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

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

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

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

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

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