The Desert Scene

Bonnie G. welcomes director and choreographer Dennis Courtney to The Desert Scene for a conversation about Come From Away at Dezart Performs. Courtney shares how twelve actors bring dozens of characters to life while transforming the stage themselves, supported by an eight-piece band. Based on the true story of Gander, Newfoundland, welcoming stranded travelers after September 11, the musical celebrates compassion, resilience, humor, and human connection. He discusses his collaborative directing style, the production’s blend of local and visiting talent, and working with music director Steven Hollis. Courtney also reflects on his journey from performing to directing and finding a creative home in Palm Springs. Plus, Bonnie highlights upcoming community events, including balloon festivities, inspiring concert music, and holiday entertainment across the vibrant Coachella Valley.

Takeaways:

• Come From Away celebrates humanity’s best after September 11.
• Twelve actors portray dozens of characters and transform scenery.
• An eight-piece band supports the musical’s distinctive folk sound.
• Five local performers join talent from across the country.
• Courtney encourages actors’ creativity within a shared artistic vision.
• Steven Hollis brings musical leadership to the production.
• Courtney shares his journey from performer to director.
• Bonnie spotlights Coachella Valley festivals, concerts, and holiday entertainment.

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyArtsAndEntertainment #DennisCourtney #DezartPerforms #ComeFromAway #MusicalTheatre #PalmSprings #GanderNewfoundland #TheatrePodcast #DirectorAndChoreographer #CommunityTheatre #HumanConnection #StoriesOfHope #TheatreArts #StevenHollis #LocalTalent #CoachellaValley #ArtsAndCulture

Bonnie G welcomes Adam Levy, owner of Take 5 Entertainment, to explore Spirit Animal Club at Hotel Zoso in downtown Palm Springs. Adam shares how he transformed a nightclub into an intimate performance space blending vintage supper club style with immersive surprises. Discover the upgraded sound and lighting, creative partnerships, and adventurous programming bringing fresh energy to the desert. From comedy and burlesque to live bands and theatrical experiments, the venue celebrates entertainment in many forms. Adam discusses The Slosh Series with Jessica Lentz, Time Capsule concerts, and performances ranging from soulful music to holiday favorites. Hear how community collaboration and a passion for live performance are shaping this distinctive destination, plus where to find shows and connect with Adam about future ideas and collaborations.

Takeaways:

• Spirit Animal transforms Hotel Zoso’s nightclub into intimate live entertainment.
• Vintage Palm Springs aesthetics meet immersive, futuristic design.
• Upgraded sound accommodates bands with up to twelve musicians.
• Comedy, burlesque, concerts, and fringe performances share one stage.
• Jessica Lentz helps bring The Slosh Series to life.
• The Slosh Series adds unpredictable improvisation to theatrical performances.
• Time Capsule concerts spotlight music from a different year.
• Community partnerships help shape the venue’s evolving entertainment lineup.

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyArtsAndEntertainment #AdamLevy #Take5Entertainment #SpiritAnimalClub #PalmSprings #HotelZoso #LiveEntertainment #LiveMusic #Comedy #Burlesque #ImmersiveEntertainment #DesertNightlife #SloshSeries #TimeCapsuleConcerts #JessicaLentz #PalmSpringsNightlife #CoachellaValley

Lindi Biggi, founder of Loving All Animals, joins Bonnie G on The Desert Scene to share her vision for affordable veterinary care in the Coachella Valley. With the October 29 grand opening of the organization’s Indio clinic approaching, Lindi explains how selling her Oregon property helped fund a lasting investment in animal welfare. She discusses the urgent need for accessible spay and neuter services, the community generosity supporting renovations, and her belief that every companion animal deserves a loving home. Hear stories from her animal-filled estate, discover what inspires her lifelong commitment, and learn about the celebration at Shields, with buses providing clinic tours nearby. It’s a heartfelt conversation about compassion, responsibility, and building a legacy that helps pets and the people who love them.

Takeaways:

• Loving All Animals celebrates its Indio clinic opening October 29.
• Affordable veterinary care anchors Lindi Biggi’s vision.
• Some services, especially spay and neuter, may be free.
• Spaying and neutering helps address companion animal overpopulation.
• Lindi sold Oregon property to fund the clinic purchase.
• Community donors helped fund clinic repairs and renovations.
• Shields hosts the celebration, with buses providing clinic tours.
• Lindi hopes her legacy makes pet care accessible.

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CoachellaValleyArtsAndEntertainment #LindiBiggi #LovingAllAnimals #AnimalWelfare #AffordableVeterinaryCare #SpayAndNeuter #Indio #CoachellaValley #PetCare #AnimalRescue #CompanionAnimals #VeterinaryClinic #CommunitySupport #PetWellness #GrandOpening #Shields #LegacyOfCompassion

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