspective on portraying Judas, the significance of his transition from playing Jesus to Judas, and how these characters relate to current societal themes. With a rich background in performing arts, Christin brings his experiences and insights into both his personal journey and his artistic approach. He also reflects on his journey from Los Angeles, supported by a family of performers, to achieving his dream roles on stage. Together, he and Bonnie delve into his rehearsal rituals, and ambitions for the future, and his excitement about performing in Palm Springs.

Takeaways:

• Christin Byrdsong transitions from portraying Jesus to Judas for the upcoming CVRep production.

• Discusses the importance of portraying diverse and complex characters.

• Connects the character of Judas with modern political climates and perspectives.

• Shares his background in a family of performers and early start in commercials.

• First major theater work as Simba in The Lion King’s national tour.

• Details his methodical and ritualistic preparation for performances.

• Outlines voice lessons as a continuous path of maintaining his vocal instrument.

• Expresses excitement about debuting in Palm Springs and hints at future cabaret dreams.

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValley #CVRep #JesusChristSuperstar #ChristinByrdsong #TheaterProduction #MusicalTheater #JudasRole #ActingJourney #ActorInterview #StagePreparation #DreamRoles #PerformingInPalmSprings #FamilyOfPerformers #VocalTraining #ShowbizLife #LivingInPalmSprings #ActingTechniques

Erin Hyland | Empowering Young Readers in the Coachella Valley

Sat, 01 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0800

Join Host Bonnie G on this week’s episode of The Desert Scene as she chats with Erin Hyland, Recruitment Coordinator for the Read With Me Volunteer Program in the Coachella Valley. Discover how this transformative initiative, founded over 20 years ago by Clay and Roberta Klein, addresses the educational needs of students, particularly in English language learning across multiple school districts in the area. Erin shares heartwarming stories, the measurable impact on students’ literacy skills, and an ever-growing demand for more volunteers. Learn how you can make a difference in a child’s life, from one-on-one reading sessions to participating in exciting events like Literacy University. Whether you're a professional, retiree, or just someone with a passion for reading, this program offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute.

Takeaways:

• Program benefits students in Coachella Valley for over 20 years

• 24 schools, 400 volunteers weekly seeking 200 more

• Students read to volunteers, one-on-one interaction

• Program offers books, two giveaways yearly

• Volunteers don't need to be teachers; training provided

• 60% improvement in students' English reading/writing

• Students and parents excitement evident from interactions

• Fill out volunteer form or donate at ReadWithMeVolunteer.org

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #MutualBroadcastingSystem #ErinHyland #ReadWithMeVolunteerProgram #CVUSD #PSUSD #DSUSD #CoachellaValleyReadingProgram #Volunteer #ReadingProgram #Education #Literacy #CommunityService #BookGiveaway #ReadingImprovement #SchoolPartnerships #VolunteerRecruitment #EducationalSupport

John Mario | Coachella Valley Symphony To Perform A Far Out Concert: A Close Encounter of the Symphonic Kind

Sat, 25 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0800

Join Bonnie G. and guest John Mario, music director and conductor of the Coachella Valley Symphony, in this episode of The Desert Scene. Discover the exciting themes for the symphony's upcoming concerts, including Close Encounters of a Symphonic Kind and the popular Best of Stage and Screen. John shares insights into the collaborative process of theme selection, the logistics of concert planning, and the significance of audience engagement. Learn about his inspiring journey from the East Coast to California, his formative experiences in opera, and his philosophy on conducting and orchestral dynamics. The episode touches on the symphony's outreach efforts through its youth orchestra, emphasizing the importance of music education in cultivating future audiences and leaders in the arts. Click in to find out how the symphony's innovative programming continues to delight audiences in the heart of the Southern California Desert.

Takeaways:

• John Mario is the music director and conductor of the Coachella Valley Symphony.

• Two exciting concerts, "Close Encounters of a Symphonic Kind" and "Best of Stage and Screen."

• Theme selection involves collaboration with Rancho Mirage and orchestra committees.

• The symphony values engaging audiences with interactive concert experiences.

• John Mario's background: From pianist on the East Coast to conductor in California.

• Importance of respect and inspiration in conducting.

• Coachella Valley Symphony performs diverse symphonic, jazz, and cross-genre concerts.

• Youth orchestra involvement fosters skills and future audience development.

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #MutualBroadcastingSystem #McCallumTheatre #CoachellaValleySymphony #JohnMario #Orchestra #Conductor #RanchoMirage #MusicDirector #Symphonic #ConcertThemes #YouthOrchestra #MusicEducation #ClassicalMusic #SymphonySeason #OrchestralProgramming #MusicOutreach #AudienceEngagement #SymphonyConcerts

Chuck Yates | Unveiling Truman Capote: Don’t Miss The Upcoming Production of TRU

Sat, 18 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0800

This week on The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. interviews actor and director Chuck Yates about his one-man show 'TRU,' which focuses on the life of Truman Capote. Chuck reflects on his journey with the show, the complexities of Capote's character, and the evolution of his performance over the years. The discussion delves into Capote's literary legacy, his relationships, and the humor that permeated his life and work. Chuck also shares insights into the cathartic nature of performing and the collaborative process with his director, David Yaus, as they prepare for the upcoming show presented by the Desert Ensemble Theatre at the Palm Springs Cultural Center.

Takeaways:

• Chuck Yates first saw the show in 1989 and was inspired to perform it.

• The new production is more intimate compared to the previous one.

• Yates has learned a lot about Capote's dark side over the years.

• Performing Capote is cathartic for Yates, akin to a roller coaster ride.

• Capote's humor often masked deeper feelings of abandonment.

• He alienated many important people in his life, including close friends.

• Capote's literary works continue to resonate with audiences today.

• Yates feels more confident in his performance after 12 years of experience.

• The humor in Capote's life is a significant aspect of the play.

• Capote embraced his eccentricities and was open about his sexuality.

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #CoachellaValleyEntertainment #LocalTheatre #MutualBroadcastingSystem #ChuckYates #TrumanCapote #OneManShow #DesertEnsembleTheater #Performance #Humor #Relationships #LiteraryLegacy #Sexuality #PalmSprings #PalmSpringsCulturalCenter

Angie Delaire, Singer | Candlelit Movie Songs: A Unique Musical Experience

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 20:00:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G, we are thrilled to welcome back the talented Angie Delaire. A beloved local singing sensation, Angie is gearing up for a mesmerizing performance on January 22nd at the Mary Pickford Theatre as part of the Desert Candlelight Concert series. Known for her vibrant voice and dynamic range, Angie discusses the unique concept of performing amidst a stunning ambiance enriched by thousands of candles. This extraordinary event will feature some surprises, themed around "Songs from the Movies," adding a cinematic flair that's not to be missed. Tune in for a lively conversation about her creative process, the challenges of singing to tracks, and the joys of performing in her signature style.

Takeaways:

• Angie Delaire is performing on January 22nd at the Mary Pickford Theatre.

• The Desert Candlelight Concert series features performances illuminated by faux candles.

• Angie’s show theme is "Songs from the Movies," inspired by prior successful performances.

• She collaborates with Denise Welsh and Pam Matloof, producers of the concert series.

• Angie and her husband, Ron, created the show and its visuals together.

• She will sing along to tracks due to the fixed-loop setup of the event.

• Angie's preparation involves mental rehearsals and careful vocal maintenance, especially after recovering from a virus.

• The event includes a speakeasy at 5 p.m. and tickets are available through desertcandlelightconcerts.com.

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #AngieDelaire #LocalEntertainment #CoachellaValley #MutualBroadcastingSystem #PalmSpringsLiveMusic #ArtistInterview #DesertCandlelightConcerts #MaryPickfordTheatre #SongsFromTheMovies #LivePerformance #MusicAndMovies #VocalPerformance #UniqueConcertExperience #DesertMusicScene #VocalTalent #PalmSpringsEvents #CandlelightConcerts #SupportLocalArtists

Guest: Carolyn Gross | Conquer Holiday Stress and Embrace Personal Growth

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0800

In this enriching episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G., explore robust strategies to thrive amidst holiday chaos and post-election stress with Carolyn Gross, an award-winning speaker and leadership strategist. Carolyn shares her unique approach to handling stress through shifting perspectives, emphasizing the monumental lesson-seeking mindset. Known for helping individuals rise above chaos, she provides vital insights into navigating the dual pressures of the holiday season and reflecting societal shifts. Learn about "chaos ninjas," a concept she cultivates to empower proactive responses to life's disruptions. Carolyn also introduces a new support initiative for women starting in January, focusing on harnessing vulnerability as strength and fostering balance. Discover how investing in self-care and understanding can propel professional women towards sustainable success. Tune in for practical tips to maintain tranquility in turbulent times.

• Recognize when holiday excitement turns to stress and use it as a cue for self-care.

• Embrace the "chaos ninja" mindset to approach life's obstacles as learning opportunities.

• Shift focus from external chaos to internal lessons, fostering internal control.

• Carolyn's new group initiative targets ambitious women to find balance and support.

• Vulnerability is positioned as a powerful tool in personal and professional growth.

• Engage in preventive support groups to navigate busy lifestyles and maintain well-being.

• Empowerment lies in focusing on the moment and controlling stress responses.

• Seek community support from those with shared experiences for diverse problem-solving.

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #CarolynGross #AwardWinningSpeaker #LeadershipStrategist #TeamRejuvenation #PalmSprings #CoachellaValley #MutualBroadcastingSystem #HolidayStress #PersonalGrowth #ChaosNinja #Mindfulness #WellBeing #Empowerment #Resilience #WomensSupportGroup #SelfCare

Guest: Dan Gore | Exciting Performances and Star-Studded In-Person Interviews Await

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0800

Join Bonnie G. on this episode of The Desert Scene featuring Dan Gore, the dynamic owner of Oscars in Palm Springs. Get an insider look at the incredible line-up of entertainment and events in the heart of Palm Springs. Dan talks about their upcoming New Year's Eve show with drag legends Jackie Beat, Candis Cayne, and Sherry Vine—an evening filled with laughter and spectacular performances. Dive into Oscars' transformation into a cultural hub, regularly hosting renowned celebrities like Sandra Bernhard and LaToya Jackson, and how these events foster Palm Springs' glamorous reputation. Dan, a passionate drag booker for over 30 years, shares his journey from producing shows to curating intriguing celebrity events, focusing on personal and candid interactions. Oscars’ annual Christmas breakfast for those in need highlights their community spirit. Don’t miss this exciting discussion filled with entertainment, heart, and the allure of fame.

• Dan Gore's journey into Oscars stems from a long-standing career in drag booking and show production.

• Oscars has transformed into a dynamic venue that regularly hosts notable celebrity events and performances.

• Unique celebrity interviews at Oscars focus on personal insights rather than controversies.

• New Year's Eve feature: Two shows with iconic drag performers; 6 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

• Annual Christmas breakfast event provides a place for community gathering and support.

• Oscars’ venue expansion allows for hosting larger events, including celebrity reunions.

• Dan finds passion in blending celebrity culture with local entertainment for a diverse audience.

• The revamped space at Oscars sets the stage for high-profile events and enhanced visitor experiences.

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #DanGore #OscarsPalmSprings #CoachellaValley #MutualBroadcastingSystem #NewYearsEve #JackieBeat #CandisCayne #SherryVine #SandraBernhard #PalmSpringsEvents #CelebrityInterviews #DragPerformers #GlamorousEntertainment #CommunityEvents #StarPower #PalmSpringsCulture

Guest: Jeff Hocker | Prioritize Your Wellness at Free Coachella Valley Health and Fun-Run Event

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0800

Dive into a world of health awareness as expert event producer Jeff Hocker details the upcoming Palm Springs Health Run and Wellness Festival on this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. Slated for January 25th, this annual event is expected to draw crowds from across Southern California for a day filled with fitness, education, and fun. The festival features certified running events, interactive health booths, and even a bike ride showcasing the scenic routes of Palm Springs. Esteemed guests and knowledgeable health enthusiasts will guide attendees toward building a healthy lifestyle. From free health screenings to aerobics performances and even opportunities for participation, this event caters to all levels of health consciousness. Jeff shares past successes of the event while inviting companies and participants to engage more deeply and spread the word. Whether looking to set a personal record or gleaning tips for wellness improvement, your journey starts here.

Takeaways:

• The Palm Springs Health Run and Wellness Festival is one of Southern California's largest health events.

• Multiple races (1K, 5K, 10K) are certified by the US Track and Field.

• Participants can enjoy a non-competitive bike ride exploring local bike lanes.

• The event features over 100 booths with major health entities offering free services.

• Jeff has been involved in health events for over 12 years, fostering community health awareness.

• Public participation includes health screenings and testing from organizers like Desert Healthcare District.

• Nearly 3,000 people annually engage in this festival focused on active, healthy living.

• Jeff shares his dedication to wellness, inspiring community behavior through his active lifestyle.

#PalmSprings #HealthRun #WellnessFestival #RunPalmSprings #HealthCommunity #WellnessJourney #HealthyLifestyle #PSWellness #EventProduction #LifestyleChange #FitnessFestival #HealthAwareness #RunWithUs #BikePalmSprings #FreeHealthServices #ActiveLiving #WellBeing #TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #MutualBroadcastingSystem

Guest: David Perry | An Author's Journey from Passenger Ships to Gay Mysteries

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode of The Desert Scene, host Bonnie G. chats with publicist David Perry who's gaining acclaim as an author. We explore his intrigue-laden debut novel, "Upon This Rock," which unfolds in an idyllic Italian setting—becoming a thrilling success with critics drawing parallels to a Gay “Da Vinci Code." Balancing a life of global cruises and literary pursuits, Perry offers an exciting glimpse into a world shaped by both historical events and personal passion. Beyond his literary success, he’s aiding in the promotion of fellow authors’ works while sharing invaluable writing advice, drawn from decades of experience. Learn what’s next on his travel bucket list and hear about inspiring real-life stories woven into his upcoming sequel. Tune in for insights into how creativity persists through personal challenges and historic voyages.

Book Website: CLICK HERE

Takeaways:

• "Upon This Rock" is a mystery thriller set in Orvieto, Italy, praised for its elegance and intrigue.

• The author plans a sequel involving historical elements from the Spanish Civil War.

• David is a maritime historian who takes free cruises to present lectures.

• He began writing at age five and consistently writes, even with haikus, when blocked.

• Writer's block hit hard during COVID, halting creative output for some time.

• Encourages aspiring writers to write daily, use real experiences, and be patient with writer's block.

• Collaborated with authors Dino Piacentini and David Church for cross-promotion.

• Explored themes of religion and identity in life, which influenced his writing.

#AuthorInterview #MurderMystery #UponThisRock #CoachellaValley #DavidPerry #WritingTips #WritingCommunity #LGBTBooks #Travel #CruiseLecturer #GayAuthors #HistoricalFiction #BookLovers #WritersLife #ThrillerNovels #SpanishCivilWar #MaritimeHistory #BonnieG #TheDesertScenePodcast #MutualBroadcastingSystem

Jerry Soria-Foust | Holiday Extravaganza and Community Spirit Shine Bright with PSGMC

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0800

Step into the festive season with The Desert Scene as Bonnie G. welcomes back Jerry Soria-Foust, the brilliant Artistic Director of the Palm Springs Gay Men's Chorus. Discover the magic behind their breathtaking holiday event, Fa La La Fabulous, taking place at the stunning Annenberg Theater in Palm Springs. Jerry shares the chorus's evolution from a "stand and sing" format to a full-fledged show chorus, promising spectacular production values, collaboration with local musicians from the Desert Winds Freedom Band, and captivating surprises. Learn about their annual toy drive supporting Martha’s Village and Kitchen, and the delightful joint concert with Modern Men, all celebrating the essence of community spirit this holiday season.

Takeaways:

• "Fa La La Fabulous" promises dynamic performances with a full production.

• The chorus's strategic shift enhances audience engagement and show quality.

• Collaboration with Desert Winds Freedom Band enriches the musical experience.

• The annual toy drive brightens holidays for children and families.

• Joint outreach concert fosters community collaboration and unity.

• Growth and resilience of the chorus post-COVID pandemic.

• Celebrating the 25th anniversary season with bold new initiatives.

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #JerrySoriaFoust #CoachellaValleyArtsAndEntertainment #MutualBroadcastingSystem #PalmSpringsGayMensChorus #FALaLaFabulous #InclusivePerformingArts #PrideAndPerformance #HolidaySpectacular #CommunityInvolvement #ToyDriveMagic #CollaborativeChorusEvents #AnnenbergTheater #ChoralEvolution #CelebratingUnity #ModernMenChorus #ConcertAndCause

Jamie Torcellini | The 39 Steps: A Comedic Spy Thriller Unveiled at CVRep

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0800

Join us on The Desert Scene as Bonnie G. welcomes the multifaceted Jamie Torcellini, an accomplished performer and director, known for his Broadway legacy and diverse career in the arts. Jamie shares his journey from the Broadway stage to the directorial chair, revealing insights into his latest project, The 39 Steps at CVRep. With a career spanning roles in Cats, Billy Elliot, and TV productions like Disney's Tarzan, Jamie discusses the intricacies and joy of directing this fast-paced comedy with a cast familiar to him and the challenges of orchestrating a show under tight deadlines. Tune in to discover Jamie’s directorial style and what makes The 39 Steps a unique theatrical experience that'll keep audiences engaged this holiday season.

Takeaway:

• Jamie's Broadway legacy includes shows like "Cats" and "Billy Elliot."

• Transition from performer to director began with Groundlings.

• "The 39 Steps" features a tight nine-day rehearsal timeline.

• All actors except the lead play multiple roles for dynamic staging.

• Fast-paced, comedic nuances are central to Jamie's directorial style.

• The show pays homage to various Alfred Hitchcock classics.

• Jamie's previous experiences with the play ensure a polished production.

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #JamieTorcelliini #CoachellaValleyArtsAndEntertainment #MutualBroadcastingSystem #The39StepsPlay #JamieTorcellini #BroadwayToDirector #CvRepTheater #HitchcockAdaptation #FastPacedComedy #TheaterInPalmSprings #BehindTheScenes #OpeningNightAnticipation #SpyThrillerComedy #CreatingArtInNineDays #MultifacetedDirector #LivePerformances #CreativeProcessExplored

Cathy Moriarty Talks Acting, Awards, and a New Play in Palm Springs

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0800

Kathy Moriarty, the Academy Award-nominated actress best known for her role in 'Raging Bull', graces The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. in a captivating conversation that traverses her remarkable career and personal experiences. The episode begins with Bonnie G.'s lively introduction before diving into Kathy's early days in the film industry, where she shares the surreal experience of being cast in her breakout role at just 19 years old. The conversation flows into her collaboration with renowned director Martin Scorsese and actor Robert De Niro, painting a vivid picture of the behind-the-scenes dynamics and the challenges she faced as a young actress navigating the tumultuous world of Hollywood. Kathy reflects on her feelings of intimidation at the time but emphasizes the invaluable learning experiences that shaped her career, highlighting the supportive environment created by her colleagues.

