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

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

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