The Desert Scene

Join Bonnie G on this episode of The Desert Scene as she welcomes the talented Angie Delaire back to discuss her upcoming Barbra Streisand tribute show on November 3rd at the Arthur Newman Theater. Angie shares how this tribute was inspired by popular demand after her previous performance. She opens up about the challenges of curating Streisand's vast musical library for the show and highlights the exciting elements she'll incorporate to pay homage to the legendary diva. With Joel Baker as the musical director and Peter Richardson narrating, Angie's performance promises to feature iconic numbers from Streisand's Broadway beginnings to her film influences. Angie also recounts her musical upbringing in Canada, her family's support for her artistic journey, and her move to Southern California. Don’t miss Angie’s powerful voice bringing Streisand’s timeless classics to life in a show that promises surprises and heartfelt emotion. Tune in for a delightful conversation filled with music and personal stories.

In this episode of The Desert Scene, host Bonnie G. welcomes back Jerome Elliott Moskowitz, the Artistic Director of Desert Ensemble Theatre Company. Jerome shares insights on the upcoming production of Joe Orton’s Loot, part of their intriguing Season of Icons. Set to premiere on November 15th at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, Loot is a dark, comedic farce grappling with themes of organized religion, morality, and law enforcement. Jerome also discusses the theater's commitment to supporting local high school students with internships and scholarships, offering invaluable hands-on experience in the arts. Dive into this lively conversation about DTC's efforts to encourage new works, insights into future seasons, and their challenges and triumphs as an intimate theater company. Don't miss this engaging episode well-rooted in the vibrant world of local theater and arts education.

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #MutualBroadcastingSystem #DesertEnsembleTheatre #LootThePlay #PalmSpringsTheatre #LGBTQTheatre #ArtsEducation #TheatreInternships #IconsSeason #CoachellaValleyArts #JoeOrton #DarkComedy #TheaterProduction #PalmSpringsCulturalCenter #TheaterInsights #CommunityTheatre

In this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. is joined by the dynamic Alberto Acosta to delve into the intriguing world of arts and theater. Alberto, the head of the Museum of Ancient Wonders and a trailblazing force behind the LGBTQ+ World History Museum, shares the fascinating story behind Unwanted Laughter. This upcoming staged reading, presented at Temple Isaiah in Palm Springs, tells the legendary tale of Tallulah Bankhead’s unforgettable performance in A Streetcar Named Desire and Tennessee Williams’ intervention to refine her character. Discover the artistry and unexpected hilarity of these iconic figures and their unique friendship. Alberto’s deep connection to the arts community and passion for cultural preservation shine through in this not-to-be-missed conversation. Tune in to hear about the inspiring efforts to bring this historical narrative to life, both in Palm Springs and potentially at Miami's historic Coconut Grove Theater.

#TheDesertScenePodcast #BonnieG #MutualBroadcastingSystem #UnwantedLaughter #AlbertoAcosta #MuseumOfAncientWonders #CoconutGroveTheater #TheaterMagic #PalmSpringsEvents #TallulahBankhead #TennesseeWilliams #LGBTQHistory #ArtRevival #CulturalPreservation #PodcastConversation #StageReading #IconicTheater

Join Bonnie G as she welcomes Michael Shaw, the artistic director of Dezart Performs, to discuss the exciting news of their recent acquisition of the First Church of Christ Scientist building in Palm Springs, which will be transformed into the new Desert Playhouse. This significant move comes after a thorough reassessment of their previous plans to relocate to Cathedral City, showcasing the organization's growth and commitment to bringing vibrant art and culture to the Coachella Valley. Michael shares insights about the new space, its features, and the community-centered approach they plan to adopt. The episode also highlights the generous support from donors that has made this dream a reality. Tune in to hear about the journey of Dezart Performs, the power of community support, and what lies ahead for this beloved arts organization. Listen to The Desert Scene and stay up-to-date with show information on our website at www.TheDesertScene.com or Subscribe and Download from one of our preferred Podcast Distribution Partners including Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Audible, Captivate.fm, or Spotify. This podcast is presented by the Mutual Broadcasting System.

Takeaways:

• Michael Shaw announced the purchase of a new building for Dezart Performs, transforming a church into a community arts center.
• The new location will significantly increase seating capacity and provide more rehearsal space for productions.
• Community support has been overwhelming, with a generous donation of $500,000 aiding the transition to the new building.
• The building's historical significance ties back to the church's original congregation, creating a unique full circle moment.
• Desert Performs aims to foster collaboration with other organizations, making the space available for community events.
• The opening of the new facility is planned for the 2025-2026 season, following necessary renovations.