As the discussion progresses, Kathy opens up about her transition from being a young actress to working with influential figures like Sue Mengers, a legendary talent agent who played a pivotal role in her career. The episode reveals how Mengers recognized Kathy's potential and took her under her wing, showcasing the importance of mentorship in the entertainment industry. Listeners gain insight into the intricacies of their relationship, the vibrant personality of Sue, and how her boldness helped Kathy navigate the competitive landscape of acting. Kathy's heartfelt anecdotes and reflections provide a glimpse into the personal connections that have influenced her journey, making this episode a treasure trove of wisdom for aspiring actors and fans alike.

The episode not only highlights Kathy's illustrious career but also delves into her latest theatrical endeavor, 'I'll Eat You Last: A Chat with Sue Mengers', where she portrays the iconic agent. Kathy discusses how the play resonates with her experiences, allowing her to honor Sue's legacy while exploring the complexities of their friendship. Her enthusiasm for the production shines through as she shares her excitement about performing in Palm Springs, a place that is quickly becoming special to her. This rich dialogue captures the essence of Kathy's journey, the importance of personal connections in the arts, and the thrill of returning to the stage, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersections of culture, art, and personal growth.

Takeaways:

Cathy Moriarty shares her incredible journey from being a young actress to earning an Academy Award nomination at just 19 years old.
The experience of working with Martin Scorsese and Robert De Niro was both intimidating and profoundly educational for Moriarty.
Moriarty reflects on her relationship with Vicki LaMotta, emphasizing the importance of their connection during filming.
Kathy reveals how Sue Mengers, her first agent, played a crucial role in her early career development.
The play 'I'll Eat You Last' is a tribute to Sue Mengers and highlights her larger-than-life personality.
Moriarty describes her initial reluctance to join the cast of the play, which turned into excitement after reading the script.

Stanley Hill | The Exciting Collaboration of Two Coachella Valley Men's Choruses Singing Together

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0800

The Desert Scene captures the essence of community and creativity as host Bonnie G. interviews Stanley Hill, the Artistic Director of Modern Men, a vibrant men’s chorus in the Coachella Valley. The conversation centers on the upcoming holiday concert, 'Home for the Holidays', which marks a significant collaboration between Modern Men and the Palm Springs Gay Men's Chorus. Hill shares the excitement and anticipation for this unprecedented joint performance, which will take place at St. Margaret's Episcopal Church, and features both choruses coming together to perform celebratory pieces, including a fun rendition of 'Jingle Bells'. This collaboration not only highlights the musical talents of the groups but also emphasizes the strength of community ties within the arts.

The episode dives deep into the growth of Modern Men, which has seen its membership swell from 28 to over 100 singers in just eight years. Hill discusses the importance of this growth, not only in terms of musical output but also in fostering friendships and connections among members. The chorus has become a social hub where laughter and camaraderie thrive, particularly following rehearsals that often extend into joyful outings. Hill’s anecdotes about the members' commitment and enthusiasm paint a picture of a passionate group dedicated to their craft and community.

Moreover, Hill reflects on the broader cultural landscape of the Coachella Valley, emphasizing the richness of local arts and entertainment. He discusses how events like the holiday concert contribute to the cultural fabric of the area, highlighting the chorus's mission to engage and uplift the community through music. With a background in directing renowned choruses in major cities, Hill brings a wealth of experience and passion to his role, making this episode a heartfelt tribute to the power of music and community spirit. Listeners are left with a sense of excitement for the upcoming concerts and a deeper appreciation for the role of arts in enhancing community life.

Takeaways:

Stanley Hill discusses the upcoming holiday concert featuring both men's choruses in Palm Desert.
The Modern Men Coachella Valley Men's Chorus has grown from 28 to over 100 members.
Stanley shares insights on the challenges and joys of leading a community chorus.
The concert will feature a mix of holiday classics and original pieces by members.
Stanley Hill's extensive background in directing prominent gay men's choruses shapes his leadership.
The collaborative concert promises to bring a unique experience to the audience.

From Desert to Broadway: Doug Graham's Immersive Musical Journey

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0800

Join Bonnie G as she welcomes Doug Graham to discuss the upcoming fundraiser, Nobody Does It Better, taking place on November 30th at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. This unique event will feature immersive performances of Academy Award-winning songs from the 70s, accompanied by video clips and stills from the films that made them famous. Doug shares insights into the hard work involved in bringing this ambitious project to life, including the selection of talented singers and the technical aspects of the show. Listeners will learn about the cultural center's transformation and its vital need for funds to enhance its facilities and support local artists. With an engaging atmosphere and a heartwarming mission, this fundraiser promises to be a memorable night filled with music, nostalgia, and community spirit.

Takeaways:

Doug Graham discusses an immersive concert experience featuring Academy Award-winning songs from the 1970s.
The fundraiser aims to raise $50,000 to transform Theater 2 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center.
Guests will enjoy live performances accompanied by film clips from iconic movies of the 70s.
The event promises to be interactive with audience participation through sing-alongs and engaging experiences.
Craig Ramsey and Catherine Referred, the hosts, have inspirational stories of resilience and success.
The Palm Springs Cultural Center is evolving into a true cultural hub for the community.

#DesertScene #BonnieG #DougGraham #CoachellaValley #PalmSpringsCulturalCenter #ImmersiveExperience #70sMusic #NobodyDoesItBetter #Fundraiser #LocalTheater #LiveMusic #CulturalEvents #ArtsAndEntertainment #CaliforniaDesert #CoachellaValleyEvents #PalmSpringsEvents #CommunityFundraiser #EntertainmentNews #OscarWinningSongs #LivePerformances

Patrice Morris: Bringing Motown Magic to the Coachella Valley

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0800

Join Bonnie G on The Desert Scene as she welcomes the incredibly talented Patrice Morris, a member of the legendary group The 5th Dimension. Patrice shares her journey from her gospel roots in Mississippi to performing at the Indian Wells Resort Hotel every Wednesday night, where she captivates audiences with Motown classics and more. She discusses her longstanding partnership with her husband, who has been her manager for over 45 years, and how their daily routine includes prayer, reflecting their deep Christian values. Listeners will also learn about Patrice's upcoming performances, including a special New Year's Eve show and her monthly gigs at Idyllwild. Tune in to discover more about Patrice's musical journey and the vibrant cultural scene of the Coachella Valley!

Takeaways:

Patrice Morris performs every Wednesday at the Indian Wells Resort Hotel from 6 to 9 PM, showcasing Motown and other classic hits.
She has been touring with the Fifth Dimension for 18 years, featuring original member Florence LaRue in her performances.
Patrice's husband has been her manager since the beginning of her career, providing constant support throughout her journey.
She started singing at the age of five, coming from a musical family that encouraged her talent in gospel music.
Patrice emphasizes the importance of prayer in her life, sharing that she prays daily with her husband before performances.
Her gospel music career includes four CDs, showcasing her talent and dedication to encouraging music.

#PatriceMorris #FifthDimension #CoachellaValley #LiveMusic #Motown #GospelMusic #IndianWellsResortHotel #TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #PerformingArts #MusicInterviews #Entertainment #CaliforniaMusicScene #OriginalMembersFifthDimension #MusicCareer #CulturalEvents #LivePerformances #Idyllwild #ElPortalMexicanRestaurant #MusicFestivals #MutualBroadcastingSystem

Jeff Barnett | Experience Warmth and Broadway Charm at Thanksgiving Musical Spectacle!

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0800

Join us for a delightful escape as Razzle Dazzle returns to the Palm Springs Cultural Center on November 22nd at 7 p.m. Experience an evening filled with warmth and nostalgia, reminiscent of a cozy Thanksgiving celebration. With a theme aptly described as a "Broadway bear hug," the show features classic numbers and offers a unique and personal touch from each performer. Hosted by the talented and experienced team of Bonnie G. and her guest co-host Jeff Barnett, the night promises captivating performances by gifted artists including Kelly McDaniel and Randy Brunner, with accompaniment by pianist Robert Ollis. Whether you're looking for an evening of entertainment or a heartfelt celebration, this intimate cabaret experience provides a perfect blend of humor, sentiment, and unforgettable music.

#RazzleDazzleShow #PalmSpringsCulturalCenter #TheDesertScene #ThanksgivingShow #BroadwayNights #CozyCabaret #LiveEntertainment #TheaterMagic #CulturalExperiences #BonnieG #ThanksgivingFun #MusicalJourney #PalmSpringsEvents #CabaretNight #PerformingArts #HolidayGathering #BonnieG #JeffBarnett #MutualBroadcastingSystem

Gina Zollman | Crafting Melodies: A Journey from Wall Street to the Stage

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0800

In this engaging episode of The Desert Scene, host Bonnie G. sits down with the talented singer and songwriter Gina Zollman to explore her creative journey and upcoming show at the Arthur Newman Theater. Zollman shares her inspiration behind her cleverly titled show, Gina Originals, highlighting her lifelong passion for writing songs about love, life, and finding one's path. Zollman's rich musical background, coupled with her extensive songwriting collaborations, reveals an artist deeply rooted in personalized storytelling through music. Listen in as Zollman discusses her work with notable music professionals and her selection process for the show’s setlist from a vast repertoire. The conversation delves into her transition from a successful Wall Street career to pursuing her dreams in show business, culminating in performances throughout the desert community.

#TheDesertScene #GinaZollman #LiveMusic #SingerSongwriter #ArthurNewmanTheater #MusicInspiration #OriginalMusic #GinaOriginals #MusicalJourney #Songwriting #CreativeCollaboration #DesertLiving #LivePerformance #DesertArts #MusicalPassion #BonnieG #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValley

Eric Frankson Jams About Performances to Benefit Unhoused in the Desert

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0800

Join host Bonnie G on this heartfelt episode of The Desert Scene, as she welcomes Eric Frankson, board member and advocate for the local organization Well In The Desert. Eric shares the inspiring mission behind their work, detailing over two decades of dedicated service providing warm, nutritious meals and much-needed support to the homeless community in Palm Springs. With a focus on holistic care, Well In The Desert offers not just food, but showers, clothing, and guidance towards mental health and medical resources. The highlight of their annual fundraising efforts, the Desert Jam 2024, is a lively concert set for November 11th, showcasing the immense talent of local performers. From jazz divas to soulful saxophonists, the event promises an unforgettable evening for a vital cause. Tune in to discover how Well In The Desert continues to change lives with each kind act, and learn how you can contribute to their ripple of generosity.

Angie Delaire Delivers Streisand Tribute Show at Arthur Newman Theatre November 3rd

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0800

Join Bonnie G on this episode of The Desert Scene as she welcomes the talented Angie Delaire back to discuss her upcoming Barbra Streisand tribute show on November 3rd at the Arthur Newman Theater. Angie shares how this tribute was inspired by popular demand after her previous performance. She opens up about the challenges of curating Streisand's vast musical library for the show and highlights the exciting elements she'll incorporate to pay homage to the legendary diva. With Joel Baker as the musical director and Peter Richardson narrating, Angie's performance promises to feature iconic numbers from Streisand's Broadway beginnings to her film influences. Angie also recounts her musical upbringing in Canada, her family's support for her artistic journey, and her move to Southern California. Don’t miss Angie’s powerful voice bringing Streisand’s timeless classics to life in a show that promises surprises and heartfelt emotion. Tune in for a delightful conversation filled with music and personal stories.

Jerome Elliott Moskowitz, Artistic Director, Desert Ensemble Theatre Company

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode of The Desert Scene, host Bonnie G. welcomes back Jerome Elliott Moskowitz, the Artistic Director of Desert Ensemble Theatre Company. Jerome shares insights on the upcoming production of Joe Orton’s Loot, part of their intriguing Season of Icons. Set to premiere on November 15th at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, Loot is a dark, comedic farce grappling with themes of organized religion, morality, and law enforcement. Jerome also discusses the theater's commitment to supporting local high school students with internships and scholarships, offering invaluable hands-on experience in the arts. Dive into this lively conversation about DTC's efforts to encourage new works, insights into future seasons, and their challenges and triumphs as an intimate theater company. Don't miss this engaging episode well-rooted in the vibrant world of local theater and arts education.

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #MutualBroadcastingSystem #DesertEnsembleTheatre #LootThePlay #PalmSpringsTheatre #LGBTQTheatre #ArtsEducation #TheatreInternships #IconsSeason #CoachellaValleyArts #JoeOrton #DarkComedy #TheaterProduction #PalmSpringsCulturalCenter #TheaterInsights #CommunityTheatre

Alberto Acosta, Museum of Ancient Wonders & LGBTQ+ World History Museum Discusses "Unwanted Laughter"

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0800

In this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. is joined by the dynamic Alberto Acosta to delve into the intriguing world of arts and theater. Alberto, the head of the Museum of Ancient Wonders and a trailblazing force behind the LGBTQ+ World History Museum, shares the fascinating story behind Unwanted Laughter. This upcoming staged reading, presented at Temple Isaiah in Palm Springs, tells the legendary tale of Tallulah Bankhead’s unforgettable performance in A Streetcar Named Desire and Tennessee Williams’ intervention to refine her character. Discover the artistry and unexpected hilarity of these iconic figures and their unique friendship. Alberto’s deep connection to the arts community and passion for cultural preservation shine through in this not-to-be-missed conversation. Tune in to hear about the inspiring efforts to bring this historical narrative to life, both in Palm Springs and potentially at Miami's historic Coconut Grove Theater.

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #MutualBroadcastingSystem #UnwantedLaughter #AlbertoAcosta #MuseumOfAncientWonders #CoconutGroveTheater #TheaterMagic #PalmSpringsEvents #TallulahBankhead #TennesseeWilliams #LGBTQHistory #ArtRevival #CulturalPreservation #PodcastConversation #StageReading #IconicTheater

Join Bonnie G. as She Unveils Dezart Performs' New Playhouse with Michael Shaw

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0800

Join Bonnie G as she welcomes Michael Shaw, the artistic director of Dezart Performs, to discuss the exciting news of their recent acquisition of the First Church of Christ Scientist building in Palm Springs, which will be transformed into the new Desert Playhouse. This significant move comes after a thorough reassessment of their previous plans to relocate to Cathedral City, showcasing the organization's growth and commitment to bringing vibrant art and culture to the Coachella Valley. Michael shares insights about the new space, its features, and the community-centered approach they plan to adopt. The episode also highlights the generous support from donors that has made this dream a reality. Tune in to hear about the journey of Dezart Performs, the power of community support, and what lies ahead for this beloved arts organization. Listen to The Desert Scene and stay up-to-date with show information on our website at www.TheDesertScene.com or Subscribe and Download from one of our preferred Podcast Distribution Partners including Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Audible, Captivate.fm, or Spotify. This podcast is presented by the Mutual Broadcasting System.

Takeaways:

Michael Shaw announced the purchase of a new building for Dezart Performs, transforming a church into a community arts center.
The new location will significantly increase seating capacity and provide more rehearsal space for productions.
Community support has been overwhelming, with a generous donation of $500,000 aiding the transition to the new building.
The building's historical significance ties back to the church's original congregation, creating a unique full circle moment.
Desert Performs aims to foster collaboration with other organizations, making the space available for community events.
The opening of the new facility is planned for the 2025-2026 season, following necessary renovations.

Experience the Magic of 'Next to Normal' with Adam Karsten

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0800

Join Bonnie G as she welcomes Adam Karsten, the executive artistic director at CV Rep, to discuss the upcoming production of Next to Normal, which opens on November 6. Adam shares insights into this powerful rock musical that addresses themes of grief, depression, and family dynamics, highlighting its emotional depth and compelling score. He reveals the exciting cast, including Broadway talent Bligh Voth, who will portray the challenging role of Diana, and local veteran Eric Kunze as the father. The episode also touches on the rest of the season at CV Rep, featuring a diverse lineup of productions such as The 39 Steps and Jesus Christ Superstar. Listen to Bonnie and Adam delve into the creative process and the vibrant arts scene in the Coachella Valley.

Listen to The Desert Scene and stay up-to-date with show information on our website at www.TheDesertScene.com or Subscribe and Download from one of our preferred Podcast Distribution Partners including Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Audible, Captivate.fm, or Spotify. This podcast is presented by the Mutual Broadcasting System.

Takeaways:

Adam Karsten is set to direct 'Next to Normal', a powerful rock musical about family issues.
The show 'Next to Normal' explores themes of grief, depression, and family dysfunction.
A live orchestra will accompany the performance, enhancing the energy of the musical.
The upcoming season at CV Rep includes diverse productions such as 'The 39 Steps' and 'Jesus Christ Superstar'.
The cast of 'Next to Normal' features talented Broadway veterans, bringing high-quality performances.
Adam Karsten emphasizes a collaborative approach to directing, valuing actors' creative input.

Harping on Fun: Christian Chalifour's Musical Game Show

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 00:15:00 -0800

Join Bonnie G as she welcomes the talented harpist Christian Chalifour, who shares exciting details about his upcoming musical game show event, "Name That TV Tune," taking place on October 19. Christian, known for his unique flair, combines trivia about classic television shows with live orchestral performances, making for a truly entertaining experience. He reflects on his journey with the harp, which began in 1977, and discusses the challenges and joys of playing this beautiful instrument. Additionally, listeners will learn about a fantastic grand prize associated with the event, offering an all-expenses-paid trip to Guadalajara, Mexico. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with music, laughter, and insights into the vibrant cultural scene of the Coachella Valley.

Takeaways:

Christian Chalifour shares his journey into becoming a harpist after a chance encounter with a famous musician.
The upcoming event features a unique musical game show where participants guess TV show themes from four notes.
Chalifour discusses his move to Mexico and the vibrant arts scene he expects to find there.
The event will feature a twelve-piece orchestra, which has expanded to twenty-four members for this performance.
Listeners can expect a mix of trivia questions and music to engage the audience at the event.
Tickets for the family-friendly concert are affordably priced, making it accessible for everyone.

More Detail:

Chalifour is an accomplished harpist and musician. His journey through the world of music is both inspiring and entertaining, as he recounts how a chance encounter with a renowned harpist ignited his passion for the instrument. With nearly 50 years of experience, he shares insights into the unique techniques of playing the harp, contrasting it with the more familiar piano, and elaborating on the physicality and artistry involved in performing this beautiful instrument.

The highlight of the episode is the discussion surrounding Chalifour's upcoming event, Name That TV Tune, scheduled for October 19 in Idyllwild. This musical game show promises to be a family-friendly affair, where attendees can flex their knowledge of classic television themes while enjoying a performance by a 24-piece orchestra. Chalifour’s playful spirit shines through as he details the interactive elements of the show, including trivia questions and a four-note guessing game designed to engage the audience in a fun and dynamic way. With affordable ticket prices, he emphasizes the importance of community and accessibility in the arts.

As the conversation flows, Chalifour opens up about his impending move to Mexico and the vibrant arts scene he anticipates there. He paints a picture of a life filled with music, culture, and the joy of sharing art with others. The episode closes with a sense of optimism and excitement, highlighting the transformative power of music and the connections it fosters across communities. Chalifour's journey serves as a reminder of the joy that creativity can bring, making this episode a delightful exploration of passion, community, and the arts.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

El Portal Mexican Restaurant
Spirit Mountain Retreat
Desert Chamber Orchestra

Meet Dr. Lisa Lindley: Bringing Halloween to Life with Symphony Sounds

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0800

The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. welcomes Dr. Lisa Lindley, CEO of the Coachella Valley Symphony, to discuss the upcoming Halloween music event scheduled for October 19. This spooktacular concert promises to blend fun and fright with a selection of beloved tunes like the themes from Ghostbusters, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Edward Scissorhands. Dr. Lindley emphasizes the importance of making symphonic music accessible and engaging for families.

