The Desert Scene

Photographer Mary Ann Halpin joins Bonnie G on The Desert Scene to share how playful portraits capture the personalities of people and their beloved pets. Accompanied by rescue dog Poppy, Mary Ann previews her holiday pet portrait sessions, running November 1 through 8. The $350 package includes a signed 11-by-14 fine art print and a signed copy of her Fearless Women book, with $50 benefiting Palm Springs Animal Shelter. From dogs and cats to chickens and goldfish, every pet has a place in front of her camera. Mary Ann also reflects on her Hollywood photography career, creative collaborations, and the lessons of shooting film. Discover how patience, imagination, and connection turn a photo session into a lasting memory while supporting animals in the local community.

Takeaways:

• Holiday pet portrait sessions run November 1 through 8.
• Each $350 package donates $50 to Palm Springs Animal Shelter.
• Packages include a signed 11-by-14 fine art print.
• Clients also receive a signed Fearless Women book.
• Families, partners, and solo pets can join the fun.
• Unconventional pets are welcome, including chickens and goldfish.
• Patience and playfulness help reveal each subject’s personality.
• Shooting film teaches photographers to respect light and composition.

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyArtsAndEntertainment #MaryAnnHalpin #PetPhotography #HolidayPetPortraits #PalmSpringsAnimalShelter #PalmSprings #CoachellaValley #PortraitPhotography #AnimalRescue #RescueDogs #PetLovers #FineArtPhotography #FearlessWomen #FamilyPortraits #CreativePhotography #HolidayMemories #CommunityGiving

Bonnie G welcomes CVRep Artistic Director Adam Karsten to The Desert Scene for a preview of a season filled with bold storytelling, theatrical adventure, and unforgettable music. Karsten reflects on four years of growth, the community support behind larger productions, and opportunities for talented local performers. Discover Tracy Letts’ dark comedy The Minutes, the inventive staging of Around the World in 80 Days, and the live musical energy of Million Dollar Quartet. Hear how CVRep plans to bring the complete Les Misérables to its intimate theater, while honoring founder Ron Celona’s vision of thought-provoking work. Karsten also discusses the Origins new works program, the importance of curiosity, and how audiences help theater thrive. Plus, Bonnie shares upcoming Coachella Valley arts and entertainment events worth exploring.

Takeaways:

• Community support fuels CVRep’s growth and ambitious productions.
• The Minutes blends fast-paced comedy with a profound ending.
• Five actors portray 39 characters in Around the World.
• Luke Yankee directs Around the World in 80 Days.
• Million Dollar Quartet features actors playing instruments live.
• CVRep plans a complete, uncut production of Les Misérables.
• Local performers comprise seven of The Minutes’ eleven cast members.
• Origins develops new works, continuing CVRep’s thought-provoking theater mission.

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyArtsAndEntertainment #AdamKarsten @CVRep #CoachellaValleyRepertory #CoachellaValley #LiveTheater #RegionalTheater #TheMinutes #TracyLetts #AroundTheWorldIn80Days #LukeYankee #MillionDollarQuartet #LesMisérables #LocalTalent #NewWorks #Origins #ThoughtProvokingTheater

Bonnie G welcomes Tim Rains, director of marketing at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, for a preview of a season packed with film, music, theater, and community gatherings. Tim shares updates following the kitchen fire, with all three theaters open and improvements planned for the cafe and performance spaces. Discover a Cher film series, journalism screenings, a new science fiction festival, and tributes celebrating Elizabeth Taylor and Howard Ashman. Live entertainment includes cabaret, Broadway performers, and The Bent’s production of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. Plus, hear about farmers markets, Foodie Fridays, and plans honoring the historic Camelot Theatre’s sixtieth anniversary. Bonnie also introduces a weekly community calendar featuring local theater, dining with live music, and wellness retreats throughout the vibrant Coachella Valley.

Takeaways:

• All three theaters have reopened following the kitchen fire.
• Cafe renovations aim to deliver an upgraded experience.
• Cher’s films headline a nostalgic screening series.
• A new science fiction festival explores Mars.
• Broadway stars and cabaret performers fill the entertainment calendar.
• The Bent presents Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.
• Camelot’s sixtieth anniversary celebration features films from 1967.
• Bonnie introduces a weekly calendar of local happenings.

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyArtsAndEntertainment #TimRains #PalmSpringsCulturalCenter #CamelotTheatre #PalmSprings #FilmFestivals #LiveMusic #LiveTheater #Broadway #Cabaret #CherFilmSeries #ScienceFictionFestival #ElizabethTaylor #HowardAshman #TheBent #FoodieFridays #CommunityCalendar

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:

1. Stephen Sondheim’s music challenges singers with speed, complexity, and emotion
2. Every performer in the show has appeared on Broadway
3. Personal stories deepen the audience’s connection to classic songs
4. Terry Ralston brings direct Sondheim legacy to the stage
5. Revolution Stage Company blends art with community support
6. Cabaret Riot gives performers a platform to launch solo shows
7. Audience participation plays a key role in live theater events
8. 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

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.

1. Art can mirror human imperfection and resilience
2. Destroying David connects physical flaws to emotional journeys
3. One-person theater can be deeply engaging and interactive
4. Art’s value lies in emotional impact, not perfection
5. Audience interpretation is central to the theatrical experience
6. Collaboration between playwright, director, and performer is vital
7. Theater invites reflection on memory and legacy
8. 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

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:

1. A Valentine-themed jazz fundraiser supports year-round music programming
2. The Desert Winds Jazz Band has grown into a 130-member musical organization
3. Fundraising keeps scholarships and summer operations alive
4. Jazz and swing classics set a romantic, engaging atmosphere
5. Community outreach is central to the group’s mission
6. Artistic leadership thrives with strong logistical support
7. Music is used as a tool for connection and inspiration
8. 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

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:

1. A local performance career can begin with one open-mic opportunity
2. Blues and blues-rock form a powerful emotional foundation
3. Acting skills deepen musical storytelling
4. Collaboration strengthens creative outcomes
5. Empowerment themes resonate strongly with audiences
6. New material keeps performances fresh and vulnerable
7. Balancing income with artistic goals is essential
8. 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

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:

1. A new film series honors award-winning actress Eileen Heckart’s career.
2. Each screening includes rare clips and pre-show presentations.
3. Eight feature films will be shown on Friday nights.
4. A special guest will join one screening for discussion.
5. The series begins with an Oscar-winning film role.
6. A new play explores a friendship with Marilyn Monroe.
7. Writing the play was a deeply personal, healing process.
8. 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

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:

1. A longtime local fundraiser has been rebranded with a renewed mission focus
2. The benefit concert features top local performers and celebrity impersonators
3. Funds raised directly support free meals and outreach programs
4. Over 81,000 warm meals were served in the past year alone
5. The organization offers more than food, including clothing and medical referrals
6. A bicycle program provides transportation for jobs, parole, and medical needs
7. Nearly 300 donated bikes have been refurbished and distributed
8. 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

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