Join Bonnie G as she welcomes Adam Karsten, the executive artistic director at CV Rep, to discuss the upcoming production of Next to Normal, which opens on November 6. Adam shares insights into this powerful rock musical that addresses themes of grief, depression, and family dynamics, highlighting its emotional depth and compelling score. He reveals the exciting cast, including Broadway talent Bligh Voth, who will portray the challenging role of Diana, and local veteran Eric Kunze as the father. The episode also touches on the rest of the season at CV Rep, featuring a diverse lineup of productions such as The 39 Steps and Jesus Christ Superstar. Listen to Bonnie and Adam delve into the creative process and the vibrant arts scene in the Coachella Valley.

Listen to The Desert Scene and stay up-to-date with show information on our website at www.TheDesertScene.com or Subscribe and Download from one of our preferred Podcast Distribution Partners including Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Audible, Captivate.fm, or Spotify. This podcast is presented by the Mutual Broadcasting System.

Takeaways:

• Adam Karsten is set to direct 'Next to Normal', a powerful rock musical about family issues.
• The show 'Next to Normal' explores themes of grief, depression, and family dysfunction.
• A live orchestra will accompany the performance, enhancing the energy of the musical.
• The upcoming season at CV Rep includes diverse productions such as 'The 39 Steps' and 'Jesus Christ Superstar'.
• The cast of 'Next to Normal' features talented Broadway veterans, bringing high-quality performances.
• Adam Karsten emphasizes a collaborative approach to directing, valuing actors' creative input.

Join Bonnie G as she welcomes the talented harpist Christian Chalifour, who shares exciting details about his upcoming musical game show event, "Name That TV Tune," taking place on October 19. Christian, known for his unique flair, combines trivia about classic television shows with live orchestral performances, making for a truly entertaining experience. He reflects on his journey with the harp, which began in 1977, and discusses the challenges and joys of playing this beautiful instrument. Additionally, listeners will learn about a fantastic grand prize associated with the event, offering an all-expenses-paid trip to Guadalajara, Mexico. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with music, laughter, and insights into the vibrant cultural scene of the Coachella Valley.

Takeaways:

• Christian Chalifour shares his journey into becoming a harpist after a chance encounter with a famous musician.
• The upcoming event features a unique musical game show where participants guess TV show themes from four notes.
• Chalifour discusses his move to Mexico and the vibrant arts scene he expects to find there.
• The event will feature a twelve-piece orchestra, which has expanded to twenty-four members for this performance.
• Listeners can expect a mix of trivia questions and music to engage the audience at the event.
• Tickets for the family-friendly concert are affordably priced, making it accessible for everyone.

More Detail:

Chalifour is an accomplished harpist and musician. His journey through the world of music is both inspiring and entertaining, as he recounts how a chance encounter with a renowned harpist ignited his passion for the instrument. With nearly 50 years of experience, he shares insights into the unique techniques of playing the harp, contrasting it with the more familiar piano, and elaborating on the physicality and artistry involved in performing this beautiful instrument.

The highlight of the episode is the discussion surrounding Chalifour's upcoming event, Name That TV Tune, scheduled for October 19 in Idyllwild. This musical game show promises to be a family-friendly affair, where attendees can flex their knowledge of classic television themes while enjoying a performance by a 24-piece orchestra. Chalifour’s playful spirit shines through as he details the interactive elements of the show, including trivia questions and a four-note guessing game designed to engage the audience in a fun and dynamic way. With affordable ticket prices, he emphasizes the importance of community and accessibility in the arts.

As the conversation flows, Chalifour opens up about his impending move to Mexico and the vibrant arts scene he anticipates there. He paints a picture of a life filled with music, culture, and the joy of sharing art with others. The episode closes with a sense of optimism and excitement, highlighting the transformative power of music and the connections it fosters across communities. Chalifour's journey serves as a reminder of the joy that creativity can bring, making this episode a delightful exploration of passion, community, and the arts.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• El Portal Mexican Restaurant
• Spirit Mountain Retreat
• Desert Chamber Orchestra

The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. welcomes Dr. Lisa Lindley, CEO of the Coachella Valley Symphony, to discuss the upcoming Halloween music event scheduled for October 19. This spooktacular concert promises to blend fun and fright with a selection of beloved tunes like the themes from Ghostbusters, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Edward Scissorhands. Dr. Lindley emphasizes the importance of making symphonic music accessible and engaging for families.

Takeaways:

• The Coachella Valley Symphony's Halloween event brings fun and engaging music to families.
• Dr. Lisa Lindley emphasizes the importance of live symphony music for younger audiences.
• The upcoming concert on October 19 features popular Halloween-themed music selections.
• The symphony aims to make classical music accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
• John, the conductor, enhances the experience with fascinating insights about each music piece.
• The Coachella Valley Symphony offers free concerts to encourage community participation and appreciation.