Takeaways:

The Coachella Valley Symphony's Halloween event brings fun and engaging music to families.
Dr. Lisa Lindley emphasizes the importance of live symphony music for younger audiences.
The upcoming concert on October 19 features popular Halloween-themed music selections.
The symphony aims to make classical music accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
John, the conductor, enhances the experience with fascinating insights about each music piece.
The Coachella Valley Symphony offers free concerts to encourage community participation and appreciation.

Through their discussion, Bonnie and Dr. Lindley explore how the symphony aims not just to entertain but to educate, making classical music approachable and relatable to a wider audience. The concert will feature a selection of popular scores that many recognize from films, cleverly intertwining traditional orchestral music with contemporary cultural references.

Dr. Lindley's insights into the programming reveal the thoughtful curation of the concert, where each piece is selected not only for its musicality but also for its potential to resonate with diverse audiences. The episode highlights the importance of engaging with the community, particularly families, and how the symphony's free concerts serve as a gateway for young people to experience live music. Dr. Lindley passionately discusses the symphony's mission to create a welcoming environment where families can enjoy high-quality performances without financial barriers, fostering a new generation of music lovers.

Beyond the specifics of the Halloween concert, the episode delves into the broader themes of arts education and community involvement. Dr. Lindley's role in supporting local musicians and youth programs showcases her dedication to bridging the gap between professional music and community engagement. This episode encapsulates the spirit of the Coachella Valley Symphony's commitment to keeping the arts alive and thriving, inviting listeners to see the value in live symphonic music and encouraging them to partake in the cultural offerings available in their community.

Judith Chapman, Director, of Shunned & Sundew, Palm Canyon Theatre

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0800

Palm Canyon Theatre Director Shares Insights on Thought-Provoking New Plays

Join Bonnie G on this episode of The Desert Scene as she chats with the talented Judith Chapman, celebrated actress and director known for her remarkable work on shows like The Young and the Restless. Judith dives deep into her latest endeavor at the Palm Canyon Theatre, where she is directing two timely and thought-provoking companion plays: Shunned and Sundew. Shunned explores themes of acceptance and familial tensions within an Amish community, while Sundew highlights the urgent need to protect Mother Earth through the story of a determined woman safeguarding her land’s ecology. Judith shares fascinating insights on the authenticity involved in production, such as the handcrafted Amish costumes, and the extensive research undertaken. Learn about her dynamic cast, including both seasoned actors and exciting new talents, all united by a commitment to delivering powerful theatrical experiences. Listen in to discover more about these poignant productions opening in October.

#TheDesertScene #BonnieG #JudithChapman #PalmCanyonTheatre #TheYoungandtheRestless #Shunned #Sundew #AmishCommunity #ProtectMotherEarth #TimelyPlays #ThoughtProvokingTheatre #TheatreDirecting #PalmSpringsArts #AuthenticProduction #DynamicCast #StageProductions #TheatreInPalmSprings #mutualbroadcastingsystem

Terry Ray, Managing Director, The Bent - LGBTQ Theatre Company

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0800

Insight into The Bent’s Upcoming Season: Exciting Productions and Sneak Peeks

Join host Bonnie G on The Desert Scene as she welcomes Terry Ray, the Managing Director of The Bent LGBTQ Theatre Company, for an engaging conversation about their upcoming season. Terry reveals the exciting productions planned, including the thought-provoking play F**king Men, which tackles relevant LGBTQ+ themes, and the highlight of their season, I'll Eat You Last, featuring acclaimed actress Cathy Moriarty in a one-woman show about Hollywood super-agent Sue Mengers. Discover insights about the unique structure of their plays, the challenges of starting a theatre company from scratch, and the importance of telling LGBTQ+ stories in the vibrant Palm Springs community. Terry also discusses their fun and festive original Christmas musical, Skippy and Bitsy's All Star Christmas TV Extravaganza. Whether you're a local or visiting, this episode gives you a sneak peek into all the thrilling theater coming your way. Listen in for all the details!

#TheDesertScene #BonnieG #TerryRay #TheBentLGBTQTheatre #LGBTQTheatre #PalmSpringsTheatre #F**kingMen #IllEatYouLast #CathyMoriarty #SueMengers #LGBTQStories #TheatreSeason #PalmSpringsArts #TheatreCommunity #OriginalMusicals #ChristmasMusical #LocalTheatre #mutualbroadcastingsystem

Empowering Youth: CV Rep’s Howard Shangraw on Anti-Bullying Theater

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes Howard Shangraw, renowned acting instructor at CV Rep's Conservatory and Director of Before the Bell, this year's impactful anti-bullying student outreach production. Shangraw delves into CV Rep's admirable tradition of annually showcasing productions featuring local valley students, with themes that resonate socially and culturally in today's world. Tune in to discover how this initiative empowers young actors and promotes important conversations within the community. Together, they explore the power of theatre in addressing and challenging societal issues. Don’t miss this compelling discussion on art, education, and change!

#EmpowerYouth #AntiBullying #TheaterForChange #HowardShangraw #YouthEmpowerment #StopBullying #TheaterImpact #SocialChange #BullyingAwareness #CreativeActivism #PositiveChange #InspireYouth #CommunityTheater #ArtsInActivism #YouthVoices #CVRep #CoachellaValleyTheatre #TheDesertScene #BonnieG #Podcast #PalmSpringsUnifiedSchoolDistrict #PSUSD

Guest: Jeff Barnett, Movie Magic Cabaret Host

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 00:15:00 -0800

This week on The Desert Scene with Bonnie G., award-winning host Jeff Barnett returns to discuss his upcoming Movie Magic show at Revolution Stage Company on September 6th at 7:30 pm, highlighting the organic process of building the show with a talented cast. The group blends diverse personalities and vocal styles, including harmonies, to create a dynamic performance. Barnett shares his background, from his start in high school theater to his professional work, including his involvement in an AIDS benefit. The show promises a mix of familiar and lesser-known songs, inviting the audience on a musical journey. The cabaret features Charles Herrera, Kim Schroeder Long, Heather Joy, and accompaniment by Stephen Hulsey.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Brad Mercer, Radio Personality & Musician

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0800

Bonnie G welcomes Brad Mercer to The Desert Scene, highlighting his multi-talented career in radio, music, and movies. Brad's weekly radio show, Brad Mercer's Bands and Fans, has been running for 11 years and features unsigned and newly signed indie country rock artists. His band, Brad Mercer and The Profile, performs classic rock and original music locally. And, Brad's movie music includes Ride to Justice and A Sense of Stranger, with notable actors like Michael Fassbender and Neil McDonough. Hear about his song I'm Coming Home which has received praise from legendary The Beatles artist Paul McCartney, leading to potential collaboration, which he talks about in his conversation with Bonnie. Listeners can find more information on Brad's website, theprofileband.com.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Col. Mark Johnson, USArmy (Ret.), Author

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes Colonel Mark Johnson, USArmy (Ret.) to chat about his new book Scars and Strife. Johnson tells us how his own personal experience with PTSD and as a judge presiding over veteran treatment court inspired his writing.

To contact Col. Johnson, email: mejohnsonauthor@gmail.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Jerry Soria-Foust, Palm Springs Gay Men's Chorus

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G., Bonnie welcomes Jerry Soria-Foust, the talented Artistic Director of the Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus, as they embark upon their 25th Season. Tune in as Jerry shares exciting details about upcoming auditions and how community members can join the celebrated chorus. Get the inside scoop on the highly anticipated new season, which will feature a special concert series performing beloved tunes from the Disney Songbook. Discover the enchanting world of the Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus and uncover what has made them a Coachella Valley entertainment favorite among both locals and visitors. Don't miss this engaging episode filled with music, community, and inspiration.

#PSGMC #PalmSpringsGayMensChorus #DisneyMagic #AnniversaryCelebration #Podcasts #PodcastLove #BehindTheScenes #LGBTQ #DisneyFans #MagicMoments #25YearsOfMagic #CelebrateWithUs #PodcastCommunity #DisneyDreams #EntertainmentExcellence #JerrySoriaFoust #CoachellaValley #PalmSpringsMusic #GALAChorus #MutualBroadcastingSystem #TheDesertScene #BonnieG #PSGMCAuditions

The Desert Scene | Guest: David Green, Musical Theatre University

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes David Green, creator, producer and director of Musical Theatre University at Rancho Mirage High School. He shares details about the afterschool program, which trains young students on the art of musical theatre, including acting, singing and dance. Green also chats about the four big productions the students put on each year, as well as their upcoming performances at Willie's Restaurant in Rancho Mirage each Sunday in August.

MORE INFO: www.musicaltheatreuniversity.com

#TheDesertScene #BonnieG #DavidGreen #MusicalTheatreUniversity #RanchoMirageHighSchool #TheatreEducation #YoungPerformers #ActingClasses #SingingLessons #DanceTraining #StudentProductions #WilliesRestaurant #RanchoMirage #TheatrePerformance #CommunityTheatre #MutualBroadcastingSystem #Podcasts #CoachellaValley #PalmSprings #PSUSD

The Desert Scene | Guest: James Mortensen, V Wine Lounge and Martini Bar

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0800

Tune in to The Desert Scene with Bonnie G for an engaging conversation with James Mortensen, owner of The V Wine Lounge and Martini Bar in Palm Springs. Discover the vibrant live entertainment lineup, featuring talented local musicians, dazzling performances, and themed nights that promise fun and excitement. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this episode will leave you eager to experience the dynamic atmosphere and fun shows at this unique spot.

MORE INFO: www.vwinelounge.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: David Burnham, Broadway Performer

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes award-winning Broadway singer David Burnham. They discuss his impressive career, highlighting his journey from singing to pigs on a Southern California farm as a child to community theatre to Broadway to the cabaret stage. Burnham also shares exciting details about his upcoming show, part of the CV Rep Summer Cabaret series on July 25th. Tune in for an insightful conversation with this bright theatre talent. For show information, visit www.cvrep.org.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Julie Cardia, Entertainer

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 00:15:00 -0800

Catch the latest episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G, featuring an exclusive interview with the dynamic entertainer Julie Cardia! Julie, along with her twin sister Jana, is set to light up Cathedral City at the CV Rep on July 24th, as part of the highly-anticipated summer cabaret series. In their captivating show, Twinspiration, the Cardia twins showcase their impressive vocal range and comedic prowess, proving that while sibling competitiveness is real, it can also bring out the best in both of them. Julie shares behind-the-scenes stories of their journey, the thrill of performing together, and the unique bond they share that makes their performances truly unforgettable. Join Bonnie G and Julie Cardia as they delve into the magic of Twinspiration, the laughter, and the love that drives their success.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Angie Delaire, Singer

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes singer Angie Delaire, who's cabaret show Songs of the Movies takes place July 6th at Revolution Stage Company. Angie explains how her talent and the support of her musical Canadian family led her to her current singing career in the desert.

SHOW INFO: www.revolutionstagecompany.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Ken Page

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 00:15:00 -0800

Award-winning Broadway performer Ken Page joins Bonnie G. on this episode of The Desert Scene. Ken talks about his career, beginning at the MUNY in St. Louis through his star turn as Fats Waller in Ain't Misbehavin as well as his upcoming cabaret show at CV Rep.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Ann Greer, Palm Springs Air Museum

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 00:15:00 -0800

Despite the sweltering summer temperatures in the Coachella Valley, engaging and educational activities are still in abundance. In this episode of The Desert Scene, Ann Greer joins Bonnie G. to highlight exciting opportunities at the Palm Springs Air Museum, where visitors can explore historic war birds and even book a flight! Additionally, learn about an upcoming mid-July Act for MS event to support those living with Multiple Sclerosis. Held at Mission Hills, this fundraiser features jazz entertainment, a silent auction, and much more. Tune in for all the details!

The Desert Scene | Guest: Melissa Errico, Broadway Star

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G, it’s an exciting conversation with Tony-nominated Broadway star Melissa Errico. Melissa discusses her upcoming cabaret show at CV Rep on June 5th and 6th, blending Broadway and Jazz styles with a unique twist. Described as a fusion of Julie Andrews and Julie London, Melissa promises an unforgettable evening of music and entertainment.

For more information, CLICK HERE

The Desert Scene | Guest: Tommi Rose, Drag Entertainer

Mon, 20 May 2024 00:15:00 -0800

Longtime Coachella Valley personality and Drag Queen extraordinaire Tommi Rose joins Bonnie G. on this episode of The Desert Scene. They discuss Viva Variete, a new monthly variety show at The Roost Lounge in Cathedral City that begins on June 2. The debut show will feature desert divas Rose Mallett, Sharon Sills, and Siobhan Velarde.

For more information, CLICK HERE.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Melanie Blue, Improv Artist & Instructor

Mon, 20 May 2024 00:15:00 -0800

Improv Artist Melanie Blue joins Bonnie G. on this episode of The Desert Scene to talk about the upcoming Pop-Up Players event An Evening of Improvised Theatre that will take place on May 22 and 29 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. There is much more to the art of Improv than comedy. Find out the details by catching this episode.

For more information, CLICK HERE.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Dave Karger, TCM Host

Mon, 13 May 2024 00:15:00 -0800

Join Bonnie G on The Desert Scene as she welcomes special guest Dave Karger. Discover more about the film event moderated by Karger on May 25th, a fundraiser for the Palm Springs Cultural Center celebrating the 50th anniversary of the cult classic film The Day of the Locust directed by the late John Schlessinger with an amazing Q&A panel that includes Schlessinger’s partner Michael Childers who worked on the film and still resides in the Coachella Valley. Hear insights from Karger, a TCM host, on classic cinema, his career journey, and what makes this film timeless.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Siobhan Velarde, Singer

Mon, 13 May 2024 00:15:00 -0800

Tune in as Siobahn Velarde joins Bonnie G on The Desert Scene. Get the inside scoop on the Three Queens of Song tribute event honoring Etta James, Adele, and Janis Joplin, taking place at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. And, don't miss Siobahn's upcoming performance in Tommi Rose Presents Viva Variety at the Roost Lounge in Cathedral City happening on June 2. Learn more about both shows on this episode.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Jaci Davis, Singer & Musical Director

Mon, 06 May 2024 00:15:00 -0800

Prepare to be enchanted by the captivating Jaci Davis on The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. Join us for an insightful conversation as Davis gears up for a fantastic cabaret performance, Coulda, Woulda, Shoulda, Did, at the Revolution Stage Company in Palm Springs on May 19th at 7 pm. Hear from Davis about the evolution of her show, expanding the repertoire of songs and enhancing audience engagement since its debut in the Palm Canyon Theatre Cabaret Series a year and a half ago. Dive into the world of cabaret with Bonnie G and Jaci Davis on The Desert Scene for a truly unforgettable experience.

More Information: Revolution Stage Company

The Desert Scene | Guest: Glenn Rosenblum, Entertainer & Lecturer

Mon, 06 May 2024 00:15:00 -0800

Immerse yourself in the magic of Broadway with Bonnie G and guest Glenn Rosenblum on The Desert Scene. Explore the upcoming three-part Broadway show-stopping Broadway Showstoppers series performed by Rosenblum and presented as part of the CV Rep's Summer Cabaret, starting on May 22nd and continuing in June and July. Celebrate the Leading Ladies and Gentlemen of Broadway, the Golden Age of Broadway and Beyond, and Broadway’s Greatest Composers and Lyricists in this exciting lineup. You’ll also learn more about Rosenblum's insights and experience delivering entertainment lectures aboard Celebrity Cruise Lines' sailings. Join this conversation on The Desert Scene for an unforgettable journey into the world of Broadway.

More Information: CVRep

The Desert Scene | Guest: Alan K. Rode, Festival Director

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 00:15:00 -0800

Join Bonnie G. on The Desert Scene as she sits down with Arthur Lyons Film Noir Festival Director Alan K. Rode. Get an exclusive preview of the films lined up for the 25th-anniversary edition of the festival at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Discover the thrilling lineup and immerse yourself in the world of film noir with insights from Rode. Dive into the captivating stories and celebrate this milestone event with The Desert Scene.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Clifford Bell, Los Angeles Cabaret Director

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 00:15:00 -0800

Tune in to The Desert Scene with Bonnie G as she welcomes Los Angeles Cabaret Director Clifford Bell. Listen as he discusses his upcoming projects in Palm Springs - Bonnie's Dusty Springfield tribute show The Look of Love on May 3rd and Our Name is Barbra on May 6th featuring the music of Barbra Streisand performed by local Palm Springs talents at Revolution Stage Company. Don't miss out on these unforgettable performances!

The Desert Scene | Guest: Gina Zollman, Singer

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 00:15:00 -0800

Tune in to The Desert Scene as Bonnie G hosts a special episode featuring singer Gina Zollman discussing her upcoming Anne Murray tribute show. Get all the details on this can't-miss performance, set to debut on May 12th at the Arthur Newman Theatre in Palm Desert, before Zollman takes her talents to Canada, Anne Murray's birthplace. Join the conversation as Zollman shares her passion for paying homage to the legendary artist in this captivating episode.

SHOW INFO: SundayCabaretSeries@gmail.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Gary Phillips, Novelist

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 00:15:00 -0800

Join host Bonnie G on The Desert Scene as she sits down with acclaimed crime novelist Gary Phillips to discuss his gripping new book, Ash As Dark As Night. Tune in for an engaging conversation about Phillips' latest work and get insider details on his upcoming Q&A event at the Best Bookstore in Palm Springs on May 1st. Don't miss this exciting episode delving into the world of crime fiction with a literary master!

SHOW INFO: www.bestbookstore.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Steve Fisher, Script2Stage2Screen

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 00:16:00 -0800

Bonnie G. chats with Steve Fisher, Artistic Director of Script2Stage2Screen on this edition of The Desert Scene. He outlines the remaining season and explains why the company has decided to bring down the final curtain.

SHOW INFO: www.script2stage2screen.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: David Eggers, Director & Choreographer

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes David Eggers, Director/Choreographer of Nice Work If You Can Get It at CV Rep. David tells us about his career path and the challenges of successfully moving a cast of 17 around the stage.

SHOW INFO:

www.cvrep.org

The Desert Scene | Guest: Lee Mills, Palm Springs Friends of the Philharmonic

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 00:16:00 -0800

Lee Mills is the new Executive Director at the Palm Springs Friends of the Philharmonic. On this episode, he joins Bonnie G. for The Desert Scene. He recounts the journey he took to land this position, and what's planned for the 2024-2025 season.

SHOW INFO: www.PSPhil.org

The Desert Scene | Guest: Lorie Loftis, Shadow Mountain Golf Course

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes Lorie Loftis, who tells us what's coming up at the Shadow Mountain Golf Course, including a special Easter Sunday brunch, complete with art, fashion, and live music.

SHOW INFO: 760-346-8242

The Desert Scene | Guest: Joy Rides, Producer & Entertainer

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 00:17:00 -0800

Bonnie G. welcomes Joy Rides on this episode of The Desert Scene. She's producing and performing in Night of Joy, a "scandalous circus sideshow strip tease spectacular" at Revolution Stage Company.

