The Desert Scene

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.