Through their discussion, Bonnie and Dr. Lindley explore how the symphony aims not just to entertain but to educate, making classical music approachable and relatable to a wider audience. The concert will feature a selection of popular scores that many recognize from films, cleverly intertwining traditional orchestral music with contemporary cultural references.

Dr. Lindley's insights into the programming reveal the thoughtful curation of the concert, where each piece is selected not only for its musicality but also for its potential to resonate with diverse audiences. The episode highlights the importance of engaging with the community, particularly families, and how the symphony's free concerts serve as a gateway for young people to experience live music. Dr. Lindley passionately discusses the symphony's mission to create a welcoming environment where families can enjoy high-quality performances without financial barriers, fostering a new generation of music lovers.

Beyond the specifics of the Halloween concert, the episode delves into the broader themes of arts education and community involvement. Dr. Lindley's role in supporting local musicians and youth programs showcases her dedication to bridging the gap between professional music and community engagement. This episode encapsulates the spirit of the Coachella Valley Symphony's commitment to keeping the arts alive and thriving, inviting listeners to see the value in live symphonic music and encouraging them to partake in the cultural offerings available in their community.

Palm Canyon Theatre Director Shares Insights on Thought-Provoking New Plays

Join Bonnie G on this episode of The Desert Scene as she chats with the talented Judith Chapman, celebrated actress and director known for her remarkable work on shows like The Young and the Restless. Judith dives deep into her latest endeavor at the Palm Canyon Theatre, where she is directing two timely and thought-provoking companion plays: Shunned and Sundew. Shunned explores themes of acceptance and familial tensions within an Amish community, while Sundew highlights the urgent need to protect Mother Earth through the story of a determined woman safeguarding her land’s ecology. Judith shares fascinating insights on the authenticity involved in production, such as the handcrafted Amish costumes, and the extensive research undertaken. Learn about her dynamic cast, including both seasoned actors and exciting new talents, all united by a commitment to delivering powerful theatrical experiences. Listen in to discover more about these poignant productions opening in October.

#TheDesertScene #BonnieG #JudithChapman #PalmCanyonTheatre #TheYoungandtheRestless #Shunned #Sundew #AmishCommunity #ProtectMotherEarth #TimelyPlays #ThoughtProvokingTheatre #TheatreDirecting #PalmSpringsArts #AuthenticProduction #DynamicCast #StageProductions #TheatreInPalmSprings #mutualbroadcastingsystem

Insight into The Bent’s Upcoming Season: Exciting Productions and Sneak Peeks

Join host Bonnie G on The Desert Scene as she welcomes Terry Ray, the Managing Director of The Bent LGBTQ Theatre Company, for an engaging conversation about their upcoming season. Terry reveals the exciting productions planned, including the thought-provoking play F**king Men, which tackles relevant LGBTQ+ themes, and the highlight of their season, I'll Eat You Last, featuring acclaimed actress Cathy Moriarty in a one-woman show about Hollywood super-agent Sue Mengers. Discover insights about the unique structure of their plays, the challenges of starting a theatre company from scratch, and the importance of telling LGBTQ+ stories in the vibrant Palm Springs community. Terry also discusses their fun and festive original Christmas musical, Skippy and Bitsy's All Star Christmas TV Extravaganza. Whether you're a local or visiting, this episode gives you a sneak peek into all the thrilling theater coming your way. Listen in for all the details!

#TheDesertScene #BonnieG #TerryRay #TheBentLGBTQTheatre #LGBTQTheatre #PalmSpringsTheatre #F**kingMen #IllEatYouLast #CathyMoriarty #SueMengers #LGBTQStories #TheatreSeason #PalmSpringsArts #TheatreCommunity #OriginalMusicals #ChristmasMusical #LocalTheatre #mutualbroadcastingsystem

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. welcomes Howard Shangraw, renowned acting instructor at CV Rep's Conservatory and Director of Before the Bell, this year's impactful anti-bullying student outreach production. Shangraw delves into CV Rep's admirable tradition of annually showcasing productions featuring local valley students, with themes that resonate socially and culturally in today's world. Tune in to discover how this initiative empowers young actors and promotes important conversations within the community. Together, they explore the power of theatre in addressing and challenging societal issues. Don’t miss this compelling discussion on art, education, and change!

#EmpowerYouth #AntiBullying #TheaterForChange #HowardShangraw #YouthEmpowerment #StopBullying #TheaterImpact #SocialChange #BullyingAwareness #CreativeActivism #PositiveChange #InspireYouth #CommunityTheater #ArtsInActivism #YouthVoices #CVRep #CoachellaValleyTheatre #TheDesertScene #BonnieG #Podcast #PalmSpringsUnifiedSchoolDistrict #PSUSD