SHOW INFO: www.revolutionstagecompany.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Tod Macofsky, Actor/Singer

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 00:16:00 -0800

Bonnie G. chats with actor/singer Tod Macofsky on this edition of The Desert Scene. Tod tells us about his role as the devil in Desert Theatreworks upcoming production of Damn Yankees.

SHOW INFO: www.deserttheatreworks.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Maureen Thompson, Alohana

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes Maureen Thompson, producer of Alohana at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Happening on Sunday, March 31st, the event features a Tiki Marketplace, Tiki Cocktails, live music, food and Hula demonstrations.

SHOW INFO: www.eventbrite.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Dan Gelfand, Producer

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 00:17:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. chats with Dan Gelfand, producer of Mid-century Moderns, which just had its 75th performance in the desert. The 1960's jukebox musical is running at Revolution Stage Company.

SHOW INFO: Revolutionary Stage Company

The Desert Scene | Guest: Maggie Downs, Author & Journalist

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 00:16:00 -0800

Journalist and author Maggie Downs joins Bonnie G. on this edition of The Desert Scene. Maggie talks about her latest book 50 Things to Do Before You're 5, based on her experience with her own son.

SHOW INFO: Amazon Book Store

The Desert Scene | Guest: Dayna Steele, Author & Speaker

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes award-winning radio dj, author and speaker Dayna Steele, whose play The Woman in the Mirror is now playing at Revolution Stage Company. It follows Dayna's journey of caring for her mother, who had Alzheimer's disease.

SHOW INFO: Revolutionary Stage Company

The Desert Scene | Guest: Aliece Pickett, Co-Founder, Film Society of Screwball Comedy

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 00:15:00 -0800

[Description Coming Soon]

The Desert Scene | Guest: Taryn Manning, Actress & Musician

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 00:15:00 -0800

[Description Coming Soon]

The Desert Scene | Guest: Jerome Elliott, Artistic Director

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 00:15:00 -0800

[Description Coming Soon]

The Desert Scene | Guest: Samuel D. Hunter, Playwright

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 00:15:00 -0800

[Description Coming Soon]

The Desert Scene | Guest: Jeff Hocker, Event Producer & Promoter

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 00:15:00 -0800

Palm Springs event producer and publicist Jeff Hocker returns to The Desert Scene to speak with Bonnie G. They discuss a busy spring with current events like Modernism to upcoming events with Palm Springs Friends of Philharmonic, The Coachella Valley Symphony, and the Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus featuring guest artist Christine W.

Show Links:

Hocker Productions

Palm Springs Friends of Philharmonic

The Coachella Valley Symphony

Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus

The Desert Scene | Guest: Rob Osler, Mystery Author

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes mystery writer Rob Osler. He discusses the March 6th event at Best Bookstore in Palm Springs where he will discuss his latest book, Cirque du Slay.

SHOW INFO: Shop The Book

The Desert Scene | Guest: Julie Cardia, Actress, CVRep

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. welcomes Julie Cardia, a New York and Los Angeles actress on this episode of The Desert Scene. Julie stars in POTUS or Behind Every Great Dumbass Are 7 Women Trying To Keep Him Alive at CV Rep, which opens February 28th. SHOW INFO: www.cvrep.org

The Desert Scene | Guest: Devin Orgeron, Deserted Films

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. chats with Devin Orgeron, co-founder of Deserted Films in Palm Springs. Find out about several upcoming presentations at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, including the Cinema On Ice series. SHOW INFO: www.psculturalcenter.org

The Desert Scene | Guest: Kim Schroeder Long, Actress/Singer

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 00:20:00 -0800

Actress/Singer Kim Schroeder Long joins Bonnie G. on The Desert Scene to chat about her cabaret show What Would Judy Do? The tribute to Judy Garland takes place February 11th as part of the Sunday Cabaret Series at the Arthur Newman Theatre in Palm Desert. For more information: www.SundayCabaretSeries.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Stan Zimmerman, Director, The New Century

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes Stan Zimmerman, Director of the upcoming production of The New Century presented by The Bent. Opening February 8th at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, the play is described as funny, touching and sexy. For more information: www.eventbrite.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Tim Mulligan, Playwright

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes playwright Tim Mulligan, who tells us about his first play, Witchland, which opens at Revolution Stage Company on February 7th. The play is based on Mulligan's experiences growing up in the city of Richland in Eastern Washington State, called "the most toxic place in the Western Hemisphere." The plot combines witchcraft with the dangers of a nearby nuclear reactor.

SHOW INFO: www.revolutionstagecompany.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Joel Baker, Pianist/Accompanist

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 00:15:00 -0800

Popular Coachella Valley pianist/accompanist Joel Baker joins Bonnie G. on this episode of The Desert Scene. He chats about his early career and his move to the desert, as well as a all-new open mic event that he's hosting at The Roost Lounge in Cathedral City. Joel also offers some do's and don'ts for folks considering attending their first open mic night.

SHOW INFO: www.theroostlounge.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Carolyn Gross, Re-Invention Strategist & Author

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 00:25:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. chats with Award-winning speaker, author and re-invention strategist Carolyn Gross about her upcoming event at the Sec-he Spa at the new Agua Caliente Cultural Center in Palm Springs. She also discusses how slowing down and "priming the canvas" before we attempt any big changes in our lives is the way to go.

SHOW INFO: www.creativesolutions.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Jason Mannino, Actor

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 00:20:00 -0800

Actor Jason Mannino joins Bonnie G. on this episode of The Desert Scene. He shares his thoughts on his role in Script2Stage2Screen's staged reading of Ed Friedman's new play, Let it Rain. The story revolves around a small community theatre's last-ditch efforts to save itself with a performance of the play The Rainmaker.

SHOW INFO: www.script2stage2screen.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Kristen Howe, Actress

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 00:15:00 -0800

On this edition of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes actress Kristen Howe, who is taking on the role of The Emcee in CV Rep's upcoming production of Cabaret. Kristen talks about the challenges of portraying a character most often played by a male actor. She also tells us about her early career, and originating a role in the show One Way Ticket to Hell.

SHOW INFO: www.cvrep.org

The Desert Scene | Guest: Robyn Cohen, Actress

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 00:25:00 -0800

This time on The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. chats with actress Robyn Cohen, who's featured in the cast of Dezart's next offering, What The Constitution Means To Me. Robyn's extensive resume, with many New York and L.A. credits, includes a Desert Theatre League win for Best Supporting Actress in Romance, Romance at CV Rep - her last appearance in Palm Springs. Her current role addresses how the Constitution affects the lives of women and minorities - past, present and future. For info and tickets go to www.dezart.org.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Susan Edwards Martin, Broadway Performer

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 00:20:00 -0800

Susan Edwards Martin joins Bonnie G. to discuss Live, Laugh, Love - a Sondheim Celebration. coming up January 18, 2024 at the Helene Galen Performing Arts Center at Rancho Mirage High School. A Broadway veteran, Susan joins a star-studded cast of cabaret artists, including Eileen Barnett, Jason Grah, and Julie Garnye, along with the students of the high school's Musical Theatre University for this event. For tickets and info, go to www.musicaltheatreguild.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Marc Saltarelli, Film Director

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes award-winning film director, Marc Saltarelli, director of Studio One Forever which is being featured at this year's Palm Springs Film Festival. The documentary tells the story of Studio One, the first gay nightclub in the United States, which opened in 1974. Marc shares details about what went on behind the scenes and some of the big names who frequented the club. For more info, go to www.studiooneforever.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Josh Joachim Moore, Creative Director, Inner Circle

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. is joined by Josh Joachim Moore, Founder and Creative Director of The Inner Circle, the only black-owned arts group in the Coachella Valley. Moore chats about an independent film they produced, Nathaniel, the story of Nat King Cole. It opens at the PS Cultural Center on December 22. For more info, go to: https://www.psculturalcenter.org

The Desert Scene | Guest: Devin Orgeron & Melissa Dollman, Deserted Films

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. welcomes Melissa Dollman and Devin Orgeron on this episode of The Desert Scene. Their company, Deserted Films, is presenting an event called Holiday Oddities at the Palm Springs Cultural Center December 20th. It features fun vintage holiday home movies that showcase interesting landmarks in the Coachella Valley. For more information and tickets, go to www.psculturalcenter.org.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Kryzstofer Stefanic, Moving Pictures Symposium Archive

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. chats with Kryzstofer Stefanic from the Moving Picture Symposium Archive about the upcoming screening of an original 35mm print of The Exorcist at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. It features a dynamic mono soundtrack that gives the viewer a unique movie-going experience, which won an Academy Award. The event will include a Q&A featuring actress Eileen Deetz (the face of the demon Pazuzu) For tickets, go to www.psculturalcenter.org.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Jaci Davis, Actress & Musical Director

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes award-winning actress/musical director Jaci Davis. Jaci has several projects coming up, including handling the musical direction of Elf, the Musical at the Palm Canyon Theatre. For Tickets: https://www.palmcanyontheatre.com Later in the season, she'll perform her own one-woman cabaret show at Revolution Stage Company.

The Desert Scene | Guest: David Catanzarite, Green room Theatre Company

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Green room Theatre Company Executive Artistic Director David Catanzarite joins Bonnie G. on this episode of The Desert Scene. He shares details on upcoming auditions for the theatre's next touring play, Maggie Magalita, their "Giving Tuesday" program, and their search for Ballet Folklorica teachers, as well as the search for a creative team for a soon-to-be-produced play on housing issues. For information: https://www.grtccv.org.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Hope Diamond, Blues Vocalist

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Local blues/jazz diva Hope Diamond pays a visit on The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. Hope has two big events coming up. She’ll be appearing as guest vocalist with the Palm Springs Gay Men's Chorus holiday concert Ring! Swing! Sing! at the Annenberg Theatre in Palm Springs in December 14th through the 17th.

Tickets are on sale at https://psgmc.com/

On Wednesday, December 20th, join her for the 7 pm performance of Hope Diamond and Friends, a Bluesy Holiday, part of the Agua Caliente’s Desert Blues Revival collection in the Cascade Lounge at the Palm Springs casino.

Tickets are on sale at: https://www.eventbrite.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Kirby Fields, Playwright

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes playwright Kirby Fields. He shares about his play, Summer Session with the Bones Brigade, which opens at CV Rep on December 7th. The play grew out of his experience skateboarding as a kid. Kirby also chats about how his career as a playwright has evolved.

For more information: https://www.cvrep.org

The Desert Scene | Guest: Tysen Knight, Artist

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Award-winning artist Tysen Knight was recently bestowed with the Visionary Award honors at a large New York art expo and having his documentary film about homeless artists being named an official selection at festivals in Italy and Germany. He shares the news and talks about his journey to these accomplishments with Bonnie G. on this episode of The Desert Scene. Get more information by visiting https://www.tysenknight.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Gary Powers, Revolution Stage Company

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Actor, director and creator of the Revolution Stage Company, Gary Powers, visits with Bonnie G. on this episode of The Desert Scene. He’s lighting up with enthusiasm about the recent success of Off The Street, an original stage production he wrote about the homeless population which has been getting raves. There’s also details on upcoming events you wont want to miss including cabaret shows starring Rose Mallett and Brian Scott. For more details, visit https://www.revolutionstagecompany.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Ann Greer, Holiday Event Publicist

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 00:15:00 -0800

The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. welcomes Ann Greer to share information about two fun events happening soon. The online Designer Christmas Tree Sale benefitting ACT for MS including designs by George Turner and Barbara Sellers is upon us. As is the holiday fundraiser The Gift of Love & Laughter, which benefits the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute taking place at the Indian Wells Theatre on December 2. That performance features pianist Bill Marx and Broadway producer Cash Baxter. More information is available at: https://www.csusb.edu/olli/events

The Desert Scene | Guest: Candi Quaid, Singer & Entertainer

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. chats with with singer/entertainer/music teacher Candi Quaid. Candi gives us details on upcoming projects including her January 14th show, which is part of the Sunday Cabaret series at the Joslyn Center's Arthur Newman Theatre in Palm Desert.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Michael Holmes, The Purple Room

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Purple Room proprietor Michael Holmes joins Bonnie G. for this episode of Mutual111’s The Desert Scene. Holmes fills us in on what's coming up at Palm Springs' premiere nightclub, including special holiday editions of one of the Valley’s most-beloved performances: The Judy Show. He also talks about the return of Jane Monheit. For more information, visit the Purple Room website: www.purpleroompalmsprings.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Matt Naylor, Well In The Desert

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Well In The Desert President Matt Naylor joins Bonnie G. on this episode of The Desert Scene. He chats about the work the Well does to feed the homeless, and about Off the Street, a play about the valley's homeless situation he co-wrote with Jeanie Cunningham, which will premiere at Revolution Theatre. For info, go to: revolutionstagecompany.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Kristi King, Singer

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes singer Kristi King, who begins a residency at the Indian Wells Resort Hotel on November 14th. Kristi began singing professionally at the age of 10 and spent many years performing in Las Vegas. For reservations, call 760-797-8700.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Michael Fietsam, PS Underground

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 00:15:00 -0800

The Desert Scene welcomes Michael Fietsam, creator and director of PS Underground, a one-of-a-kind Palm Springs culinary and musical experience. Fietsam talks about how the project has blossomed over the last 10 years, and describes upcoming shows, including "Light" and "Songbirds," which features music of female pop divas of the 70's. For info: psunderground.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Bob Farran, ONE-PS New Neighborhood Development

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 00:15:00 -0800

On this edition of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. chats with Bob Farran of ONE-PS, the organized neighborhoods of Palm Springs. He's the chairperson for the Lip Sync Battle event on November 12th to raise money for local charities. Hosted by Shann Carr and held at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, it features prominent local residents presenting their best lip sync performances. Judges include singer Keisha D and drag personality Tommi Rose. For info: www.ONE-PS.org.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Lisa Vroman, Actress

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. welcomes Broadway veteran Lisa Vroman to this episode of The Desert Scene. Her credits include a long run as Christine in Phantom of the Opera. Lisa is part of the cast of The Fantasticks - A Love Story Reimagined, which opens November 1st at CV Rep. For info, go to cvrep.org.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Jeff Hocker, Event Producer

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. chats with Palm Springs event producer Jeff Hocker about a couple of must-attend happenings. This year's Halloween bash on Arenas Road In Palm Springs features Jessica Von Rabbit and her band, and a costume contest. In November, it's the Palm Springs Food and Wine Festival with great wineries from throughout the USA and around the world, plus some of the world's finest chefs with cooking demos and food tasting parties, too. For info, go to palmspringsfoodandwine.org.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Steve Fisher, Script2Stage2Screen

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 00:15:00 -0800

The Desert Scene welcomes Steve Fisher, Artistic Director of Script2Stage2Screen, to chat about the group's upcoming season of staged readings of original works. Opening in late October, the season features eight plays, including comedies, dramas and a bit of science fiction. Performances are held at the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Desert in Rancho Mirage. For more info, CLICK HERE.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Elaine Church, Amy's Purpose

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. chats with Elaine Church, Executive Board Member of Amy's Purpose, and Chair of the organization's upcoming fundraising fashion show and luncheon. The mission of Amy's Purpose is to raise awareness about pet safety and the threat of coyotes in the desert, AND to provide scholarships to students planning on entering the veterinary field. For more info, CLICK HERE.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Carolyn Gross, Author & Professional Speaker

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. chats with author and professional speaker Carolyn Gross. To help celebrate her 20th year as a cancer survivor, she's putting on a local wellness event. It's called the 3-Day Palm Springs Retreat - (Restore, Relax, and Redefine Your Life). Attendees can spend time in the sacred healing waters & get tips on how to clear out old emotional patterns. For information, go to gravitatetohealth.com.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Terry Ray, Actor, Director & Coach

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 00:15:00 -0800

This episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes actor, director and acting coach Terry Ray. His theatre company, The Bent, is offering its first full season of plays, presented at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Terry has also opened a Palm Springs branch of the famed Actor's Lab, offering acting classes for all ability levels. For more info, go to theactorslab@me.com.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Jerome Elliott, Artistic Director, Desert Ensemble Theatre Company

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 00:15:00 -0800

This episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. features Desert Ensemble Theatre Company Artistic Director Jerome Elliott, speaking about the season opening fundraiser, Singing with the Desert Stars. The event features 7 veteran professional singers coaching seven local business leaders. The audience votes on their favorites at the end of the evening. All proceeds go to DETC's scholarship program. For more info, go to desertensembletheatre.org.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Michael Craft, Author, Desert Deadline

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G celebrates another local author and fresh new literature by speaking with Michael Craft on this episode of The Desert Scene. Michael introduces his 19th novel, Desert Deadline. It's the second in the Dante and Jazz mystery series. Set in Palm Springs, the book follows Dante - a vacation rental concierge and Jazz, a private eye, as they try to solve a baffling murder. Available wherever books are sold or visit www.michaelcraft.com.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Ellen Goodman, Director, The Foundation for PSUSD

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 00:15:00 -0800

The Foundation for Palm Springs Unified School District’s Director Ellen Goodman talks with Bonnie G on this episode of The Desert Scene. She fills us in on the foundation's 2nd Annual Party with a Purpose on Saturday, October 7th at the Palm Springs Air Museum. This year's theme is One NIght in Bollywood and tickets are available for a very reasonable $35 each. The event features, food, cocktails, dancing and Indian music. For tickets and info go you can Contact Ellen by e-mail at: egoodman@psusd.us

The Desert Scene | Guest: Dimitri Halkidis, Boo2 Bullying

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G chats with Dimitri Halkidis, founder of Boo2 Bullying, an organization dedicated to raising awareness about bullying and finding a way to end it. He shares information about a Free Community Wellness Event at Sunrise Park on September 30th that will celebrate the 10th anniversary of Boo2 Bullying. For more info Visit: boo2bullying.org/events.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Doug Graham, Razzle Dazzle

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 00:15:00 -0800

[Description Coming Soon]

The Desert Scene | Guest: Michael Shaw, Dezart Performs

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 00:15:00 -0800

[Description Coming Soon]

The Desert Scene | Guest: Adam Karstan, CV Rep

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 00:15:00 -0800

[Description Coming Soon]

The Desert Scene | Guest: David Catanzarite, Green Room Theatre Company

Mon, 15 May 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. closes out this season of The Desert Scene by welcoming David Catanzarite, Founder and Executive Artistic Director of the Green Room Theatre Company. The company is a 501(c)3, which has produced many innovative projects in its fourteen-year existence bringing high quality theatre and education to desert communities. David talks about the organization’s recent move to Coachella. There, they hope to bring the theatrical experience to underserved communities in the East Valley.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Ron de Harte, Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast

Mon, 08 May 2023 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes Ron de Harte, President of Greater Palm Springs Pride. He tells us about the upcoming Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast, and Leadership Award winner Ricardo Lara. The breakfast honors Milk, who was the first openly gay elected official in California, who left a strong legacy of diversity and inclusion following his 1978 assassination. For tickets to the luncheon, go to www.harveymilk.us

The Desert Scene | Guest: Kitty Murray, Actress & Producer

Mon, 08 May 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. chats with actress/producer KItty Murray about the new venue for Aces. After a successful run at Oscar's, this very funny play about the beauty pageant biz opens at the Palm Springs Cultural Center for six Sunday matinees beginning May 14th. Written by Davis Gordon Gilbert and directed by soap opera veteran Judith Chapman, this comedy reveals what happens when five former beauty queens reunite for a special television show. When the champagne starts flowing, the claws come out. Tickets at www.psculturalcenter.org or www.eventbrite.org

The Desert Scene | Guest: Jerome Elliott, Cabaret Performer

Mon, 01 May 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Jerome Elliott returns to The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. on this episode. He just finished up a season at Desert Theatre Ensemble Company as Artistic Director. He stays busy this month as he performs his one-man cabaret show twice in May at the Palm Springs Cultural Center: Cocktails and Classics. In mid-May Elliott will be a guest performer in Razzle Dazzle, which is also at the Cultural Center on May 18.

For more information, CLICK HERE.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Clifford Bell, Cabaret Producer

Mon, 01 May 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. welcomes back Los Angeles cabaret producer Clifford Bell. He's putting together a big event for Project Angel Food. It's the 25th anniversary of Our Name is Barbra. Several artists get together and celebrate Ms. Streisand's birthday by each singing something from her songbook. Past shows have featured many great performers including Ann Hampton Callaway, Melissa Manchester, and Sheryl Lee Ralph. The event will take place at the Catalina Jazz Club. Hear more about the show and Clifford's other endeavors including a show coming up later in May at the Palm Springs Cultural Center featuring Ms. Gilgallon herself.

More information, CLICK HERE!

The Desert Scene | Guest: Jeff Barnett, Entertainer

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Jeff Barnett, who will be the special guest host for the two May Razzle Dazzle shows happening at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, joins Bonnie G. He also hosts Movie Magic at the Cultural Center, which features fabulous movie theme songs over the past five decades. And, Jeff previews a special cabaret show he will perform with Charles Herrera in June at Feinstein's in San Francisco.

For Razzle Dazzle tickets, CLICK HERE.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Robert Koenig, Artistic Director

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. speaks with Robert Koenig, the new Artistic Director for the Palm Springs International Piano Competition. Koenig talks about how the competition continues to evolve, including changing its name from the Virginia Waring Piano Competition. Their next big event is coming up in 2025. For more info, CLICK HERE.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Michael Shaw, Dezart Performs

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 00:15:00 -0800

The Desert Scene welcomes back Michael Shaw, Artistic Director of Dezart Performs, who gives us details about their current production, The Garbologists. The new comedy-drama by Lindsay Joelle is described as an "unconventional buddy comedy." It follows two sanitation workers - an African-American woman from a privileged background and a white "mansplainer" as they work several shifts picking up garbage. The play honors our essential workers, and highlights how we can find common ground in uncommon times. For tickets, go to www.dezartperforms.org

The Desert Scene | Guest: Beth Lapides, Author & Comedienne

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. welcomes comedienne/author Beth Lapides, whose show It's a Lot is coming up at the Palm Springs Cultural Center on May 3rd. Beth Is the creator, host and executive producer of the legendary, long-running UnCabaret. The show has been called "a progressive comedy institution." Beth is also the author of the original audio book So You Need to Decide, named one of Vulture's best comedy books of 2022. For tickets go to: thebent.org or eventbrite.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Jerry R. Soria-Foust, Palm Springs Gay Men's Chorus

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. chats with Jerry R. Soria-Foust, Artistic Director of the Palm Springs Gay Men's Chorus. Their spring concert, Notorious celebrates the music of leading ladies, divas, & sirens of the stage and screen. The show runs April 28, 29 and 30th at the Annenberg Theatre at the Palm Springs Art Museum, and features special guest Sharon McKnight. For tickets, go to: www.PSGMC.com

The Desert Scene | Guest: Dana Adkins, Actress/Singer

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 00:15:00 -0800

On this edition of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. chats with actress/singer Dana Adkins, currently starring in Aces at Oscar's in Palm Springs. Dana shares stories of her own days competing in beauty pageants, and how her experience compared to the plot of Aces. The play takes a comic look at the reunion of 5 beauty queens, 35 years after they each won the crown.

For tickets, CLICK HERE.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Kirk & Noelle Geiger, The Animal Rescue Center of California

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. welcomes Kirk Geiger, who along with his wife Noelle founded The Animal Rescue Center of California, based in the Eastern Coachella Valley. Since they began a few years ago, the organization has found forever-homes for 700 dogs and cats. Their first in-person fundraiser takes place on April 1st (no foolin’!) at Marvyn's Magic Theatre in La Quinta.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Kim Shroeber Long, Actress-Vocalist

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 00:45:00 -0800

On this episode of the The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. talks with actress Kim Shroeber Long about her career and about Razzle Dazzle, the upcoming Broadway revue she's part of at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Kim's journey has taken her from rural Ohio, to the Bay Area, to Pasadena, and now to the Desert Cities. Kim discusses how public television shaped her desire to become a musical performer.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Richard Balocco, Desert Arc Golf Classic

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 00:30:00 -0800

Desert Arc's 13th Annual Golf Classic takes place on April 3rd at the Eagle Falls Golf Course and Fantasy Springs Resort Casino. Bonnie G. chats with Desert Arc's President and CEO Richard Balocco about the event. He also gives us details about the work the organization does for valley residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

For more information, CLICK HERE.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Suzie Wourms, Actress, Prepping For Widowhood

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. welcomes actress Suzie Wourms, appearing in Prepping For Widowhood, the latest offering from Script2Stage2Screen on March 24, 2023. This comedic play is about four women who have been friends since college and call themselves the Four Seasons, since each was born in a different season of the year. One is a widow, and the others are preparing for that probability.

CLICK HERE for more information.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Jeroen Sparreboom, Mama's House Charity Tournament

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. talks with Jeroen Sparreboom on this episode of The Desert Scene. He is co-chairing the 2nd Annual Mama’s House Charity Golf Classic & Dinner Show dubbed Oh, What a Night! It’s a musical tribute to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons coming up on Friday, March 24. More information and tickets are available by visiting the website: CLICK HERE

The Desert Scene | Guest: Gina Zollman, Vocalist

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Gina Zollman is a vocalist from Palm Springs and joins Bonnie G. on this episode of The Desert Scene. She talks about the upcoming special event where she will perform songs from her debut CD, Anywhere With You, at the Catalina Jazz Club in Hollywood on March 22. The event will also feature two other local performers from the Coachella Valley. Tod Macofsky joins Gina for some duets, and Douglas Graham directs.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Adam Karsten, Artistic Director, CV Rep

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 00:15:00 -0800

In this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. chats with CV Rep's Artistic Director Adam Karsten, who directed the theatre's current production of Once. The musical has been so well-received that the run has been extended. Karsten also gives us detail about future productions, and Puttin' On the Glitz - a gala fundraiser coming up later this month.

For more information, CLICK HERE.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Jerome Elliott, Artistic Director, Desert Ensemble Theatre

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. welcomes Jerome Elliott, Artistic Director of Desert Ensemble Theatre Company. He tells us about the company's upcoming World Premiere production of Kafka's Joke by Rich Rubin. This comedy recounts 120 years in the life (and afterlife) of writer Franz Kafka, who was a reluctant celebrity, and how the question of who owed his work ended up in the Israeli Supreme Court.

For more information CLICK HERE.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Judith Chapman, Actress-Director

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. chats with stage and television actress Judith Chapman (The Young and the Restless), who is directing a new play called Aces, which opens at Oscar's March 9th. Six well-known valley actresses play aging beauty queens who gather for a reunion and are called upon to coach a young woman new to the pageant scene. The champagne flows, insults fly, and hilarity ensues.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Aviva Pressman, Actress

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. welcomes Los Angeles based actress Aviva Pressman, who's starring in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Gynecologic Oncology Unit at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, the latest offering from Dezart Performs. Directed by Randy Brenner, it tells the story of two older female cancer patients who are sharing a hospital room. Pressman plays one patient's daughter, who handles the situation very differently than the other patient's adult son.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Jeff Hocker, Hocker Productions

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Palm Springs event producer and public relations professional Jeff Hocker sits a spell with Bonnie G. on this episode of The Desert Scene to update us on happenings in the Coachella Valley. He previews the rest of the season for the Palm Springs Friends of the Philharmonic, and chats about the recent Palm Springs Health Run and Wellness Festival and tells us about Reforma, an exciting new restaurant and club in town. Jeff also shares thoughts on how the performing arts and social scene has changed over the past 20 years.

For more information or to engage his services, visit Hocker Productions.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Cheryl Scarlett, Jewish Family Service of the Desert

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. welcomes Cheryl Scarlett, Director of Major Gifts and Fundraising for Jewish Family Service of the Desert. She tells us about an exciting fundraiser coming up on March 1st and 2nd. How Sweet It Is - The Music of Motown will take place at PS Underground - described as a dining experience you will never forget. The event honors Bea Keats and Jerry Fogelson with the JFS Humanitarian Award. For tickets and info, email: cscarlett@jfsdesert.org.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Clifford Bell, Cabaret Producer

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. welcomes L.A. cabaret producer Clifford Bell, who previews some of his upcoming projects, including hosting and directing a special open mic at the Palm Springs Cultural Center to honor the life of the late Les Michaels.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Shirley LeMaster, Actress

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. chats with actress Shirley LeMaster about her role in Script2Stage2Screen's next production, A Cozy Murder.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Al Jones, Chair, Palm Springs Sister City Committee

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Palm Springs is welcoming it's first "Sister City." San Miguel de Allende, located in Mexico's central highlands, is known for its baroque Spanish architecture, thriving arts scene and cultural festivals. Al Jones, who heads the Sister City Committee in Palm Springs, talks with Bonnie G. on this episode of The Desert Scene about a series of events that kick off this week in forging this official relationship with the Coachella Valley's signature city.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Richard Balocco, Desert ARC

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Desert ARC's President and CEO Richard Balocco, joins Bonnie G. and talks about the services the organization provides to more than 700 clients across the Coachella Valley. They will be hosting their 5th Annual Champions of Change Recognition Awards luncheon honoring people and enterprises in the community who have made a tremendous positive impact on the organization's operations on February 8th. Listen in for the details!

The Desert Scene | Guest: Jan Lupia, Mama's House

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Jan Lupia, Founder and Executive Director of Mama's House, discusses their annual Heartbeat of Love Luncheon. The Keynote speaker will Dr. Ben Carson.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Ruth Moir, Steinway Society

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. welcomes Ruth Moir, Executive Director of the Steinway Society, to chat about their upcoming fundraiser, Bravo - Children in Music, honoring musician and radio personality Jimi "FITZ" Fitzgerald.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Jill Miller | Topic: Scholarship Fundraiser Luncheon

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. visits with Jill Miller. She is the Chair of the Springs Country Club Educational Scholarship Fund. They are hosting their annual Scholarship Luncheon, which helps raise money to send some deserving Coachella Valley students to college. The event is coming up this month and she shares the details.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Dan Gelfand | Topic: Mid-Century Moderns Musical

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene, host Bonnie G. welcomes Dan Gelfand, the producer of the new musical Mid-Century Moderns. After a successful run at the Desert Rose Playhouse last year, the show dubbed "a jukebox musical at its best," has moved to Oscar's in Palm Springs. It features the music of Tom Jones, Petula Clark, Lesley Gore and Frank Sinatra.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Eric Patrick Harper, Actor

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Award-winning Los Angeles-based actor Eric Patrick Harper is preparing to star in Dezart Performs upcoming dark comedy A Bright New Boise. The show will run from January 13 to 22. Eric joins Bonnie G. on The Desert Scene and talks about the show that involves Hobby Lobby and the tragic past of a new employee.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Tysen Knight, Artist

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. welcomes local desert-area artist Tysen Knight on this episode to discuss several upcoming projects including his Black History Exhibit at the Desert Art Center in Palm Springs and the Los Angeles Art Show at the L.A. Convention Center.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Larry Capeloto, Singer

Fri, 25 Nov 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. welcomes crooner Larry Capeloto to The Desert Scene. He has just kicked off his 7th season performing at the Indian Wells Resort Hotel.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Joe Croyle, Jazz Pianist/Singer

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Jazz pianist/singer Joe Croyle joins Bonnie G. to preview two great new musical jams he's hosting...at Woodhaven Country Club and at Jax Restaurant in Cathedral City on this episode of The Desert Scene.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Anna Miller, Animal Advocate

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. chats on this episode of The Desert Scene with animal advocate Anna Miller about a wonderful free service she has spearheaded to scan lost pets for chips so they can be reunited with their owners.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Michael Holmes | Topic: The Judy Show at the Purple Room

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 00:15:00 -0800

The multi-talented Michael Holmes, owner of the Purple Room nightclub joins Bonnie G. on this episode of The Desert Scene. He shares a preview of the long-awaited return of The Judy Show in Palm Springs.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Lorie Loftis | Topic: Events at Shops on San Pablo

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. she is joined by Lorie Loftis, owner of The Shops on San Pablo. She discusses a variety of upcoming events at the venue, including fashion shows, music and a live auction.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Svetlana Portnyansky | Topic: JFS Desert Music Event

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. welcomes cantor and internationally acclaimed singer Svetlana Portnyansky, who'll be presenting a special program at Temple Sinai, sponsored by Jewish Family Services of the Desert. A graduate of one of Moscow's prestigious music academies, Svetlana sings in four languages. A portion of the proceeds from this event will benefit a Ukrainian Relief Fund.

The Desert Scene | Guests: John Diskin & Rita Capponi | Topic: Grand Central Café

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. chats with John Diskin and Rita Capponi, founders and co-owners of Grand Central Cafe in the La Plaza Center in the heart Palm Springs. It features a diverse menu, special Tequila Thursdays, an in-house art gallery, and rental space for special events. They've adopted the catchphrase used by their namesake, Grand Central Station in New York City - "Meet Us Under The Clock!"

The Desert Scene | Guest: Marnie Mitze | Topic: Palm Springs Philharmonic

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. welcomes Marnie Mitze of the Friends of the Palm Springs Philharmonic. Their exciting season featuring symphonies from around the world kicks of November 2nd with the Israel Philharmonic featuring Conductor Lahav Shani. For more information and tickets, CLICK HERE.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Dr. Lisa Lindley | Topic: Coachella Valley Symphony

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. chats with Dr. Lisa Lindley, CEO of the Coachella Valley Symphony about their new performance home at the Rancho Mirage Amphitheatre. She also previews the Symphony's 2022/2023 Concert Series, including the March event which features the music of the Moody Blues. For more information and to get tickets, visit their website by CLICKING HERE.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Stephanie Greene | Topic: First Fridays El Paseo

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Stephanie Greene joins Bonnie G. on The Desert Scene about the kickoff of First Fridays El Paseo, a monthly evening of fun events along the desert’s ritzy shopping district. Stephanie talks about El Paseo’s emergence post-pandemic and many exciting happenings including an Art Walk and a Cruise Night with classic cars. The retail heart of Palm Desert has also enhanced transportation for shoppers from one end to the other and you’ll learn more about that.

For more information, CLICK HERE.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Jeff Barnett | Topic: Live Music at Palm Springs Cultural Center

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Veteran Broadway singer Jeff Barnett entertains audiences in Palm Springs and joins Bonnie G. for conversation about two upcoming shows he's part of at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. First up is happening this week with the October edition of Razzle Dazzle on the 27th. Then, on November 11th, film soundtrack fans are in for a treat that’s no trick! It’s Movie Magic! Listen in for all the details.

For more information, CLICK HERE.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Carlynne McDonnell, Founder, Barkee Laroux's House of Love

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Carlynne McDonnell is the Founder and President of Barkee Laroux's House of Love, which rescues abandoned, neglected, and hospice senior dogs and provides them with forever homes. She chats with Bonnie G about her mission to provide care and end of life options for these vulnerable animals, and what it takes to keep this vital organization up and running. Carlynne stresses that at Barkee Laroux's, the resident animals are NEVER left unattended, and are NEVER adopted out.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Sherry Halperin, Author & Filmmaker

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Writer-Producer-Director Sherry Halperin talks with Bonnie G about her spicy, funny new book, Mistress Molly (and Her Senior Sex Club). She produced the award-winning feature film Adopt a Sailor, and was past president of Palm Springs Women in Film and Television. Sherry's new book, and first two, Rescue Me, He's Wearing a Moose Hat, and the romantic comedy Just Call Me Lady, have all been optioned for possible films. Sherry is a humorist who strongly believes in the power of laughter to heal.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Thom McMorris | Topic: Razzle Dazzle

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Former educator and performer Thom McMorris is joining Razzle Dazzle with Bonnie G. In this episode, he talks about his past with his mother as a dance teacher, his joys of being a performer, and his thoughts on the art of singing.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Jeff Hocker | Topic: Palm Springs Halloween 2022

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 00:15:00 -0800

All the party goblins are coming out this Halloween season to boogie in style. Jeff Hocker is the producer of the annual Palm Springs Halloween on Arenas Road. He joins Bonnie G. on this episode of The Desert Scene to talk about this year's star-studded line-up featuring more treats than tricks including multiple artists that will be familiar to fans of American Idol, local performers Probe 7, and the fabulous costume contest for attendees.

For more details, CLICK HERE.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Michael Shaw | Topic: Dezart Performs 2022-23 Season

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Dezart Performs is kicking off its 15th Season with Drama Desk- and Obie Award-winning plays that will highlight the 2022-2023 schedule. Artistic Director Michael Shaw joins Bonnie G on this episode of The Desert Scene and talks about the company’s progress as a equity theatre and upcoming shows including Tony-nominated drama Choir Boy, which will be staged from October 28 to November 6, and is followed by the dark comedy A Bright New Boise in mid-January.

For more information, CLICK HERE.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Julie Garnyé | Topic: Michael Childers Presents One Night Only: New York, New York

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 00:15:00 -0800

One of the season’s biggest events in the Coachella Valley – this one benefiting the Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center – takes place on Wednesday, November 9th at 6 pm at the McCallum Theatre. That’s when the 16th annual installment of Michael Childers Presents One Night Only will bring to life the Broadway sounds of New York, New York! On this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G she visits with Julie Garnyé, who is one of more than twenty stars of stage and screen performing in this year’s extravaganza.

CLICK HERE for Tickets

The Desert Scene | Guest: Joni Padduck | Topic: Script2Stage2Screen

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Joni Padduck is joining Bonnie G on this episode to talk about the upcoming season of Script2Stage2Screen. It all starts on October 21st with "Don't Vote For Me". A political feel-good story about how far one will go to save the heart and soul of a small town. This will be among many stage reading performances and an opportunity for playwrights to gain wisdom from their audience.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Eevet Edens | Topic: Paint El Paseo Pink!

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 00:15:00 -0800

The Desert Cancer Foundation's Eevet Eden joins for a conversation on the upcoming 16th Annual "Paint El Paseo Pink". A community walk that helps raise funds for local Palm Springs residents seeking breast cancer treatment, and emotional support. In this episode, find out how to help out in the community, how to sign up for the event and what you can do to help local cancer fighters.

The Desert Scene: Jerome Elliot and "Singing with the Desert Stars!"

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Jerome Elliot joins Bonnie G. to talk to about Singing with the Desert Stars. A one-time performance that will benefit the Desert Ensemble Theatre's internship and scholarship program on October 7th. The event includes coaching from the desert's best singers and some healthy singing competition. Hear all about it on this episode!

The Desert Scene: Ellen Goodman on One Night Out Havana Nights

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 00:15:00 -0800

This episode's special guest is Ellen Goodman, Director for The Foundation of PSUSD (Palm Springs Unified School District). A non-profit designed to raise money for local schools. She talks about One Night Out: Havana Nights, an event of Cuban inspired vintage music with many guest stars. All raising money for a great cause!

The Desert Scene: Pet Love and Rock & Roll and Amy's Purpose

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 00:15:00 -0800

DeAnn Lubell's life forever changed when tragedy struck her dog Amy. In the midst of it, she decided to begin "Amy's Purpose", an organization that educates the public about pet safety and the dangers of predators. "Pet Love and Rock & Roll" is an upcoming benefit concert and reception that will help raise funds for scholarships specifically cater to meet the need for more vets. DeAnn talks with Bonnie G. about her goal in educating the public, her tragedy, and the exciting guests that will performing.

The Desert Scene: Robbie Wayne's UnScripted

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Robbie Wayne is transitioning into a new era of his life with UnScripted! An upcoming series of live shows described as a mix of "SNL", musical guests, and late night. Bonnie G and Robbie Wayne will be discussing his life changes, musical ambitions and potential guests for his show!

The Desert Scene | Julie Garnye

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Singer and Performer Julie Garnye made a name for herself, and became the only Non-New York based performer to be invited and appear in the all-star Stephen Schwartz tribute concert. She has performed songs from a variety of shows like Hair, CATS, Wicked, Bye Bye Birdie, and West Side Story. In this episode, she talks with Bonnie G. talks about her latest show, her upbringing and how she saved a show when Idina Menzel cancelled! You wouldn't want to miss that one!

The Desert Scene | Craig Pomranz

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Singer Craig Pomranz was once described by Teddy King as an artist that one can listen to over and over again. He has embraced the Great Songbook and taking risks with it. Being able to sell out many shows as he grew in popularity in New York. On this episode, he talks with Bonnie G about his growth as an artist, changing with the times, and the relevance of the standards in today's discourse.

The Desert Scene | Guest: Joe Giarrusso | Topic: Christopher Richardson and Palm Springs International Piano Competition

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Retried composer Joe Giarrusso visits with Bonnie about an upcoming concert from the Palm Springs International Piano Competition featuring Christopher Richardson. Playing a variety of musical classics to popular hits the program will include crossover / popular fare such as William Hirtz' Fantasy on Harold Arlen's Wizard of Oz, and Presley/Schmidt's Can't Help Falling In Love, and the jazzy Tom and Jerry Show by Uehara. The branching out from a strict classical concert is part of PS IPC's strategy for reaching more diverse audiences.

The Desert Scene: David Green, Willie's Broadway Block Party!

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Willie's and the city of Rancho Mirage presents: Willie's Broadway Block Party!Starring the talents of the students of the Musical Theatre University, and even yourself! It is an open mic, along with it being a fully staged Broadway style show. Program coordinator David Green talks with Bonnie G. about the ambitious nature of the show, and the history of the Musical Theatre University.

The Desert Scene: Jeff Barnett Celebrates Movie Magic!

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Performer Jeff Barnett is back at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, celebrating the music of the movies! Featuring such amazing talents like Dana Adkins, Chip Prince, Charles Herrera and Lizzie Schmelling. He talks with Bonnie G. about the inspiration behind the show, and some of the major themes he tackles.

The Desert Scene: Jason Graae.

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Jason Graae famously combines cabaret with his "not so straight" sense of comedy charm. He has starred on stage in shows including Godspell with the iconic Scott Bakula. Jason has appeared in must-see television including Friends, Frasier, Living Single and HBO's Six Feet Under. On this episode of The Desert Scene, he talks with Bonnie G about his career, and his upcoming musical cabaret show in the Coachella Valley.

The Desert Scene: Lynda Kay

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Lynda Kay was once described by Billy Bob Thornton saying "She's like Dusty Springfield, Patsy Cline and Roy Obrison all rolled into one." Ms. Kay has had an eventful life from aspiring to be an attorney to appearing in some of the most critically acclaimed plays and shows. Now, Lynda is performing cabaret. Bonnie G talks with her about a fascinating life story, including some FBI intrigue on The Desert Scene.

The Desert: Siobhan Velarde and The Vixen Show.

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Siobhan Velarde has finally moved to Palm Springs, YAY! Which means we get to see more of her and her risque performances. She has an upcoming show called The Vixen Show over at the Runway Bar. It is a night of sexuality, singing and cabaret antics. She talks with Bonnie about the show, their friendship and what it means to be the "Soup.Queen".

The Desert Scene: Ari Axelrod

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Vocalist Ari Axelrod has performed for many years now, putting together musical tapestries influenced by the great artists of the past. He pays further tribute to his own Jewish heritage and Broadway heritage in A Place For Us: A Celebration of Jewish Broadway. On this episode, Bonnie talks with him about his musical origins, his cultural background, and the ways to define Jewish Broadway.

The Desert Scene: Ann Greer

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Anne Greer is putting together a show called ACT FOR MS(Multiple Sclerosis) which is filled with great jazz performers including Bill Marx. On today's episode, she talks about this show, along with her own personal history with MS in her family, and how this show helps the local MS community.

The Desert Scene: Glenn Roseblum

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Glenn Rosenblum is a very busy singer, actor, and "musical mensch." Working on several projects including off-Broadway hits like Lucky Lucy and The Fortune Man and in TV hits like Bones. He is also known for being a broker to the stars, even creating his own website! He's coming to CV Rep to do a show called: Broadway Showstoppers: Musicals of the 1970s with previous guest Ilene Graff. He talks with Bonnie Gilgallon about his experiences in the theatre world, and his origins on the piano.

The Desert Scene: Ilene Graff

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Ilene Graff has starred in many great musicals over the years: Grease, I Love My Wife, and Promises, Promises. Along with starring in many great TV shows. She has created a career for herself that has lasted over the decades, and now she is performing in a show with Glen Rosenblum called: Broadway Showstoppers The Musicals of the 1970's! She talks with Bonnie Gilgallon about her career, family legacy, and what she loves seeing in other performers.

The Desert Scene: Steve Ross

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Cabaret Singer and Pianist Steve Ross has interpreted the works of such beloved artists Cole Porter, and Irving Berlin. A lover of ragtime and cabaret, he has done everything including playing clubs in Washington D.C. He has an upcoming show at CV Rep, and he talks to Bonnie about it, along with his musical origins.

The Desert Scene: Dan Guerrero

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Award winning producer and artist Dan Guerrero has given due respect to both LGBT and Chicano history. Now it is his turn to remember his father Lalo Guerrero, who is the "Father of Chicano Music" with a film screening, and musical performances from his brother Mark. He talks to Bonnie G. about the importance of culture, being productive and his father's legacy.

The Desert Scene: Edmund Bagnell and He Plays the Violin!

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Edmund Bagnell plays the Violin! He started off as Tobias in the first national tour of John Doyle's staging of Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. This has led to performing all over the globe. Becoming the first violinist of the string quarter Well Strung, which has topped the charts! He comes onto the show with Bonnie Gilgallon to talk about his upcoming show at the CV Rep!

The Desert Scene: Robbie Wayne Talks A Mae West Double Feature!

Mon, 30 May 2022 00:15:00 -0800

The Desert Rose Playhouse is taking on one of their most ambitious projects: not just one, BUT TWO PLAYS. Mae West's "Drag" and "Sex". Both provocative, scandalous, and surprisingly modern. Both shows famously landed West into a great deal of trouble, then again it is Mae West! If trouble isn't there, then its not worth it. Bonnie Gilgallon talks this double feature with Robbie Wayne.

The Desert Scene: Maryse Nicole

Wed, 25 May 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Singer and host Maryse Nicole has had a fascinating history as a performer, including working with the Monkees. She is also a designer for not only women's fashion but for porcelain dolls. When it comes to entertainment, she hosts entertaining events where her customers can enjoy a variety of singers of different kinds. She comes onto the show to talk about music, fashion, and where to check out her fantastic events.

The Desert Scene: Jeff Barnett and Razzle Dazzle!

Mon, 23 May 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Singer Jeff Barnett once saw a performance of Godspell and it changed his life forever. For the last couple months, he has done Razzle Dazzle at the Palm Springs Cultural Center with our host Bonnie Gilgallon. Showcasing the very best of pop standards and broadway. He comes onto the show to talk about his origins as a singer, his struggles, and what to expect from his monthly show.

The Desert Scene: Eileen Barnett, Singer & Actress Performs at CV Rep

Thu, 19 May 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Acclaimed singer and actress Eileen Barnett, who has graced stages for Los Angeles to New York City, will perform on May 26th at the CV Rep in Cathedral City. She joins Bonnie G on this edition of The Desert Scene to preview her upcoming show. Tickets are available by going to CVRep.org or calling CV Rep at (760) 296-2966. Among her credits are roles in Company and Nine on Broadway and daytime and primetime soaps Days of Our Lives and Knots Landing.

The Desert Scene: Melissa Neiderman, Lip Sync For A Cure

Mon, 16 May 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Event producer, podcast personality and community philanthropist Melissa Neiderman chats with Bonnie G on this episode of The Desert Scene about Lip Sync For a Cure. The event takes place on May 20th and will benefit the American Cancer Society Desert Spirit. It will take place at the Palm Springs Cultural Center and will feature performances by several well-known entertainers including Judith Chapman and Kellee McQuinn. This year's judges include Keisha D, Dolores Robinson, actress Eva LaRue and Kaya Callahan, daughter of soap star and Palm Desert resident John Callahan, who passed away in early 2020 and for whom this year's event is dedicated to the memory of.

Click Here for Tickets!

The Desert Scene: Lorinda Vasquez

Wed, 11 May 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Lorinda Vasquez came to Palm Springs in 2019 and never looked back! She is a musical creative director who has worked with great Palm Springs legends Hope Diamond. She has been behind the scenes of many of your favorite musical events in the valley.

The Desert Scene: Prince Fleet Easton

Mon, 09 May 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Prince Fleet Easton is a singer, humanitarian, actor and performer known in the Coachella Valley as an essential "song and dance" man. He has released a new single for the Ukrainian People entitled "We Will Carry On". One that is both moving and powerful. Tune in to this episode to hear the song and get to know more of his upcoming projects.

The Desert Scene: Tysen Knight, An Award Winner Now!

Wed, 04 May 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Artist Tysen Knight comes to the Desert Scene to talk about. his recent Moxie Box Art Hero Award. His murals have inspired awe with the denizens of Palm Springs for its truth, and universal appeal. Centering youth artistic outreach in his work, while occasionally referencing social and political affairs.

The Desert Scene: Dan Gelfand

Mon, 02 May 2022 00:15:00 -0800

After the Palm Springs Follies closed, Mark Christopher and Dan Gelfand desired to write a musical extravaganza for Palm Springs. Mid-Century Moderns was the result of years of creative sessions by the pool. A musical about the life of a housewife who goes from frumpy to fabulous in the "center of modernity of Palm Springs". Dan Gelfand comes to The Desert Scene to talk about his background, the musical, and its usage of 1960s music to tell its feminist story.

TDS- Pasquale Esposito

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Italian tenor Pasquale Espositio won a lottery in 1998, came to America and has been pursuing his music ever since. Celebrating his Italian culture through his music, producing many successful albums, and a PBS special. On April 30th, he has an upcoming show with Coachella Valley Repertory. He comes onto the show to talk with Bonnie Gilgallon about his childhood, his first time singing, career, and the importance of studying music.

The Desert Scene: James Beauton

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Southern California based percussionist and conductor James Beauton is known for his experimental take on orchestra with a focus on contemporary music. In addition to many concert performances, he serves as director of the Buddy Rogers Youth Symphony. Where scholarships are given to help students achieve their musical potential. James Beauton comes onto the show to talk about the scholarship, his musical career, and his upcoming show with Diane Schuur for the Coachella Valley Symphony.

The Desert Scene: David A. Lee

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Award-winning photographer David A. Lee has been behind the scenes of many of Palm Springs' biggest events. Everything from the Palm Springs Film Festival to Modernism Week to Cinema Diverse. Bonnie Gilgallon talks about his history about photographing and writing for these events.

The Desert Scene: Michael Craft's Desert Getaway

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Author Michael Craft is back with a new cozy mystery novel, Desert Getaway. The first in the Dante and Jazz Mystery series, two amateur sleuths: a white gay man working as vacation rental concierge, and the other is a black woman who is a former cop. Bonnie Gilgallon talks with him about his history as a writer, and her favorite parts of the novel.

The Desert Scene: Jason Hull's Inez's Birthday and Then Some..

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 00:15:00 -0800

A family curse, a pompous minister, a gay nephew, a redneck brother, a case of gout, and Loretta Lynn. That's all to be featured in Jason Hull's upcoming play Inez's Birthday and then some. Produced by Script2Stage2Screen, and written/directed by Hull. This play features biographical elements mixed with comedy and pathos. Jason talks about his real life inspirations for the play, his past, and his upcoming work with Bonnie G.

The Desert Scene: Charity Gold Classic at Mama's House

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Jeroen Sparreboom is co-chairing the Mama's House First Annual Charity Golf Classic and Rat Pack Dinner Show. Being held at the Indian Wells Country Club on May 21st! He promises it to be a night of nostalgia, sports and its all for a good cause! He talks about this along with what Mama's House does with Bonnie G.

The Desert Scene: Will, Jada, Chris and The Oscars

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 00:15:00 -0800

That was quite the awards ceremony! PHEW! After a week of hindsight, Bonnie Gilgallon along with Brayan Mendoza talk about the Will Smith-Chris Rock incident. Asking and answering questions such as: what should be done, what might might happen, and what is the narrative?

The Desert Scene: Worst Best Picture Winners of All Time

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G and Brayan Mendoza love the movies, but that doesn't mean they can't spill some tea. The Academy Awards have been awarding movies for 94 years. It doesn't mean that they haven't awarded some mediocre movies their highest honor. On this episode, Bonnie and Brayan talk about the worst of the lot, why they might've won, and how strong their competition was.

The Desert Scene: Christine Michele

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Singer/Actress Christine Michele had an early love for musical as a young girl, determined to make it as an artist. Struggling with mental health issues, and with raising a family, she had to fight an uphill battle to achieve her dreams. Her band Christine and The Lost Keys becoming more and more of a musical presence in the valley. Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie G talk with her about her beginnings, her struggles, and her musical passions.

The Desert Scene: Marnie Mitze and Palm Springs Friends of Philharmonic

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Every year, the Palm Springs Friends of Philharmonic brings world renowned symphony orchestras to the Coachella Valley. Executive Director Marnie Mitze talks with Bonnie G. and Brayan Mendoza about PSFoP's current season, along with its educational programs, and surprising history.

The Desert Scene: Samantha Paris

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Voice Actress and Voice Acting Education Samantha Paris is back in the valley! She is the Founder/CEO of Voicetrax SF, a school designed to train and teach the next generation of upcoming voice actors. To get them ready for their big shot in this multibillion dollar voice-acting industry. She talks with Bonnie G and Brayan Mendoza to talk about Voicetrax, her career, and the importance of voice acting in Hollywood.

The Desert Scene: Chip Prince

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 00:00:00 -0800

Classically trained Pianist Chip Prince has been seen on Broadway and locally with the Palm Springs Gay Men's Chorus. Coming in and out of retirement, never escaping the call of the stage. The Palm Springs Cultural Center will be hosting a series of musical shows, and he'll doing one...with BONNIE G! Yes, that Bonnie G! Together they talk about their upcoming show, his career, his musical origins and his performances on and off Broadway.

The Desert Scene: All This Intimacy

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 00:15:00 -0800

The Desert Ensemble Theatre Presents All This Intimacy , an upcoming production about Ty, a man who gets three women pregnant in one week. As Ty deals with the ramifications of this, he comes to the realization that he has to get his life back together. DET's Artistic Director Jerome Elliot talks with Bonnie and Brayan about the show's themes, the behind the scenes, and what's in store for the Desert Ensemble Theatre.

The Desert Scene: Ruth Moir, Steinway Society of Riverside County

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Ruth Moir is both the founder and the CEO of the Steinway Society of Riverside County. A non-profit organization that promotes musical education to children in the county, they provide opportunities to see renowned musicians, and perform amazing music. She talks with Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza about the organization's upcoming events.

The Desert Scene: Brooke Beare and the Desert Arc Golf Classic

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Brooke Beare has lived the life of a journalist documenting people's lives. Now she's impacting them as the Chair of Desert Arc's board of directors. She talks about the significance of community and how career oriented programs can empower disabled persons throughout the valley. Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza talk with her about Desert Arc and their upcoming fundraising events. In particular, the 2022 Desert Arc Golf Classic Tournament Fundraiser that is coming up on April 7, 2022.

The Desert Scene: Alyce and Robbie's "Born To Sparkle"

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Opening March 24 and running until August 10, Palm Springs The Musical: Born To Sparkle is coming to the Desert Rose Playhouse. Alyce Berard and Robbie Manning's real life experiences and tragedies inspired them to write a love letter to Palm Springs. The show features 20 original show tunes, and is starting to get some buzz in the valley. Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza talk with them about the show, their lives, and what it means to see your dream show come to life.

The Desert Scene: Underrated Artists

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza talk about their favorite artists that don't get enough love, and deserve more recognition for their accomplishments.

The Desert Scene: Sue Cameron

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Sue Cameron has had a fascinating star-studded life journey. Having been a columnist at The Hollywood Reporter, she's had first-hand experiences with the greatest stars of all time. Her friendships range from Valerie Harper to Nicole Kidman. She talks with Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza to talk about them, along with her March 9th show Secrets of TV Legends at the Mary Pickford Theater.

The Desert Scene: Jamey Ray

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Vocalist Jamey Ray has produced hundreds of recordings, 25 albums, and his musical a cappella group Voctave has over 150 million views on their videos. Him and the ten other members have performed across the globe, and represent a diverse background of experiences. He joins Brayan Mendoza, and Bonnie Gilgallon to talk about his musical origins, Voctave's success, Disney, and their upcoming March 10th show at the McCallum Theater.

The Desert Scene: Most Overrated Performers

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon discuss on this episode of The Desert Scene their selections for the "Most Overrated Performers" of all-time. Ranging from Oscar winners to Punk Music vocalists, there is no hiding the unfortunate reality that these artists don't quite live up to their heightened image. Both of our hosts give an honest but fair assessment of their talents.

The Desert Scene: Kellee McQuinn, DJMod Girl

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 00:15:00 -0800

"The Life of the Party" is what Kellee McQuinn (DJ Mod Girl) has been described as during her decades-long entertainment career. Not only for playing songs, but aiming to construct an atmosphere of creativity, production and sound. Her infectious energy carries over as you'll find in her conversation on this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza. She discusses the personal significance of music in her life, along with details of her exciting upcoming projects.

The Desert Scene: Pinchas Zukerman, Grammy-winning Violinist

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Pinchas Zukerman is a violinist with a celebrated career encompassing five decades, He reigns as one of today’s most sought after and versatile musicians. He is renowned as a virtuoso, admired for the expressive lyricism of his playing, singular beauty of tone, and impeccable musicianship, which can be heard throughout his discography of over 100 albums for which he gained two Grammy® awards and 21 nominations. Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza talk to him about his career, his pedagogy, and personal philosophy.

The Desert Scene: Tim Rains, Palm Springs Cultural Center

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 00:15:00 -0800

The film festival was officially canceled this year, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy something at Palm Springs Cultural Center. It has an exciting season of programs ranging from Oscar nominated movies to musical performances. Tim Rains comes on to talk about what's happening at PSCC with Bonnie G. and Brayan Mendoza.

The Desert Scene: David Wolgin and A Night in Puglia.

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Playwright David Wolgin has had a fascinating career in both psychology and the theater. Not only writing but choreographing. His latest endeavor A Night in Puglia is described as a "love story for the ages" set in Italy. Examining the lives and loves for four characters in the nation of romance. He gives us a preview of what to expect in his exciting debut with Bonnie G, and Brayan Mendoza.

The Desert Scene: The Mountaintop

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 00:15:00 -0800

After a brief delay, director Michael Shaw's newest Dezart production The Mountaintop is finally performing this March. The Olivier Award-Winning Play by Katori Hall follows Martin Luther King Jr. on the eve of his assassination. Taking place entirely in his hotel room, with one other character, Camae, a beautiful but mysterious maid. He gives you a behind the scenes preview of this most gripping play with Bonnie G. and Brayan Mendoza.

The Desert Scene: John Corr

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Actor and singer John Corr has done everything from Shakespeare to musical theater. Now he talks about his latest role, a penguin. You heard that right: A penguin! The Desert Ensemble Theatre presents Salty, an apocalyptic drama mixed with gay penguin family life. He gives you a sneak peak into this most fascinating play in this episode with Bonnie G and Brayan Mendoza.

The Desert Scene: Linda Peterson

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 00:15:00 -0800

A member of "Minnesota's First Family of Music" - The Petersons, - multi-talented artist Linda Peterson has become a Palm Springs favorite. Having performed around the world, in particular South America, she has recorded an album with famed Argentine guitarist Luis Salinas. On this episode, hear her adventurous musical story, one that she shares with hosts Bonnie G and Brayan Mendoza.

The Desert Scene: Patrice Morris

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 00:15:00 -0800

A member of The Fifth Dimension, Patrice Morris is a multi-genre performer. The Pop and Gospel entertainer has been an audience favorite. In Southern California, she is regularly singing at Jolene’s Bar and Lounge in Palm Desert. On this episode of The Desert Scene, she shares stories from her colorful performance history, being part of a globally-known group and the relationship between her faith and her music with Bonnie G and Brayan Mendoza.

The Desert Scene: Willie Rhine

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Restauranteur Willie Rhine is a food innovator and has changed the dining landscape in Palm Springs. Beyond his reputation with area foodies, Rhine has performed on stage including The Biggest Whorehouse in Texas. His newest eatery is in Rancho Mirage. Learn more about Willies on Highway 111 on this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G and Brayan. He also shares some of the up’s and down’s of running restaurants in the age of the pandemic.

The Desert Scene: Krystofer Do

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Multi-talented musician Krystofer Do talks about his upcoming first-ever concert experience titled Listen. Having previously performed at Stacy’s and part of the Hedwig and the Angry Inch cast, Do is a rising star in the Valley. Joining Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie G on The Desert Scene, Krystofer answers their questions about his life as an artist, his demons, and what led up to the creation of this show.

The Desert Scene: Melanie Blue

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Professor and Performer Melanie Blue of the Green Room Theater joins Bonnie G and Brayan Mendoza on this episode. She talks improv, and the latest classes that she is offering up. If you are looking for advice, and a head start into the ever growing world of improv, this episode is the key!

The Desert Scene: Mitchell Mitch

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Neighbors Cooking host Mitchell Mitch comes on to talk about the importance of food in our culture. How to transform a whole entire set of mind with the delights of healthy eating. So if you're thinking of starting a new diet, you better not miss out on this latest episode with Bonnie G and Brayan Mendoza.

The Desert Scene: When We Were Young Festival

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Fans of pop-punk, emo, metalcore, hardcore and post-hardcore bands from the 1990's and 2000's have been excited by news of a resurrected When We Were Young music festival - moving this time from California to Las Vegas and scheduled by concert giant Live Nation Entertainment. But, as excited as many of the genre's fans are, it's not generating as much love as some would think. Set for late-October 2022, the festival that boasts 65 bands is stirring up a hornets nest on social media. Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie G share their concerns about the festival on this edition of The Desert Scene.

#whenwewereyoungfest

Festival Website

The Desert Scene: Tribute to Six Celebrities

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 00:15:00 -0800

2022 has started off rough with six celebrities passing away and leaving with a legacy of their exceptional work. Bonnie G and Brayan Mendoza pay their respects to these six important and highly influential artists. Spanning from sitcoms to music and film. They are: Betty White, Ronnie Spector, Bob Saget, Sidney Poitier, Marilyn Bergman and Peter Bogdanovich.

The Desert Scene: The Desert Hot Springs Spider-Man

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Spider-Man! Spider-Man! Does Whatever A Spider-Man Can! Spins A Web, and Walks Around Endlessly! LOOK OUT, Here comes the Desert Hot Springs Spider-Man! Listen, and find out who this mysterious figure walking around the city of Desert Hot Springs.

The Desert Scene: Walter Mueller

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Walter Mueller is the Director of Development at Olive Crest. An organization that aims to prevent and ultimately end child abuse. Providing everything from counseling to foster care service, and a golfing tournament! Yes, even golfing. Their fundraising Golf Tournament is coming up, and he has the info to get you an invite! Listen in with Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie G, see if you can volunteer or play a round for a great cause!

The Desert Scene: Jacquelyn James

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Transgender entertainers in Palm Springs take center stage on this edition of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G and Brayan Mendoza. With the reopening of hip dinner show establishment AsiaSF, comes The Ladies of AsiaSF Palm Springs. Bonnie and Brayan talk with Jacquelyn James. All the performers are transgender women and each brings their own personalities to lip-synced renditions of party playlist classics, pop tunes and Broadway show favorites. Learn more about this fun and exciting venue.

Visit AsiaSF Palm Springs online.

The Desert Scene: Alexis Hunter aka Rachel Lansing

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Alexis Hunter, the author who was 1950's TV actress Joi Lansing's secret love and identified as her sister Rachel Lansing to maintain the cover of their true relationship, is a resident of the Coachella Valley. Her book about Lansing came out in 2015, but she has now turned her creative talents to jewelry. She joins Bonnie G and Brayan Mendoza to discuss her line and that it serves a great cause on this episode of The Desert Scene.

The Desert Scene: Siobhan Velarde

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 00:15:00 -0800

Siobhan Velarde is a singer, actress and all-around entertainment dynamo. A favorite with audiences throughout the Coachella Valley, she appears on a regular basis in Cathedral City at Runway. She returns to The Desert Scene to talk with Bonnie G and Brayan Mendoza about her performances and the success she has enjoyed with live audiences, and events yet to come at this hip West Valley hotspot.

The Desert Scene: Bonnie & Brayan's 2021 Holiday Special

Sat, 18 Dec 2021 00:15:00 -0800

Jingle Jangle your way into Bonnie G. and Brayan Mendoza’s holiday party. Radio111’s entertainment scene co-hosts are joined by Dutch Haling. He’s a radio and theatre legend and together they reminisce about merry ole holiday memories, they quiz each other on trivia, recite poetry, and even sing a cappella. This year, The Desert Scene crew also features seasonal tunes by artists Patricia Welch and Bill Lohnes.

The Desert Scene: Jan Lupia, Mama's House

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 00:15:00 -0800

Bonnie G. and Brayan Mendoza welcome Jan Lupia, founder and executive directors of Mama's House. The organization is celebrating its 10th Anniversary of providing shelter and resources to women in crisis. Jan discusses their upcoming February event featuring a special guest speaker.

The Desert Scene: Steven Sondheim Tribute

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 00:15:00 -0800

One of the absolute greats of Broadway has seen the final curtain fall. While Steven Sondheim was 92 years old, it was quite sudden and not expected when he recently passed. Bonnie G. and Brayan Mendoza pay their respects in this conversation and tribute about the great playwright.

The Desert Scene: Jeff Barnett, Singer

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 00:15:00 -0800

Entertainer Jeff Barnett loves to sing and he joins Bonnie G. and Brayan Mendoza on this episode of The Desert Scene. They discuss Jeff's extensive musical career, risks, love, and he provides a preview for his upcoming performance at Runway in Cathedral City in January.

The Desert Scene: David Fraschetti, 2nd Annual Pinot Noir Festival

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 00:15:00 -0800

Wine Master David Fraschetti joins Bonnie G and Brayan Mendoza to discuss his 2nd annual Pinot Noir Festival on January 8th in Palm Springs. He shares his passion for Pinot Noir, and how this event came to town.

Tickets are available by CLICKING HERE.

The Desert Scene: The Alec Baldwin Buzz

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 00:15:00 -0800

Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon talk about the controversial ABC News interview between Alec Baldwin and George Stephanopoulos. What does the actor need to do next as he walks the tight-rope of being sorry and empathetic and not ending up in deeper legal trouble in the aftermath of accidentally killing a cinematographer on location in New Mexico? They discuss his controversial statements.

The Desert Scene: Tim Bruneau

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 10:00:00 -0800

The multi-talented Tim Bruneau brings Love, Light and Laughter to The Desert Scene as he talks about his upcoming joyful holiday celebration, along with the California Desert Chorale's amazing opportunities. The performance is on December 12, at 3 pm.

For more information: https://www.californiadesertchorale.org

The Desert Scene - November 20, 2021

Sat, 20 Nov 2021 12:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza talk with Denise Strand, one of the stars of This Side of Crazy. She talks about theatre, Del Shores, her past performances, and life itself. Bassist Jenise Fryatt brings up her musical career ranging from Karaoke to her current gig with band Dragonwolfe. Lois Bourgon pops on to talk about her latest cabaret show, along with reminiscing about her past work, and about the legendary Debbie Reynolds.

The Desert Scene - November 13, 2021

Sat, 13 Nov 2021 12:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza present a very musical, whimsical and fashion-forward episode filled with a variety of guests. Singer Jeffrey Scott Adair talks about his versatile musical career and the Youth Theatre. Singer/Magician Jim Bentley talks magic, love, and music. Fashionista artist Susan Stein previews her upcoming art show.

The Desert Scene - November 6, 2021

Sat, 06 Nov 2021 12:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza discuss a wide array of topics including casting for the movie Wicked, and are always joined by a diverse party of guests! Broadcaster/Stand Up Comedian Fritz Coleman talks Aging Gracefully, a pandemic benefit show. Musician/Radio Host Brad Mercer jazzes up the space by promoting his gig at the Lit Lounge. Then Saxophonist Will Donato checks in to chat about his latest events, and his billboard number one hit Infinite Soul.

The Desert Scene - October 30, 2021

Sat, 30 Oct 2021 12:00:00 -0800

The Desert Scene with Bonnie and Brayan continues to feature a diverse array of amazing guests and topics. Filmmaker Chip Miller comes on to talk about prop safety on movie sets, advising "Never assume, confirm everything". Singer Patricia Welch promotes her show Evening of Elegance, and the art of singing. Finally, Amanda McBroom, singer and songwriter of "The Rose", talks about her unique career and her newest show at the Purple Room.

The Desert Scene - October 23, 2021

Sat, 23 Oct 2021 12:00:00 -0800

Producer and Singer Clifford Bell brings his Virtually Yours concert series to the discussion on this week's The Desert Scene with Bonnie G and Brayan Mendoza. Author David Perry talks about events at the Purple Room in Palm Springs and his plans for an upcoming book. And, director Chuck Yates shares the details on his upcoming performance of the musical Hedwig and the Angry Inch.

The Desert Scene - October 16, 2021

Sat, 16 Oct 2021 12:00:00 -0800

This week, Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza talk about local cultural event with Artistic Director Ron Celona who discusses the latest happenings at the CV Repertory. Professor Jeanette Knight shares details about the improv festival and the joys of improv. Then, Singer Brian Scott shares details about his musical career. Plus, other pertinent news from the world of arts and entertainment.

The Desert Scene - October 9, 2021

Sat, 09 Oct 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Juicy entertainment news stories, union strikes, and pop culture history are all in the spotlight on this week’s The Desert Scene. Along with that, Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon are joined by Singer Kristi King, who talks about her Legends show at Frankie's. Dezart's Artistic Director Michael Shaw discusses the theatre's upcoming season and its first-ever musical Girlfriend. And, Jerome Elliot, Artistic Director of the Desert Ensemble Theatre Company, joins the conversation this week to talk about his organization’s eleventh season opener, Reunited.

The Desert Scene – October 2, 2021

Sat, 02 Oct 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza open up with a discussion of the Tony Awards and the curious results. Topics in this episode discussed are: the controversial drowning girl statue in Spain, "Aladdin" closing on Broadway due to COVID positive tests and Britney Spears is now free of her father's control.

Guests in this episode: Siobhan Veladre, Alexis Hunter, Steve Fisher.

The Desert Scene – September 25, 2021

Sat, 25 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza are BACK! This week on The Desert Scene the two of them sing the praises of The Desert Rose Playhouse Production of The Rocky Horror Show. Other topics this week include The Emmys, ABBA coming back, and songs to not sing when you're not yet 18. Isn’t it creepy to see a 9 year old singing love songs on a nationally televised talent show?! Guests in this episode include Eevet Edens, Hope Diamond, and Scott Coulter.

The Culture Corner - June 25, 2021 – Hour 2

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon speak with business owner Lori Loftis about The Shops on San Pablo, her venue's events and her fashions. Actress Yo Younger talks about her show The Miss Firecracker Contest, which is set to be the first show returning to the Desert Rose Playhouse. Entertainment news discussed: Revisiting In The Heights, Sesame Street finally introducing a gay couple on tv (besides Burt & Ernie!), and Harrison Ford injures himself on set.

The Culture Corner - June 25, 2021 – Hour 1

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza talk with Jamie Trachtenberg from Courageous Resistance about her stance on the controversy surrounding the Marilyn Monroe statue in downtown Palm Springs.. Then, environmentalist Tania Srebotnjak talks about her upcoming panel. Entertainment news discussed in the hour: Brittney Spears finally speaks out against her conservatorship, the censorship of Disney's The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Andrew Lloyd Webber is suing the UK government!

The Culture Corner - June 18, 2021 - Hour 2

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza open up this hour talking with Kitty Murray Willensky about her upcoming cabaret show. Speaking of interviews, they also talk about the value of research in celebrity interviews. Then two filmmakers Marlena Skrobe, and Cole Bacani join the conversation to talk about their short films. Other stories discussed in this hour: Andrew Lloyd Webber's continued insistence on reopening, and Places Please offering up 500,000 in rent relief to NYC theatre workers.

The Culture Corner - June 18, 2021 - Hour 1

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon open up with a conversation about the upcoming unveiling of the Marilyn Monroe statue, its controversy and their takes on it. Author Donna Rolfe comes onto the show to talk about her latest book. News discussed this hour include: Lin-Manuel Miranda's apology for the lack of Afrolatino representation, Ned Beatty passing away, and Paris Jackson's PTSD from years of harassment.

The Culture Corner - June 11, 2021 – Hour 2

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon dedicated the first segment to Judy Garland who would've celebrated her 99th birthday this year. Andrew Lloyd Webber has some issues opening up his theaters, which fits a different narrative in the beginning of the pandemic. Therapist and Author Carol Teitelbaum comes on to discuss how she tackles male sexual abuse in her latest book. Other news discussed on the show include: Elin Hilderbrand's problematic Anne Frank mentioned in her book being removed, and Taraji P Henson joining the cast of Annie Live!

The Culture Corner - June 11, 2021 – Hour 1

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza open up the show discussing a local GoFundMe to save The Desert Rose Playhouse and the need for volunteers to help finish it. Later on, Singer Jerome Elliot joins the conversation to talk about his upcoming musical performance, while he's at rehearsals! News tackled in this episode: Sinead O'Connor Retiring (and not retiring), and Frank Sinatra's former manager speaks out on the Ronan Farrow/Sinatra connection.

The Culture Corner - June 4, 2021 – Hour 2

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon brings on CV REP Vice President David Cohan, as he discusses the alliance that local theatres must form to stay afloat. Then she talks to photographer Mary Ann Haplin about her craft, and inspiration. Later on the show, Brayan Mendoza talks about the lack of Asian Representation in media, and the significance of this week in pop culture history!

The Culture Corner - June 4, 2021 – Hour 1

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon opens up a show she recently attended in town, and where she met Kristin Chenoweth. Brayan Mendoza then talks about Ricky Martin's past interview with Barbra Walters, and his PTSD associated with it. Other news discussed in this hour include: Sinead O'Connor's alleged nightmare with Prince, and paying tribute to Gavin MacLeod, BJ Thomas, Samuel E. Wright, and John Davis.

The Culture Corner - May 21, 2021 – Hour 2

Fri, 21 May 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan mendoza open the show with vocalist Sharon Sills about her musical career, her inspirations and upcoming shows. Author Dan Perry comes on to talk about writing, his book Upon This Rock, and its most recent award win. Other news discussed in this segment include: Demi Lovato coming out as non-binary, Billy Porter revealing his HIV postiive status, and WarnerMedia merging with Discovery.

The Culture Corner - May 21, 2021 – Hour 1

Fri, 21 May 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon open the show by discussing the upcoming LGBT "Everybody is Awesome" Lego set, and the end of the Annenberg Theater. They also invite Dan Gore, the owner of Oscars to discuss upcoming events, and various other entertainment tidbits. Other news discussed in this hour include an upcoming Cher biopic, the "Hot Cheetos" scandal, and Charles Grodin dying.

The Culture Corner - May 14, 2021 – Hour 2

Fri, 14 May 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza chat with Jeffrey Norman of the McCallum Theatre to promote the upcoming 2021-2022 season. Director/Performer/Writer Patricia West Del-Ruth(PDR) comes on later to discuss her upcoming experimental show "Holy Matrimony"(That also stars Brayan too!). Other news discussed include: Caleb Kennedy's exit from American Idol, The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and the Big Three returning to Broadway.

The Culture Corner - May 14, 2021 – Hour 1

Fri, 14 May 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza open up the show with a deep dive into the Golden Globes controversy and Ellen DeGeneres leaving the show. Later on, They invite Deanne LuBell to discuss her newly formed nonprofit "Amy's Purpose", which is dedicated to educating the public about predator awareness, prevention, and pet safety. Other news discussed include: Seth Rogen disavowing James Franco and a felony charge related to a 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch' VHS Tape from 1999.

The Culture Corner - May 7, 2021 – Hour 2

Fri, 07 May 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza talk with vocalist Rebecca Clarkk about her musical career, and upcoming projects. Then they discuss Mark Hamill's heartbreaking visit with a chronically ill young man.

The Culture Corner - May 7, 2021 – Hour 1

Fri, 07 May 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon remember the life of Olympia Dukakis, a legend of stage and screen. Then invite Michael Holmes of the Purple Room to discuss the fundraising page to save his establishment! Learn how you can help!

The Culture Corner - April 30, 2021 – Hour 2

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gillgallon and Brayan Mendoza invite Cabret Producer/Performer Clifford Bell to discuss upcoming musical events, and a special experience with the Duke and Duchess. Hank Plante comes by later on to discuss his career as a journalist and gives insight into interviews with past Presidents/First Ladies. News discussed in this segment include: Broadway reopening in September (Maybe), and Scott Rudin resigning from the Broadway League.

The Culture Corner - April 30, 2021 – Hour 1

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0800

There is so much to unpack when it comes to the Academy Awards this year, that Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon have to dedicate three whole segments! Everything will be discussed including the decision to have the best actor last, Chloe Zhao's accomplishment, and the overall dismal presentation. Other news discussed include Brittney Spears speaking out, and Elon Musk hosting Saturday Night Live.

The Culture Corner - April 23, 2021 – Hour 2

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon bring along Julie Montante, owner of the 420 Bank and Lounge, to discuss the potential that cannabis has for the community, and the arts. Then James Beauton, Youth Musician Conductor of the Coachella Valley Symphony, calls in to talk about upcoming events and plans for the CV Symphony. This segment includes fun facts about pop culture history that took place from April 22-24 of any given year. News includes: Levar Burton hosting Jeopardy, and Shaq being a great guy (find out what he did in this hour).

The Culture Corner - April 23, 2021 – Hour 1

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza invite Comedian Shann Carr to discuss the dying lesbian bar scene, and the upcoming Academy Awards. Artist Tysen Knight shows up halfway in the show to discuss mentorship in the arts, and getting your art to a wider audience. News talked about this in hour include the Scott Rudin scandal, and Sharon Stone's revelation about her famous scene in Basic Instinct.

The Culture Corner - April 16, 2021 – Hour 2

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza open up with a conversation with Cynthia Thomas about her musical gig at Woody's. They also converse with Artistic Director Ron Celona on upcoming programming at CV Rep. News during this hour includes: Arclight and Pacific Theaters closing down, and Dick Van Dyke doing some really great, you won't want to miss the story!

The Culture Corner - April 16, 2021 – Hour 1

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza open up with a discussion on the writing process, in particular how George RR Martin continues to delay his novel The Winds of Winter. Singer Leanna Rodgers comes onto the show to talk about her musical influences. Other news this hour includes: Mia Farrow addressing rumors, Will Smith moving his movie production away from Georgia, and the guest list Prince Phillip's Funeral.

The Culture Corner - April 9, 2021 – Hour 2

Fri, 09 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and her friend, singer Siobhan Veladre, talk about their new cabaret show. Performer Ruta Lee comes on to talk about her new book, Consider Your Ass Kissed, detailing her extraordinary career. Brayan Mendoza also shares the latest TikTok vaccine trend, and a touching story about a little boy saving his sister, with the help of John Cena.

The Culture Corner - April 9, 2021 – Hour 1

Fri, 09 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza welcome YGSLRHSTFUT's Lead Vocalist Chella Coleman to talk about using her music as activism, her band, and Lil Nas X. Author Fern Field talks about her work in the film/tv industry and her wide array of literary work. Other news tackled in this hour: DMX, SNL writer Anne Beatts, Writer Beverly Cleary, and Midwin Charles.

The Culture Corner - March 26, 2021 – Hour 2

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Hosts Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza welcome two guests this episode. Jerome Elliot comes to the show to talk about his monologue series, and his career. Saxophonist Shelley Yeolin, saxophonist talks about an upcoming event. News tackled in this hour: Oscars get backlash for "no Zoom" speeches, Disney premiering Black Widow on their service for a fee, and Ken Jeong raising money for Atlanta shooting families.

The Culture Corner - March 26, 2021 – Hour 1

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Hosts Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza begin the show by honoring actors Jessica Walters, George Segal and author Larry McMurty. They also talk about Bernadette Peters' role as Rita the Cat in Animaniacs. Guest Doug Graham comes on to talk about his event at Frankie's Back Room, and his career.

The Culture Corner - March 19, 2021 – Hour 2

Sat, 20 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0800

In this week's second hour, Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza interview best-selling author Tod Goldberg about his latest book, and the art of writing. Later iHub Radio host Jeff Hocker calls in to talk about the upcoming Easter fundraising event for the Palm Springs Gay Men's Chorus.

Entertainment news in this hour includes Daniel Franzese being fired from a show for being gay, and Katie Leung breaking her silence on bullying during her Harry Potter days.

The Culture Corner - March 19, 2021 – Hour 1

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0800

This week on The Culture Corner, co-hosts Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon open the show with a discussion of the Academy Awards, the impact of COVID, and the milestones. Later on, Mikael Healey will join them to talk about his musical influences and his performing career.

Other entertainment news items include Stacey Dash's return to acting, and the Coachella Music & Arts Festival moving to 2022.

The Culture Corner - March 12, 2021 – Hour 2

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza talk with Robbie Wayne, Artistic Director of the Desert Rose Playhouse, about the state of the theater, and its upcoming 2021 season. Cheryl Scarlett, Fundraising director of the Jewish Family Service of the Desert comes by to talk about the upcoming The Clergy Boys musical event. Believe it or not, Space Jam 2 is the most controversial movie of the year, and Brayan explains why.

The Culture Corner - March 12, 2021 – Hour 1

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Former Duchess Meghan Markel and Prince Harry of Sussex gave the most compelling interview of the year. Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza have a lot to say. Donna Greene, Professor of Children's Literature at College of the Desert comes by to discuss the importance of children's literacy, and offers insight on the Dr. Seuss debacle. Bonnie and Brayan also featuring the debut of musician Sandra Booker's latest single.

The Culture Corner - March 5, 2021 – Hour 2

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza talk with Sandra Booker about her single coming out and with Mikole Karr about his upcoming musical event. In the news segments, Bonnie and Brayan talk about Mara Wilson's op-ed about feeling sexualized as a child, and Eddie Murphy's revelations about Coming To America.

The Culture Corner - March 5, 2021 – Hour 1

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza talk with Krystofer Do about his musical directorial debut. Throughout this episode, they will talk about the misunderstanding behind Dr. Seuss and the unpublished six books, and the disclaimers on DisneyPlus. Also, we talk about Lady Gaga's dogs!

The Culture Corner - February 26, 2021 – Hour 2

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza invite therapist Michelle Ogle to talk about COVID fatigue. Drag Performer Anita Rose talks "The Bitchiest Brunch in Town" at Oscars and the power of drag. Other topics in this episode: Meek Mill's controversial Bryant lyric, New York Theaters opening back up, and Daft Punk retiring.

The Culture Corner - February 26, 2021 – Hour 1

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon open up with the breaking news story of Lady Gaga's dognapping and her dog walker being shot. Luca Arias from Frankie's Italian Bakery joins the conversation and talks about upcoming streaming events. Other topics in this episode: Allen Vs Farrow documentary, and the Paramount+ streaming service.

The Culture Corner - February 19, 2021 – Hour 2

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Kathy Humphrey from Bloom in the Desert joins Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza in talking about the church's latest events that will celebrate famed local singer Keisha D. Later on, tehy provide updates on television, including Wanda/Visions' popularity. Finally, an impromptu conversation about schools and music programs is also had on this episode.

The Culture Corner - February 19, 2021 – Hour 1

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 10:00:00 -0800

This week's show opens up with an honest conversation about Brittney Spears, and the way society has treated celebrities like her. Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza invite Steve Baker, President of the Palm Springs Gay Men's Chorus to discuss upcoming events. Michael Hopson, BLM organizer comes on to discuss the importance of black representation in media, and empathy towards Tessica Brown.

The Culture Corner - February 12, 2021 – Hour 2

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Singer/Author Jason Hull talks about his literary career, and newest book with Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza. Keyboardist/Artist/Author Andy Cahan comes on to discuss his extensive music career.

News Topics: The Buffy Cast speak out against Joss Whedon, and updates on the #FreeBritney movement.

The Culture Corner - February 12, 2021 – Hour 1

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Chuck Yates of Coyote Stageworks visits Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza, and talks about his struggles (and inspirations) during the ongoing Pandemic.

News Topics: The Weekend's strange Super Bowl halftime show, Gina Carano's firing from Disney, and Michelle Obama has a new TV show!

The Culture Corner - January 29, 2021 – Hour 2

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Hosts Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza chat with Keynote Speaker/Author/Life Coach Carolyn Gross on dealing with a crisis, and how to manage one's trauma during a difficult time. Then the conversation turns to updates to your favorite shows, including Sex and the City reboot, and Law and Order: SVU hiring unemployed Broadway performers. Singer/Entertainer/Foreign Language Dub Supervisor Charles Herrera talks about his latest event, Brighter Day, a benefit for the Desert Ensemble Theatre Company's Internship and Scholarship Program. And, Bonnie and Brayan pay special tribute to two inspiring women, Cloris Leachman and Cicely Tyson, who sadly left us this past week.

The Culture Corner - January 29, 2021 – Hour 1

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 10:00:00 -0800

Hosts Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza are thrilled to have new leadership in America and talk about a political cultural event: the Inauguration. Focusing on the inspiring poem by Amanda Gorman, and Lady Gaga's patriotic rendition of the National Anthem. Then, they talk with Michael Shaw of Dezart Performs about Mental Amusements, a "virtual carnival for the mind", and the state of theatre during this stage of the COVID-19 Pandemic. They also talk about a decline of LGBT representation on television. Then, pay tribute to Siegfried Firschbacher and Larry King.

The Culture Corner - Sep 26, 2020 – Hr 2

Sat, 26 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Hosts Bonnie Gigallon and Brayan Mendoza talk with jazz vocalist Hope Diamond about her work as a singer, her inspirations, her newest album and Frankie's Backroom. David Perry comes on to the show to talk about Upon This Rock, a book that has been praised by the likes of Armistead Maupin as "The Gay Da Vinci Code". The news discussed in this segment include the recent recastings of various black cartoon characters with actual black voice artists, and Lulu Wang's issues with Ron Howard directing a biopic focused on Chinese people.

The Culture Corner - Sep 26, 2020 – Hr 1

Sat, 26 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Hosts Bonnie Gigallon and Brayan Mendoza talk with filmmakers Alexandra Kotcheff, and Hannah Leder on their latest film The Planters. A wonderful and eccentric motion picture. Dori and Rupert Smith of Script 2 Screen 2 Stage come by to discuss their latest virtual performances on Zoom. There are also news discussions as always, with a focus on the Emmys, a "tone deaf" apology from Ellen DeGenres to her crew, along with Disney delaying films due to COVID 19.

The Culture Corner - Sep 19, 2020 – Hr 2

Sat, 19 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie and Brayan bring on Hayley Stubbert, local #SaveOurChildren activist, and mother of three to discuss the Cuties controversy. Is it a misguided masterpiece or is it pedophile bait? Drag Queen Anita Rose comes by to talk about her online events "The Bitchiest Bunch", "Truth or Shot", and one raising funds for C4 Communications. Bonnie and Brayan come up with ideas to have drive-in concerts, and how to make them work in a COVID world. On the news end, The Batman is back in production, but there's concern over safety. Mulan makes money digitally than the theatrically released Tenet, proving that people don't feel safe going back to the cinemas. The Emmys are going virtual. In a rare ray of hope, The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is still happening, but with modifications.

The Culture Corner - Sep 19, 2020 – Hr 1

Sat, 19 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie and Brayan pay tribute to the life and legacy of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and contemplate the unfortunate political implications of her passing. Local singer Thom McMorris discusses his musical style, work habits, inspirations and his upcoming live stream at Frankie's Old World Italian Bakery and Supper. Annie Houchenauer, from the Transgender Health and Wellness Center, gives her insight on the JK Rowling transphobia controversy. She also brings up the wonderful opportunities and resources that the center has to provide. On the lighter side of the news, Punkie Johnson is the first out black lesbian to join the cast of SNL. However, on the goofier side of news, Carole Baskin dances for Dancing With The Stars.

The Culture Corner - Sep 12, 2020 – Hr 2

Sat, 12 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie and Brayan talk with Shawn Ambramowitz, Executive Director at the Desert Ensemble Theatre Company. He shares plans about the upcoming season for the company, including their socially distanced video projects along with the $10,000 grant they recently received. A new sexual assault lawsuit against Kevin Spacey is making news and Bonnie and Brayan talk about that. And, justice may possibly be sin the cards for three transgender women who were victims of a vicious hate crime in Hollywood. Family therapist Michelle Ogle joins the show and helps with information on how to cope with political strife, emotional turmoil, and finding middle ground during a difficult time. Finally, the two B's discuss the meltdown at the Ellen Degeneres Show.

The Culture Corner - Sep 12, 2020 – Hr 1

Sat, 12 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie G. and Brayan take a look at the new set of diversity focused requirements set forth by The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, specifically for Best Picture consideration. Deborah McGarrey talks about the annual charity event Paint El Paseo Pink. This year's event is a socially distanced walk that raises money for breast cancer awareness and takes on a virtual involvement like many other non-profit activities. Shann Carr, a local comedian who talks the various events hosted by the Gay Desert Guide, will also join us in this hour. Finally, Brayan and Bonnie talk about the gender reveal party that set portions of Southern California on fire, and Disney World is allegedly forcing COVID-19-positive employees to return to work.

The Culture Corner - Sep 5, 2020 - Hr 2

Sat, 05 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza are joined by Tysen Knight, an American street artist and filmmaker. He discusses his mentorship of young people, his art, and the scholarship that he set up to help local art students. Our duo speculate on the circumstances surrounding Robert Pattinson's coronavirus diagnosis during production of The Batman. Are we re-opening film productions too fast? At the halfway point, Krystofer Do calls into the program. He's a local artist who discusses his music writing techniques, political activism, and the tribulations of being an artist trying to make a career during COVID. The final segment of the show revolves around AMC Theaters' risky 70 percent reopening for the movie Tenet. Are the good reviews, and accommodations enough to feel safe going back to the theater?

The Culture Corner - Sep 5, 2020 - Hr 1

Sat, 05 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza join forces in our updated revival of The Culture Corner. Throughout the episode, our duo attempt to bring an answer to the question of "What is culture?" in today's political climate. They evaluate the importance of appreciating art in the era of division, and misinformation. In particular art that responses to a need for diversity, and unheard voices. The coronavirus' impact on the arts is also given a spotlight with a special guest star. Robbie Wayne, Artistic Director of Desert Rose Playhouse calls in to discuss the relocation of the theater, and its postponed upcoming season. Another unique guest is Rev. Kendyl Gibbons. She's an Unitarian minister that has a church in Kansas City, Missouri. She explains what it means to be Unitarian, and how to keep community in the age of COVID. Fun fact: She's Bonnie G's sister! In the news segments, the two talk about Chadwick Boseman's contributions to film, and his untimely death.

The Culture Corner - June 6, 2020

Sat, 06 Jun 2020 10:00:00 -0800

On this edition of "the Culture Corner," Bonnie welcomes world-renowned jazz guitarist Doug MacDonald, who shares info about his recent solo online concert, his own jazz-themed radio show, and his return to the local musical hot spot, AJ's on the Green. Also local musician Eric Frankson talks about what's up next for his country band, Cinch. Bonnie's third guest is Erica Stone, who created SOS (Soldier's Organized Services,) a much-needed organization that has provided free rides to soldiers from the PS Airport to the 29 Palms Marine Base for the past 13 years. She tells us about the unique ways her group is lending a hand during this pandemic.

The Culture Corner - May 23, 2020

Sat, 23 May 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie welcomes Kate Spates, Vice President of Palm Springs Film and Television, sharing a special project the group has been working on with "Book Pals," in which celebrities read beloved children's books on-line to keep kids entertained during this pandemic. Also, with some great advice on how we should be handling our finances during these tough times, we chatted with Robert Schein, Managing Director of Hightower, Blankie-Schein Wealth Management. Our final guest this week was multi-talented Actor/Singer/Dancer Fleet Easton several upcoming film roles and other exciting career news.

The Culture Corner - May 16, 2020

Sat, 16 May 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie welcomes family therapist Caroline Redmon sharing some advice on how couples and families who've been cooped up together for the past 2 months can prevent that much togetherness from becoming toxic. Then dancer, actor and teacher Doug Graham told us about how he stays physically and mentally healthy during this pandemic. Finally, jazz diva Rose Mallett talked about her twice weekly Facebook livestream serenades and how meditation and her spiritual outlook gives her solace during the lockdown.

The Culture Corner - May 9, 2020

Sat, 09 May 2020 10:00:00 -0800

This week, Bonnie Gilgallon is joined in The Culture Corner by Erica Stone from Soldiers Organized Services, Ann Sheffel of the Palm Springs Cultural Center, and Maggie Downs, author and former writer at The Desert Sun.

The Culture Corner - May 2, 2020

Sat, 02 May 2020 10:00:00 -0800

How do we stay entertained and keep from going stir-crazy during this pandemic? Bonnie Gilgallon's talks with local musicians like Krystofer Do, who are keeping skills sharp and bringing the joy of live music to folks stuck at home through live facebook streams. He talks about his musical influences, and his new single "Soul," which has just been released.

Then, successful designer Lee Jacob Friend tells us how he and his team have stepped up during these troubling times, and turned their skills with fabric into a huge production of much-needed masks for those on the front lines fighting the Coronavirus. His "Masks of Hope" project has provided 15,000 face coverings both locally and nationwide.

Also, Desert Rose Playhouse Artistic Director Robbie Wayne chats with us about the unique way he is bringing live theatre to those quarantined, along with interviews with cast members and directors of this past season's hit shows.

Finally, Bonnie and Brayan Mendoza wrap up the broadcast with some thoughts on other theatrical events available online or on traditional tv channels.

The Culture Corner - April 25, 2020

Sat, 25 Apr 2020 10:00:00 -0800

This week Bonnie G talks with producer and event promoter Bette King. They chat about her own battle with the Coronavirus, as well as what she sees as the future for live musical performances here in the valley. Then, Desert Ensemble Theatre Artistic Director Jerome Elliott visits and talks about what he has planned for the theatre next season, and Michael Myers on how mediation and hypnotherapy can help people during stressful times.

The Culture Corner - April 18, 2020

Sat, 18 Apr 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Our very special guest was Bruce Fessier, who recently retired after 40 years as special projects writer at The Desert Sun. Bruce tells us about the new book he's writing about the Coachella Valley, and shared his thoughts on the future of the local theatre scene after we get through the Coronavirus crisis.

The Culture Corner - March 21, 2020

Sat, 21 Mar 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Joining Bonnie G this week in The Culture Corner, pianist/fiddler Eric Frankson discusses how the valley shutdown due to the Coronavirus has affected local musicians. Also on the show, CV Independent reviewer VJ Hume shared the impact COVID-19 has had on local theatres, and Carolyn Gross, whose latest book is Rising Above a Crisis offered advice on how stay balanced emotionally through it all.

The Culture Corner - March 8, 2020

Sat, 07 Mar 2020 10:00:00 -0800

Bonnie Gilgallon is joined by guests including jazz and R&B singer Hope Dean promoting her big upcoming show at Frankie's Back Room in Cathedral City, as well as performer and PR wiz Jeff Hocker, chatting about jazz and blues pianist (and documentary filmmaker) Daryl Davis, who will be featured at a big fundraising event for Jewish Family Services of the Desert later this month.